Semi-Annual Report

February 28, 2023

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

Ticker: VIDI

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

Ticker: VUSE

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

Ticker: VBND

 

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

Page

Letter to Shareholders

1

Portfolio Allocation

8

Schedule of Investments

11

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

40

Statement of Operations

42

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

43

Financial Highlights

46

Notes to Financial Statements

52

Expense Example

71

Approval of Advisory Agreement & Board Considerations

73

Review of Liquidity Risk Management Program

78

Federal Tax Information

79

Information About Portfolio Holdings

80

Information About Proxy Voting

81

Frequency Distribution of Premiums and Discounts

81

Information About the Trustees

81

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Letter to Shareholders
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholders,

 

On behalf of the entire team, we want to express our appreciation for the confidence you have placed in the Vident International Equity Strategy ETF™ (“VIDI” or the “Fund”). The following information pertains to the fiscal period of September 1, 2022 through February 28, 2023 (the “Period). The Fund seeks to track the total return performance, before fees and expenses, of the Vident Core International Equity Index™ (the “Index”). This index strategy seeks to provide investors with a well-diversified set of global equities exposures across countries, regions and stocks, emphasizing countries with more favorable conditions for investment as well as economic and financial market resilience. The Index also seeks to enhance investors’ stock exposures, systematically selecting higher quality stocks that Vident believes to have favorable valuations and favorable price momentum.

 

The Fund had positive performance during the Period. The market return for VIDI was 5.17% and the NAV return was 5.49%, while the Morningstar Global Markets ex-US Large-Mid Cap Index, a broad market index, gained 6.93% over the same period. The Fund’s Index returned 6.12%. Meanwhile, outstanding shares ended the period at 15,700,000.

 

VIDI returns were consistent with global market dynamics. Most global markets overperformed U.S. markets, and VIDI (an international fund) overperformed most U.S. indices. Emerging markets underperformed developed markets. Accordingly, VIDI (which is overweight emerging markets) underperformed Morningstar Global Markets ex-US Large-Mid Cap Index (which is overweight developed markets). VIDI was overweight emerging Asia, an underperforming region, which may also help explain its underperformance.

 

For the Period, the largest positive contributor to return was Bank of Ireland Group Plc (BIRG ID), adding 0.43% to the return of the Fund, gaining 78.51% with an average weighting of 0.70%. The second largest contributor to return was Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (DBK GR), adding 0.28% to the return of the Fund, gaining 49.52% with an average weighting of 0.60%. The third largest contributor to return was KGHM Polska Miedz SA (KGH PW), adding 0.28% to the return of the Fund, gaining 52.29% with an average weighting of 0.55%.

 

For the Period, the largest negative contributor to return was Delek Group, Ltd. (DLEKG IT), detracting -0.33% from the return of the Fund, declining -45.98% with an average weighting of 0.54%. The security contributing second-most negatively was Daqo New Energy Corporation - ADR (DQ US), detracting -0.19% from the return of the Fund, and declining -31.74% with an average weighting of 0.37%. The third largest negative contributor to return was SL Corporation (005850 KS), detracting -0.17% from the return of the Fund, and declining -25.66% with an average weight of 0.40%.

 

1

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Letter to Shareholders
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

For the Period, the best performing security in the Fund was Voestalpine AG (VOE AV), gaining 83.57% and contributing 0.01% to the return of the Fund. The second-best performing security for the period was Bank of Ireland Group Plc (BIRG ID), gaining 78.51% and contributing 0.43% to the return of the Fund. The third-best performing security was Aurubis AG (NDA GR), gaining 64.93% for the period and contributing 0.14% to the return of the Fund.

 

For the Period, the worst performing security in the Fund was Delek Group, Ltd. (DLEKG IT), declining -45.98% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.33%. The second-worst performing security in the Fund was Marfrig Global Foods SA (MRFG3 BZ), declining -45.53% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.16%. The third-worst performing security in the Fund was SD Biosensor, Inc. (137310 KS), declining -33.19% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.17%.

 

Vident wishes to express our sincerest appreciation for your confidence and commitment to VIDI. We will continue to strive to ensure the satisfaction of our shareholders.

 

Sincerely,

 

Deborah K. Kimery, CFA
Chief Executive Officer, Vident Advisory, LLC

 

2

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Letter to Shareholders
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholders,

 

On behalf of the entire team, we want to express our appreciation for the confidence you have placed in the Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETF™ (“VUSE” or the “Fund”). The following information pertains to the fiscal period of September 1, 2022 through February 28, 2023 (the “Period”). The Fund seeks to track the total return performance, before fees and expenses, of the Vident U.S. Quality IndexTM1. This index strategy represents a portfolio of U.S. equities that adhere to higher standards of corporate governance and accounting, as measured by numerous research metrics. This research is integrated into a systematic and structured selection process that seeks to provide an index of higher quality U.S. companies across giant, large, and small/mid-capitalization ranges. The Index also seeks to mitigate some of the risks often associated with market capitalization-weighted indices, including issuer concentration.

 

The Fund had positive performance during the Period. The market return for VUSE was 7.54% and the NAV return was 7.55%, while the S&P 500 Index, a broad market index, gained 1.26% over the same period. The Fund’s Index returned 7.50%2. Meanwhile, outstanding shares ended the period at 11,200,000.

 

The overperformance of VUSE is consistent with the economic and market themes of the Period. The economy continued its recovery from the economic contraction of the first half of 2022 and that recovery, added to the persistence of inflation, led to hawkish sentiment regarding interest rate hikes. Hawkish periods often coincide with overperformance of value relative to growth and this period was no exception. Since VUSE had a value tilt relative to the S&P 500 Index during the period, this likely helped lead to its excess returns over that index. VUSE also underweights large cap relative to the S&P Index. Large capitalization securities underperformed mid- and small capitalization securities, which is common during times of economic recovery, which was likely another aid to VUSE’S performance.

 

For the Period, the largest positive contributor to return was NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA US), adding 0.98% to the return of the Fund, gaining 58.86% with an average weighting of 0.69%. The second largest contributor to return was Tesla, Inc. (TSLA US), adding 0.39% to the return of the Fund, gaining 67.00% with an average weighting of 0.25%. The third largest contributor to return was Atkore, Inc. (ATKR US), adding 0.36% to the return of the Fund, gaining 72.99% with an average weighting of 0.61%.

 

1

Prior to December 31, 2022, VUSE sought to track the performance, before fees and expenses, of the Vident Core U.S. Index™ as discussed in the Fund’s prospectus dated December 31, 2022.

 

2

The Index return is the combined cumulative return of the Vident Core U.S. Stock Index for the period September 1, 2022 to December 31, 2023 and the Vident U.S. Quality Index for the period January 1, 2023 to February 28, 2023.

 

3

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Letter to Shareholders
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

For the Period, the largest negative contributor to return was Pfizer, Inc. (PFE US), detracting -0.50% from the return of the Fund, declining -8.69% with an average weighting of 1.08%. The security contributing second-most negatively was Lumen Technologies, Inc. (LUMN US), detracting -0.24% from the return of the Fund, and declining -47.59% with an average weighting of 0.22%. The third largest negative contributor to return was Coinbase Global, Inc. - Class A (COIN US), detracting -0.22% from the return of the Fund, and declining -47.02% with an average weight of 0.27%.

 

For the Period, the best performing security in the Fund was Adeia, Inc. (ADEA US), gaining 126.35% and contributing 0.06% to the return of the Fund. The second-best performing security for the period was Atkore, Inc. (ATKR US), gaining 72.99% and contributing 0.36% to the return of the Fund. The third-best performing security was Tesla, Inc. (TSLA US), gaining 67.00% for the period and contributing 0.39% to the return of the Fund.

 

For the Period, the worst performing security in the Fund was Lumen Technologies, Inc. (LUMN US), declining -47.59% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.24%. The second-worst performing security in the Fund was Coinbase Global, Inc. - Class A (COIN US), declining -47.02% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.22%. The third-worst performing security in the Fund was Xperi, Inc. (XPER US), declining -42.48% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.04%.

 

Vident wishes to express our sincerest appreciation for your confidence and commitment to VUSE. We will continue to strive to ensure the satisfaction of our shareholders.

 

Sincerely,

 

Deborah K. Kimery, CFA
Chief Executive Officer, Vident Advisory, LLC

 

4

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Letter to Shareholders
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholders,

 

On behalf of the entire team, we want to express our appreciation for the confidence you have placed in the Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETF™ (“VBND” or the “Fund”). The following information pertains to the fiscal period of September 1, 2022 through February 28, 2023 (the “Period”). The Fund seeks to track the total return performance, before fees and expenses, of the Vident Core U.S. Bond Index™ (the “Index”). This Index seeks to diversify interest rate and credit risks through the application of time-tested principles. In addition to diversifying across fixed income sectors, the strategy seeks to improve corporate bond exposures by screening for companies with stronger leadership, governance, and creditworthiness factors.

 

The Fund had negative performance during the Period. The market return for VBND was -1.24% and the NAV return was -1.56%, while the FTSE US Broad Investment Grade Bond Index, a broad market index, detracted -2.11% over the same period. The Fund’s Index fell -1.03%. Meanwhile, outstanding shares ended the period at 8,600,000.

 

VBND’s negative returns are consistent with the hawkish sentiment shift during the period. Hawkish periods often coincide with overperformance of value relative to growth and this period was no exception. VBND’s favorable performance relative to the FTSE US Broad Investment Grade Bond Index makes sense: VBND was overweight to U.S. Treasuries securities which outperformed corporate bonds, to which it is underweight. Duration likely helped as well, as VBND was underweight mid-duration Treasuries, an underperformer. Hawkish sentiment helps explain both general bond losses and VBND’s performance relative to broad bond indices.

 

For the Period, the largest positive contributor to return was United States Treasury Note/Bond (T 3 ⅜ 05/15/44), adding 0.10% to the return of the Fund, declining -5.67% with an average weighting of 1.07%. The second largest contributor to return was United States Treasury Note/Bond (T 3 05/15/45), adding 0.07% to the return of the Fund, gaining 7.11% with an average weighting of 0.64%. The third largest contributor to return was Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac (UMBS) (FNCL 3.5 12/22), adding 0.06% to the return of the Fund, gaining 5.39% with an average weighting of 0.20%.

 

For the Period, the largest negative contributor to return was United States Treasury Note/Bond (T 6 ⅛ 11/15/27), detracting -0.12% from the return of the Fund, declining -3.34% with an average weighting of 1.22%. The security contributing second-most negatively was United States Treasury Note/Bond (T 3 11/15/44), detracting -0.10% from the return of the Fund, and declining -5.68% with an average weighting of 1.98%. The third largest negative contributor to return was United States Treasury Note/Bond (T 2 ⅞ 05/15/43), detracting -0.10% from the return of the Fund, and declining -5.48% with an average weight of 3.36%.

 

 

5

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Letter to Shareholders
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

For the Period, the best performing security in the Fund was Kyndryl Holdings, Inc. (KD 3.15 10/15/31), gaining 18.61% and contributing 0.01% to the return of the Fund. The second-best performing security for the Period was Kyndryl Holdings, Inc. (KD 4.1 10/15/41), gaining 17.34% and contributing 0.04% to the return of the Fund. The third-best performing security was Philip Morris International, Inc. (PM 4 ⅞ 11/15/43), gaining 15.41% for the period and contributing 0.05% to the return of the Fund.

 

For the Period, the worst performing security in the Fund was Warnermedia Holdings, Inc. (WBD 5.391 03/15/62), declining -12.16% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.00%. The second-worst performing security in the Fund was Dell International LLC / EMC Corporation (DELL 8.35 07/15/46), declining -11.45% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.03%. The third-worst performing security in the Fund was Discovery Communications LLC (WBD 6.35 06/01/40), declining -9.89% and reducing the return of the Fund by -0.03%.

 

Vident wishes to express our sincerest appreciation for your confidence and commitment to VBND. We will continue to strive to ensure the satisfaction of our shareholders.

 

Sincerely,

 

Deborah K. Kimery, CFA
Chief Executive Officer, Vident Advisory, LLC

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

 

Opinions expressed are subject to change, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice or recommendations to buy or sell any security. Fund holdings are subject to change and are not recommendations to buy or sell any security. For more complete information regarding performance and holdings, please refer to the schedules of investments on pages 11-39.

 

Investments involve risk. Principal loss is possible. The Funds have the same risks as the underlying securities traded on the exchange throughout the day at market price. Redemptions are limited and often commissions are charged on each trade. Investments in foreign securities involve political, economic and currency risks, greater volatility and differences in accounting methods. These risks are greater for investments in emerging markets. A fund that concentrates its investments in the securities of a particular industry or geographic area may be more volatile than a fund that invests in a broader range of industries. VIDI and VBND may invest in illiquid or thinly traded securities which involve additional risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility. VBND may make investments in debt securities. The Fund’s investments in high yield securities expose it to a substantial degree of credit risk. These investments are considered speculative under traditional investment standards. Debt issuers and other counterparties may not honor their obligations or may have their debt downgraded by ratings agencies. An increase in interest rates may cause the value of fixed-income securities held by the Fund to decline. During periods of rising interest rates, certain debt obligations will be paid off substantially more slowly than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply, resulting in a decline in the Fund’s income and potentially in the value of the Fund’s investments. VBND may also invest in asset backed and mortgage backed securities which include additional risks that investors should be aware of such as credit risk, prepayment risk, possible illiquidity and default, as well as increased susceptibility to adverse economic developments. The performance of the Funds may diverge from that of the Indices. Because the Funds employ a representative sampling strategy and may also invest up to 20%

 

6

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Letter to Shareholders
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

of their assets in securities that are not included in the Indices, the Funds may experience tracking error to a greater extent than a fund that seeks to replicate an index. The Funds are not actively managed and may be affected by a general decline in market segments related to the Indices. The Funds invest in securities included in, or representative of securities included in, the Indices, regardless of their investment merits. Small and medium-capitalization companies tend to have more limited liquidity and greater price volatility than large-capitalization companies. Unlike mutual funds, ETFs may trade at a premium or discount to their net asset value.

 

The Vident Core International Equity Index™ (Bloomberg Symbol: VIEQX) is a strategy seeking to balance risk across developed and emerging countries and emphasize those with favorable conditions for growth. Vident U.S. Quality IndexTM (Bloomberg Symbol: VQUSX) is a strategy which seeks to apply principles-based reasoning, expressed through innovative risk design to address the risks and opportunities of U.S. equity investing. The Vident Core U.S. Stock Index™ (Bloomberg Symbol: VCUSX) is a strategy which seeks to apply principles-based reasoning, expressed through innovative risk design to address the risks and opportunities of U.S. equity investing. The Vident Core U.S. Bond Index™ (Bloomberg Symbol: VUBDX) is a strategy which seeks to diversify and improve interest rate and credit risks of traditional U.S. core bonds.

 

The Morningstar Global ex-US Large-Mid Index measures the performance of Global Markets Ex-US equity markets targeting the top 90% of stocks by market capitalization. This Index does not incorporate Environmental, Social, or Governance (ESG) criteria.

 

The Morningstar Global Markets ex-US Index measures the performance of the stocks located in the developed and emerging countries across the world (excluding the United States) as defined by Morningstar. Stocks in the index are weighted by their float capital, which removes corporate cross ownership, government holdings and other locked-in shares. This Index does not incorporate Environmental, Social, or Governance (ESG) criteria.

 

The S&P 500 Index measures the performance of 500 widely held stocks in US equity market. Standard and Poor’s chooses member companies for the index based on market size, liquidity and industry group representation. Included are the stocks of industrial, financial, utility, and transportation companies. Since mid-1989, this composition has been more flexible and the number of issues in each sector has varied. It is market capitalization-weighted.

 

The Morningstar U.S. Market Total Return Index measures the performance of US securities and targets 97% market capitalization coverage of the investable universe. It is a diversified broad market index. This Index does not incorporate Environmental, Social, or Governance (ESG) criteria.

 

The FTSE Broad Investment Grade Bond Index measures the performance of US Dollar-denominated bonds issued in the US investment-grade bond market. Introduced in 1985, the index covers US Treasury, government sponsored, collateralized, and corporate debt providing a reliable representation of the US investment-grade bond market. Subindexes are available in any combination of asset class, maturity, and rating.

 

It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

 

Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a Prospectus.

