Certified Semi-annual Shareholder Report for Management Investment Companies (n-csrs)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM N-CSR

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED MANAGEMENT

INVESTMENT COMPANIES

Investment Company Act file number 811-07619

Nuveen Investment Trust

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

Nuveen Investments

333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

Kevin J. McCarthy

Nuveen Investments

333 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606

(Name and address of agent for service)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (312) 917-7700

Date of fiscal year end: June 30

Date of reporting period: December 31, 2012

Form N-CSR is to be used by management investment companies to file reports with the Commission not later than 10 days after the transmission to stockholders of any report that is required to be transmitted to stockholders under Rule 30e-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30e-1). The Commission may use the information provided on Form N-CSR in its regulatory, disclosure review, inspection, and policy making roles.

A registrant is required to disclose the information specified by Form N-CSR, and the Commission will make this information public. A registrant is not required to respond to the collection of information contained in Form N-CSR unless the Form displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (“OMB”) control number. Please direct comments concerning the accuracy of the information collection burden estimate and any suggestions for reducing the burden to Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20549-0609. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. ss.3507.


Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.


LOGO

 

 

Mutual Funds

 

Nuveen Equity Funds

For investors seeking long-term capital appreciation.

Semi-Annual Report

December 31, 2012

 

         Share Class / Ticker Symbol
Fund Name      Class A      Class B      Class C      Class R3      Class I

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund

     NNGAX      NNGBX      NNGCX      NMMTX      NNGRX

Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund

     NQVAX      NQVBX      NQVCX      NMCTX      NQVRX

Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund

     NQCAX           NQCCX      NQCQX      NQCRX

Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund

     NSMAX           NSMCX      NSQRX      NSMRX

Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund

     NSCAX           NSCCX      NSCOX      NSCRX

Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund

     NVOAX      NVOBX      NVOCX      NTVTX      NVORX


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Table of Contents

 

Chairman’s Letter to Shareholders

     4   

Portfolio Managers’ Comments

     5   

Fund Performance and Expense Ratios

     17   

Holding Summaries

     24   

Expense Examples

     27   

Portfolios of Investments

     29   

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

     49   

Statement of Operations

     50   

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

     52   

Financial Highlights

     56   

Notes to Financial Statements

     68   

Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

     81   

Glossary of Terms Used in this Report

     86   

Additional Fund Information

     87   


Chairman’s

Letter to Shareholders

 

LOGO

 

Dear Shareholders,

Despite the global economy’s ability to muddle through the many economic headwinds of 2012, investors continue to have good reasons to remain cautious. The European Central Bank’s decisions to extend intermediate term financing to major European banks and to support sovereign debt markets have begun to show signs of a stabilized euro area financial market. The larger member states of the European Union (EU) are working diligently to strengthen the framework for a tighter financial and banking union and meaningful progress has been made by agreeing to centralize large bank regulation under the European Central Bank. However, economic conditions in the southern tier members are not improving and the pressures on their political leadership remain intense. The jury is out on whether the respective populations will support the continuing austerity measures that are needed to meet the EU fiscal targets.

In the U.S., the Fed remains committed to low interest rates into 2015 through its third program of Quantitative Easing (QE3). Inflation remains low but a growing number of economists are expressing concern about the economic distortions resulting from negative real interest rates. The highly partisan atmosphere in Congress led to a disappointingly modest solution for dealing with the end-of-year tax and spending issues. Early indications for the new Congressional term have not given much encouragement that the atmosphere for dealing with the sequestration legislation and the debt ceiling issues, let alone a more encompassing “grand bargain,” will be any better than the last Congress. Over the longer term, there are some encouraging trends for the U.S. economy: house prices are beginning to recover, banks and corporations continue to strengthen their financial positions and incentives for capital investment in the U.S. by domestic and foreign corporations are increasing due to more competitive energy and labor costs.

During 2012 U.S. investors have benefited from strong returns in the domestic equity markets and solid returns in most fixed income markets. However, many of the macroeconomic risks of 2012 remain unresolved, including negotiating through the many U.S. fiscal issues, managing the risks of another year of abnormally low U.S. interest rates, sustaining the progress being made in the euro area and reducing the potential economic impact of geopolitical issues, particularly in the Middle East. In the face of these uncertainties, the experienced investment professionals at Nuveen Investments seek out investments that are enjoying positive economic conditions. At the same time they are always on the alert for risks in markets subject to excessive optimism or for opportunities in markets experiencing undue pessimism. Monitoring this process is a critical function for the Fund Board as it oversees your Nuveen Fund on your behalf.

As always, I encourage you to communicate with your financial consultant if you have any questions about your investment in a Nuveen Fund. On behalf of the other members of your Fund Board, we look forward to continuing to earn your trust in the months and years ahead.

Sincerely,

 

LOGO

Robert P. Bremner

Chairman of the Board

February 22, 2013

 

 

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Portfolio Managers’ Comments

 

Certain statements in this report are forward-looking statements. Discussions of specific investments are for illustration only and are not intended as recommendations of individual investments. The forward-looking statements and other views expressed herein are those of the portfolio managers as of the date of this report. Actual future results or occurrences may differ significantly from those anticipated in any forward-looking statements and the views expressed herein are subject to change at any time, due to numerous market and other fac-tors. The Funds disclaim any obli-gation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or views expressed herein.

 

The Nuveen Multi-Manager Large Cap Value Fund is co-managed by Institutional Capital LLC (ICAP), Nuveen Asset Management, LLC, and Symphony Asset Management LLC (Symphony). Nuveen Asset Management and Symphony are affiliates of Nuveen Investments. Jerrold Sensor, CFA, and Thomas Wenzel, CFA, oversee the portion of the Fund’s assets managed by ICAP, while Keith Hembre, CFA and Walter French oversee the Fund’s assets managed by Nuveen Asset Management. Gunther Stein and Ross Sakamoto oversee the portion of the Fund’s assets managed by Symphony. After the reporting period ended, on August 1, 2012, Thomas Cole, CFA, was named portfolio manager for the portion of the Fund’s assets managed by ICAP and Joel Drescher was named portfolio manager for the portion of the Fund’s assets managed by Symphony.

The Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund, Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund, Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund and Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund feature equity management by NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC (NWQ), an affiliate of Nuveen Investments. Jon Bosse is the Chief Investment Officer of NWQ and manages the Multi-Cap Value and Large-Cap Value Funds. Phyllis Thomas manages the Nuveen Small/ Mid-Cap Value and Small-Cap Value Funds.

The Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund features portfolio management by Tradewinds Global Investors, LLC (Tradewinds), an affiliate of Nuveen Investments. Prior to the reporting period, Tradewinds announced that Dave Iben, Co-President and Chief Investment Officer of Tradewinds, decided to leave the firm during the second calendar quarter. Emily Alejos and Drew Thelen assumed investment leadership and oversight responsibilities, now serving as Co-Chief Investment Officers for Tradewinds. As integral members of the Tradewinds investment team, Emily and Drew have worked together for more than five years. Each brings significant investment experience to the next stage of Tradewinds’ development. Effective April 1, 2012, Joann Barry, CFA and F. Rowe Michels, CFA were named portfolio managers of the Fund.

How did the Funds perform during the six-month reporting period ended December 31, 2012?

The tables in the Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section of this report provide Class A Share total returns for the Funds for the six-month, one-year, five-year, ten-year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2012. Each Funds’ Class A Share total returns are compared with the performance of their corresponding market indexes and peer group averages. A more detailed account of each Fund’s performance is provided later in this report.

 

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What strategies were used to manage the Funds during the reporting period? How did these strategies influence performance?

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund

The Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) underperformed the comparative Lipper classification average and the Russell 1000 ® Value Index, but outperformed the S&P 500 ® Index over the six-month period ended December 31, 2012.

The Fund uses three separate sub-advisers to seek large capitalization value stocks with the potential for long-term capital appreciation. ICAP uses a value-oriented investment strategy that attempts to identify stocks offering the best relative value and stable to rising earnings from a universe of large and mid-sized companies. It then selects a portion of those stocks that are identified to have a catalyst for change and monitors these holdings closely to determine if circumstances change. For the Nuveen Asset Management portion of the Fund, we create proprietary models to help establish quantitative links between economic/market variables, investment factors and equity market returns. Our proprietary models analyze macroeconomic and market data and other statistics to determine what we believe will be the key drivers of performance in the current economy. We also use historical analysis of these drivers to estimate equity market return and the relative contribution to market returns for a comprehensive list of investment factors. We evaluate each stock in the investable universe to determine its sensitivity to the expected returns for each factor and estimate a potential contribution for each stock. The Fund’s portfolio will include stocks that we believe target the highest expected returns within the established risk budget. Symphony seeks to deliver consistent returns though an investment process that combines quantitative screens and fundamental research. The portfolio construction process utilizes a proprietary optimizer designed to potentially generate an optimal risk reward balance versus the stated benchmark.

In the portion of the portfolio managed by ICAP, sector allocation added to the portfolio’s relative performance, while security selection detracted. From the standpoint of stock picking, both the consumer services and health care sectors lifted results compared with the Russell Index, while the communications and basic industries groups were sources of relative underperformance. In sector terms, the portfolio benefited the most from avoiding exposure to the underperforming utilities sector, which we viewed as overvalued. Overweighting the technology sector, however, detracted from relative performance.

Throughout the six months, we consistently followed our bottom-up stock-selection investment process. In other words, we chose investments one-by-one, based on our view of their valuation and opportunities for price improvement in relation to other stocks. We purchased or increased our exposure to stocks we believed offered good value along with a potential catalyst for a rising stock price. In contrast, we sold or cut the Fund’s weighting in securities whose appreciation prospects we believed were limited.