 

7

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Portfolio Allocation
As of February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

Country

Percentage of
Net Assets

Taiwan

8.2%

Republic of Korea

7.1

Norway

6.6

Canada

6.3

Singapore

5.7

Israel

5.1

Brazil

5.0

Germany

4.9

Hong Kong

4.9

Sweden

4.8

Australia

4.5

China

4.3

Switzerland

3.8

United Kingdom

3.7

Denmark

3.4

South Africa

2.4

Thailand

2.2

Malaysia

2.1

Netherlands

2.1

Poland

2.0

Chile

1.8

Indonesia

1.8

Italy

1.6

Ireland

1.1

Mexico

1.0

France

0.9

Finland

0.6

Spain

0.6

Japan

0.5

Austria

0.1

Belgium

0.1

Russian Federation

0.0

Short-Term Investments

0.1

Investments Purchased With Proceeds From Securities Lending

3.8

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets

(3.1)

Total

100.0%

 

8

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Portfolio Allocation
As of February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Sector

Percentage of
Net Assets

Information Technology

27.1%

Health Care

14.6

Consumer Discretionary

12.2

Financials

11.2

Industrials

8.2

Communication Services

6.5

Consumer Staples

6.5

Energy

6.0

Materials

3.7

Real Estate

2.2

Utilities

1.7

Short-Term Investments

0.3

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending

16.6

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets

(16.8)

Total

100.0%

 

 

9

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Portfolio Allocation
As of February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Asset Type

Percentage of
Net Assets

U.S. Government Notes/Bonds

61.9%

Corporate Bonds

24.5

Mortgage Backed Securities - U.S. Government Agency

10.0

U.S. Government Agency Issues

2.9

Short-Term Investments

7.0

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending

2.1

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets

(8.4)

Total

100.0%

 

10

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9%

       
       

Australia — 4.5%

       
    292,865  

AGL Energy, Ltd.

  $ 1,362,705  
    444,618  

Beach Energy, Ltd.

    424,257  
    135,115  

BlueScope Steel, Ltd.

    1,736,647  
    257,228  

Harvey Norman Holdings, Ltd. (a)

    667,827  
    353,884  

Healius, Ltd.

    656,264  
    51,789  

JB Hi-Fi, Ltd. (a)

    1,461,216  
    49,224  

Metcash, Ltd.

    135,100  
    100,279  

New Hope Corporation, Ltd.

    367,194  
    185,994  

QBE Insurance Group, Ltd.

    1,891,409  
    80,558  

Sonic Healthcare, Ltd.

    1,749,785  
    536,491  

South32, Ltd.

    1,570,136  
    1,453,627  

Tabcorp Holdings, Ltd.

    990,056  
    282,489  

Whitehaven Coal, Ltd.

    1,377,289  
    392,876  

Yancoal Australia, Ltd. (a)

    1,552,524  
              15,942,409  
       

Austria — 0.1%

       
    4,003  

OMV AG

    195,746  
    2,515  

Voestalpine AG

    93,404  
              289,150  
       

Belgium — 0.1%

       
    55,447  

Proximus SADP

    512,750  
                 
       

Brazil — 2.8%

       
    445,030  

Cia Brasileira de Distribuicao

    1,329,796  
    240,235  

EDP - Energias do Brasil SA

    905,132  
    544,435  

Embraer SA (b)

    1,738,413  
    285,881  

JBS SA

    1,046,447  
    443,653  

Marfrig Global Foods SA

    543,870  
    107,064  

Minerva SA

    233,171  
    191,722  

Telefonica Brasil SA

    1,438,089  
    756,465  

TIM SA

    1,782,236  
    57,866  

Vale SA

    947,678  
              9,964,832  
       

Canada — 6.3%

       
    18,429  

Alimentation Couche-Tard, Inc.

    866,459  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

11

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Canada — 6.3% (Continued)

       
    26,675  

Canfor Corporation (b)

  $ 456,127  
    16,473  

Celestica, Inc. (b)

    213,316  
    235,957  

Crescent Point Energy Corporation

    1,617,010  
    2,839  

Fairfax Financial Holdings, Ltd.

    1,989,291  
    28,485  

Gildan Activewear, Inc.

    907,202  
    69,855  

Great-West Lifeco, Inc.

    1,910,244  
    29,664  

iA Financial Corporation, Inc.

    1,995,830  
    29,509  

Interfor Corporation (b)

    497,868  
    29,639  

Magna International, Inc.

    1,655,622  
    93,178  

Manulife Financial Corporation (a)

    1,846,518  
    67,824  

Power Corporation of Canada

    1,814,352  
    26,635  

Stelco Holdings, Inc.

    1,091,654  
    36,967  

Sun Life Financial, Inc.

    1,790,447  
    43,851  

Teck Resources, Ltd. - Class B

    1,754,426  
    16,889  

TFI International, Inc.

    2,065,583  
              22,471,949  
       

Chile — 1.3%

       
    1,040,404  

Cencosud SA

    1,956,199  
    13,711,689  

Enel Americas SA

    1,697,601  
    376,959  

Falabella SA

    825,207  
              4,479,007  
       

China — 4.3%

       
    774,500  

3SBio, Inc. (c)

    767,643  
    942,000  

China Life Insurance Company, Ltd. - Class H

    1,596,102  
    652,800  

China Pacific Insurance Group Company, Ltd. - Class H

    1,729,822  
    2,355,500  

China Resources Pharmaceutical Group, Ltd. (c)

    1,935,534  
    130,178  

Hello Group, Inc. - ADR (a)

    1,146,868  
    2,276,000  

Lenovo Group, Ltd.

    2,041,282  
    638,100  

New China Life Insurance Company, Ltd. - Class H

    1,544,544  
    1,286,000  

PetroChina Company, Ltd. - Class H

    658,605  
    336,000  

PICC Property & Casualty Company, Ltd. - Class H

    294,928  
    5,255,000  

The People’s Insurance Company Group of China, Ltd. - Class H

    1,660,284  
    119,699  

Vipshop Holdings, Ltd. - ADR (b)

    1,782,318  
              15,157,930  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

12

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Denmark — 3.4%

       
    866  

AP Moller - Maersk AS - Class B

  $ 2,024,944  
    23,625  

Danske Bank AS

    550,229  
    11,190  

DSV AS

    2,042,518  
    42,949  

FLSmidth & Company AS

    1,697,030  
    363,837  

H Lundbeck AS

    1,542,859  
    26,070  

Jyske Bank AS (b)

    2,191,693  
    21,895  

Pandora AS

    2,082,178  
              12,131,451  
       

Finland — 0.6%

       
    93,136  

Nokia OYJ

    432,567  
    74,078  

Nokian Renkaat OYJ

    674,986  
    169,341  

Outokumpu OYJ

    1,020,051  
              2,127,604  
       

France — 0.9%

       
    31,278  

Cie de Saint-Gobain

    1,868,487  
    30,185  

Renault SA (b)

    1,359,517  
              3,228,004  
       

Germany — 4.3%

       
    7,475  

Allianz SE

    1,761,038  
    10,591  

Aurubis AG

    1,041,635  
    18,054  

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

    1,871,550  
    12,646  

BioNTech SE - ADR (a)

    1,644,612  
    139,090  

Deutsche Bank AG

    1,740,561  
    62,038  

Deutsche Lufthansa AG (b)

    646,203  
    34,756  

Freenet AG

    869,868  
    76,896  

K+S AG

    1,834,022  
    24,514  

Mercedes-Benz Group AG

    1,888,692  
    4,960  

Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG in Muenchen

    1,715,315  
    23,364  

Suedzucker AG

    397,928  
              15,411,424  
       

Hong Kong — 4.9%

       
    219,900  

ASMPT, Ltd.

    1,874,172  
    1,227,000  

China Taiping Insurance Holdings Company, Ltd.

    1,449,047  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

13

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Hong Kong — 4.9% (Continued)

       
    3,634,000  

China Traditional Chinese Medicine Holdings Company, Ltd. (a)

  $ 1,884,245  
    247,000  

CK Asset Holdings, Ltd.

    1,548,175  
    457,000  

Kingboard Holdings, Ltd.

    1,630,168  
    2,178,000  

Kunlun Energy Company, Ltd.

    1,742,511  
    5,158,000  

Pacific Basin Shipping, Ltd. (a)

    1,872,769  
    1,164,000  

Sino Land Company, Ltd.

    1,491,794  
    133,000  

Swire Pacific, Ltd. - Class A

    1,084,400  
    2,391,500  

WH Group, Ltd. (c)

    1,389,291  
    837,000  

Xinyi Glass Holdings, Ltd.

    1,563,210  
              17,529,782  
       

Indonesia — 1.8%

       
    8,635,800  

Adaro Energy Tbk PT

    1,693,183  
    4,542,900  

Astra International Tbk PT

    1,817,160  
    2,018,900  

Bank Negara Indonesia Persero Tbk PT

    1,161,695  
    740,000  

Indo Tambangraya Megah Tbk PT

    1,805,115  
              6,477,153  
       

Ireland — 1.1%

       
    173,520  

Bank of Ireland Group plc

    1,919,310  
    18,240  

DCC plc

    1,020,645  
    13,198  

Johnson Controls International plc

    827,779  
              3,767,734  
       

Israel — 5.1%

       
    192,246  

Bank Hapoalim BM

    1,609,330  
    112,110  

Bank Leumi Le-Israel BM

    872,512  
    1,095,490  

Bezeq The Israeli Telecommunication Corporation, Ltd.

    1,516,832  
    14,053  

Check Point Software Technologies, Ltd. (b)

    1,738,637  
    16,202  

Delek Group, Ltd. (b)

    1,524,399  
    42,850  

First International Bank Of Israel, Ltd.

    1,519,046  
    225,996  

ICL Group, Ltd.

    1,643,158  
    52,139  

Inmode, Ltd. (b)

    1,841,028  
    42,807  

Perion Network, Ltd. (b)

    1,444,308  
    17,133  

Plus500, Ltd.

    372,321  
    179,204  

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd. (b)

    1,781,738  
    98,368  

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services, Ltd. (a)

    2,327,387  
              18,190,696  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

14

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Italy — 1.6%

       
    92,758  

Assicurazioni Generali SpA

  $ 1,840,503  
    117,725  

Eni SpA

    1,668,712  
    96,269  

Iveco Group NV (b)

    912,307  
    91,290  

Leonardo SpA

    1,027,672  
    93,068  

UnipolSai Assicurazioni SpA

    237,469  
              5,686,663  
       

Japan — 0.5%

       
    97,500  

Sumitomo Forestry Company, Ltd.

    1,870,334  
                 
       

Malaysia — 2.1%

       
    773,500  

CIMB Group Holdings Bhd

    966,983  
    4,669,600  

Hartalega Holdings Bhd

    1,529,651  
    874,500  

Malayan Banking Bhd

    1,714,897  
    1,070,100  

MISC Bhd

    1,802,776  
    304,300  

Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd

    485,524  
    1,141,700  

Sime Darby Plantation Bhd

    1,076,187  
              7,576,018  
       

Mexico — 1.0%

       
    206,786  

Arca Continental SAB de CV

    1,748,738  
    209,267  

Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB de CV

    1,924,229  
              3,672,967  
       

Netherlands — 2.1%

       
    330,364  

Aegon NV

    1,728,284  
    61,306  

Koninklijke Ahold Delhaize NV

    1,951,429  
    28,307  

Randstad NV

    1,744,140  
    119,080  

Stellantis NV

    2,090,514  
              7,514,367  
       

Norway — 6.6%

       
    25,226  

Aker BP ASA

    683,402  
    1,447,332  

DNO ASA

    1,677,227  
    61,030  

Equinor ASA

    1,888,432  
    90,346  

Gjensidige Forsikring ASA

    1,610,179  
    45,130  

Kongsberg Gruppen ASA

    1,885,187  
    261,116  

Leroy Seafood Group ASA

    1,304,753  
    97,615  

Mowi ASA

    1,694,916  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

15

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Norway — 6.6% (Continued)

       
    108,297  

Nordic Semiconductor ASA (b)

  $ 1,563,242  
    221,145  

Norsk Hydro ASA

    1,617,141  
    243,643  

Orkla ASA

    1,646,493  
    206,737  

Storebrand ASA

    1,718,387  
    174,382  

Telenor ASA

    1,964,348  
    119,903  

TGS ASA

    2,175,198  
    51,118  

Var Energi ASA

    146,266  
    40,803  

Yara International ASA

    1,948,549  
              23,523,720  
       

Poland — 2.0%

       
    85,032  

Bank Polska Kasa Opieki SA

    1,718,616  
    52,748  

KGHM Polska Miedz SA

    1,514,524  
    121,419  

Polski Koncern Naftowy ORLEN SA

    1,824,117  
    59,890  

Powszechna Kasa Oszczednosci Bank Polski SA (a)

    419,504  
    215,396  

Powszechny Zaklad Ubezpieczen SA

    1,777,693  
              7,254,454  
       

Republic of Korea — 7.1%

       
    49,157  

DB HiTek Company, Ltd.

    1,682,836  
    32,796  

DB Insurance Company, Ltd.

    1,908,401  
    49,541  

GS Holdings Corporation

    1,521,891  
    51,906  

Hankook Tire & Technology Company, Ltd.

    1,459,213  
    65,813  

Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance Company, Ltd.

    1,750,703  
    34,259  

Kia Corporation

    1,949,520  
    61,856  

KT Corporation

    1,423,401  
    23,342  

KT&G Corporation

    1,564,659  
    23,051  

LG Electronics, Inc.

    1,937,103  
    198,469  

LG Uplus Corporation

    1,660,345  
    64,827  

LX INTERNATIONAL Corporation

    1,535,860  
    6,446  

NongShim Company, Ltd.

    1,782,910  
    377,428  

Pan Ocean Company, Ltd.

    1,805,493  
    76,261  

SD Biosensor, Inc.

    1,325,527  
    24,374  

Seegene, Inc.

    449,443  
    9,515  

Shinsegae, Inc.

    1,466,888  
              25,224,193  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

16

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Russian Federation — 0.0% (d)

       
    1,196  

Magnit PJSC - GDR (b)(e)(f)(g)

  $  
    24,074  

Severstal PAO - GDR (b)(e)(f)(g)

     
               
       

Singapore — 5.7%

       
    66,300  

City Developments, Ltd.

    379,730  
    888,400  

ComfortDelGro Corporation, Ltd.

    798,547  
    55,600  

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

    1,411,323  
    2,350,900  

Genting Singapore, Ltd.

    1,781,316  
    69,200  

Jardine Cycle & Carriage, Ltd.

    1,527,268  
    48,772  

JOYY, Inc. - ADR (a)

    1,531,441  
    317,900  

Keppel Corporation, Ltd.

    1,294,129  
    166,100  

NETLINK NBN TRUST (f)

    106,731  
    184,800  

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation, Ltd.

    1,739,343  
    500,800  

Sembcorp Industries, Ltd.

    1,350,447  
    6,067,132  

Sembcorp Marine, Ltd. (b)

    572,392  
    397,000  

Singapore Airlines, Ltd. (a)

    1,678,067  
    913,300  

Singapore Telecommunications, Ltd.

    1,607,934  
    79,419  

United Overseas Bank, Ltd.

    1,765,194  
    91,000  

Venture Corporation, Ltd.

    1,160,695  
    577,800  

Wilmar International, Ltd.

    1,691,143  
              20,395,700  
       

South Africa — 2.4%

       
    216,790  

Aspen Pharmacare Holdings, Ltd.

    1,675,742  
    94,027  

Impala Platinum Holdings, Ltd.

    878,533  
    2,719,897  

Old Mutual, Ltd.

    1,764,738  
    346,324  

Sibanye Stillwater, Ltd.

    700,147  
    180,734  

Standard Bank Group, Ltd.

    1,807,512  
    406,913  

Woolworths Holdings, Ltd.

    1,706,901  
              8,533,573  
       

Spain — 0.6%

       
    237,349  

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA

    1,855,851  
    88,100  

Mapfre SA

    189,476  
              2,045,327  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

17

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Sweden — 4.8%

       
    39,720  

Boliden AB

  $ 1,638,337  
    32,125  

Getinge AB - Class B

    694,646  
    192,053  

Securitas AB - Class B

    1,664,437  
    100,462  

Skanska AB - Class B

    1,836,110  
    285,356  

SSAB AB - Class B

    1,963,009  
    95,861  

Swedbank AB - Class A

    1,965,276  
    80,966  

Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (b)

    1,871,862  
    313,246  

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson - Class B

    1,745,162  
    89,820  

Volvo AB - Class B

    1,806,977  
    378,108  

Volvo Car AB - Class B (b)

    1,793,263  
              16,979,079  
       

Switzerland — 3.8%

       
    7,093  

Baloise Holding AG

    1,184,374  
    7,857  

Chubb, Ltd.

    1,657,984  
    11,971  

Cie Financiere Richemont SA

    1,810,498  
    61,219  

Ferrexpo plc

    109,171  
    115,706  

Glencore plc

    693,886  
    7,133  

Helvetia Holding AG

    918,595  
    19,508  

Novartis AG

    1,650,141  
    42,004  

STMicroelectronics NV

    2,023,471  
    5,165  

Swatch Group AG

    1,803,135  
    17,399  

Swiss Re AG

    1,822,973  
              13,674,228  
       

Taiwan — 8.2%

       
    540,000  

ASE Technology Holding Company, Ltd.

    1,878,600  
    2,900,600  

AUO Corporation

    1,770,661  
    313,000  

Catcher Technology Company, Ltd.

    1,895,289  
    625,000  

Chicony Electronics Company, Ltd.

    1,887,133  
    480,000  

Gigabyte Technology Company, Ltd.

    1,874,662  
    4,787,550  

Innolux Corporation

    2,309,752  
    819,000  

Lite-On Technology Corporation

    1,868,114  
    1,585,000  

Macronix International Company, Ltd.

    1,792,063  
    429,000  

Micro-Star International Company, Ltd.

    1,928,913  
    355,000  

Nanya Technology Corporation

    680,418  
    158,000  

Novatek Microelectronics Corporation

    2,113,097  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

18

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 95.9% (Continued)

       
       

Taiwan — 8.2% (Continued)

       
    574,000  

Powertech Technology, Inc.

  $ 1,659,673  
    546,000  

Radiant Opto-Electronics Corporation

    1,890,513  
    1,192,000  

United Microelectronics Corporation

    1,954,098  
    2,253,000  

Winbond Electronics Corporation

    1,704,381  
    1,814,000  

Wistron Corporation

    1,973,583  
              29,180,950  
       

Thailand — 2.2%

       
    163,800  

Bangkok Bank PCL - NVDR

    757,792  
    2,877,100  

Bangkok Chain Hospital pcl - NVDR

    1,620,041  
    1,866,600  

Regional Container Lines pcl - NVDR (a)

    1,650,515  
    2,669,600  

Sri Trang Agro-Industry pcl - NVDR

    1,907,329  
    5,644,300  

Sri Trang Gloves Thailand pcl - NVDR (a)

    1,772,765  
              7,708,442  
       

United Kingdom — 3.7%

       
    30,778  

Anglo American plc

    1,074,808  
    320,856  

Aviva plc - Class B

    1,734,021  
    107,599  

BT Group plc

    181,525  
    244,302  

HSBC Holdings plc

    1,879,883  
    176,776  

International Distributions Services plc

    503,362  
    501,076  

J Sainsbury plc

    1,626,980  
    70,289  

Janus Henderson Group plc (a)

    1,930,136  
    416,626  

Kingfisher plc

    1,448,608  
    18,368  

Rio Tinto plc

    1,270,194  
    1,118,309  

Vodafone Group plc

    1,350,906  
              13,000,423  
       

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $344,406,272)

    341,522,313  
                 
       

PREFERRED STOCKS — 3.3%

       
       

Brazil — 2.2%

       
    780,132  

Cia Energetica de Minas Gerais

    1,567,526  
    1,170,552  

Cia Paranaense de Energia - Class B

    1,594,159  
    283,225  

Gerdau SA

    1,551,018  
    639,780  

Metalurgica Gerdau SA

    1,536,737  
    339,332  

Petroleo Brasileiro SA

    1,661,334  
              7,910,774  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

19

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

PREFERRED STOCKS — 3.3% (Continued)

       
       

Chile — 0.5%

       
    751,847  

Embotelladora Andina SA - Class B

  $ 1,838,191  
                 
       

Germany — 0.6%

       
    34,048  

Schaeffler AG

    249,506  
    13,353  

Volkswagen AG

    1,829,019  
              2,078,525  
       

TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS (Cost $11,832,635)

    11,827,490  
 

Principal
Amount

           
       

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.1%

       
       

Money Market Deposit Account — 0.1%

       
  $ 227,738  

U.S. Bank Money Market Deposit Account, 3.53% (h)

    227,738  
       

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $227,738)

    227,738  
 

Units

           
       

INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING — 3.8%

       
       

Private Funds — 2.3%

       
    8,336,395  

Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 4.75% (i)(j)

    8,336,395  
              8,336,395  
 

Principal
Amount

           
       

Repurchase Agreements — 1.5%

       
  $ 1,261,406  

Bank of America Securities, Inc. - 4.550%, dated 2/28/23, matures 3/1/23, repurchase price $1,261,563 (collateralized by various U.S. government mortgage backed securities: Total Value $1,286,634)

    1,261,406  
    1,261,406  

Citigroup Global Markets, Inc. - 4.550%, dated 2/28/22, matures 3/1/22, repurchase price $1,261,563 (collateralized by various U.S. government mortgage backed securities and U.S. government Treasury bonds: Total Value $1,286,634)

    1,261,406  
    231,539  

Deutsche Bank, Inc. - 4.550%, dated 2/28/23, matures 3/1/23, repurchase price $231,568 (collateralized by various U.S. government mortgage backed securities: Total Value $236,170)

    231,539  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

20

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING — 3.8% (Continued)

       
       

Repurchase Agreements — 1.5% (Continued)

       
  $ 1,261,406  

HSBC Securities U.S.A., Inc. - 4.530%, dated 2/28/23, matures 3/1/23, repurchase price $1,261,563 (collateralized by various U.S. government mortgage backed securities, Treasury notes and bonds:

Total Value $1,286,634)

  $ 1,261,406  
    1,261,406  

RBC Dominion Securities, Inc. - 4.550%, dated 2/28/23, matures 3/1/23, repurchase price $1,261,563 (collateralized by various U.S. Government Treasury bills, notes, bonds, and mortgage backed securities: Total Value $1,286,634)

    1,261,406  
              5,277,163  
       

TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING (Cost $13,613,558) (k)

    13,613,558  
       

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 103.1% (Cost $370,080,203)

    367,191,099  
       

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (3.1)%

    (11,206,783 )
       

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

  $ 355,984,316  

 

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)

All or portion of this security is out on loan as of February 28, 2023. Total value of securities out on loan is $13,592,066 or 3.8% of net assets.

(b)

Non-income producing security.

(c)

Security exempt from registration under Rule 144(a) and Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933. Such securities are treated as liquid securities, according to the Fund’s liquidity guidelines. At February 28, 2023, the value of these securities amounted to $4,092,468 or 1.2% of net assets.

(d)

Represents less than 0.05% of net assets.

(e)

Value determined using significant unobservable inputs. Classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

(f)

Security exempt from registration under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933. Such securities are treated as liquid securities, according to the Fund’s liquidity guidelines. At February 28, 2023, the value of these securities amounted to $106,731 or 0.0% of net assets.

(g)

These securities have been deemed illiquid according to the Fund’s liquidity guidelines. The value of these securities is $0, which represents 0.0% of net assets.

(h)

The Money Market Deposit Account (the “MMDA”) is a short-term investment vehicle in which the Fund holds cash balances. The MMDA will bear interest at a variable rate that is determined based on conditions and may change daily and by any amount. The rate shown is as of February 28, 2023.

(i)

Rate shown is the annualized seven-day yield as of February 28, 2023.

(j)

Privately offered liquidity fund. See Note 2 in Notes to Financial Statements.

(k)

Investment purchased with cash proceeds from securities lending. As of February 28, 2023, total cash collateral has a value of $13,613,558. Additionally, total non-cash collateral has a value of $1,116,745.

 

ADR — American Depositary Receipt

 

GDR — Global Depositary Receipt

 

NVDR — Non-Voting Depositary Receipt

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

21

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 99.9%

       
       

Communication Services — 6.5%

       
    63,546  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

  $ 4,845,383  
    23,061  

Alphabet, Inc. - Class A (a)

    2,076,874  
    4,875  

Charter Communications, Inc. - Class A (a)

    1,792,099  
    22,247  

Electronic Arts, Inc.

    2,468,082  
    49,361  

Iridium Communications, Inc. (a)

    3,029,284  
    10,443  

Madison Square Garden Sports Corporation

    1,996,075  
    12,064  

Meta Platforms, Inc. - Class A (a)

    2,110,476  
    5,759  

Netflix, Inc. (a)

    1,855,147  
    31,762  

New York Times Company - Class A

    1,222,837  
    7,184  

Nexstar Media Group, Inc.

    1,335,506  
    54,901  

Pinterest, Inc. - Class A (a)

    1,378,564  
    31,106  

Shutterstock, Inc.

    2,339,793  
    35,565  

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. - Class A (b)

    2,987,460  
    80,983  

Yelp, Inc. (a)

    2,431,110  
              31,868,690  
       

Consumer Discretionary — 12.2%

       
    6,973  

Airbnb, Inc. - Class A (a)

    859,631  
    1,964  

AutoZone, Inc. (a)

    4,883,565  
    8,192  

Cavco Industries, Inc. (a)

    2,334,720  
    3,305  

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (a)

    4,928,019  
    7,623  

Deckers Outdoor Corporation (a)

    3,173,836  
    3,628  

Dillards, Inc. - Class A (b)

    1,293,055  
    26,651  

Grand Canyon Education, Inc. (a)

    3,019,292  
    24,221  

Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

    4,983,471  
    28,660  

Marriott International, Inc. - Class A

    4,850,418  
    2,034  

McDonalds Corporation

    536,793  
    470  

NVR, Inc. (a)

    2,431,601  
    7,335  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (a)

    6,088,784  
    35,560  

Skyline Champion Corporation (a)(b)

    2,432,660  
    68,275  

Steven Madden, Ltd.

    2,478,383  
    39,155  

Tesla, Inc. (a)

    8,054,575  
    48,854  

The Buckle, Inc. (b)

    1,992,755  
    5,868  

Ulta Beauty, Inc. (a)

    3,044,318  
    19,576  

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (b)

    2,445,434  
              59,831,310  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

22

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 99.9% (Continued)

       
       

Consumer Staples — 6.5%

       
    103,479  

Altria Group, Inc.

  $ 4,804,530  
    49,895  

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (b)

    2,834,036  
    22,191  

Medifast, Inc. (b)

    2,488,277  
    69,357  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    12,035,520  
    70,111  

Procter & Gamble Company

    9,644,469  
              31,806,832  
       

Energy — 6.0%

       
    75,160  

Chevron Corporation

    12,083,473  
    92,255  

Devon Energy Corporation

    4,974,390  
    110,176  

Exxon Mobil Corporation

    12,109,444  
              29,167,307  
       

Financials — 11.2%

       
    15,373  

Affiliated Managers Group, Inc.

    2,450,610  
    28,016  

American Express Company

    4,874,504  
    5,513  

American Financial Group, Inc.

    739,348  
    7,183  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

    2,462,835  
    53,026  

Bank OZK

    2,440,787  
    7,142  

BlackRock, Inc.

    4,923,909  
    31,769  

East West Bancorp, Inc.

    2,421,115  
    77,879  

Equitable Holdings, Inc.

    2,446,958  
    10,865  

Evercore, Inc. - Class A (b)

    1,425,271  
    78,453  

Federated Hermes, Inc.

    3,087,126  
    49,986  

Hancock Whitney Corporation

    2,455,312  
    30,126  

Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.

    4,884,630  
    177,000  

MGIC Investment Corporation

    2,435,520  
    7,273  

MSCI, Inc.

    3,797,597  
    16,129  

Piper Sandler Companies

    2,435,318  
    22,330  

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

    1,999,875  
    105,344  

Regions Financial Corporation

    2,456,622  
    38,530  

SEI Investments Company

    2,321,432  
    170,092  

SLM Corporation

    2,445,923  
    11,060  

Virtus Investment Partners, Inc. (b)

    2,327,356  
              54,832,048  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

23

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 99.9% (Continued)

       
       

Health Care — 14.6%

       
    97,181  

Abbott Laboratories

  $ 9,885,251  
    22,408  

AbbVie, Inc.

    3,448,591  
    26,012  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

    1,793,787  
    39,191  

Danaher Corporation

    9,700,948  
    49,420  

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (a)

    3,975,345  
    23,564  

Eli Lilly & Company

    7,333,588  
    75,651  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    6,092,175  
    111,040  

Merck & Company, Inc.

    11,796,890  
    6,153  

Moderna, Inc. (a)

    854,098  
    292,339  

Pfizer, Inc.

    11,860,193  
    16,988  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)

    4,931,447  
              71,672,313  
       

Industrials — 8.2%

       
    17,053  

Atkore, Inc. (a)

    2,490,079  
    34,301  

Boise Cascade Company

    2,370,542  
    6,999  

Cintas Corporation

    3,068,852  
    6,781  

Encore Wire Corporation (b)

    1,308,801  
    22,771  

Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.

    2,380,936  
    29,441  

Exponent, Inc.

    3,029,479  
    9,273  

Forward Air Corporation

    957,066  
    7,851  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

    1,830,539  
    13,528  

Landstar System, Inc.

    2,445,727  
    36,048  

Matson, Inc. (b)

    2,397,553  
    41,840  

Mueller Industries, Inc. (b)

    3,094,905  
    7,189  

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. (b)

    2,438,940  
    31,065  

Robert Half International, Inc.

    2,504,460  
    86,874  

Rollins, Inc.

    3,057,965  
    27,072  

UFP Industries, Inc. (b)

    2,315,468  
    20,911  

United Parcel Service, Inc. - Class B

    3,816,048  
    2,224  

Watsco, Inc. (b)

    677,675  
              40,185,035  
       

Information Technology — 27.1% (c)

       
    30,459  

Adobe, Inc. (a)

    9,867,193  
    66,552  

Apple, Inc.

    9,810,430  
    43,820  

Applied Materials, Inc.

    5,089,693  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

24

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 99.9% (Continued)

       
       

Information Technology — 27.1% (c) (Continued)

       
    25,355  

Autodesk, Inc. (a)

  $ 5,037,785  
    18,645  

Axcelis Technologies, Inc. (a)

    2,396,628  
    16,899  

Broadcom, Inc.

    10,042,907  
    25,196  

Cadence Design Systems, Inc. (a)

    4,861,316  
    201,389  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    9,751,255  
    25,638  

Dolby Laboratories, Inc. - Class A

    2,109,495  
    6,774  

Fiserv, Inc. (a)

    779,620  
    64,022  

Fortinet, Inc. (a)

    3,805,468  
    12,852  

KLA-Tencor Corporation

    4,875,792  
    12,717  

Kulicke & Soffa Industries, Inc. (b)

    677,816  
    10,200  

Lam Research Corporation

    4,957,302  
    16,643  

Lattice Semiconductor Corporation (a)

    1,413,989  
    27,648  

Mastercard, Inc. - Class A

    9,823,058  
    61,274  

Microchip Technology, Inc.

    4,965,032  
    39,175  

Microsoft Corporation

    9,771,029  
    33,954  

Paychex, Inc.

    3,748,522  
    27,908  

Power Integrations, Inc. (b)

    2,295,433  
    19,420  

Qualys, Inc. (a)

    2,294,473  
    45,463  

Rambus, Inc. (a)

    2,010,829  
    13,474  

Synopsys, Inc. (a)

    4,901,302  
    24,253  

Teradyne, Inc.

    2,452,948  
    28,861  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    4,948,218  
    44,480  

Visa, Inc. - Class A (b)

    9,782,931  
              132,470,464  
       

Materials — 3.7%

       
    18,592  

Alpha Metallurgical Resources, Inc.

    3,118,622  
    35,647  

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.

    3,061,721  
    122,364  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

    5,013,253  
    23,773  

Louisiana-Pacific Corporation

    1,390,958  
    11,242  

Nucor Corporation

    1,882,361  
    12,028  

Southern Copper Corporation

    886,343  
    21,843  

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

    2,754,621  
              18,107,879  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

25

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Shares

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

COMMON STOCKS — 99.9% (Continued)

       
       

Real Estate — 2.2%

       
    9,814  

Crown Castle, Inc.

  $ 1,283,180  
    184,025  

eXp World Holdings, Inc. (b)

    2,223,022  
    16,647  

Public Storage

    4,976,621  
    79,068  

Weyerhaeuser Company

    2,470,875  
              10,953,698  
       

Utilities — 1.7%

       
    24,371  

American Electric Power Company, Inc.

    2,143,917  
    52,504  

National Fuel Gas Company

    3,007,429  
    53,603  

OGE Energy Corporation

    1,914,699  
    19,382  

Otter Tail Corporation (b)

    1,373,990  
              8,440,035  
       

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $475,141,975 )

    489,335,611  
 

Principal
Amount

           
       

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.3%

       
       

Money Market Deposit Account — 0.3%

       
  $ 1,343,181  

U.S. Bank Money Market Deposit Account, 3.53% (d)

    1,343,181  
       

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $1,343,181)

    1,343,181  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

26

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Units     Security Description   Value  
        INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING — 16.6%        
        Private Funds — 16.6%        
  81,372,488     Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 4.75% (e)(f)   $ 81,372,488  
        TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING (Cost $81,372,488)     81,372,488  
        TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 116.8% (Cost $557,857,644 )     572,051,280  
        Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (16.8)%     (82,472,084 )
        NET ASSETS — 100.0%   $ 489,579,196  

 

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)

Non-income producing security.

(b)

All or portion of this security is out on loan as of February 28, 2023. Total value of securities out on loan is $42,494,341 or 8.7% of net assets.

(c)

To the extent that the Fund invests more heavily in particular sectors of the economy, its performance will be especially sensitive to developments that significantly affect those sectors. See Note 8 in Notes to Financial Statements.