During the period, we adjusted the portfolio in response to fluctuating market conditions, or when we had chances to buy and sell stocks that, in our opinion, could add value for

 

  6       Nuveen Investments


the Fund’s investors. In the health care sector, we sold the portfolio’s position in pharmaceutical maker Merck & Co. after it reached our price target, while we added to our stake in diversified health care firm Novartis AG and established a new position in Baxter International, Inc., a medical products and pharmaceuticals firm, both of which we believed provided better performance prospects. Elsewhere, we eliminated positions in Procter & Gamble Company, a maker of household and personal care products, and agricultural processor and logistics firm Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, and also significantly trimmed the position in software maker Microsoft Corporation. In the energy sector, we established positions in Halliburton Company, an oilfield services company and oil and gas producer Marathon Oil Corporation.

On an individual basis, the Fund’s top contributors to relative performance were media company Time Warner Inc., diversified financial services firm Citigroup Inc. and Baxter International. Time Warner continued to operate successfully, returned cash to shareholders through increased dividends and stock buybacks, and provided better expectations for growth in revenue from affiliate fees. Citigroup’s financial results improved, as continued efforts to increase efficiency and operating leverage began to pay off. Investors also responded favorably to progress on plans to sell the firm’s stake in the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney wealth management unit. Baxter continued to generate growth in its dialysis business while increasing its presence in the market for blood plasma.

On the negative side, the Fund’s three largest relative detractors were U.K.-based wireless communications provider Vodafone Group, PLC, software maker Microsoft, and money-transfer business Western Union Company. Weakness in Vodafone’s businesses in Southern Europe weighed on results, although we note the company continued to show strength in the U.S. and emerging markets. At period end, we found the stock attractively valued and believed it showed good potential to return cash to shareholders, given the prospect of continued dividends from Verizon Communications, Inc., of which Vodafone owns a 45% stake. Microsoft underperformed, as it was too early to assess the financial impact of the recently launched Windows 8 Operating System, given limited availability of compatible hardware. At period end, Microsoft remained in the portfolio, though in a smaller position than at the start of the time frame. Western Union lagged after the company’s management unexpectedly announced its intention to cut prices to preserve market share. We sold the position from the portfolio before period end.

In the portion of the portfolio managed by Nuveen Asset Management, the Fund, on average, was overweight financials, telecom services, information technology and health care during the period. On average, the Fund was underweighted staples, utilities, materials, industrials, energy and consumer discretionary. The largest single sector overweight was in information technology. This position contributed negatively to the Fund’s relative performance versus the index. The largest single underweight was, on average, in materials. This position contributed negatively to the Fund’s relative performance versus the index. Overall, sector weightings were a negative to the Fund’s relative performance versus the index.

Performance attributable to the individual stock holdings within each sector was a positive for the Fund during the reporting period, with the stock picks within the information

 

Nuveen Investments     7   


technology sector having the largest positive impact. The holdings within the energy, health care, utilities, materials and financial sectors were also a positive for the Fund. Holdings within the industrials, telecom services, consumer discretionary and staples sectors resulted in negative relative performance for the Fund.

For the portion of the portfolio managed by Symphony, we remained invested in companies with relatively strong fundamentals. We benefited from stock selection in the materials, energy and health care sectors. In particular, PVH Corporation and Marathon Petroleum Corporation contributed to performance. Stock selection in the consumer staples, consumer discretionary and financials sectors detracted from performance. An underweight exposure to Citigroup and International Game Technology also had a negative impact on returns.

Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund

Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) for the Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund underperformed both the S&P 500 ® Index, the Russell 3000 ® Value Index and its Lipper classification average for the six-month period ended December 31, 2012.

The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity securities of companies with large, medium and small market capitalizations that are selected on an opportunistic basis. Generally, the Fund’s managers look for undervalued companies where catalysts exist that may help unlock value or improve profitability. Such catalysts can be new management, improving fundamentals, renewed management focus, industry consolidation or company restructuring.

During the reporting period, the strength of holdings in the consumer discretionary, finance, and producer staple sectors were partially offset by declines in various positions in the technology and materials (gold mining) sectors. Finance was the best performing sector of the market in 2012, and we opportunistically established a new position in AIG in the second and third calendar quarters.

Several positions positively contributed to performance including Citigroup, which appreciated given an attractive valuation and improving fundamentals. The company appointed Michael Corbat as its new CEO during the period and he put his stamp on the firm by announcing a formal cost cutting initiative of $1.1 billion starting in 2014, which was well received by investors.

Also benefiting performance was General Motors. In December, the U.S. Treasury sold 200 million shares back to the company, and gave indications that it will liquidate its remaining 19% stake in an orderly fashion over the next 12-15 months, which should remove a significant overhang on the stock.

Lastly, Sanofi-Aventis appreciated as management reiterated that it continued to see visible and sustainable growth as the company passes through the peak of the patent cliff this year as its Plavix, Avapro, and Lovenox drugs come off patent protection. Sanofi’s growth is being driven by its industry leading exposure to emerging markets (the fastest growing segment of pharmaceuticals) and new drug platforms.

Several positions detracted from performance, including Hewlett-Packard. While there was an opportunity to create value from the combination of shareholder activism (activist

 

  8       Nuveen Investments


on the board), cost cuts and asset sales, this restructuring opportunity was overwhelmed by weak fundamentals and a major problem/shortfall in profitability in its EDS (electronic data systems) services business. Hewlett Packard was eliminated from the Fund’s holdings during the period.

Also detracting from performance were our gold mining stocks AngloGold Ashanti and Barrick Gold. Gold companies have been negatively impacted by project cost overruns, structural cost inflation, grade degradation, and sovereign (host country) renegotiation over the past several years. We believe that much of this has run its course, and while the price of gold has roughly doubled over the past five years, many gold equities are flat or even down over the same period. We believe our holdings have extremely attractive valuations, can meet expectations, and have visibility to generate significant free cash flow in the intermediate timeframe.

Lastly, Guess Inc. declined as management lowered its earnings guidance for 2012 as margins have been pressured by a stepped up promotional cadence in response to aggressive competitor markdowns. We remain encouraged by Guess’ margin recovery story as sales trends in North America have shown signs of improving sequentially due to new marketing and product initiatives, and its European business has been “less worse” than investor’s have expected given growth in new markets such as Germany, Russia and Spain.

During the period we initiated new positions in Harman International Industries, Tyson Foods, and Willis Group Holdings PLC. Harman International was purchased based on the growing global adoption of the company’s audio and infotainment systems for the automobile. Tyson Foods was purchased as we felt the stock price had already largely discounted the current downturn in the chicken cycle, which we anticipate may be short lived. Fundamentals of Willis Group Holdings PLC will be strengthened given the level of insured losses caused by Superstorm Sandy, in our opinion. We believe those losses could lead to higher prices and volumes, and as an insurance broker, we believe Willis is well-positioned in the industry to benefit.

We also eliminated several positions during the reporting period. Best Buy was eliminated prior to the decline in its stock price as we felt the fundamental deterioration at the company had accelerated, which cast doubt on the impact of the two catalysts we had been counting on. These catalysts were a turnaround plan from its new CEO, and a bid from founder and former Chairman Dick Schulze. AuRico Gold was sold as the stock price approached our estimate of its net asset fair value. The recent sale of its troubled Ocampo mine in Mexico for full value was particularly well received by investors, as was the subsequent announcement that the company would return much of that capital to shareholders. Intersil was eliminated given our outlook for risks to the company’s free cash flow in 2013. Losses in market share coupled with a significant technology transition in PC power management may potentially impair the company’s free cash flow generation, in our opinion. As previously mentioned, Hewlett-Packard was sold as well.

Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund

The Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) underperformed both the comparative Lipper classification average and the Russell 1000 ® Value Index for the six-month period ended December 31, 2012.

 

Nuveen Investments     9   


The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity securities of companies with large market capitalizations that are selected on an opportunistic basis. Generally, the Fund’s manager looks for undervalued companies where catalysts exist that may help unlock value or improve profitability. Such catalysts can be new management, improving fundamentals, renewed management focus, industry consolidation or company restructuring.

During the reporting period, the strength of holdings in the consumer discretionary, finance and producer staple sectors were partially offset by declines in various positions in the energy, technology and materials (gold mining) sectors. Finance was the best performing sector of the market in 2012. We added financial positions, which included Citigroup, Hartford Financial, and opportunistically established a new position in AIG, in the second and third calendar quarters.

Several positions positively contributed to performance including Citigroup, which appreciated given an attractive valuation and improving fundamentals. The company appointed Michael Corbat as its new CEO during the period and he put his stamp on the firm by announcing a formal cost cutting initiative of $1.1 billion starting in 2014, which was well received by investors.

Also benefiting performance was General Motors. In December, the U.S. Treasury sold 200 million shares back to the company, and gave indications that it will liquidate its remaining 19% stake in an orderly fashion over the next 12-15 months, which should remove a significant overhang on the stock.

Lastly, Time Warner contributed positively, as the company is experiencing positive ratings momentum across most of its cable networks given a successful mix of new and returning shows at both TBS and TNT. Ninety percent of Turner’s affiliate fee deals are renewable between 2014 through 2016, and the improved ratings provide management with increased bargaining power.

Several positions detracted from performance, including Hewlett-Packard. While there was an opportunity to create value from the combination of shareholder activism (activist on the board), cost cuts and asset sales, this restructuring opportunity was overwhelmed by weak fundamentals and a major problem/shortfall in profitability in its EDS (electronic data systems) services business. Hewlett Packard was eliminated from the Fund’s holdings during the period.

Also detracting from performance were our gold mining stocks AngloGold Ashanti and Barrick Gold. Gold companies have been negatively impacted by project cost overruns, structural cost inflation, grade degradation, and sovereign (host country) renegotiation over the past several years. We believe that much of this has run its course, and while the price of gold has roughly doubled over the past five years, many gold equities are flat or even down over the same period. We believe our holdings have extremely attractive valuations, can meet expectations, and have visibility to generate significant free cash flow in the intermediate timeframe.