(d)

The Money Market Deposit Account (the “MMDA”) is a short-term investment vehicle in which the Fund holds cash balances. The MMDA will bear interest at a variable rate that is determined based on conditions and may change daily and by any amount. The rate shown is as of February 28, 2023.

(e)

Rate shown is the annualized seven-day yield as of February 28, 2023.

(f)

Privately offered liquidity fund. See Note 2 in Notes to Financial Statements.

 

The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and/or is the exclusive property of MSCI, Inc. (“MSCI”) and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC (“S&P”). GICS® is a service mark of MSCI and S&P and has been licensed for use by the Fund’s Administrator, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

27

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

CORPORATE BONDS — 24.5%

       
       

Communication Services — 0.6%

       
       

Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation

       
  $ 1,120,000  

08/01/2026, 5.250%

  $ 1,073,587  
       

Paramount Global

       
    1,290,000  

02/28/2057, 6.250% (a)

    1,065,656  
              2,139,243  
       

Consumer Discretionary — 2.0%

       
       

AutoNation, Inc.

       
    1,300,000  

03/01/2032, 3.850%

    1,090,050  
       

BRUNSWICK Corporation

       
    1,625,000  

08/18/2031, 2.400%

    1,195,526  
       

Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.

       
    1,590,000  

01/15/2052, 4.100% (b)

    1,050,625  
       

Hasbro, Inc.

       
    960,000  

03/15/2040, 6.350%

    935,401  
       

Lear Corporation

       
    1,245,000  

05/15/2049, 5.250%

    1,047,775  
       

MDC Holdings, Inc.

       
    1,280,000  

01/15/2043, 6.000%

    1,083,645  
       

Mohawk Industries, Inc.

       
    1,210,000  

05/15/2030, 3.625% (b)

    1,056,273  
              7,459,295  
       

Consumer Staples — 0.8%

       
       

Altria Group, Inc.

       
    1,500,000  

05/06/2050, 4.450%

    1,056,836  
       

Kraft Heinz Foods Company

       
    105,000  

01/26/2039, 6.875%

    114,358  
    890,000  

02/09/2040, 6.500%

    935,916  
       

Philip Morris International, Inc.

       
    1,180,000  

11/15/2043, 4.875%

    1,027,376  
              3,134,486  
       

Energy — 4.7%

       
       

Continental Resources, Inc.

       
    1,470,000  

06/01/2044, 4.900% (b)

    1,103,045  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

28

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

CORPORATE BONDS — 24.5% (Continued)

       
       

Energy — 4.7% (Continued)

       
       

Devon Energy Corporation

       
  $ 975,000  

09/30/2031, 7.875%

  $ 1,102,254  
       

Energy Transfer LP

       
    1,030,000  

07/01/2038, 7.500%

    1,113,406  
       

Enterprise Products Operating LLC

       
    1,310,000  

02/15/2078, 5.375% (a)

    1,097,125  
       

EQT Corporation

       
    1,020,000  

02/01/2030, 7.000% (b)

    1,054,185  
       

Halliburton Company

       
    860,000  

09/15/2039, 7.450%

    975,067  
       

Hess Corporation

       
    1,050,000  

01/15/2040, 6.000%

    1,031,077  
       

Magellan Midstream Partners LP

       
    1,080,000  

10/15/2043, 5.150%

    951,284  
       

Marathon Oil Corporation

       
    945,000  

10/01/2037, 6.600%

    941,810  
       

Marathon Petroleum Corporation

       
    945,000  

03/01/2041, 6.500%

    976,853  
       

NOV, Inc.

       
    1,470,000  

12/01/2042, 3.950%

    1,067,560  
       

Ovintiv, Inc.

       
    920,000  

11/01/2031, 7.375%

    982,739  
       

Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc.

       
    1,315,000  

02/01/2028, 3.950% (b)

    1,150,583  
       

Phillips 66 Company

       
    930,000  

10/01/2046, 4.900% (c)

    820,077  
       

Plains All American Pipeline LP / PAA Finance Corporation

       
    160,000  

06/15/2044, 4.700%

    122,913  
    1,150,000  

02/15/2045, 4.900%

    905,254  
       

Valero Energy Corporation

       
    1,000,000  

06/15/2037, 6.625% (b)

    1,062,818  
       

Western Midstream Operating LP

       
    1,265,000  

02/01/2050, 5.500%

    1,033,148  
              17,491,198  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

29

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

CORPORATE BONDS — 24.5% (Continued)

       
       

Financials — 6.6%

       
       

Allstate Corporation

       
  $ 1,100,000  

05/15/2067, 6.500% (a)

  $ 1,064,863  
       

Ally Financial, Inc.

       
    990,000  

11/01/2031, 8.000%

    1,073,749  
       

American Assets Trust LP

       
    1,400,000  

02/01/2031, 3.375%

    1,107,918  
       

American Equity Investment Life Holding Company

       
    1,115,000  

06/15/2027, 5.000%

    1,095,204  
       

Blackstone Secured Lending Fund

       
    1,430,000  

09/30/2028, 2.850%

    1,154,604  
       

Brighthouse Financial, Inc.

       
    1,475,000  

06/22/2047, 4.700%

    1,140,692  
       

Capital One Financial Corporation

       
    1,420,000  

07/29/2032, 2.359% (a)

    1,041,544  
       

Corebridge Financial, Inc.

       
    1,145,000  

12/15/2052, 6.875% (a)(b)(c)

    1,132,454  
       

Enstar Group, Ltd.

       
    1,135,000  

06/01/2029, 4.950%

    1,045,092  
       

Fifth Third Bancorp

       
    810,000  

03/01/2038, 8.250%

    1,011,078  
       

GLP Capital LP

       
    1,105,000  

06/01/2028, 5.750%

    1,081,658  
       

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.

       
    1,500,000  

08/15/2036, 2.487% (a)

    1,104,287  
       

Legg Mason, Inc.

       
    925,000  

01/15/2044, 5.625%

    916,711  
       

Lincoln National Corporation

       
    820,000  

06/15/2040, 7.000%

    881,784  
       

Markel Corporation

       
    1,000,000  

04/05/2046, 5.000%

    879,069  
       

MetLife, Inc.

       
    810,000  

08/01/2069, 10.750%

    1,102,910  
       

MGIC Investment Corporation

       
    1,170,000  

08/15/2028, 5.250%

    1,093,938  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

30

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

CORPORATE BONDS — 24.5% (Continued)

       
       

Financials — 6.6% (Continued)

       
       

Prudential Financial, Inc.

       
  $ 1,100,000  

05/15/2045, 5.375% (a)

  $ 1,069,789  
       

Radian Group, Inc.

       
    1,085,000  

03/15/2025, 6.625% (b)

    1,085,369  
       

Regions Bank

       
    888,000  

06/26/2037, 6.450%

    925,910  
       

Synchrony Financial

       
    1,170,000  

08/04/2026, 3.700%

    1,085,391  
       

Unum Group

       
    1,160,000  

08/15/2042, 5.750%

    1,086,667  
       

Western Alliance Bancorp

       
    1,380,000  

06/15/2031, 3.000% (a)

    1,201,921  
              24,382,602  
       

Health Care — 0.8%

       
       

Cardinal Health, Inc.

       
    1,150,000  

06/15/2047, 4.368%

    915,620  
       

Centene Corporation

       
    1,150,000  

12/15/2029, 4.625%

    1,052,714  
       

HCA, Inc.

       
    1,060,000  

06/15/2047, 5.500%

    950,538  
              2,918,872  
       

Industrials — 1.5%

       
       

BNSF Funding Trust I

       
    1,190,000  

12/15/2055, 6.613% (a)

    1,163,225  
       

FedEx Corporation

       
    1,015,000  

01/15/2044, 5.100%

    919,802  
       

Flowserve Corporation

       
    1,310,000  

10/01/2030, 3.500% (b)

    1,106,333  
       

Kirby Corporation

       
    1,310,000  

03/01/2028, 4.200%

    1,225,258  
       

Owens Corning

       
    1,230,000  

07/15/2047, 4.300%

    980,216  
              5,394,834  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

31

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

CORPORATE BONDS — 24.5% (Continued)

       
       

Information Technology — 2.1%

       
       

Broadcom, Inc.

       
  $ 1,205,000  

04/15/2030, 5.000%

  $ 1,156,862  
       

Corning, Inc.

       
    685,000  

11/15/2079, 5.450%

    605,552  
       

HP, Inc.

       
    995,000  

09/15/2041, 6.000% (b)

    974,696  
       

Kyndryl Holdings, Inc.

       
    1,575,000  

10/15/2041, 4.100%

    1,062,495  
       

Micron Technology, Inc.

       
    1,180,000  

02/06/2029, 5.327%

    1,154,553  
       

Qorvo, Inc.

       
    915,000  

10/15/2029, 4.375% (b)

    816,880  
       

Vontier Corporation

       
    1,410,000  

04/01/2031, 2.950%

    1,075,492  
       

Western Digital Corporation

       
    1,435,000  

02/01/2032, 3.100%

    1,035,178  
              7,881,708  
       

Materials — 1.0%

       
       

Dow Chemical Company

       
    650,000  

05/15/2039, 9.400%

    859,961  
       

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

       
    1,090,000  

03/15/2043, 5.450%

    981,114  
       

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.

       
    210,000  

12/15/2047, 4.250%

    172,196  
       

Mosaic Company

       
    950,000  

11/15/2043, 5.625%

    896,679  
       

Vulcan Materials Company

       
    1,040,000  

06/15/2047, 4.500%

    886,938  
              3,796,888  
       

Real Estate — 2.0%

       
       

Brixmor Operating Partnership LP

       
    1,185,000  

07/01/2030, 4.050%

    1,049,003  
       

Corporate Office Properties LP

       
    1,400,000  

04/15/2031, 2.750%

    1,054,554  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

32

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

CORPORATE BONDS — 24.5% (Continued)

       
       

Real Estate — 2.0% (Continued)

       
       

EPR Properties

       
  $ 1,365,000  

08/15/2029, 3.750%

  $ 1,114,002  
       

MPT Operating Partnership LP / MPT Finance Corporation

       
    1,305,000  

08/01/2029, 4.625% (b)

    977,145  
       

Omega Healthcare Investors, Inc.

       
    1,400,000  

04/15/2033, 3.250%

    1,000,841  
       

Sabra Health Care LP

       
    1,500,000  

12/01/2031, 3.200%

    1,114,892  
       

Simon Property Group LP

       
    850,000  

02/01/2040, 6.750%

    945,979  
              7,256,416  
       

Utilities — 2.4%

       
       

American Electric Power Company, Inc.

       
    1,300,000  

02/15/2062, 3.875% (a)

    1,090,612  
       

CMS Energy Corporation

       
    1,240,000  

06/01/2050, 4.750% (a)

    1,113,768  
       

Dominion Energy, Inc.

       
    1,150,000  

10/01/2054, 5.750% (a)

    1,111,951  
       

Duke Energy Corporation

       
    1,405,000  

01/15/2082, 3.250% (a)

    1,116,413  
       

National Fuel Gas Company

       
    1,100,000  

01/15/2026, 5.500%

    1,096,081  
       

NextEra Energy Capital Holdings, Inc.

       
    1,030,000  

12/01/2077, 4.800% (a)

    910,726  
    160,000  

03/15/2082, 3.800% (a)

    137,530  
       

Sempra Energy

       
    1,300,000  

04/01/2052, 4.125% (a)

    1,099,345  
       

Southern Company

       
    1,245,000  

09/15/2051, 3.750% (a)

    1,063,929  
              8,740,355  
       

TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS (Cost $100,589,293)

    90,595,897  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

33

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

MORTGAGE BACKED SECURITIES - U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY — 10.0%

       
       

Federal National Mortgage Association

       
  $ 940,000  

03/01/2040, 4.500% (d)

  $ 905,503  
    1,090,000  

03/15/2041, 3.500% (d)

    992,752  
    1,260,000  

03/15/2041, 4.000% (d)

    1,182,136  
    3,000,000  

03/15/2041, 5.000% (d)

    2,948,573  
    3,400,000  

03/15/2041, 5.500% (d)

    3,394,788  
    3,000,000  

03/15/2041, 6.000% (d)

    3,036,270  
    1,900,000  

03/15/2043, 3.000% (d)

    1,671,703  
    3,098,409  

04/01/2052, 4.000%

    2,910,076  
    3,792,934  

05/01/2052, 4.000%

    3,563,569  
    3,834,912  

06/01/2052, 4.000%

    3,603,001  
    1,850,000  

03/15/2053, 6.500% (d)

    1,895,202  
              26,103,573  
       

Government National Mortgage Association

       
    2,390,000  

03/15/2040, 6.000% (d)

    2,424,870  
    1,110,000  

03/15/2041, 4.500% (d)

    1,075,507  
    2,330,000  

03/15/2041, 5.000% (d)

    2,303,164  
    450,000  

03/15/2042, 4.000% (d)

    425,215  
    400,000  

03/15/2043, 3.000% (d)

    356,750  
    410,000  

03/15/2045, 3.500% (d)

    376,960  
    3,620,000  

10/20/2052, 5.500% (d)

    3,634,248  
              10,596,714  
       

TOTAL MORTGAGE BACKED SECURITIES - U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY (Cost $37,561,228)

    36,700,287  
                 
       

U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY ISSUES — 2.9%

       
       

Financials — 1.5%

       
       

Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation

       
    240,000  

11/18/2024, 0.875%

    224,068  
    330,000  

01/06/2025, 1.125%

    308,010  
    320,000  

02/14/2025, 1.750%

    301,313  
              833,391  
                 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

34

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY ISSUES — 2.9% (Continued)

       
       

Financials — 1.5% (Continued)

       
       

Federal Home Loan Banks

       
  $ 310,000  

08/15/2024, 1.500%

  $ 294,452  
    300,000  

09/13/2024, 2.875%

    290,543  
    350,000  

12/13/2024, 2.750%

    336,806  
    340,000  

12/20/2024, 1.000%

    317,071  
    560,000  

03/14/2025, 2.375%

    532,555  
    455,000  

04/14/2025, 0.500%

    416,399  
    305,000  

09/04/2025, 0.375%

    274,501  
              2,462,327  
       

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation

       
    310,000  

02/12/2025, 1.500%

    291,039  
    125,000  

07/21/2025, 0.375%

    112,843  
    240,000  

09/23/2025, 0.375%

    215,721  
              619,603  
       

Federal National Mortgage Association

       
    450,000  

09/06/2024, 2.625%

    434,445  
    275,000  

10/15/2024, 1.625%

    260,698  
    330,000  

01/07/2025, 1.625%

    311,214  
    455,000  

04/22/2025, 0.625%

    416,701  
    265,000  

06/17/2025, 0.500%

    240,865  
    130,000  

08/25/2025, 0.375%

    116,967  
    80,000  

11/07/2025, 0.500%

    71,735  
              1,852,625  
       

Utilities — 1.4%

       
       

Tennessee Valley Authority

       
    60,000  

09/15/2024, 2.875%

    57,991  
    630,000  

05/15/2025, 0.750%

    575,404  
    230,000  

11/01/2025, 6.750%

    242,266  
    555,000  

04/01/2036, 5.880%

    618,642  
    800,000  

01/15/2038, 6.150%

    911,886  
    950,000  

09/15/2039, 5.250%

    997,710  
    820,000  

12/15/2042, 3.500%

    679,549  
    590,000  

04/01/2056, 5.375%

    637,512  
    470,000  

09/15/2060, 4.625%

    449,647  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

35

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY ISSUES — 2.9% (Continued)

       
       

Utilities — 1.4% (Continued)

       
  $ 110,000  

09/15/2065, 4.250%

  $ 97,405  
              5,268,012  
       

TOTAL U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY ISSUES (Cost $11,887,180)

    11,035,958  
       

U.S. GOVERNMENT NOTES/BONDS — 61.9%

       
       

U.S. Treasury Bonds — 16.1%

       
       

United States Treasury Bonds

       
    4,100,000  

08/15/2041, 1.750%

    2,835,807  
    2,775,000  

11/15/2041, 2.000%

    2,001,794  
    3,625,000  

08/15/2042, 2.750%

    2,949,207  
    5,205,000  

11/15/2042, 2.750%

    4,223,065  
    1,895,000  

02/15/2043, 3.125%

    1,631,069  
    4,990,000  

05/15/2043, 2.875%

    4,123,182  
    200,000  

11/15/2043, 3.750%

    189,277  
    1,720,000  

02/15/2044, 3.625%

    1,593,923  
    3,925,000  

05/15/2044, 3.375%

    3,495,780  
    4,935,000  

08/15/2044, 3.125%

    4,213,738  
    6,135,000  

11/15/2044, 3.000%

    5,124,043  
    4,580,000  

02/15/2045, 2.500%

    3,492,697  
    4,075,000  

05/15/2045, 3.000%

    3,395,064  
              39,268,646  
       

United States Treasury Inflation Indexed Bonds

       
    1,988,842  

01/15/2026, 2.000%

    1,995,613  
    1,250,979  

01/15/2027, 2.375%

    1,278,902  
    587,939  

01/15/2028, 1.750%

    590,189  
    1,247,820  

04/15/2028, 3.625%

    1,365,234  
    587,512  

01/15/2029, 2.500%

    616,092  
    983,948  

04/15/2029, 3.875%

    1,111,100  
    1,016,146  

02/15/2040, 2.125%

    1,093,779  
    1,165,549  

02/15/2041, 2.125%

    1,254,380  
    1,438,272  

02/15/2042, 0.750%

    1,227,057  
    1,445,830  

02/15/2043, 0.625%

    1,190,266  
    1,381,726  

02/15/2044, 1.375%

    1,307,694  
    1,594,381  

02/15/2045, 0.750%

    1,322,835  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

36

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

U.S. GOVERNMENT NOTES/BONDS — 61.9% (Continued)

       
       

U.S. Treasury Bonds — 16.1% (Continued)

       
  $ 1,446,753  

02/15/2046, 1.000%

  $ 1,256,831  
    1,438,538  

02/15/2047, 0.875%

    1,206,070  
    1,275,784  

02/15/2048, 1.000%

    1,097,074  
    1,179,470  

02/15/2049, 1.000%

    1,013,081  
    998,582  

02/15/2050, 0.250%

    698,028  
    729,594  

02/15/2051, 0.125%

    486,435  
    282,538  

02/15/2052, 0.125%

    187,772  
              20,298,432  
       

U.S. Treasury Notes — 45.8%

       
       

United States Treasury Inflation Indexed Notes

       
    3,849,284  

04/15/2025, 0.125%

    3,699,586  
    2,121,377  

07/15/2025, 0.375%

    2,055,256  
    1,790,141  

10/15/2025, 0.125%

    1,716,394  
    1,886,126  

01/15/2026, 0.625%

    1,822,100  
    2,229,508  

04/15/2026, 0.125%

    2,110,803  
    674,819  

07/15/2026, 0.125%

    640,205  
    727,714  

10/15/2026, 0.125%

    687,716  
    1,283,960  

01/15/2027, 0.375%

    1,217,820  
    1,030,156  

04/15/2027, 0.125%

    963,720  
    212,329  

07/15/2027, 0.375%

    201,179  
    523,409  

01/15/2028, 0.500%

    494,913  
    235,084  

01/15/2029, 0.875%

    225,511  
    392,217  

01/15/2030, 0.125%

    355,953  
    205,225  

01/15/2031, 0.125%

    184,108  
    182,017  

01/15/2032, 0.125%

    161,134  
              16,536,398  
       

United States Treasury Notes

       
    11,080,000  

08/15/2024, 0.375%

    10,358,069  
    11,330,000  

08/31/2024, 1.250%

    10,711,718  
    17,535,000  

08/31/2024, 1.875%

    16,734,623  
    14,090,000  

09/15/2024, 0.375%

    13,132,596  
    2,400,000  

09/30/2024, 1.500%

    2,273,719  
    7,180,000  

10/15/2024, 0.625%

    6,698,575  
    1,070,000  

10/31/2024, 2.250%

    1,023,856  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

37

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Principal
Amount

 

Security Description

 

Value

 
       

U.S. GOVERNMENT NOTES/BONDS — 61.9% (Continued)

       
       

U.S. Treasury Notes — 45.8% (Continued)

       
  $ 4,335,000  

11/30/2024, 1.500%

  $ 4,089,294  
    1,575,000  

11/30/2024, 2.125%

    1,502,033  
    1,495,000  

12/31/2024, 1.750%

    1,413,914  
    4,275,000  

01/15/2025, 1.125%

    3,992,032  
    3,960,000  

01/31/2025, 1.375%

    3,712,423  
    11,600,000  

01/31/2025, 2.500%

    11,110,625  
    13,360,000  

02/15/2025, 1.500%

    12,536,481  
    5,790,000  

02/15/2025, 2.000%

    5,488,626  
    7,745,000  

02/28/2025, 1.125%

    7,207,388  
    10,800,000  

02/28/2025, 2.750%

    10,383,609  
    7,025,000  

03/15/2025, 1.750%

    6,611,870  
    2,215,000  

03/31/2025, 0.500%

    2,030,186  
    2,690,000  

03/31/2025, 2.625%

    2,577,566  
    2,075,000  

04/15/2025, 2.625%

    1,986,083  
    3,505,000  

04/30/2025, 0.375%

    3,193,589  
    7,240,000  

04/30/2025, 2.875%

    6,963,409  
    945,000  

05/15/2025, 2.125%

    894,059  
    6,430,000  

05/31/2025, 2.875%

    6,180,586  
              152,806,929  
       

TOTAL U.S. GOVERNMENT NOTES/BONDS (Cost $237,162,156)

    228,910,405  
                 
       

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 7.0%

       
       

Money Market Deposit Account — 7.0%

       
    26,070,807  

U.S. Bank Money Market Deposit Account, 3.53% (e)(f)

    26,070,807  
       

TOTAL MONEY MARKET FUNDS (Cost $26,070,807)

    26,070,807  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

38

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Schedule of Investments
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Units     Security Description   Value  
        INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING — 2.1%        
        Private Funds — 2.1%        
  7,858,152     Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 4.75% (g)(h)   $ 7,858,152  
        TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING (Cost $7,858,152)     7,858,152  
        TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 108.4% (Cost $421,128,816)     401,171,506  
        Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (8.4)%     (31,029,758 )
        NET ASSETS — 100.0%   $ 370,141,748  

 

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)

Variable or Floating Rate Security based on a reference index and spread. Certain securities are fixed to variable and currently in the fixed phase. Rate shown is the rate in effect as of February 28, 2023.

(b)

All or portion of this security is out on loan as of February 28, 2023. Total value of securities out on loan is $7,704,096 or 2.1% of net assets.

(c)

Security exempt form registration under Rule 144(a) of the Securities Act of 1933. Such securities are treated as liquid securities, according to the Fund’s liquidity guidelines. At February 28, 2023, the value of these securities amounted to $1,952,531 or 0.5% of net assets.

(d)

Security purchased on a forward-commitment basis (“TBA commitment”). On February 28, 2023, the total value of TBA commitments was $26,623,641 or 7.2% of net assets.

(e)

The Money Market Deposit Account (the “MMDA”) is a short-term investment vehicle in which the Fund holds cash balances. The MMDA will bear interest at a variable rate that is determined based on conditions and may change daily and by any amount. The rate shown is as of February 28, 2023.

(f)

All or a portion of this security has been pledged as collateral in connection with TBA commitments. At February 28, 2023, the value of securities pledged amounted to $26,070,807. In addition, the Fund held cash collateral in the amount of $1,710,000.

(g)

Rate shown is the annualized seven-day yield as of February 28, 2023.

(h)

Privately offered liquidity fund. See Note 2 in Notes to Financial Statements.

 

The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and/or is the exclusive property of MSCI, Inc. (“MSCI”) and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC (“S&P”). GICS® is a service mark of MSCI and S&P and has been licensed for use by the Fund’s Administrator, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

39

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

   

Vident
International
Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Bond
Strategy ETF
TM

 

ASSETS

                       

Investments in securities, at value*+

  $ 367,191,099     $ 572,051,280     $ 401,171,506  

Cash held as collateral for TBA commitments

                1,710,000  

Foreign currency, at value*

    346              

Dividends and interest receivable

    1,599,070       650,592       2,172,240  

Dividend tax reclaim receivable

    957,150              

Securities lending income receivable

    19,637       10,893       817  

Receivable for securities sold

          192,279,355        

Total Assets

    369,767,302       764,992,120       405,054,563  
                         

LIABILITIES

                       

Collateral received for securities loaned (Note 4)

    13,613,558       81,372,488       7,858,152  

Payable for securities purchased

          193,846,938       26,937,498  

Management fees payable

    169,428       193,498       117,165  

Total Liabilities

    13,782,986       275,412,924       34,912,815  
                         

NET ASSETS

  $ 355,984,316     $ 489,579,196     $ 370,141,748  
                         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

                       

Paid-in capital

  $ 522,823,387     $ 469,281,499     $ 432,330,100  

Total distributable earnings (accumulated deficit)

    (166,839,071 )     20,297,697       (62,188,352 )

Net assets

  $ 355,984,316     $ 489,579,196     $ 370,141,748  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

40

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

   

Vident
International
Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Bond
Strategy ETF
TM

 

Net asset value:

                       

Net assets

  $ 355,984,316     $ 489,579,196     $ 370,141,748  

Shares outstanding ^

    15,700,000       11,200,000       8,600,000  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 22.67     $ 43.71     $ 43.04  
                         

* Identified Cost:

                       

Investments in securities

  $ 370,080,203     $ 557,857,644     $ 421,128,816  

Foreign currency

    363              

+ Includes loaned securities with a value of

  $ 13,592,066     $ 42,494,341     $ 7,704,096  

 

^

No par value, unlimited number of shares authorized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

41

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Statement of Operations
For the Six-Months Ended February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

   

Vident
International
Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Bond
Strategy ETF
TM

 

INCOME

                       

Dividends^

  $ 5,495,170     $ 5,398,283     $  

Securities lending income, net (Note 4)

    82,441       99,932       6,797  

Interest

    14,268       14,319       6,658,279  

Total investment income

    5,591,879       5,512,534       6,665,076  
                         

EXPENSES

                       

Management fees

    1,022,957       1,180,929       744,706  

Total expenses

    1,022,957       1,180,929       744,706  

Net investment income (loss)

    4,568,922       4,331,605       5,920,370  
                         

REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS

                       

Net realized gain (loss) on:

                       

Investments in securities

    (11,109,917 )     38,841,981       (13,016,394 )

Foreign currency

    (121,300 )            

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments

                       

Investments in securities

    25,809,009       (8,511,033 )     1,145,967  

Foreign currency and translation of other assets and liabilities in foreign currency

    48,813              

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments

    14,626,605       30,330,948       (11,870,427 )

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 19,195,527     $ 34,662,553     $ (5,950,057 )
                         
^ Net of foreign withholding taxes   $ 736,819     $     $  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

42

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023
(Unaudited)

   

Year Ended
August 31,
2022

 

OPERATIONS

               

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 4,568,922     $ 21,841,735  

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

    (11,231,217 )     (9,191,343 )

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments foreign currency

    25,857,822       (81,520,049 )

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    19,195,527       (68,869,657 )
                 

DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

               

Net distributions to shareholders

    (9,246,698 )     (23,767,573 )

Total distributions to shareholders

    (9,246,698 )     (23,767,573 )
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    8,298,210        

Payments for shares redeemed

    (2,341,060 )     (53,776,620 )

Transaction fees (Note 7)

    4,558       34,627  

Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions (a)

    5,961,708       (53,741,993 )

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

  $ 15,910,537     $ (146,379,223 )
                 

NET ASSETS

               

Beginning of period/year

  $ 340,073,779     $ 486,453,002  

End of period/year

  $ 355,984,316     $ 340,073,779  

 

(a)

A summary of capital share transactions is as follows:

 

   

Shares

   

Shares

 

Shares sold

    400,000        

Shares redeemed

    (100,000 )     (2,100,000 )

Net increase (decrease)

    300,000       (2,100,000 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

43

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023
(Unaudited)

   

Year Ended
August 31,
2022

 

OPERATIONS

               

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 4,331,605     $ 6,489,521  

Net realized gain (loss) on investments

    38,841,981       25,064,709  

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments

    (8,511,033 )     (64,409,430 )

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    34,662,553       (32,855,200 )
                 

DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

               

Net distributions to shareholders

    (4,467,434 )     (6,205,670 )

Total distributions to shareholders

    (4,467,434 )     (6,205,670 )
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    66,730,320       78,759,520  

Payments for shares redeemed

    (71,114,750 )     (3,904,120 )

Transaction fees (Note 7)

    136       8  

Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions (a)

    (4,384,294 )     74,855,408  

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

  $ 25,810,825     $ 35,794,538  
                 

NET ASSETS

               

Beginning of period/year

  $ 463,768,371     $ 427,973,833  

End of period/year

  $ 489,579,196     $ 463,768,371  

 

(a)

A summary of capital share transactions is as follows:

 

   

Shares

   

Shares

 

Shares sold

    1,600,000       1,800,000  

Shares redeemed

    (1,700,000 )     (100,000 )

Net increase (decrease)

    (100,000 )     1,700,000  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

44

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023
(Unaudited)

   

Year Ended
August 31,
2022

 

OPERATIONS

               

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 5,920,370     $ 7,006,259  

Net realized gain (loss) on investments

    (13,016,394 )     (31,030,589 )

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments

    1,145,967       (28,597,208 )

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (5,950,057 )     (52,621,538 )
                 

DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

               

Net distributions to shareholders

    (5,912,137 )     (9,405,859 )

Total distributions to shareholders

    (5,912,137 )     (9,405,859 )
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    8,673,830       46,663,710  

Payments for shares redeemed

    (4,345,510 )     (22,645,050 )

Transaction fees (Note 7)

    389       10,572  

Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from capital share transactions (a)

    4,328,709       24,029,232  

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

  $ (7,533,485 )   $ (37,998,165 )
                 

NET ASSETS

               

Beginning of period/year

  $ 377,675,233     $ 415,673,398  

End of period/year

  $ 370,141,748     $ 377,675,233  

 

(a)

A summary of capital share transactions is as follows:

 

   

Shares

   

Shares

 

Shares sold

    200,000       1,000,000  

Shares redeemed

    (100,000 )     (500,000 )

Net increase (decrease)

    100,000       500,000  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

45

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Financial Highlights

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period/year

 

   

Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023

   

Year Ended August 31,

 
   

(Unaudited)

   

2022

   

2021

   

2020

   

2019

   

2018

 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 22.08     $ 27.80     $ 21.54     $ 22.59     $ 25.19     $ 27.16  
                                                 

INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:

                                               

Net investment income (loss) (1)

    0.29       1.34       0.78       0.51       0.74       0.60  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (6)

    0.89       (5.60 )     6.34       (0.93 )     (2.64 )     (1.91 )

Total from investment operations

    1.18       (4.26 )     7.12       (0.42 )     (1.90 )     (1.31 )
                                                 

DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:

                                               

Distributions from:

                                               

Net investment income

    (0.59 )     (1.46 )     (0.86 )     (0.64 )     (0.70 )     (0.66 )

Total distributions to shareholders

    (0.59 )     (1.46 )     (0.86 )     (0.64 )     (0.70 )     (0.66 )
                                                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

                                               

Transaction fees (Note 7)

    (2)      (2)      (2)      0.01       (2)      (2) 
                                                 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 22.67     $ 22.08     $ 27.80     $ 21.54     $ 22.59     $ 25.19  
                                                 

Total return

    5.49 %(3)     -15.77 %     33.22 %     -1.98 %     -7.61 %     -4.97 %
                                                 

SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:

                                               

Net assets at end of period/year (000’s)

  $ 355,984     $ 340,074     $ 486,453     $ 437,301     $ 569,345     $ 609,628  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

46

 

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Financial Highlights

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period/year (Continued)

 

    Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023
    Year Ended August 31,  
    (Unaudited)     2022     2021     2020     2019     2018  
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:                                                
Expenses to average net assets (before management fees waived)     0.61 %(4)     0.61 %     0.61 %     0.61 %     0.61 %     0.64 %
Expenses to average net assets (after management fees waived)     0.61 %(4)     0.60 %     0.59 %     0.60 %     0.61 %     0.63 %
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (before management fees waived)     2.72 %(4)     5.22 %     3.02 %     2.29 %     3.09 %     2.18 %
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (after management fees waived)     2.72 %(4)     5.23 %     3.04 %     2.30 %     3.09 %     2.19 %

Portfolio turnover rate (5)

    41 %(3)     70 %     74 %     79 %     76 %     66 %

 

(1)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period.

(2)

Less than $0.005.

(3)

Not annualized.

(4)

Annualized.

(5)

Excludes impact of in-kind transactions.

(6)

Realized and unrealized gains and losses per share in this caption are balancing amounts necessary to reconcile the change in net asset value per share for the period, and may not reconcile with the aggregate gains and losses in the Statements of Operations due to share transactions for the period.