During the period we initiated new positions in Applied Materials Inc. and Capital One Financial Corporation. Applied Materials is undergoing an operational transformation led by its new president, Gary Dickerson. The stock is currently trading near historical trough levels based on price to book value, and we believe the company’s attractive dividend

 

  10       Nuveen Investments


yield coupled with the potential for strong free cash flow growth demonstrates great value. Capital One was purchased when ING Group NV sold its shares that were received when Capital One acquired ING Direct. We expect the acquisition of ING Direct as well as the subsequent acquisition of HSBC USA’s retail card portfolio will be accretive to Capital One’s earnings and to help drive future revenue growth. Additionally, we believe the company is well positioned to benefit from continued strength in consumer credit quality and a potential rebound in credit card loan growth.

We also eliminated positions during the reporting period. We exited our position in Best Buy prior to the decline in its stock price as we felt the fundamental deterioration at the company had accelerated and, as mentioned previously, Hewlett-Packard was sold given negative developments at the company since we initially purchased the stock earlier in 2012.

Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund

The Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) underperformed the Russell 2500 ® Value Index and its Lipper classification average for the six-month period ended December 31, 2012.

The Fund continued to follow its disciplined investment approach, which seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity securities of companies with small- to mid-market capitalizations selected using an analyst-driven, value-oriented process. The portfolio manager looks for undervalued companies where catalysts exist to unlock value or improve profitability. Such catalysts can be new management, improving fundamentals, renewed management focus, industry consolidation or company restructuring.

For the six-month reporting period, positive stock selection in the producer durables sector was offset by weakness in the materials and processing and energy sectors. In the broader market, value stocks performed better than growth stocks across all capitalizations and smaller capitalization stocks outperformed larger capitalization stocks.

Several positions contributed to the Fund’s positive returns for the period. Shares of TriMas Corporation outperformed during the period. TriMas Corporation designs, manufactures and distributes various products for commercial, industrial and consumer markets worldwide. TriMas reported positive third quarter earnings as strong organic sales growth offset operating margin compression brought on by increased marketing spend and increased costs related to expanding manufacturing capacity. Less favorable product mix in the energy, engineered component, and the company’s Cequent Group division also impacted operating margin. Margin pressures have been somewhat offset by ongoing productivity initiatives. We believe management remains focused on improving operating margins and deleveraging the balance sheet.

Shares of Elizabeth Arden rose sharply during the period after the company announced fiscal fourth quarter earnings that met expectations and provided guidance for fiscal year 2013 that exceeded forecasts. Significantly, Arden forecasted fiscal year 2013 earnings per share growth at 25% on net sales growth of between 13.5% and 15%. The outlook highlights management’s confidence in the strength of recently acquired brand licenses such as ED Hardy and Justin Bieber and the success of the Elizabeth Arden brand repositioning initiative. Elizabeth Arden is currently upgrading key flagship stores globally to showcase the repositioned Elizabeth Arden product and enhance in-store experience. In our view, the repositioning may help to drive sales growth in the Arden brand for the

 

Nuveen Investments     11   


next several years. Additionally, we believe Arden continues to execute on its well-articulated strategy to grow revenues in the sizable European market and expand skincare sales in Asia. Given these near-term catalysts, we believe Elizabeth Arden shares continue to offer attractive risk/reward.

Financial stocks advanced during the period on the heels of the Fed’s decision to implement QE3 to stimulate growth, and the European Central Bank’s bond buying program unveiled to bring down interest rates in troubled European economies. Among the Fund’s holdings, regional banks Western Alliance Bancorporation and Texas Capital BancShares, Inc. were among the top contributors to performance. We believe shares of Western Alliance may likely continue to benefit from the company’s above peer-average loan growth and a continued improvement in credit metrics. Texas Capital BancShares also reported strong loan growth on strength in mortgage warehouse lending.

Several positions contributed to the Fund’s underperformance versus its benchmark. Shares of Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc. fell during the period despite reporting solid third quarter results that beat production guidance. Investors remain concerned over a potential funding gap as the company’s capital expenditures continued to outpace cash flows. In our view, these concerns are overblown as the company has taken significant steps to lower its net debt through the sale of non-core assets. In September, the company generated $130 million in cash proceeds through the formation of two joint ventures in the Niobara Shale and the sale of non-core Gulf Coast assets. Additionally, in December 2012, Carrizo sold its assets in the North Sea Huntington field for net cash proceeds of $116 million. We remain comfortable with Carrizo’s capital spending given the company’s proven ability to generate liquidity as it aggressively increases liquids/oil production.

Aurizon Mines Ltd. also declined after the company reported third quarter production results that were below expectations. Gold output during the quarter was adversely affected by downtime associated with a shaft-deepening project at the company’s Casa Berardi project. Despite recent setbacks at Casa Berardi, we believe the mine remains a stable, long-life asset for the company.

Thompson Creek Metals Company Inc. was eliminated from the Fund in light of operational setbacks at the company’s Thompson Creek and Endako mines and concerns over a funding gap for the company’s Mt. Milligan project. In our view, continued capital overruns have resulted in permanent shareholder dilution and the funding gap for Mt. Milligan continues to be a concern. Additionally, recent weakness in copper and molybdenum prices leave the stock vulnerable to further downside and call into question the economics of the company’s current projects.

Several positions were added during the reporting period, including audio products supplier Harman International Industries. The company has dominant market share in the luxury infotainment and professional audio equipment markets and is the longstanding supplier of fully integrated systems for luxury car makers such as BMW, Audi and Mercedes.

We also initiated a new position in Tyson Foods, Inc. during the period. Tyson produces, distributes and markets chicken, beef, pork, prepared foods and related products. The company’s products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators and noncommercial foodservice establishments, as well as to international markets. In our view the company is well positioned to benefit from a turn in

 

  12       Nuveen Investments


the chicken cycle as smaller players in the industry begin to pare back production to maintain pricing power.

Several positions were sold during the reporting period, including Brocade Communications Systems Inc. While the company continues to maintain significant market share in the storage networking market, and has promising networking technology, recent concerns regarding sales force effectiveness and management turnover have weighed on the stock. We believe these concerns, compounded with an increasingly aggressive competitive environment and challenging end market may limit the upside potential of the stock going forward. The position was eliminated.

Our remaining position in CIRCOR International Inc. was eliminated during the period. Recent weakening of rig counts in North America, continued softness in the LED equipment market and scaled back defense spending should present challenges for the company going forward. Given our continued lack of confidence in management and the strong rally in the company’s shares early in the quarter, the position was eliminated.

Lastly, our remaining position in Salix Pharmaceuticals Limited was eliminated during the period. Shares traded off in the third quarter after the company unexpectedly received a complete response letter from the FDA following its review of an injectable form of Relistor. Delay in the approval of an injectable Relistor raises concerns regarding the FDA’s upcoming review of an oral form of Relistor, which has a much larger market opportunity.

Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund

The Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) outperformed the Russell 2000 ® Value Index and its Lipper classification average for the six-month period ended December 31, 2012.

Over the reporting period, the Fund continued to follow its disciplined investment approach. The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity securities of companies with small market capitalizations selected using an analyst-driven, value-oriented process. NWQ seeks to provide superior risk-adjusted returns through an analyst-driven, value-oriented process. Portfolio managers look for undervalued companies where catalysts exist to unlock value or improve profitability. Such catalysts can be new management, improving fundamentals, renewed management focus, industry consolidation or company restructuring.

Superior stock selection in the technology, financial services and consumer staples sectors drove the outperformance, which was partially offset by weakness in the materials and processing and energy sectors. In the broader market, value stocks performed better than growth stocks across all capitalizations and smaller capitalization stocks outperformed larger capitalization stocks.

Specifically, shares of Smart Balance Inc. rose during the period after the company boosted guidance for the remainder of 2012 and 2013. Smart Balance has become the leader in the fast growing gluten-free foods category. Retailer interest in gluten-free foods continues to grow and new product innovations in the category have expanded the variety of gluten-free products available to consumers. While we have trimmed the position, we remain optimistic the company can continue to generate solid organic sales growth as it further penetrates food retailers with its gluten-free offering. In addition,

 

Nuveen Investments     13   


EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) margins should continue to expand over the next few years aided by manufacturing efficiency programs and the leveraging of marketing and administrative expense. While the company has executed quite well on its own, we nevertheless believe that Smart Balance will ultimately be acquired and become a very attractive platform inside a larger packaged food franchise.

HomeStreet Inc. was again a top contributor to performance. The company’s shares have now more than doubled since their IPO in February 2012. Bolstered by a high level of refinance volumes, mortgage originations remain strong for the company and credit quality metrics continue to improve. Given the significant excess capital generated by the company’s mortgage operations, management has begun entertaining acquisition opportunities and, in our view, may implement a dividend in 2013, which we believe would serve as further catalyst for the shares.

Several positions detracted from performance including, shares of Carrizo Oil & Gas, which fell despite results that beat production guidance. Investors remain concerned over a potential funding gap as the company’s capital expenditures continue to outpace cash flows. In our view, these concerns are overblown as the company has taken significant steps to lower its net debt through the sale of non-core assets. In September, the company generated $130 million in cash proceeds through the formation of two joint ventures in the Niobara Shale and the sale of non-core Gulf Coast assets. Additionally, in December Carrizo sold its assets in the North Sea Huntington field for net cash proceeds of $116 million. We remain comfortable with Carrizo’s capital spending given the company’s proven ability to generate liquidity as it aggressively increases liquids/oil production.

Aurizon Mines declined after the company reported third quarter production results that were below expectations. Gold output during the quarter was adversely affected by downtime associated with a shaft-deepening project at the company’s Casa Berardi project. Despite recent setbacks at Casa Berardi, we believe the mine remains a stable, long-life asset for the company.

Lastly, Thompson Creek Metals was eliminated from the portfolio in light of operational setbacks at the company’s Thompson Creek and Endako mines and concerns over a funding gap for the company’s Mt. Milligan project. In our view, continued capital overruns have resulted in permanent shareholder dilution and the funding gap for Mt. Milligan continues to be a concern. Additionally, recent weakness in copper and molybdenum prices leave the stock vulnerable to further downside and call into question the economics of the company’s current projects.

Several positions were added to the Fund during the reporting period, including Mistras Group Inc. Mistras is a leading ‘one source’ global provider of technology-enabled asset protection solutions used to evaluate the structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructure. Due to its unique engineering talent and diverse offerings, we believe the company may continue to grow significantly while delivering solid margins. We also added audio products supplier Harman International Industries. The company has dominant market share in the luxury infotainment and professional audio

 

  14       Nuveen Investments


equipment markets and is the long-standing supplier of fully integrated systems for luxury car makers such as BMW, Audi and Mercedes.

Several positions were sold during the reporting period, including Brocade Communications Systems. While the company continues to maintain significant market share in the storage networking market, and has promising networking technology, recent concerns regarding sales force effectiveness and management turnover have weighed on the stock. We believe these concerns, compounded with an increasingly aggressive competitive environment and challenging end market may limit the upside potential of the stock going forward. The position was eliminated in light of the stock’s less favorable risk/reward characteristics.

Our remaining position in CIRCOR International was eliminated during the period. Recent weakening of rig counts in North America, continued softness in the LED equipment market and scaled back defense spending should present challenges for the company going forward. Given our continued lack of confidence in management and the strong rally in the company’s shares early in the quarter, the position was eliminated.

Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund

The Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) outperformed the Russell 3000 ® Value Index and the Lipper classification average for the six-month period ended December 31, 2012. It should be noted that the Fund has held, and is expected to continue to hold, securities that are not included in the comparative index shown in this report. Due to the difference between the securities held by the Fund and the composition of the index, we would expect there to be some differences over time between the Fund and the index in terms of performance, composition, and/or risk profile.

The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity securities of companies with varying market capitalizations selected using an eclectic, value-oriented process.

The producer durables sector was the leading contributor to the Fund’s performance, while the utilities sector was the primary detractor from performance.

Several positions contributed to the Fund’s outperformance versus its benchmark. Gold mining firm Kinross Gold Corp. led positive relative contribution in the materials & processing sector. The performance was assisted by a notably improving gold price during the third quarter, but there was also company-specific strength. Kinross brought in a new CEO in the beginning of August 2012, with a focus on cost-cutting and optimization of spending, in a move well-received by investors.

The information technology sector was another contributing sector in the Fund over the reporting period, led by technology services provider Computer Sciences Corp. (CSC). CSC remains in the midst of a turn-around, and positive restructuring progress during the reporting period beat many investor expectations. Throughout the reporting period, we trimmed and subsequently sold out of this name at the end of November.

Also positively contributing to performance was General Motors Co., the second-largest global automaker. The company announced late in the fourth quarter that it would be

 

Nuveen Investments     15   


purchasing 200 million of its shares from the U.S. Treasury, as the U.S. government seeks to completely exit the stake it received in the 2009 GM bailout. The move was positively received by investors as it removed a key uncertainty overhang. Throughout the reporting period, we added to our position in the Fund.

Several positions detracted from the Fund’s performance. Exelon Corp., one of the United States’ largest integrated electric utilities, was a key detractor during the reporting period. Investors have been anticipating a dividend cut from the company, because its dividend is higher than its free cash flow; this has created an overhang on the company’s shares. We believe such a possibility has already been more than priced in, and we believe the company is significantly undervalued on an enterprise-value-to-kilowatts-of-generation-capacity basis. As such, we have added to this position in the Fund.

Biopharmaceutical firm Dendreon Corporation was a detractor during the reporting period. The firm declined on investor concerns regarding shortfalls in sales of the company’s metastatic prostate cancer drug, Provenge. We believe the company has multiple realistic avenues for improving marketing execution of this valuable treatment, and we also believe these opportunities are not yet reflected in Dendreon’s stock price.

Also detracting from performance was NII Holdings Inc., which offers post-paid mobile telecom services in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Peru and Chile. NII Holdings has experienced some cost challenges as it has been rolling out a new combined 3G and push-to-talk network, but we expect this investment to increase customer retention and average revenues per user. Competitive pressures have also caused the company’s stock to decline, but we believe these concerns have been unreasonably weighted. We believe the company is currently undervalued on an enterprise-value-to-subscriber and a sum-of-the-parts basis and have added to our position in the portfolio during the reporting period.

Risk Considerations

Mutual fund investing involves risk; principal loss is possible. Equity investments such as those held by the Funds are subject to market risk and common stock risk. Foreign investments involve additional risks, including currency fluctuation, political and economic instability, lack of liquidity and differing legal and accounting standards. These risks are magnified in emerging markets.

Investments in small- and mid-cap companies such as those held in the Nuveen Multi- Manager Large-Cap Value Fund, the Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund, the Nuveen Small-Cap Value Fund, and the Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund are subject to greater volatility.

The Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund is also subject to the risk that the sub- advisers’ investment decisions may not complement one another.

 

  16       Nuveen Investments


Fund Performance and Expense Ratios

 

The Fund Performance and Expense Ratios for each Fund are shown on the following six pages.

 

Returns quoted represent past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Investment returns and principal value will fluctuate so that when shares are redeemed, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Returns without sales charges would be lower if the sales charge were included. Returns do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

Returns may reflect a contractual agreement between certain Funds and the investment adviser to waive certain fees and expenses; see Notes to Financial Statements, Footnote 7 — Management Fees and Other Transactions with Affiliates for more information. In addition, returns may reflect a voluntary expense limitation by the Funds’ investment adviser that may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. For the most recent month-end performance visit www.nuveen.com or call (800) 257-8787.

Returns reflect differences in sales charges and expenses, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees. Fund returns assume reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.

Comparative index and Lipper return information is provided for the Funds’ Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) only.

The expense ratios shown reflect the Funds’ total operating expenses (before fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, if any) as shown in the Funds’ most recent prospectus. The expense ratios include management fees and other fees and expenses.

 

Nuveen Investments     17   


Fund Performance and Expense Ratios (continued)

 

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund

 

Refer to the first page of this Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section for further explanation of the information included within this page.

Fund Performance

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative           Average Annual   
       6-Month        1-Year        5-Year        10-Year*  

Class A Shares at NAV

     7.29%           14.92%           0.14%           7.29%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     1.13%           8.32%           -1.04%           6.65%   

S&P 500 ® Index**

     5.95%           16.00%           1.66%           7.10%   

Russell 1000 ® Value Index**

     8.13%           17.51%           0.59%           7.38%   

Lipper Large-Cap Value Funds Classification Average**

     7.54%           15.31%           -0.05%           6.43%   

Class B Shares w/o CDSC

     6.89%           14.05%           -0.60%           6.64%   

Class B Shares w/CDSC

     1.89%           10.05%           -0.78%           6.64%   

Class C Shares

     6.85%           14.08%           -0.60%           6.49%   

Class R3 Shares

     7.10%           14.61%           -0.13%           6.99%   

Class I Shares

     7.42%           15.21%           0.39%           7.55%   

Class A Shares have a maximum 5.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class B Shares have a CDSC that begins at 5% for redemptions during the first year and declines periodically until after six years when the charge becomes 0%. Class B Shares automatically convert to Class A Shares eight years after purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and are only available for purchase by eligible retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

         Expense
Ratios

Class A Shares

     1.15%

Class B Shares

     1.90%

Class C Shares

     1.90%

Class R3 Shares

     1.40%

Class I Shares

     0.90%

 

 

 

* The returns for Class A, B, C and I Shares are actual. The returns for Class R3 Shares are actual for the periods since class inception on 8/04/08; returns prior to class inception are Class I Share returns adjusted for differences in sales charges and expenses, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

  18       Nuveen Investments


Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund

 

Refer to the first page of this Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section for further explanation of the information included within this page.

Fund Performance

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative           Average Annual   
       6-Month        1-Year        5-Year*        10-Year*  

Class A Shares at NAV

     5.60%           11.96%           -2.47%           6.72%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     -0.50%           5.54%           -3.62%           6.09%   

S&P 500 ® Index**

     5.95%           16.00%           1.66%           7.10%   

Russell 3000 ® Value Index**

     8.20%           17.55%           0.83%           7.54%   

Lipper Multi-Cap Value Funds Classification Average**

     8.29%           15.48%           0.99%           7.19%   
                 

Class B Shares w/o CDSC

     5.18%           11.12%           -3.19%           6.09%   

Class B Shares w/CDSC

     0.18%           7.12%           -3.39%           6.09%   

Class C Shares

     5.18%           11.12%           -3.19%           5.93%   

Class R3 Shares

     5.44%           11.67%           -2.71%           6.44%   

Class I Shares

     5.72%           12.31%           -2.22%           7.00%   

Effective December 6, 2002, based on shareholder approval, the Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund acquired the assets and performance history of the PBHG Special Equity Fund. The Fund had no assets prior to the acquisition. In addition, on December 14, 2001, the PBHG Special Equity Fund acquired the assets of the NWQ Special Equity Portfolio. The information presented for the Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund prior to the acquisition date represents the expense adjusted performance of the predecessor funds.

Class A Shares have a maximum 5.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class B Shares have a CDSC that begins at 5% for redemptions during the first year and declines periodically until after six years when the charge becomes 0%. Class B Shares automatically convert to Class A Shares eight years after purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and are only available for purchase by eligible retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

       Expense
Ratios
 

Class A Shares

     1.31%   

Class B Shares

     2.06%   

Class C Shares

     2.05%   

Class R3 Shares

     1.56%   

Class I Shares

     1.06%   

 

 

* The returns for Class I Shares are actual. The returns for Class A, B and C shares are actual for the period since class inception on 12/09/02; returns prior to class inception are Class I Share returns adjusted for differences in sales charges and expense, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees. The returns for Class R3 Shares are actual for the periods since class inception on 8/04/08; returns prior to class inception are Class I Share returns adjusted for differences in sales charges and expense, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

Nuveen Investments     19   


Fund Performance and Expense Ratios (continued)

 

Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund

 

Refer to the first page of this Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section for further explanation of the information included within this page.