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

47

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Financial Highlights

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period/year

 

   

Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023

   

Year Ended August 31,

 
   

(Unaudited)

   

2022

   

2021

   

2020

   

2019

   

2018

 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 41.04     $ 44.58     $ 30.03     $ 29.72     $ 35.33     $ 29.83  
                                                 

INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:

                                               

Net investment income (loss) (1)

    0.38       0.62       0.46       0.45       0.49       0.40  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (6)

    2.69       (3.56 )     14.56       0.33       (5.60 )     5.52  

Total from investment operations

    3.07       (2.94 )     15.02       0.78       (5.11 )     5.92  
                                                 

DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:

                                               

Distributions from:

                                               

Net investment income

    (0.40 )     (0.60 )     (0.47 )     (0.47 )     (0.50 )     (0.42 )

Total distributions to shareholders

    (0.40 )     (0.60 )     (0.47 )     (0.47 )     (0.50 )     (0.42 )
                                                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

                                               

Transaction fees (Note 7)

    (2)      (2)                  (2)       
                                                 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 43.71     $ 41.04     $ 44.58     $ 30.03     $ 29.72     $ 35.33  
                                                 

Total return

    7.55 %(3)     -6.66 %     50.29 %     2.70 %     -14.49 %     19.95 %
                                                 

SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:

                                               

Net assets at end of period/year (000’s)

  $ 489,579     $ 463,768     $ 427,974     $ 330,357     $ 478,413     $ 671,355  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

48

 

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Financial Highlights

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period/year (Continued)

 

    Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023
    Year Ended August 31,  
    (Unaudited)     2022     2021     2020     2019     2018  
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:                                                
Expenses to average net assets (before management fees waived)     0.50 %(4)     0.50 %     0.50 %     0.50 %     0.50 %     0.52 %
Expenses to average net assets (after management fees waived)     0.50 %(4)     0.49 %     0.48 %     0.49 %     0.50 %     0.51 %
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (before management fees waived)     1.83 %(4)     1.41 %     1.17 %     1.53 %     1.56 %     1.20 %
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (after management fees waived)     1.83 %(4)     1.42 %     1.19 %     1.54 %     1.56 %     1.21 %

Portfolio turnover rate (5)

    126 %(3)     63 %     65 %     66 %     71 %     63 %

 

(1)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period.

(2)

Less than $0.005.

(3)

Not Annualized.

(4)

Annualized.

(5)

Excludes impact of in-kind transactions.

(6)

Realized and unrealized gains and losses per share are balancing amounts necessary to reconcile the change in net asset value per share for the period, and may not reconcile with the aggregate gains and losses in the Statements of Operations due to share transactions for the period.

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

49

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Financial Highlights

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period/year

 

   

Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023

   

Year Ended August 31,

 
   

(Unaudited)

   

2022

   

2021

   

2020

   

2019

   

2018

 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 44.43     $ 51.96     $ 52.01     $ 51.22     $ 47.93     $ 50.26  
                                                 

INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:

                                               

Net investment income (loss) (1)

    0.70       0.85       0.80       1.23       1.50       1.17  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (6)

    (1.39 )     (7.23 )     (0.05 )     0.88       3.34       (2.39 )

Total from investment operations

    (0.69 )     (6.38 )     0.75       2.11       4.84       (1.22 )
                                                 

DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:

                                               

Distributions from:

                                               

Net investment income

    (0.70 )     (1.05 )     (0.80 )     (1.33 )     (1.56 )     (1.11 )

Realized gains

          (0.10 )                        

Total distributions to shareholders

    (0.70 )     (1.15 )     (0.80 )     (1.33 )     (1.56 )     (1.11 )
                                                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

                                               

Transaction fees (Note 7)

    (2)      (2)      (2)      0.01       0.01       (2) 
                                                 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 43.04     $ 44.43     $ 51.96     $ 52.01     $ 51.22     $ 47.93  
                                                 

Total return

    -1.56 %(3)     -12.41 %     1.46 %     4.26 %     10.37 %     -2.42 %
                                                 

SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:

                                               

Net assets at end of period/year (000’s)

  $ 370,142     $ 377,675     $ 415,673     $ 400,494     $ 486,612     $ 536,796  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

50

 

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Financial Highlights

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period/year (Continued)

 

    Six-Months
Ended
February 28,
2023
    Year Ended August 31,  
    (Unaudited)     2022     2021     2020     2019     2018  
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:                                                
Expenses to average net assets (before management fees waived)     0.41 %(4)     0.41 %     0.41 %     0.41 %     0.41 %     0.43 %
Expenses to average net assets (after management fees waived)     0.41 %(4)     0.40 %     0.39 %     0.40 %     0.41 %     0.42 %
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (before management fees waived)     3.26 %(4)     1.76 %     1.53 %     2.42 %     3.11 %     2.42 %
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (after management fees waived)     3.26 %(4)     1.77 %     1.55 %     2.43 %     3.11 %     2.43 %

Portfolio turnover rate (5)

    87 %(3)     247 %     238 %     247 %     384 %     324 %

 

(1)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period.

(2)

Less than $0.005.

(3)

Not Annualized.

(4)

Annualized.

(5)

Excludes impact of in-kind transactions.

(6)

Realized and unrealized gains and losses per share are balancing amounts necessary to reconcile the change in net asset value per share for the period, and may not reconcile with the aggregate gains and losses in the Statements of Operations due to share transactions for the period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

51

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Notes to Financial Statements

February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

NOTE 1 – ORGANIZATION

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM, Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM and Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM (individually each a “Fund” or collectively the “Funds”) are diversified series of ETF Series Solutions (“ESS” or the “Trust”), an open-end management investment company consisting of multiple investment series, organized as a Delaware statutory trust on February 9, 2012. The Trust is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company and the offering of the Funds’ shares is registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The investment objectives of the Funds are to seek to track the performance, before fees and expenses, of the Vident Core International Equity IndexTM, the Vident U.S. Quality IndexTM and the Vident Core U.S. Bond IndexTM, respectively. Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM commenced operations on October 29, 2013; Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM commenced operations on January 21, 2014; and Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM commenced operations on October 15, 2014.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Funds is February 28, 2023, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the six-months period ended February 28, 2023 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

NOTE 2 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

The Funds are investment companies and accordingly follow the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

 

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Funds. These policies are in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

 

A.

Security Valuation. All equity securities, including domestic and foreign common stocks, preferred stocks, and exchange traded funds that are traded on a national securities exchange, except those listed on the Nasdaq Global Market®, Nasdaq Global SelectMarket® and Nasdaq Capital Market® exchanges (collectively “Nasdaq”), are valued at the last reported sale price on the exchange on which the security is principally traded. Securities traded on Nasdaq will be valued at the Nasdaq Official Closing Price (“NOCP”). If, on a particular day, an exchange traded or Nasdaq security does not trade, then the mean between the most recent quoted bid and asked prices will be used. All equity securities that are not traded on a listed exchange are valued at the last sale price in the over-the-counter market. If a non-exchange traded

 

52

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

security does not trade on a particular day, then the mean between the last quoted closing bid and asked price will be used. Prices denominated in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollar equivalents at the current exchange rate, which approximates fair value.

 

Investments in mutual funds, including money market funds, are valued at their net asset value (“NAV”) per share.

 

Debt securities, including short-term debt instruments, are valued in accordance with prices provided by a pricing service. Pricing services may use various valuation methodologies such as the mean between the bid and asked prices, matrix pricing and other analytical pricing models as well as market transactions and dealer quotations.

 

Units of Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC are not traded on an exchange and are valued at the investment company’s NAV per share as provided by its administrator. These shares are generally classified as Level 2 instruments.

 

Deposit accounts are valued at acquisition cost, which approximates fair value.

 

Securities for which quotations are not readily available are valued at their respective fair values in accordance with pricing procedures adopted by the Funds’ Board of Trustees (the “Board”). When a security is “fair valued,” consideration is given to the facts and circumstances relevant to the particular situation, including a review of various factors set forth in the pricing procedures adopted by the Board. The use of fair value pricing by the Funds may cause the NAV of the shares to differ significantly from the NAV that would be calculated without regard to such considerations.

 

As described above, the Funds utilize various methods to measure the fair value of their investments on a recurring basis. U.S. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuations methods. The three levels of inputs are:

 

 

Level 1 –

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Funds have the ability to access.

 

 

Level 2 –

Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates and similar data.

 

53

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

Level 3 –

Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, to the extent relevant inputs are not available; representing the Funds’ own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in valuing the asset or liability, and would be based on the best information available.

 

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, for example, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3.

 

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls in its entirety, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Funds’ investments as of the end of the current fiscal period:

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Assets^

 

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

Total

 

Common Stocks

  $ 341,522,313     $     $ 0 (a)    $ 341,522,313  

Preferred Stocks

    11,827,490                   11,827,490  

Short-Term Investments

    227,738                   227,738  

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending

          13,613,558             13,613,558  

Total Investments in Securities

  $ 353,577,541     $ 13,613,558     $ 0     $ 367,191,099  

 

(a)

Represents less than $0.50.

 

^

See Schedule of Investments for country breakouts

 

 

54

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

Assets^

 

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

Total

 

Common Stocks

  $ 489,335,611     $     $     $ 489,335,611  

Short-Term Investments

    1,343,181                   1,343,181  

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending

          81,372,488             81,372,488  

Total Investments in Securities

  $ 490,678,792     $ 81,372,488     $     $ 572,051,280  

 

^

See Schedule of Investments for sector breakouts

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Description^

 

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

Total

 

Corporate Bonds

  $     $ 90,595,897     $     $ 90,595,897  

Mortgage Backed Securities - U.S. Government Agency

          36,700,287             36,700,287  

U.S. Government Agency Issues

          11,035,958             11,035,958  

U.S. Government Notes/Bonds

          228,910,405             228,910,405  

Short-Term Investments

    26,070,807                   26,070,807  

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending

          7,858,152             7,858,152  

Total Investments in Securities

  $ 26,070,807     $ 375,100,699     $     $ 401,171,506  

 

^

See Schedule of Investments for sector breakouts.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Funds did not recognize any transfers into or out of Level 3.

 

 

B.

Foreign Currency. Investment securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollar amounts at the date of valuation. Purchases and sales of investment securities and income and expense items denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollar amounts on the respective dates of such transactions. The Funds do not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from changes in

 

55

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

foreign exchange rates on investments and currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on securities transactions from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss from investments. The Funds report net realized foreign exchange gains or losses that arise from sales of foreign currencies, currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on foreign currency transactions, and the difference between the amounts of dividends, interest, and foreign withholding taxes recorded on the Funds’ books and the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid. Net unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arise from changes in the values of assets and liabilities, other than investments in securities at fiscal period end, resulting from changes in exchange rates.

 

 

C.

Securities Purchased or Sold on a Forward-Commitment Basis. Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM may enter into TBA commitments, Mortgage Dollar Roll Transactions or other purchase and sale transactions that specify forward delivery of a financial security. TBA commitments are forward agreements for the purchase or sale of mortgage-backed pass-through securities for a fixed price, with payment and delivery on an agreed upon future settlement date. Most commitments in mortgage-backed pass-through securities occur for future delivery in which the exact mortgage pools to be delivered are not specified until a few days prior to settlement. The specific securities to be delivered are not identified at the trade date. However, delivered securities must follow general trade parameters, including issuer, rate and mortgage terms. When entering into TBA commitments, the Fund may take possession of or deliver the underlying mortgage-backed pass-through securities but can extend the settlement or roll the transaction. In order to better define contractual rights and to secure rights that will help the Fund mitigate counterparty risk, TBA commitments may be entered into by a Fund under Master Securities Forward Transaction Agreements (each, an “MSFTA”). An MSFTA typically contains, among other things, collateral posting terms and netting provisions in the event of default and/or termination event. The collateral requirements are typically calculated by netting the mark-to-market amount for each transaction under such agreement and comparing that amount to the value of the collateral currently pledged by a Fund and the counterparty. Cash collateral that has been pledged to cover the obligations of the Trust or cash collateral received from the counterparty, if any, is reported separately on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as cash held as collateral for TBA commitments or cash received as collateral for TBA commitments, respectively. Noncash collateral pledged by the Fund, if any, is noted in the

 

56

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Schedule of Investments. In connection with this ability, the Fund may enter into mortgage “dollar rolls” in which a Fund sells TBA mortgage-backed securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar (i.e., same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specific future date at an agreed upon price. During the period between the sale and repurchase, a Fund is not entitled to receive interest and principal payments on the securities sold. Mortgage dollar roll transactions are treated as purchases and sales and the Fund realizes gains and losses on these transactions.

 

The value of TBA commitments on the Statement of Asests and Liabilities for the Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM as of the end of the current fiscal period is as follows:

 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities - Values of TBA Committments as of the end of the current fiscal period

 

 

Liabilities

 

Location

 

Value

 

TBA Commitments - Credit/interest rate risk

Payable for Investment Securities Purchased

  $ 26,937,498  

 

The effect of TBA Commitments on the Statement of Operations for the current fiscal period

 

Amount of Realized Gain
(Loss) on TBA
Commitments Recognized
in Income

       

Change in Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation) Recognized
in Income

 

 

Investments
in Securities

             

Investments
in Securities

 

TBA Commitments

    ($1,198,053 )        

TBA Commitments

  $ 207,257  

 

The average monthly value of TBA Commitments during the current fiscal period was $26,104,738.

 

 

57

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

OFFSETTING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

 

The Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM is subject to various MSFTAs, which govern the terms of certain transactions with select counterparties. The MSFTAs allow the Fund to close out and net its total exposure to a counterparty in the event of a default with respect to all the transactions governed under a single agreement with a counterparty. The MSFTAs also specify collateral posting arrangements at prearranged exposure levels. Under the MSFTAs, collateral is routinely transferred if the total net exposure to certain transactions (net of existing collateral already in place) governed under the relevant MSFTAs with a counterparty in a given account exceeds a specified threshold depending on the counterparty and type of MSFTAs.

 

The following is a summary of the Assets and Liabilities subject to offsetting in the Fund as of the end of the current fiscal period.

 

OFFSETTING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

 

Liabilities

                       

Description/Counterparty

 

Gross
Amounts of
Recognized
Liabilities

   

Gross
Amounts
Offset in the
Statement
of Assets
and
Liabilities

   

Net
Amounts
Presented
in the
Statement
of Assets
and
Liabilities

 

TBA Commitments

                       

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC

  $ 19,716,898     $     $ 19,716,898  

Wells Fargo Securities, LLC

    7,220,600             7,220,600  
    $ 26,937,498     $     $ 26,937,498  

 

   

Gross Amounts not
offset in the Statement
of Assets and Liabilities

         

Description/Counterparty

 

Financial
Instruments

   

Collateral
Pledged

   

Net Amount

 

TBA Commitments

                       

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC

  $ (18,806,898 )   $ (910,000 )   $  

Wells Fargo Securities, LLC

    (6,420,600 )     (800,000 )      
    $ (25,227,498 )   $ (1,710,000 )   $  

 

58

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

In some instances, the collateral amounts disclosed in the tables were adjusted due to the requirement to limit the collateral amounts to avoid the effect of overcollateralization. Actual collateral received/pledged may be more than the amounts disclosed herein.

 

Federal Income Taxes. The Funds’ policy is to comply with the provisions of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of their net investment income and net capital gains to shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required. Each Fund plans to file U.S. Federal and various state and local tax returns.

 

Each Fund recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only when the position is more likely than not to be sustained. Management has analyzed each Fund’s uncertain tax positions and concluded that no liability for unrecognized tax benefits should be recorded related to uncertain tax positions. Management is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next 12 months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. The Funds recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits on uncertain tax positions as income tax expenses in the Statements of Operations. During the current fiscal period, the Funds did not incur any interest or penalties.

 

 

D.

Security Transactions and Investment Income. Investment securities transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Gains and losses realized from sales of securities are determined on a specific identification basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income or separately disclosed, if any, are recorded at fair value of the security received. Withholding taxes on foreign dividends and foreign taxes on capital gains have been provided for in accordance with the Funds’ understanding of the applicable tax rules and regulations. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted and amortized using the effective yield method. Paydown gains and losses on mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are recorded as components of interest income on the Statements of Operations.

 

Distributions received from the Funds’ investments in real estate investment trusts (“REIT”) may be characterized as ordinary income, net capital gain, or a return of capital. The proper characterization of REIT distributions is generally not known until after the end of each calendar year. As such, the Funds must

 

59

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

use estimates in reporting the character of their income and distributions received during the current calendar year for financial statement purposes. The actual character of distributions to the Funds’ shareholders will be reflected on the Form 1099 received by shareholders after the end of the calendar year. Due to the nature of REIT investments, a portion of the distributions received by a Fund’s shareholders may represent a return of capital.

 

 

E.

Distributions to Shareholders. Distributions to shareholders from net investment income for the Funds are declared and paid at least on a quarterly basis and distributions from net realized gains on securities are normally declared and paid on an annual basis. Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date.

 

 

F.

Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the current fiscal period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

 

G.

Share Valuation. The NAV per share of each Fund is calculated by dividing the sum of the value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest cent. The Funds’ shares will not be priced on the days on which the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (“NYSE”) is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for each Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.

 

 

H.

Guarantees and Indemnifications. In the normal course of business, the Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Funds that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Funds expect the risk of loss to be remote.

 

60

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

 

I.