Fund Performance

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative           Average Annual   
       6-Month        1-Year        5-Year        Since
Inception*
 

Class A Shares at NAV

     6.61%           9.00%           -1.59%           -1.35%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     0.46%           2.76%           -2.74%           -2.32%   

Russell 1000 ® Value Index **

     8.13%           17.51%           0.59%           0.45%   

Lipper Large-Cap Value Funds Classification Average**

     7.54%           15.31%           -0.05%           0.20%   

Class C Shares

     6.17%           8.22%           -2.32%           -2.09%   

Class R3 Shares

     6.42%           8.75%           -1.84%           -1.61%   

Class I Shares

     6.74%           9.34%           -1.34%           -1.10%   

Class A Shares have a maximum 5.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and only available for purchase by eligible retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

       Expense
Ratios
 

Class A Shares

     1.11%   

Class C Shares

     1.86%   

Class R3 Shares

     1.36%   

Class I Shares

     0.85%   

 

* Since inception returns for Class A, C and I Shares, and the comparative index and Lipper classification average, are from 12/15/06. The returns for Class A, C and I Shares are actual. The returns for Class R3 Shares are actual for the periods since class inception on 9/29/09; returns prior to class inception are Class I Share returns adjusted for differences in sales charges and expense, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

  20       Nuveen Investments


Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Refer to the first page of this Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section for further explanation of the information included within this page.

Fund Performance

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative           Average Annual   
       6-Month        1-Year        5-Year        Since
Inception*
 

Class A Shares at NAV

     6.88%           8.82%           2.03%           0.80%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     0.72%           2.54%           0.83%           -0.19%   

Russell 2500 ® Value Index**

     10.23%           19.21%           4.54%           2.41%   

Lipper Small-Cap Core Funds Classification Average**

     7.92%           14.74%           3.28%           2.56%   

Class C Shares

     6.49%           8.04%           1.26%           0.02%   

Class R3 Shares

     6.71%           8.57%           1.54%           0.35%   

Class I Shares

     7.03%           9.15%           2.05%           0.86%   

Class A Shares have a maximum 5.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and only available for purchase by eligible retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

       Gross
Expense
Ratios
       Net
Expense
Ratios
 

Class A Shares

     1.57%           1.33%   

Class C Shares

     2.35%           2.08%   

Class R3 Shares

     1.86%           1.58%   

Class I Shares

     1.33%           1.08%   

The investment adviser has agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses through October 31, 2013 so that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding 12b-1 distribution and/or service fees, interest expenses, taxes, fees incurred in acquiring and disposing of portfolio securities and extraordinary expenses) do not exceed 1.10% (1.45% after October 31, 2013) of the average daily net assets of any class of Fund shares. The expense limitation expiring October 31, 2013, may be terminated or modified prior to that date only with the approval of the Board of Trustees of the Fund. The expense limitation in effect thereafter may be terminated or modified only with the approval of shareholders of the Fund.

 

* Since inception returns for Class A, C and I Shares, and the comparative index and Lipper classification average, are from 12/15/06. The returns for Class A, C and I Shares are actual. The returns for Class R3 Shares are actual for the periods since class inception on 9/29/09; returns prior to class inception are Class I Share returns adjusted for differences in sales charges and expense, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

Nuveen Investments     21   


Fund Performance and Expense Ratios (continued)

 

Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund

 

Refer to the first page of this Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section for further explanation of the information included within this page.

Fund Performance

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative           Average Annual   
       6-Month        1-Year        5-Year        Since
Inception*
 

Class A Shares at NAV

     10.80%           18.26%           2.41%           5.28%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     4.42%           11.45%           1.20%           4.51%   

Russell 2000 ® Value Index **

     9.07%           18.05%           3.55%           4.60%   

Lipper Small-Cap Core Funds Classification Average**

     7.92%           14.74%           3.28%           5.31%   

Class C Shares

     10.38%           17.34%           1.66%           4.52%   

Class R3 Shares

     10.66%           17.92%           2.16%           5.02%   

Class I Shares

     10.92%           18.54%           2.67%           5.55%   

Class A Shares have a maximum 5.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and only available for purchase by eligible retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

      
Expense
Ratios
 

Class A Shares

     1.44%   

Class C Shares

     2.18%   

Class R3 Shares

     1.68%   

Class I Shares

     1.18%   

 

 

* Since inception returns for Class A, C and I Shares, and the comparative index and Lipper classification average, are from 12/08/04. The returns for Class A, C and I Shares are actual. The returns for Class R3 Shares are actual for the periods since class inception on 9/29/09; returns prior to class inception are Class I Share returns adjusted for differences in sales charges and expense, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

  22       Nuveen Investments


Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund

 

Refer to the first page of this Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section for further explanation of the information included within this page.

Fund Performance

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative           Average Annual   
       6-Month        1-Year        5-Year        Since
Inception*
 

Class A Shares at NAV

     8.64%           2.05%           4.13%           9.46%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     2.39%           -3.81%           2.91%           8.66%   

Russell 3000 ® Value Index**

     8.20%           17.55%           0.83%           4.13%   

Lipper Global Multi-Cap Value Funds Classification Average**

     8.56%           10.72%           -0.43%           4.40%   

Class B Shares w/o CDSC

     8.24%           1.28%           3.36%           8.65%   

Class B Shares w/ CDSC

     3.24%           -2.65%           3.19%           8.65%   

Class C Shares

     8.20%           1.27%           3.35%           8.64%   

Class R3 Shares

     8.51%           1.80%           3.88%           9.18%   

Class I Shares

     8.79%           2.28%           4.39%           9.73%   

Class A Shares have a maximum 5.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class B Shares have a CDSC that begins at 5% for redemptions during the first year and declines periodically until after six years when the charge becomes 0%. Class B Shares automatically convert to Class A Shares eight years after purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and only available for purchase by eligible retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

       Expense
Ratios
 

Class A Shares

     1.16%   

Class B Shares

     1.90%   

Class C Shares

     1.90%   

Class R3 Shares

     1.39%   

Class I Shares

     0.91%   

 

 

* Since inception returns for Class A, B, C and I Shares, and the comparative index and Lipper classification average, are from 12/08/04. The returns for Class A, B, C and I Shares are actual. The returns for Class R3 Shares are actual for the periods since class inception on 8/04/08; returns prior to class inception are Class I Share returns adjusted for differences in sales charges and expense, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

Nuveen Investments     23   


Holding Summaries as of December 31, 2012

 

This data relates to the securities held in each Fund’s portfolio of investments. It should not be construed as a measure of performance for the Fund itself.

 

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund

Portfolio Allocation 1

Common Stocks      99.2%   
Investment Companies      0.1%   
Short-Term Investments      0.1%   
Other 2      0.6%   

 

Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund

Portfolio Allocation 1

Common Stocks      100.1%   
Short-Term Investments      0.4%   
Other 2      (0.5)%   

 

Portfolio Composition 1

      
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      11.9%   
Pharmaceuticals      8.4%   
Insurance      7.9%   
Diversified Financial Services      6.9%   
Commercial Banks      4.4%   
Media      4.0%   
Capital Markets      3.6%   
Health Care Providers & Services      3.5%   
Industrial Conglomerates      3.0%   
Consumer Finance      2.5%   
Communication Equipment      2.3%   
Diversified Telecommunication Services      2.3%   
Aerospace & Defense      2.3%   
Machinery      2.2%   
Energy Equipment & Services      2.0%   
Semiconductors & Equipment      1.9%   
Chemicals      1.8%   
Electric Utilities      1.8%   
Health Care Equipment & Supplies      1.7%   
Software      1.7%   
Food Products      1.4%   
Household Products      1.3%   
Wireless Telecommunication Services      1.3%   
Food & Staples Retailing      1.3%   
Multi-Utilities      1.3%   
Specialy Retail      1.3%   
Automobiles      1.2%   
Commercial & Professional Services      1.2%   
Short-Term Investments      0.1%   
Other 3      13.5%   

 

Portfolio Composition 1       
Insurance      20.7%   
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      14.0%   
Pharmaceuticals      10.4%   
Software      6.6%   
Diversified Financial Services      6.4%   
Media      5.8%   
Metals & Mining      5.6%   
Machinery      3.8%   
Automobiles      3.4%   
Communication Equipment      3.0%   
Semiconductors & Equipment      2.9%   
Capital Markets      2.9%   
Short-Term Investments      0.4%   
Other 4      14.1%   

 

Top Five Common Stock
Holdings 1
 

Exxon Mobile Corporation

     1.6%   

Time Warner Inc.

     1.6%   
Pfizer Inc.      1.4%   

Texas Instruments Incorporated

     1.3%   

Citigroup Inc.

     1.3%   

 

 

 

 

Top Five Common Stock Holdings 1  
CA Technologies, Inc.      4.7%   
Sanofi-Aventis, ADR      4.6%   

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

     4.4%   
Citigroup Inc.      4.2%   
Talisman Energy Inc.      4.0%   
 
1 As a percentage of net assets. Holdings are subject to change.

 

2 Other assets less liabilities.

 

3 Includes other assets less liabilities and all industries less than 1.2% of net assets.

 

4 Includes other assets less liabilities and all industries less than 2.9% of net assets.

 

  24       Nuveen Investments


Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund

Portfolio Allocation 1

Common Stocks      98.9%   
Short-Term Investments      1.1%   
Other 2      0.0%   

 

Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund

Portfolio Allocation 1

Common Stocks      99.0%   
Short-Term Investments      1.0%   
Other 2      0.0%   

 

Portfolio Composition 1       
Insurance      19.1%   
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      13.7%   
Pharmaceuticals      12.2%   
Software      7.2%   
Media      6.5%   
Diversified Financial Services      6.4%   
Metals & Mining      5.8%   
Machinery      3.7%   
Communication Equipment      3.4%   
Automobiles      3.2%   
Capital Markets      2.8%   
Food & Staples Retailing      2.0%   
Commercial Banks      2.0%   
Short-Term Investments      1.1%   
Other 3      10.9%   

 

 

Portfolio Composition 1       
Insurance      11.1%   
Electronic Equipment & Instruments      8.6%   
Semiconductors & Equipment      7.3%   
Food Products      7.3%   
Personal Products      6.9%   
Machinery      6.6%   
Paper & Forest Products      6.0%   
Commercial Banks      5.3%   
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      5.1%   
Real Estate Management & Development      5.0%   
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure      4.6%   
Building Products      4.2%   
Metals & Mining      3.9%   
Aerospace & Defense      2.8%   
Short-Term Investments      1.0%   
Other 4      14.3%   

 

Top Five Common Stock Holdings 1  
Sanofi-Aventis, ADR      5.1%   
CA Technologies, Inc.      4.5%   
Citigroup Inc.      4.4%   

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

     4.2%   
Talisman Energy Inc.      4.0%   

 

 

Top Five Common Stock Holdings 1  

Forestar Group Inc.

     5.0%   
Elizabeth Arden, Inc.      4.7%   

Bob Evans Farms

     4.6%   

Griffon Corporation

     4.2%   

Coherent Inc.

     3.7%   
 
1 As a percentage of net assets. Holdings are subject to change.

 

2 Other assets less liabilities.

 

3 Includes other assets less liabilities and all industries less than 2.0% of net assets.

 

4 Includes other assets less liabilities and all industries less than 2.8% of net assets.

 

Nuveen Investments     25   


Holding Summaries as of December 31, 2012 (continued)

 

Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund

Portfolio Allocation 1

Common Stocks      94.6%   
Short-Term Investments      5.7%   
Other 2      (0.3)%   

 

Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund

Portfolio Allocation 1

Common Stocks      97.4%   
Convertible Bonds      0.3%   
Short-Term Investments      0.7%   
Other 2      1.6%   
Portfolio Composition 1       
Machinery      8.6%   
Personal Products      7.0%   
Commercial Banks      7.0%   
Electronic Equipment & Instruments      6.4%   
Paper & Forest Products      6.1%   
Insurance      6.0%   
Semiconductors & Equipment      5.6%   
Real Estate Management & Development      4.8%   
Household Durables      4.6%   
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure      4.6%   
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance      4.5%   
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      4.1%   
Metals & Mining      4.0%   
Building Products      3.8%   
Food Products      3.4%   
Short-Term Investments      5.7%   
Other 3      13.8%   

 

 

Portfolio Composition 1       
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      13.6%   
Insurance      12.9%   
Metals & Mining      8.9%   
Electric Utilities      6.2%   
Energy Equipment & Services      5.3%   
Food Products      5.0%   
Pharmaceuticals      4.7%   
Food & Staples Retailing      4.0%   
Automobiles      3.7%   
Health Care Providers & Services      3.4%   
Media      2.7%   
Capital Markets      2.4%   
Software      2.4%   
Paper & Forest Products      2.1%   
Communication Equipment      2.0%   
Chemicals      1.8%   
Machinery      1.7%   
Electronic Equipment & Instruments      1.5%   
Diversified Telecommunication Services      1.5%   
Beverages      1.5%   
Short-Term Investments      0.7%   
Other 4      12.0%   
Top Five Common Stock Holdings 1  
Elizabeth Arden, Inc.      5.0%   
Forestar Group Inc.      4.8%   
Bob Evans Farms      4.6%   
Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc.      4.1%   
Albany International Corporation, Class A      3.9%   

 

 

Top Five Common Stock Holdings 1  

American International Group

     4.1%   

General Motors Company

     3.7%   

Exelon Corporation

     3.4%   

Loews Corporation

     2.9%   
Barrick Gold Corporation      2.8%   

 

Country Allocation 1       
United States      72.3%   
Canada      9.3%   
France      3.1%   
Russia      2.3%   
Switzerland      2.1%   
Japan      2.1%   
Israel      2.0%   
Australia      1.5%   
United Kingdom      1.4%   
Finland      1.0%   
South Africa      0.5%   
Short-Term Investments 5      0.7%   
Other 6      1.7%   
 

 

1 As a percentage of net assets. Holdings are subject to change.

 

2 Other assets less liabilities.

 

3 Includes other assets less liabilities and all industries less than 3.4% of net assets.

 

4 Includes other assets less liabilities and all industries less than 1.5% of net assets.

 

5 Denominated in U.S. Dollars.

 

6 Includes other assets less liabilities.

 

  26       Nuveen Investments


Expense Examples

 

As a shareholder of one or more of the Funds, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including up-front and back-end sales charges (loads) or redemption fees, where applicable; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees, where applicable; and other Fund expenses. The Examples below are 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 mutual funds.

The Examples below are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the period.

The information under “Actual Performance,” together with the amount you invested, allows you to estimate actual expenses incurred over the reporting period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.60) and multiply the result by the cost shown for your share class, in the row entitled “Expenses Incurred During Period” to estimate the expenses incurred on your account during this period.

The information under “Hypothetical Performance,” provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the respective Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expense you incurred for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund 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 transaction costs. Therefore, the hypothetical information is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds or share classes. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund

 

                                      Hypothetical Performance  
    Actual Performance   (5% annualized return
before expenses)
 
      A Shares     B Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     B Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,072.90      $ 1,068.90      $ 1,068.50      $ 1,071.00      $ 1,074.20          $ 1,019.36      $ 1,015.58      $ 1,015.58      $ 1,018.10      $ 1,020.62   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 6.06      $ 9.96      $ 9.96      $ 7.36      $ 4.76          $ 5.90      $ 9.70      $ 9.70      $ 7.17      $ 4.63   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of 1.16%, 1.91%, 1.91%, 1.41% and .91% for Classes A, B, C, R3 and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).

Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund

 

                                      Hypothetical Performance  
    Actual Performance   (5% annualized return
before expenses)
 
      A Shares     B Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     B Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,056.00      $ 1,051.80      $ 1,051.80      $ 1,054.40      $ 1,057.20          $ 1,018.25      $ 1,014.47      $ 1,014.47      $ 1,016.94      $ 1,019.51   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 7.15      $ 11.02      $ 11.02      $ 8.49      $ 5.86          $ 7.02      $ 10.82      $ 10.82      $ 8.34      $ 5.75   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of 1.38%, 2.13%, 2.13%, 1.64% and 1.13% for Classes A, B, C, R3 and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).

Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund

 

                                Hypothetical Performance  
    Actual Performance   (5% annualized return
before expenses)
 
      A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,066.10      $ 1,061.70      $ 1,064.20      $ 1,067.40          $ 1,019.96      $ 1,016.23      $ 1,018.70      $ 1,021.22   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 5.42      $ 9.25      $ 6.71      $ 4.12          $ 5.30      $ 9.05      $ 6.56      $ 4.02   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of 1.04%, 1.78%, 1.29% and .79% for Classes A, C, R3 and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).

 

Nuveen Investments     27   


Expense Examples (continued)

 

Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

                                Hypothetical Performance  
    Actual Performance         (5% annualized return before expenses)  
      A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,068.80      $ 1,064.90      $ 1,067.10      $ 1,070.30          $ 1,018.95      $ 1,015.17      $ 1,017.69      $ 1,020.21   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 6.47      $ 10.36      $ 7.76      $ 5.17          $ 6.31      $ 10.11      $ 7.58      $ 5.04   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of 1.24%, 1.99%, 1.49% and .99% for Classes A, C, R3 and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).

Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund

 

                                Hypothetical Performance  
    Actual Performance         (5% annualized return before expenses)  
      A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,108.00      $ 1,103.80      $ 1,106.60      $ 1,109.20          $ 1,018.55      $ 1,014.82      $ 1,017.29      $ 1,019.86   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 7.01      $ 10.92      $ 8.34      $ 5.64          $ 6.72      $ 10.46      $ 7.98      $ 5.40   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of 1.32%, 2.06%, 1.57% and 1.06% for Classes A, C, R3 and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).

Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund

 

                                      Hypothetical Performance  
    Actual Performance         (5% annualized return before expenses)  
      A Shares     B Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     B Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,086.40      $ 1,082.40      $ 1,082.00      $ 1,085.10      $ 1,087.90          $ 1,017.90      $ 1,014.12      $ 1,014.12      $ 1,016.64      $ 1,019.16   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 7.63      $ 11.55      $ 11.55      $ 8.93      $ 6.32          $ 7.37      $ 11.17      $ 11.17      $ 8.64      $ 6.11   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of 1.45%, 2.20%, 2.20%, 1.70% and 1.20% for Classes A, B, C, R3 and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).

 

  28       Nuveen Investments


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

COMMON STOCKS – 99.2%

                
 

Aerospace & Defense – 2.3%

                
  25,749     

General Dynamics Corporation

                 $ 1,783,633   
  59,450     

Honeywell International Inc.

                   3,773,292   
  16,410     

L-3 Communications Holdings, Inc.

                         1,257,334   
 

Total Aerospace & Defense

                         6,814,259   
 

Air Freight & Logistics – 0.0%

                
  900     

FedEx Corporation

                         82,548   
 

Airlines – 0.0%

                
  11,100     

Southwest Airlines Co.

                         113,664   
 

Apparel, Accessories & Luxury Goods – 0.5%

                
  13,818     

PVH Corporation

                         1,533,936   
 

Auto Components – 1.0%

                
  93,500     

Johnson Controls, Inc.