Reclassification of Capital Accounts. U.S. GAAP requires that certain components of net assets relating to permanent differences be reclassified between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or NAV per share. The permanent differences are primarily due to differing book and tax treatments for in-kind transactions. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022 the following table shows the reclassifications made:

 

   

Distributable
Earnings
(Accumulated
Deficit)

   

Paid-In Capital

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ (4,033,544 )   $ 4,033,544  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

    (697,709 )     697,709  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ 1,381,888     $ (1,381,888 )

 

During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022, the Funds realized the following net capital gains/(losses) resulting from in-kind redemptions, in which shareholders exchanged Fund shares for securities held by the Fund rather than for cash. Because such gains/(losses) are not taxable to the Funds, and gains are not distributed to shareholders, they have been reclassified from distributable earnings (accumulated deficit) to paid-in capital.

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 4,033,544  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 697,709  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ (1,381,888 )

 

 

J.

Subsequent Events. In preparing these financial statements, management has evaluated events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure through the date the financial statements were issued. Pursuant to a membership interest purchase agreement signed on March 24, 2023, Vident Capital Holdings, LLC, a subsidiary of MM VAM, LLC is expected to acquire Vident Advisory, LLC (the “Transaction”). MM VAM, LLC is an entity controlled by Casey Crawford. As of the Closing Date, Mr. Crawford will effectively control Vident Advisory, LLC. The Transaction is expected to be completed early in the third quarter of 2023.

 

 

In anticipation of the termination of the current advisory agreement and current sub-advisory agreement, VA is seeking to enter into (i) a new investment advisory agreement with the Trust, on behalf of the Funds (the “New Advisory Agreement”). The New Advisory Agreement is subject to approval by Fund shareholders and the closing of the Transaction. If approved, the New Advisory Agreement will be identical in all material respects to the

 

61

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

current advisory and sub-advisory agreements, except for their effective and termination dates. The shareholder meeting is scheduled for the second quarter of 2023.

 

 

There were no other events or transactions that occurred during the period subsequent to the end of the current fiscal period that materially impacted the amounts or disclosures in the Fund’s financial statements.

 

NOTE 3 – COMMITMENTS AND OTHER RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

Vident Advisory, LLC (the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Funds, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vident Financial, LLC, the Index Provider (“Vident Financial”). Pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement (“Advisory Agreement”) between the Trust, on behalf of the Funds, and the Adviser, the Adviser provides investment advice to the Funds and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Funds, subject to the direction and control of the Board and the officers of the Trust. Under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser has agreed to pay all expenses incurred by the Funds except for the fee paid to the Adviser pursuant to this Agreement, interest charges on any borrowings, dividends and other expenses on securities sold short, taxes, brokerage commissions and other expenses incurred in placing orders for the purchase and sale of securities and other investment instruments, acquired fund fees and expenses, accrued deferred tax liability, extraordinary expenses, and distribution fees and expenses paid by the Trust under any distribution plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (collectively, “Excluded Expenses”). The Adviser may delegate its responsibility to pay some or all expenses incurred by the Funds, except for Excluded Expenses, to one or more third parties, including but not limited to, Vident Investment Advisory, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”) a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vident Financial. For its services, the Sub-Adviser is paid a fee by the Adviser, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate based on the average daily net assets of each Fund. For services provided to the Funds, Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM pays the Adviser 0.61%, Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM pays the Adviser 0.50%, and Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM pays the Adviser 0.41% at an annual rate based on each Fund’s average daily net assets.

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services” or “Administrator”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, acts as the Funds’ Administrator and, in that capacity, performs various administrative and accounting services for the Funds. The Administrator prepares various federal and state regulatory filings, reports and returns for the Funds, including regulatory compliance monitoring and financial reporting; prepares reports and materials to be supplied to the Board; monitors the activities of the Funds’ Custodian, transfer agent and accountants. Fund Services also serves as the transfer agent and fund accountant to the Funds. U.S. Bank N.A. (the “Custodian”), an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Funds’ Custodian.

 

62

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the “Distributor”) acts as the Funds’ principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Funds’ shares.

 

The Custodian and Bank of New York Mellon (“BNY” or the “Sub-Custodian”) (together the “Securities Lending Agents”) act as Vident International Equity Strategy ETF’sTM securities lending agents. The Custodian acts as securities lending agent (the “Securities Lending Agent”) for the Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM and Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM.

 

A Trustee and all officers of the Trust are affiliated with the Administrator and Custodian.

 

NOTE 4 – SECURITIES LENDING

 

The Funds may lend up to 331⁄3% of the value of the securities in their portfolios to brokers, dealers and financial institutions (but not individuals) under terms of participation in a securities lending programs administered by the Securities Lending Agents. The securities lending agreements require that loans are collateralized at all times in an amount equal to at least 102% of the value of any domestic loaned securities at the time of the loan, plus accrued interest. The use of loans of foreign securities, which are denominated and payable in U.S. dollars, shall be collateralized in an amount equal to 105% of the value of any loaned securities at the time of the loan plus accrued interest. The Funds receive compensation in the form of fees and earn interest on the non-cash and cash collateral. The amount of fees depends on a number of factors including the type of security and length of the loan. The Funds continue to receive interest payments or dividends on the securities loaned during the borrowing period. Gain or loss in the value of securities loaned that may occur during the term of the loan will be for the account of the Funds. The Funds have the right under the terms of the securities lending agreements to recall the securities from the borrower on demand.

 

The securities lending agreements provide that, in the event of a borrower’s material default, the Securities Lending Agents shall take all actions the Securities Lending Agents deem appropriate to liquidate the collateral, purchase replacement securities at the Securities Lending Agents’ expense, or pay the Fund an amount equal to the market value of the loaned securities, subject to certain limitations which are set forth in detail in the securities lending agreements between the Funds and the Securities Lending Agents.

 

As of the end of the current fiscal period, the Funds had loaned securities that were collateralized by cash equivalents. The cash collateral is invested by the Securities Lending Agents in accordance with approved investment guidelines. Those guidelines require the cash collateral to be invested in readily marketable, high quality, short-term obligations; however, such investments are subject to risk of payment delays

 

63

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

or default on the part of the issuer or counterparty or otherwise may not generate sufficient interest to support the costs associated with securities lending. The Funds could also experience delays in recovering their securities and possible loss of income or value if the borrower fails to return the borrowed securities, although the Funds are indemnified from this risk by contract with the Securities Lending Agents.

 

As of the end of the current fiscal period, the values of the securities on loan and payable for collateral due to the Securities Lending Agents were as follows:

 

Fund

 

Value of
Securities
on Loan

   

Payable for
Collateral
Received
(excludes non-
cash collateral)

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 13,592,066     $ 13,613,558  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 42,494,341     $ 81,372,488  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ 7,704,096     $ 7,858,152  

 

The cash collateral is invested in a private fund, and repurchase agreements (Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM only) with selected commercial banks and broker dealers, under which the Fund acquires U.S. Government obligations, as collateral subject to an obligation of the counterparty to repurchase and the Fund to resell the securities at an agreed upon time and price. The Fund, through the Sub-Custodian, receives delivery of the underlying securities collateralizing repurchase agreements. The Fund requires the Sub-Custodian to take possession of all securities held as collateral for repurchase agreements. The Fund and the counterparties are permitted to sell, re-pledge, or use the collateral associated with the transaction and it is the Fund’s policy that the fair value of the collateral be at least equal to 102% of the repurchase price. The value of the related collateral that the Fund received for repurchase agreements exceeded the value of the repurchase agreements at the end of the current fiscal period. The Schedule of Investments for the Fund includes the investments purchased with particular cash collateral holdings as of the end of the current fiscal period. Non-cash collateral received by Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM was in the form of U.S. Treasury obligations with a value of $1,116,745.

 

64

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

The interest income earned by the Funds on non-cash collateral and investments of cash collateral received from borrowers for the securities loaned to them (“Securities Lending Income”) is reflected in the Funds’ Statements of Operations. Net fees and interest income earned on collateral investments and recognized by the Funds during the current fiscal period, were as follows:

 

Fund

 

Fees and
Interest Earned

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 82,441  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

    99,932  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

    6,797  

 

SECURED BORROWINGS

 

The following represents gross obligations for secured borrowings by the type of collateral pledged and remaining time to maturity.

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

   

Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements

 

Securities
Lending
Transactions

 

Overnight
and
Continuous

   

Up to 30
Days

   

30-90 Days

   

Greater than
90 Days

   

Total

 

Repurchase agreements collateralized by various U.S. government obligations

  $ 5,277,163     $     $     $     $ 5,277,163  

Private Funds (a)

    8,336,395                         8,336,395  

U.S. Treasury Notes and Bonds

                      1,116,745       1,116,745  

Total Borrowings

  $ 13,613,558     $     $     $ 1,116,745     $ 14,730,303  

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

   

Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements

 

Securities
Lending
Transactions

 

Overnight
and
Continuous

   

Up to 30
Days

   

30-90 Days

   

Greater than
90 Days

   

Total

 

Private Funds (a)

  $ 81,372,488     $     $     $     $ 81,372,488  

Total Borrowings

  $ 81,372,488     $     $     $     $ 81,372,488  

 

65

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

   

Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements

 

Securities
Lending
Transactions

 

Overnight
and
Continuous

   

Up to 30
Days

   

30-90 Days

   

Greater than
90 Days

   

Total

 

Private Funds (a)

  $ 7,858,152     $     $     $     $ 7,858,152  

Total Borrowings

  $ 7,858,152     $     $     $     $ 7,858,152  

 

(a)

The cash collateral received was invested in the Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC as shown on the Schedule of Investments, a short-term investment portfolio with an overnight and continuous maturity. The investment objective is to seek to maximize current income to the extent consistent with the preservation of capital and liquidity and maintain a stable NAV of $1.00 per unit.

 

Due to the absence of a master netting agreement related to the Funds’ participation in securities lending, no additional offsetting disclosures have been made on behalf of the Funds.

 

NOTE 5 – PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

 

During the current fiscal period, purchases and sales of securities by the Funds, excluding short-term securities and in-kind transactions, were as follows:

 

   

Purchases

   

Sales

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 138,967,957     $ 140,266,158  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 598,217,640     $ 596,456,577  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ 317,258,421     $ 317,761,633  

 

During the current fiscal period, in-kind transactions associated with creations and redemptions were as follows:

 

   

In-Kind Purchases

   

In-Kind Sales

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 5,960,453     $ 1,754,909  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 66,179,477     $ 71,176,038  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ 7,760,834     $ 3,947,527  

 

There were no purchases or sales of U.S. Government securities in Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM or Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM during the current fiscal period. Included in the amounts for Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM there were $230,439,701 of purchases and $229,031,236 of sales of U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

 

66

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

NOTE 6 – INCOME TAX INFORMATION

 

The components of distributable earnings (accumulated deficit) and cost basis of investments and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) for federal income tax purposes as of August 31, 2022, were as follows:

 

   

Vident
International
Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

   

Vident
U.S. Bond
Strategy ETF
TM

 

Tax cost of investments

  $ 378,608,649     $ 543,866,838     $ 434,047,042  

Gross tax unrealized appreciation

  $ 20,156,454     $ 58,297,752     $ 139,714  

Gross tax unrealized depreciation

    (51,664,642 )     (36,926,975 )     (21,438,865 )

Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)

    (31,508,188 )     21,370,777       (21,299,151 )

Undistributed ordinary income

    5,125,231       1,218,360       502,506  

Undistributed long-term capital gain

                 

Other accumulated gain (loss)

    (150,404,943 )     (32,486,559 )     (29,529,513 )

Distributable earnings/(accumulated deficit)

  $ (176,787,900 )   $ (9,897,422 )   $ (50,326,158 )

 

The differences between book and tax-basis cost are attributable to the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies and wash sales. A regulated investment company may elect for any taxable year to treat any portion of any qualified late year loss as arising on the first day of the next taxable year. Qualified late year losses are certain capital and ordinary losses which occur during the portion of the Funds’ taxable year subsequent to October 31 and December 31, respectively. For the taxable year ended August 31, 2022, the Funds did not elect to defer any post- October capital losses or late-year ordinary losses.

 

As of August 31, 2022, the Funds had the following capital loss carryforwards available for federal income tax purposes, with an indefinite expiration:

 

   

Short-Term

   

Long-Term

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ (139,495,696 )   $ (10,895,577 )

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ (32,486,559 )   $  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ (18,261,395 )   $ (11,268,118 )

 

67

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022, the Funds utilized the following capital loss carryforward that was available as of August 31, 2021:

 

   

Short-Term

   

Long-Term

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $     $ 7,068,276  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 24,713,791     $  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $     $  

 

The tax character of distributions paid by the Funds during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022, was as follows:

 

   

Ordinary Income

   

Capital Gains

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 23,767,573     $  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 6,205,670     $  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ 8,604,885     $ 800,974  

 

The tax character of distributions paid by the Funds during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2021, was as follows:

 

   

Ordinary Income

   

Capital Gains

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 15,901,505     $  

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

  $ 4,772,720     $  

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

  $ 6,192,618     $  

 

NOTE 7 – SHARE TRANSACTIONS

 

Shares of the Funds are listed and traded on New York Stock Exchange Arca, Inc. (“NYSE Arca”). Market prices for the shares may be different from their NAV. The Funds issue and redeem shares on a continuous basis at NAV generally in blocks of 100,000 shares. The general blocks of shares issued or redeemed are called “Creation Units.” Creation Units are issued and redeemed principally in-kind for securities included in a specified universe. Once created, shares generally trade in the secondary market at market prices that change throughout the day. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares are not redeemable securities of a Fund. Creation Units of a Fund may only be purchased or redeemed by certain financial institutions (“Authorized Participants”). An Authorized Participant is either (i) a broker-dealer or other participant in the clearing process through the Continuous Net Settlement System of the National Securities Clearing Corporation or (ii) a Depository Trust Company participant and, in each case, must have executed a Participant Agreement with the Distributor. Most retail investors do not qualify as Authorized Participants nor have the resources to buy and sell whole Creation Units.

 

68

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Therefore, they are unable to purchase or redeem the shares directly from a Fund. Rather, most retail investors may purchase shares in the secondary market with the assistance of a broker and are subject to customary brokerage commissions or fees.

 

The Funds each currently offer one class of shares, which have no front-end sales loads, no deferred sales charges, and no redemption fees. A fixed transaction fee is imposed for the transfer and other transaction costs associated with the purchase or sale of Creation Units. Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM charges $5,000; Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM and Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM each charge $750 for the standard fixed transaction fee, payable to the Custodian. The fixed transaction fee may be waived on transaction orders if the Funds’ Custodian has determined to waive some or all of the costs associated with the order, or another party, such as the Adviser, has agreed to pay such fee. In addition, a variable fee payable to each Fund may be charged on all cash transactions or substitutes for Creation Units of up to a maximum of 2% in Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM and Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM and up to a maximum of 3% in Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM as a percentage of the value of the Creation Units subject to the transaction.

 

Variable fees are imposed to compensate the Funds for the transaction costs associated with the cash transactions fees. Variable fees received by each Fund, if any, are displayed in the Capital Share Transactions sections of the Statements of Changes in Net Assets. Each Fund may issue an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest, with no par value. Shares of each Fund have equal rights and privileges.

 

NOTE 8 – RISKS

 

Sector Risk. To the extent the Fund invests more heavily in particular sectors of the economy, its performance will be especially sensitive to developments that significantly affect those sectors.

 

Russia/Ukraine Conflict Risk (Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM Only). On February 24, 2022, Russia commenced a military attack on Ukraine. The outbreak of hostilities between the two countries could result in more widespread conflict and could have a severe adverse effect on the region and the markets. In addition, sanctions imposed on Russia by the United States and other countries, and any sanctions imposed in the future could have a significant adverse impact on the Russian economy and related markets. The price and liquidity of investments may fluctuate widely as a result of the conflict and related events. How long such conflict and related events will last and whether it will escalate further cannot be predicted, nor its effect on the Fund.

 

69

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

NOTE 9 – BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP

 

The beneficial ownership, either directly or indirectly, of 25% or more of the voting securities of a fund creates a presumption of control of a fund, under section 2(a)(9) of the 1940 Act. As of the end of the current fiscal period, Ronald Blue Trust, Inc., as a beneficial shareholder, owned greater than 25% of the outstanding shares of each Fund.

 

70

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Expense Example

For the Period Ended February 28, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Funds, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of Fund shares, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Funds and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other funds. The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period as indicated in the following Expense Example tables.

 

Actual Expenses

 

The first line of the table provides information about actual account values based on actual returns and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then, multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period’’ to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

The second line of the table provides information about hypothetical account values based on a hypothetical return and hypothetical expenses based on the Funds’ actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Funds’ actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Funds and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Fund shares. Therefore, the second line of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. If these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

71

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Expense Example

For the Six-Months Ended February 28, 2023 (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

 

Beginning
Account Value
September 1,
2022

Ending
Account Value
February 28,
2023

Expenses
Paid During
the Period
(1)

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,054.90

$3.11

Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses)

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,021.77

$3.06

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

 

 

Beginning
Account Value
September 1,
2022

Ending
Account Value
February 28,
2023

Expenses
Paid During
the Period
(2)

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,075.50

$2.57

Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses)

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,022.32

$2.51

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

 

Beginning
Account Value
September 1,
2022

Ending
Account Value
February 28,
2023

Expenses
Paid During
the Period
(3)

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 984.40

$2.02

Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses)

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,022.76

$2.06

 

(1)

The dollar amounts shown as expenses paid during the period are equal to the annualized expense ratio, 0.61%, multiplied by the average account value during the period, multiplied by 181/365, to reflect the one-half year period.