                         2,870,450   
 

Automobiles – 1.2%

                
  236,790     

Ford Motor Company

                   3,066,431   
  23,300     

General Motors Company, (2)

                         671,739   
 

Total Automobiles

                         3,738,170   
 

Beverages – 0.9%

                
  13,970     

Brown-Forman Corporation

                   883,603   
  21,100     

Coca-Cola Company

                   764,875   
  24,940     

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A, (2)

                   882,627   
  1,700     

Molson Coors Brewing Company, Class B

                         72,743   
 

Total Beverages

                         2,603,848   
 

Biotechnology – 0.8%

                
  18,803     

Amgen Inc.

                   1,623,075   
  12,700     

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

                         932,815   
 

Total Biotechnology

                         2,555,890   
 

Capital Markets – 3.6%

                
  13,108     

Affiliated Managers Group Inc., (2)

                   1,706,006   
  91,714     

American Capital Limited, (2)

                   1,100,568   
  26,563     

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

                   1,663,641   
  19,600     

Bank of New York Company, Inc.

                   503,720   
  8,375     

BlackRock Inc.

                   1,731,196   
  19,100     

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

                   2,436,396   
  81,500     

Morgan Stanley

                         1,558,280   
 

Total Capital Markets

                         10,699,807   
 

Chemicals – 1.8%

                
  4,974     

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.

                   1,010,518   
  13,578     

LyondellBasell Industries NV

                   775,168   
  29,850     

Monsanto Company

                   2,825,303   
  15,182     

Mosaic Company

                         859,757   
 

Total Chemicals

                         5,470,746   
 

Commercial & Professional Services – 1.2%

                
  41,237     

ADT Corporation

                   1,917,108   
  54,154     

Tyco International Ltd.

                         1,584,005   
 

Total Commercial & Professional Services

                         3,501,113   

 

Nuveen Investments     29   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Commercial Banks – 4.4%

                
  60,900     

BB&T Corporation

                 $ 1,772,799   
  2,600     

CIT Group Inc.

                   100,464   
  112,785     

KeyCorp.

                   949,650   
  10,400     

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.

                   606,424   
  3,920     

Popular Inc.

                   81,497   
  178,298     

Regions Financial Corporation

                   1,269,482   
  24,234     

U.S. Bancorp

                   774,034   
  229,153     

Wells Fargo & Company

                         7,832,450   
 

Total Commercial Banks

                         13,386,800   
 

Communication Equipment – 2.3%

                
  267,500     

Cisco Systems, Inc.

                   5,256,375   
  10,500     

Echostar Holding Corproation, Class A

                   359,310   
  25,142     

Motorola Solutions Inc.

                         1,399,907   
 

Total Communication Equipment

                         7,015,592   
 

Computers & Peripherals – 0.4%

                
  1,080     

Apple, Inc.

                   575,672   
  37,100     

Hewlett-Packard Company

                   528,675   
  5,713     

Western Digital Corporation

                         242,745   
 

Total Computers & Peripherals

                         1,347,092   
 

Consumer Discretionary – 0.4%

                
  58,293     

American Eagle Outfitters

                         1,195,589   
 

Consumer Finance – 2.5%

                
  4,800     

American Express Company

                   275,904   
  99,753     

Capital One Financial Corporation

                   5,778,691   
  36,826     

Discover Financial Services

                         1,419,642   
 

Total Consumer Finance

                         7,474,237   
 

Containers & Packaging – 0.4%

                
  52,921     

Owens-Illinois, Inc.

                         1,125,630   
 

Diversified Financial Services – 6.9%

                
  397,300     

Bank of America Corporation

                   4,608,680   
  169,900     

Citigroup Inc.

                   6,721,244   
  217,742     

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

                         9,574,116   
 

Total Diversified Financial Services

                         20,904,040   
 

Diversified Telecommunication Services – 2.3%

                
  90,000     

AT&T Inc.

                   3,033,900   
  47,000     

BCE INC.

                   2,018,180   
  41,457     

Verizon Communications Inc.

                         1,793,844   
 

Total Diversified Telecommunication Services

                         6,845,924   
 

Electric Utilities – 1.8%

                
  18,500     

American Electric Power Company, Inc.

                   789,580   
  11,077     

Duke Energy Corporation

                   706,713   
  19,000     

Edison International

                   858,610   
  4,000     

Entergy Corporation

                   255,000   
  5,500     

FirstEnergy Corp.

                   229,680   
  7,600     

NextEra Energy Inc.

                   525,844   

 

  30       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Electric Utilities (continued)

                
  56,715     

NV Energy Inc.

                 $ 1,028,810   
  14,500     

PPL Corporation

                   415,135   
  7,300     

Southern Company

                   312,513   
  6,400     

Xcel Energy, Inc.

                         170,944   
 

Total Electric Utilities

                         5,292,829   
 

Electronic Components – 0.2%

                
  55,900     

Corning Incorporated

                         705,458   
 

Electronic Equipment & Instruments – 0.2%

                
  5,300     

Arrow Electronics, Inc., (2)

                   201,824   
  21,900     

Ingram Micro, Inc., Class A

                         370,548   
 

Total Electronic Equipment & Instruments

                         572,372   
 

Energy Equipment & Services – 2.0%

                
  2,500     

Ensco PLC

                   148,200   
  87,019     

Halliburton Company

                   3,018,689   
  4,000     

Nabors Industries Inc., (2)

                   57,800   
  40,131     

National-Oilwell Varco Inc.

                         2,742,954   
 

Total Energy Equipment & Services

                         5,967,643   
 

Food & Staples Retailing – 1.3%

                
  31,100     

CVS Caremark Corporation

                   1,503,685   
  10,100     

Walgreen Co.

                   373,801   
  28,320     

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

                         1,932,274   
 

Total Food & Staples Retailing

                         3,809,760   
 

Food Products – 1.4%

                
  23,300     

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company

                   638,187   
  8,900     

Bunge Limited

                   646,941   
  29,540     

ConAgra Foods, Inc.

                   871,430   
  16,304     

Kraft Foods Inc.

                   741,343   
  48,573     

Mondelez International Inc.

                         1,237,154   
 

Total Food Products

                         4,135,055   
 

Health Care Equipment & Supplies – 1.7%

                
  33,800     

Baxter International, Inc.

                   2,253,108   
  100     

CareFusion Corporation, (2)

                   2,858   
  36,750     

Covidien PLC

                   2,121,945   
  16,900     

Medtronic, Inc.

                         693,238   
 

Total Health Care Equipment & Supplies

                         5,071,149   
 

Health Care Providers & Services – 3.5%

                
  4,500     

Aetna Inc.

                   208,350   
  44,040     

Brookdale Senior Living Inc.

                   1,115,093   
  4,000     

CIGNA Corporation

                   213,840   
  17,100     

Community Health Systems, Inc.

                   525,654   
  49,479     

HCA Holdings Inc.

                   1,492,781   
  1,100     

Humana Inc.

                   75,493   
  28,761     

McKesson HBOC Inc.

                   2,788,667   
  58,200     

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated

                   3,156,768   
  17,300     

Wellpoint Inc.

                         1,053,916   
 

Total Health Care Providers & Services

                         10,630,562   

 

Nuveen Investments     31   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure – 0.7%

                
  14,000     

Carnival Corporation, ADR

                 $ 514,780   
  18,550     

McDonald’s Corporation

                         1,636,296   
 

Total Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

                         2,151,076   
 

Household Durables – 0.6%

                
  28,966     

Lennar Corporation, Class A

                   1,120,115   
  44,820     

Pulte Corporation

                         813,931   
 

Total Household Durables

                         1,934,046   
 

Household Products – 1.3%

                
  6,060     

Colgate-Palmolive Company

                   633,512   
  48,810     

Procter & Gamble Company

                         3,313,711   
 

Total Household Products

                         3,947,223   
 

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders – 0.5%

                
  135,300     

AES Corporation

                   1,447,710   
  7,000     

NRG Energy Inc.

                         160,930   
 

Total Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders

                         1,608,640   
 

Industrial Conglomerates – 3.0%

                
  4,800     

Danaher Corporation

                   268,320   
  420,222     

General Electric Company

                         8,820,460   
 

Total Industrial Conglomerates

                         9,088,780   
 

Insurance – 7.9%

                
  41,550     

Ace Limited

                   3,315,690   
  32,296     

AFLAC Incorporated

                   1,715,564   
  26,831     

Allstate Corporation

                   1,077,801   
  3,300     

American Financial Group Inc.

                   130,416   
  56,940     

American International Group, (2)

                   2,009,982   
  9,200     

Assurant Inc.

                   319,240   
  28,300     

Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Class B, (2)

                   2,538,510   
  2,500     

Chubb Corporation

                   188,300   
  20,100     

CNA Financial Corporation

                   563,001   
  9,549     

Everest Reinsurance Group Ltd

                   1,049,913   
  43,500     

Genworth Financial Inc., Class A, (2)

                   326,685   
  77,886     

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

                   1,747,762   
  8,100     

Lincoln National Corporation

                   209,790   
  38,200     

Loews Corporation

                   1,556,650   
  72,150     

MetLife, Inc.

                   2,376,621   
  19,900     

Prudential Financial, Inc.

                   1,061,267   
  7,900     

Reinsurance Group of America Inc.

                   422,808   
  12,200     

Travelers Companies, Inc.

                   876,204   
  9,400     

Unum Group

                   195,708   
  78,887     

XL Capital Ltd, Class A

                         1,976,908   
 

Total Insurance

                         23,658,820   
 

Internet & Catalog Retail – 0.0%

                
  600     

Liberty Interactive Corporation, Class A Shares, (2)

                         11,808   
 

Internet Software & Services – 0.7%

                
  36,551     

eBay Inc.