(2)

The dollar amounts shown as expenses paid during the period are equal to the annualized expense ratio, 0.50%, multiplied by the average account value during the period, multiplied by 181/365, to reflect the one-half year period.

(3)

The dollar amounts shown as expenses paid during the period are equal to the annualized expense ratio, 0.41%, multiplied by the average account value during the period, multiplied by 181/365, to reflect the one-half year period.

 

72

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Approval of Advisory Agreement & Board Considerations

(Unaudited)

 

Pursuant to Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), at a meeting held on January 11-12, 2023 (the “Meeting”), the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of ETF Series Solutions (the “Trust”) approved the continuance of the Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”) between Vident Advisory, LLC (the “Adviser”) and the Trust, on behalf of Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM, Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM, and Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM (each, a “Fund” and, collectively, the “Funds”).

 

Prior to the Meeting, the Board, including the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or “interested persons” of any party thereto, as defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Trustees”), reviewed written materials (the “Materials”), including information from the Adviser regarding, among other things: (i) the nature, extent, and quality of the services provided to the Funds by the Adviser; (ii) the historical performance of the Funds; (iii) the cost of the services provided and the profits realized by the Adviser or its affiliates from services rendered to each Fund; (iv) comparative fee and expense data for the Funds and other investment companies with similar investment objectives, including a report prepared by Barrington Partners, an independent third party, that compares each Fund’s investment performance, fees and expenses to relevant market benchmarks and peer groups (the “Barrington Report”); (v) the extent to which any economies of scale realized by the Adviser in connection with its services to each Fund are shared with Fund shareholders; (vi) any other financial benefits to the Adviser and its affiliates resulting from services rendered to the Fund; and (vii) other factors the Board deemed to be relevant.

 

The Board also considered that the Adviser, along with other service providers of the Funds, had provided written and oral updates on the firm over the course of the year with respect to its role as investment adviser to the Funds, and the Board considered that information alongside the Materials in its consideration of whether the Advisory Agreement should be continued. Additionally, representatives from the Adviser provided an oral overview of each Fund’s strategy, the services provided to each Fund by the Adviser, and additional information about the Adviser’s personnel and business operations. The Board then discussed the Materials and the Adviser’s oral presentation, as well as any other relevant information received by the Board at the Meeting and at prior meetings, and deliberated on the approval of the continuation of the Advisory Agreement in light of this information.

 

Approval of the Continuation of the Advisory Agreement with the Adviser

 

Nature, Extent, and Quality of Services Provided. The Trustees considered the scope of services provided under the Advisory Agreement, noting that the Adviser had provided and would continue to provide investment management services to the Funds. In considering the nature, extent, and quality of the services provided by the Adviser, the Board considered the quality of the Adviser’s compliance program and

 

73

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

APPROVAL OF ADVISORY AGREEMENT & BOARD CONSIDERATIONS

(Unaudited) (Continued)

 

past reports from the Trust’s Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) regarding the CCO’s review of the Adviser’s compliance program. The Board also considered its previous experience with the Adviser providing investment management services to the Funds, as well the Adviser’s management of another fund in the Trust. The Board noted that it had received a copy of the Adviser’s registration form and financial statements, as well as the Adviser’s response to a detailed series of questions that included, among other things, information about the Adviser’s decision-making process, the background and experience of the firm’s key personnel, and the firm’s compliance policies, marketing practices, and brokerage information.

 

The Board also considered other services provided by the Adviser to the Funds, including monitoring the Funds’ adherence to their investment restrictions and compliance with the Funds’ policies and procedures and applicable securities regulations, as well as monitoring the extent to which each Fund achieves its investment objective as a passively managed fund. Additionally, the Board considered that the Adviser does not serve as the index provider to the Funds; rather, each Fund tracks an index created and owned by Vident Financial, LLC, an affiliate of the Adviser.

 

Historical Performance. The Trustees next considered each Fund’s performance. The Board observed that additional information regarding each Fund’s past investment performance, for periods ended September 30, 2022, had been included in the Materials, including the Barrington Report, which compared the performance results of each Fund with the returns of a group of ETFs selected by Barrington Partners as most comparable (the “Peer Group”) as well as with funds in each Fund’s Morningstar category –US Fund Intermediate Core-Plus Bond, US Fund Foreign Large Value, and US Fund Mid-Cap Value, respectively (each, a “Category Peer Group”). Additionally, at the Board’s request, the Adviser identified the funds the Adviser considered to be each Fund’s most direct competitors (each, a “Selected Peer Group”) and provided the Selected Peer Group’s performance results.

 

In addition, the Board noted that, for each applicable period ended September 30, 2022, each Fund’s performance on a gross of fees basis (i.e., excluding the effect of fees and expenses on Fund performance) was generally consistent with the performance of its underlying index, indicating that each Fund tracked its underlying index closely and in an appropriate manner.

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM: The Board noted that the Fund underperformed its broad-based benchmark, the FTSE Broad Investment Grade Bond Index, for the one-year, three-year, five-year, and since inception periods. The FTSE Broad Investment Grade Bond Index tracks the performance of the U.S. Dollar-denominated bonds issued in the U.S. investment-grade bond market. In comparing the Fund’s performance

 

74

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

APPROVAL OF ADVISORY AGREEMENT & BOARD CONSIDERATIONS

(Unaudited) (Continued)

 

to that of the benchmark, the Board noted that the Fund provides more diversified exposure to the U.S. bond market, including exposure to non-investment grade bonds excluded from the benchmark.

 

The Board then noted that, for the one-year, three-year, five-year, and since inception periods ended September 30, 2022, the Fund slightly underperformed the median return of its Peer Group and Category Peer Group. The Board took into consideration that only a small percentage of the ETFs in the Peer Group have the flexibility, like the Fund, to invest in non-core fixed income sectors, such as high-yield corporate bonds (also known as “junk bonds”) and Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (“TIPS”). The Board also noted that the Fund generally performed within the range of funds in the Selected Peer Group for the one-year, three-year and five-year periods ended September 30, 2022. The Board considered that the funds included in the Selected Peer Group were described by the Adviser as funds with similar objectives, investment universes, sector exposure, and average maturity.

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM: The Board noted that the Fund outperformed its broad-based benchmark, the Morningstar Global Markets ex-US Index, for the one-year period ended September 30, 2022, but the Fund underperformed its benchmark for each of the three-year, five-year, and since inception periods. The Morningstar Global Markets ex-US Index provides exposure to the top 97% market capitalization in each of two economic segments, developed markets, excluding the United States, and emerging markets. In comparing the Fund’s performance to that of the benchmark, the Board noted that the Fund, unlike the benchmark, invests in companies in emerging markets.

 

The Board noted that, for the one-year, three-year, five-year and since inception periods ended September 30, 2022, the Fund underperformed the median return of its Category Peer Group, but slightly outperformed its Peer Group over the one-year and three-year periods. The Board also noted that the Fund generally performed within the range of funds in the Selected Peer Group for the one-year and five-year periods and outperformed all of the funds from the Selected Peer Group over the three-year period ended September 30, 2022. The Board considered that the funds included in the Selected Peer Group were described by the Adviser as funds with similar objectives, investment universes, and average market capitalizations.

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM: The Board noted that the Fund outperformed its broad-based benchmark, the Morningstar U.S. Market Total Return Index, for the one-year and three-year periods ended September 30, 2022, but the Fund underperformed this benchmark for the five-year and since inception periods. With respect to the Fund’s second benchmark, the S&P 500, the Board noted that the Fund outperformed the S&P 500 for the one-year period, but the Fund underperformed the S&P 500 for the three-year, five-year, and since inception periods. The Morningstar U.S. Market

 

75

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

APPROVAL OF ADVISORY AGREEMENT & BOARD CONSIDERATIONS

(Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Total Return Index measures the performance of U.S. securities and targets 97% market capitalization coverage of the investable universe. The S&P 500 Index provides an indication of the performance of U.S. large-cap companies

 

The Board noted that, for the one-year and three-year periods ended September 30, 2022, the Fund outperformed the median return of its Peer Group, and the Fund outperformed the median return of its Category Peer Group over the three-year, five-year, and since inception periods. The Board also noted that the Fund generally performed within the range of funds in the Selected Peer Group for the one-year, three-year, and five-year periods ended September 30, 2022. The Board considered that the funds included in the Selected Peer Group were described by the Adviser as funds with similar objectives, investment universes, and quantitative approaches to security selection.

 

Cost of Services Provided and Economies of Scale. The Board then reviewed each Fund’s fees and expenses. The Board took into consideration that the Adviser had charged, and would continue to charge, a “unified fee,” meaning each Fund pays no expenses other than the advisory fee and, if applicable, certain other costs such as interest, brokerage, acquired fund fees and expenses, extraordinary expenses, and, to the extent it is implemented, fees pursuant to a Distribution and/or Shareholder Servicing (12b-1) Plan. The Board noted that the Adviser had been and would continue to be responsible for compensating the Trust’s other service providers and paying the Funds’ other expenses out of the Adviser’s own fee and resources.

 

The Board noted that each Fund’s net expense ratio was equal to its unified fee (described above). The Board then compared each Fund’s net expense ratio to its Peer Group and Category Peer Group, as shown in the Barrington Report, and its Selected Peer Group.

 

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM: The Board noted that the Fund’s net expense ratio was higher than the median net expense ratio, but within the range, of the funds in the Peer Group and lower than the median net expense ratio of funds in the Category Peer Group. In addition, the Board noted that the Fund’s net expense ratio was within the range of net expense ratios of funds in its Selected Peer Group.

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM: The Board noted that the Fund’s net expense ratio was higher than the median net expense ratio, but within the range, of the funds in the Peer Group and lower than the median net expense ratio of funds in the Category Peer Group. In addition, the Board noted that the Fund’s net expense ratio was slightly higher than the highest net expense ratio of the other funds in its Selected Peer Group.

 

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Vident ETFs

 

APPROVAL OF ADVISORY AGREEMENT & BOARD CONSIDERATIONS

(Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM: The Board noted that the Fund’s net expense ratio was higher than the median net expense ratio, but within the range, of the funds in the Peer Group and lower than the median net expense ratio of funds in the Category Peer Group. In addition, the Board noted that the Fund’s net expense ratio was within the range of net expense ratios of funds in its Selected Peer Group.

 

The Board then considered the Adviser’s financial resources and information regarding the Adviser’s ability to support its management of the Funds and obligations under the unified fee arrangement, noting that the Adviser had provided its financial statements for the Board’s review. The Board also evaluated the compensation and benefits received by the Adviser from its relationship with the Funds, taking into account an analysis of the Adviser’s profitability with respect to each Fund at various actual and projected Fund asset levels.

 

The Board expressed the view that it currently appeared that the Adviser might realize economies of scale in managing the Funds as assets grow in size. The Board noted that, should the Adviser realize economies of scale in the future, the Board would evaluate whether those economies were appropriately shared with Fund shareholders, whether through the structure and amount of the fee or by other means.

 

Conclusion. No single factor was determinative of the Board’s decision to approve the continuation of the Advisory Agreement; rather, the Board based its determination on the total mix of information available to it. Based on a consideration of all the factors in their totality, the Board, including the Independent Trustees, unanimously determined that the Advisory Agreement, including the compensation payable under the agreement, was fair and reasonable to each Fund. The Board, including the Independent Trustees, unanimously determined that the approval of the continuation of the Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of each Fund and its shareholders.

 

77

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Review of Liquidity Risk Management Program

(Unaudited)

 

Pursuant to Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Trust, on behalf of the series of the Trust covered by this shareholder report (the “Series”), has adopted a liquidity risk management program to govern the Trust’s approach to managing liquidity risk. Rule 22e-4 seeks to promote effective liquidity risk management, thereby reducing the risk that a fund will be unable to meet its redemption obligations and mitigating dilution of the interests of fund shareholders. The Trust’s liquidity risk management program is tailored to reflect the Series’ particular risks, but not to eliminate all adverse impacts of liquidity risk, which would be incompatible with the nature of such Series.

 

The investment adviser to the Series has adopted and implemented its own written liquidity risk management program (the “Program”) tailored specifically to assess and manage the liquidity risk of the Series.

 

At a recent meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Trustees received a report pertaining to the operation, adequacy, and effectiveness of implementation of the Program for the period ended December 31, 2022. The report concluded that the Program is reasonably designed to assess and manage the Series’ liquidity risk and has operated adequately and effectively to manage such risk. The report reflected that there were no liquidity events that impacted the Series’ ability to timely meet redemptions without dilution to existing shareholders. The report further noted that no material changes have been made to the Program since its implementation.

 

There can be no assurance that the Program will achieve its objectives in the future. Please refer to the prospectus for more information regarding the Series’ exposure to liquidity risk and other principal risks to which an investment in the Series may be subject.

 

78

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Federal Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

QUALIFIED DIVIDEND INCOME

For the year ended August 31, 2022, certain dividends paid by the Funds may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 15%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was as follows:

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

64.80%

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

100.00%

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

0.00%

 

DIVIDENDS RECEIVED DEDUCTION

For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2022 was as follows:

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

0.09%

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

100.00%

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

0.00%

 

SHORT-TERM CAPITAL GAIN

For the year ended August 31, 2022, the percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that are designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Internal Revenue Section 871(k)(2)(C) for each Fund were as follows:

 

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

0.00%

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

0.00%

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

0.00%

 

79

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Federal Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

FOREIGN TAX CREDIT PASS THROUGH

Pursuant to Section 853 of the Internal Revenue code, the Funds designated the following amounts as foreign taxes paid for the year ended August 31, 2022. Foreign taxes paid for purposes of Section 853 may be less than actual foreign taxes paid for financial statement purposes.

 

 

Creditable
Foreign Taxes
Paid

Per Share
Amount

Portion of
Ordinary
Income
Distribution
Derived
from Foreign
Sourced
Income

Vident International Equity Strategy ETFTM

$2,611,991

$0.16960981

98.45%

Vident U.S. Equity Strategy ETFTM

Vident U.S. Bond Strategy ETFTM

 

Foreign taxes paid or withheld should be included in taxable income with an offsetting deduction from gross income or as a credit for taxes paid to foreign governments.

 

Above figures may differ from those cited elsewhere in this report due to difference in the calculation of income and gains under GAAP purposes and Internal Revenue Service purposes.

 

Shareholders are strongly advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investments in the Funds.

 

Information About Portfolio Holdings
(Unaudited)

 

The Funds file their complete schedules of portfolio holdings for their first and third fiscal quarters with the SEC on Part F of Form N-PORT. The Funds’ Part F of Form N-PORT is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free at (800) 617-0004. Furthermore, you may obtain the Part F of Form N-PORT on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Each Fund’s portfolio holdings are posted on their website at www.videntam.com daily.

 

80

 

 

Vident ETFs

 

Information About Proxy Voting
(Unaudited)

 

A description of the policies and procedures the Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is provided in the Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”). The SAI is available without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free at (800) 617-0004, by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by accessing the website at www.videntam.com.

 

Information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the period ending June 30 is available by calling toll-free at (800) 617-0004 or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

 

Frequency Distribution of Premiums and Discounts
(Unaudited)

 

Information regarding how often shares of the Funds trade on the exchange at a price above (i.e., at a premium) or below (i.e., at a discount) the NAV of the Funds is available, without charge, on the Funds’ website at www.videntam.com.

 

Information About the Trustees
(Unaudited)

 

The SAI includes additional information about the Funds’ Trustees and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (800) 617-0004 or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by accessing the Funds’ website at www.videntam.com.

 

81

 

 

Adviser

Vident Advisory, LLC
1125 Sanctuary Parkway, Suite 515
Alpharetta, Georgia 30009

 

Sub-Adviser

Vident Investment Advisory, LLC
1125 Sanctuary Parkway, Suite 515
Alpharetta, Georgia 30009

 

Index Provider

Vident Financial, LLC
1125 Sanctuary Parkway, Suite 515
Alpharetta, Georgia 30009

 

Distributor

ALPS Distributors, Inc.
1290 Broadway, Suite 1000
Denver, Colorado 80203

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank National Association
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

 

Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Cohen & Company, Ltd.
342 North Water Street, Suite 830
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202

 

Legal Counsel

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
1111 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20004-2541

 

Vident International
Equity Strategy ETF
TM

Symbol – VIDI
CUSIP – 26922A404

Vident U.S. Equity
Strategy ETF
TM

Symbol – VUSE
CUSIP – 26922A503

Vident U.S. Bond
Strategy ETF
TM

Symbol – VBND
CUSIP – 26922A602