                   1,864,832   

 

  32       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Internet Software & Services (continued)

                
  100     

Google Inc., Class A, (2)

                 $ 70,937   
  14,300     

Yahoo! Inc.

                         284,570   
 

Total Internet Software & Services

                         2,220,339   
 

IT Services – 1.0%

                
  25,510     

CoreLogic Inc., (2)

                   686,729   
  2,300     

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM)

                   440,565   
  11,544     

Visa Inc.

                         1,749,840   
 

Total IT Services

                         2,877,134   
 

Life Sciences Tools & Services – 0.5%

                
  24,528     

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

                         1,564,396   
 

Machinery – 2.2%

                
  7,500     

CNH Global N.V.

                   302,175   
  17,050     

Cummins Inc.

                   1,847,368   
  32,731     

Harsco Corporation

                   769,179   
  27,074     

Ingersoll Rand Company Limited, Class A

                   1,298,469   
  24,000     

Stanley Black & Decker Inc.

                   1,775,280   
  26,726     

Xylem Inc.

                         724,275   
 

Total Machinery

                         6,716,746   
 

Media – 4.0%

                
  2,100     

Charter Communications, Inc., Class A, (2)

                   160,104   
  48,694     

Comcast Corporation, Class A

                   1,820,182   
  4,300     

DirecTV, (2)

                   215,688   
  24,800     

News Corporation, Class A

                   633,392   
  115,700     

Time Warner Inc.

                   5,533,931   
  60,400     

Viacom Inc., Class B

                   3,185,496   
  12,800     

Walt Disney Company

                         637,312   
 

Total Media

                         12,186,105   
 

Metals & Mining – 0.6%

                
  55,750     

Barrick Gold Corporation

                         1,951,808   
 

Multiline Retail – 0.9%

                
  18,824     

Macy’s, Inc.

                   734,512   
  34,608     

Target Corporation

                         2,047,755   
 

Total Multiline Retail

                         2,782,267   
 

Multi-Utilities – 1.3%

                
  3,300     

Ameren Corporation

                   101,376   
  62,490     

CenterPoint Energy, Inc.

                   1,202,933   
  5,600     

Dominion Resources, Inc.

                   290,080   
  21,430     

DTE Energy Company

                   1,286,872   
  5,500     

PG&E Corporation

                   220,990   
  11,200     

Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated

                   342,720   
  5,000     

Sempra Energy

                         354,700   
 

Total Multi-Utilities

                         3,799,671   
 

Office Electronics – 0.4%

                
  160,600     

Xerox Corporation

                         1,095,292   

 

Nuveen Investments     33   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Office REIT – 0.1%

                
  13,800     

CommonWealth REIT

                       $ 218,592   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 11.9%

                
  1,100     

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation

                   81,741   
  22,458     

Apache Corporation

                   1,762,953   
  27,042     

Chevron Corporation

                   2,924,322   
  31,700     

ConocoPhillips

                   1,838,283   
  9,745     

Devon Energy Corporation

                   507,130   
  68,450     

EnCana Corporation

                   1,352,572   
  136,124     

Exxon Mobil Corporation

                   11,781,532   
  9,500     

Hess Corporation

                   503,120   
  119,667     

Marathon Oil Corporation

                   3,668,990   
  41,151     

Marathon Petroleum Corporation

                   2,592,513   
  27,945     

Murphy Oil Corporation

                   1,664,125   
  54,384     

Occidental Petroleum Corporation

                   4,166,358   
  18,550     

Phillips 66

                   985,005   
  45,700     

Southwestern Energy Company

                   1,526,837   
  11,200     

Valero Energy Corporation

                         382,144   
 

Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

                         35,737,625   
 

Paper & Forest Products – 0.3%

                
  25,481     

International Paper Company

                         1,015,163   
 

Pharmaceuticals – 8.4%

                
  17,500     

Eli Lilly and Company

                   863,100   
  2,200     

Endo Pharmaceuticals Holdings Inc., (2)

                   57,794   
  97,386     

Johnson & Johnson

                   6,826,759   
  110,150     

Merck & Company Inc.

                   4,509,541   
  43,400     

Novartis AG, Sponsored ADR

                   2,747,220   
  350,602     

Pfizer Inc.

                   8,793,098   
  18,298     

Watson Pharmaceuticals Inc.

                         1,573,628   
 

Total Pharmaceuticals

                         25,371,140   
 

Retail REIT – 1.1%

                
  54,900     

General Growth Properties Inc.

                   1,089,765   
  9,556     

Simon Property Group, Inc.

                   1,510,708   
  7,427     

Taubman Centers Inc.

                         584,653   
 

Total Retail REIT

                         3,185,126   
 

Road & Rail – 0.3%

                
  48,147     

CSX Corporation

                         949,940   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 1.9%

                
  47,381     

Intel Corporation

                   977,470   
  53,226     

NVIDIA Corporation

                   654,148   
  128,350     

Texas Instruments Incorporated

                         3,971,147   
 

Total Semiconductors & Equipment

                         5,602,765   
 

Software – 1.7%

                
  46,000     

Adobe Systems Incorporated, (2)

                   1,733,280   
  104,078     

Microsoft Corporation

                   2,782,005   
  13,900     

Oracle Corporation

                         463,146   
 

Total Software

                         4,978,431   

 

  34       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                                  Value  
                  
 

Specialty Retail – 1.3%

                
  9,889     

Home Depot, Inc.

                 $ 611,635   
  20,050     

Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

                   712,176   
  32,460     

Signet Jewelers Limited

                   1,733,364   
  16,140     

Williams-Sonoma Inc.

                                 706,446   
 

Total Specialty Retail

                                 3,763,621   
 

Tobacco – 0.3%

                
  11,200     

Philip Morris International

                                 936,768   
 

Wireless Telecommunication Services – 1.3%

                
  3,700     

Telephone and Data Systems Inc.

                   81,918   
  11,200     

United States Cellular Corporation

                   394,688   
  136,250     

Vodafone Group PLC, Sponsored ADR

                                 3,432,136   
 

Total Wireless Telecommunication Services

                                 3,908,742   
 

Total Common Stocks (cost $250,090,858)

                                 298,726,227   
Shares     Description (1)                                  Value  
 

INVESTMENT COMPANIES – 0.1%

                
  5,000     

iShares Russell 1000 Value Index Fund

                               $ 364,100   
 

Total Investment Companies (cost $234,975)

                                 364,100   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)            Coupon        Maturity        Value  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.1%

                
$ 337     

Repurchase Agreement with Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, dated 12/31/12, repurchase price $337,112, collateralized by $265,000 U.S. Treasury Bonds, 10.625%, due 8/01/15, value $346,488

           0.010%           1/02/13         $ 337,111   
 

Total Short-Term Investments (cost $337,111)

                                 337,111   
 

Total Investments (cost $250,662,944) – 99.4%

                                 299,427,438   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – 0.6%

                                 1,831,216   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                               $ 301,258,654   

 

 

       For Fund portfolio compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications into sectors for reporting ease.

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Non-income producing; issuer has not declared a dividend within the past twelve months.

 

  ADR   American Depositary Receipt.

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     35   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

COMMON STOCKS – 100.1%

                
 

Automobiles – 3.4%

                
  184,800     

General Motors Company, (2)

                       $ 5,327,784   
 

Capital Markets – 2.9%

                
  1,168,000     

FBR Capital Markets Corporation, (2)

                         4,520,160   
 

Commercial Banks – 1.4%

                
  147,100     

Privatebancorp, Inc.

                         2,253,572   
 

Commercial Services & Supplies – 0.6%

                
  80,000     

Pitney Bowes Inc.

                         851,200   
 

Communication Equipment – 3.0%

                
  240,000     

Cisco Systems, Inc.

                         4,716,000   
 

Diversified Financial Services – 6.4%

                
  164,500     

Citigroup Inc.

                   6,507,620   
  80,000     

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

                         3,517,600   
 

Total Diversified Financial Services

                         10,025,220   
 

Energy Equipment & Services – 1.8%

                
  81,000     

Halliburton Company

                         2,809,890   
 

Food Products – 2.4%

                
  196,500     

Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A

                         3,812,100   
 

Household Durables – 1.6%

                
  55,900     

Harman International Industries Inc.

                         2,495,376   
 

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders – 1.4%

                
  97,600     

NRG Energy Inc.

                         2,243,824   
 

Insurance – 20.7%

                
  159,700     

American International Group, (2)

                   5,637,410   
  64,000     

AON PLC

                   3,558,400   
  306,900     

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

                   6,886,836   
  75,500     

Loews Corporation

                   3,076,625   
  93,787     

Reinsurance Group of America Inc.

                   5,019,480   
  280,000     

Unum Group

                   5,829,600   
  68,000     

Willis Group Holdings PLC

                         2,280,040   
 

Total Insurance

                         32,288,391   
 

IT Services – 1.5%

                
  142,000     

Convergys Corporation

                         2,330,220   
 

Machinery – 3.8%

                
  60,000     

Ingersoll Rand Company Limited, Class A

                   2,877,600   
  66,000     

PACCAR Inc.

                         2,983,860   
 

Total Machinery

                         5,861,460   
 

Media – 5.8%

                
  370,000     

Interpublic Group Companies, Inc.

                   4,077,400   
  95,697     

Viacom Inc., Class B

                         5,047,060   
 

Total Media

                         9,124,460   
 

Metals & Mining – 5.6%

                
  173,699     

AngloGold Ashanti Limited, Sponsored ADR

                   5,448,938   
  94,500     

Barrick Gold Corporation

                         3,308,445   
 

Total Metals & Mining

                         8,757,383   

 

  36       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                                  Value  
                  
 

Mortgage REIT – 2.3%

                
  210,000     

Redwood Trust Inc.

                               $ 3,546,900   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 14.0%

                
  74,000     

Apache Corporation

                   5,809,000   
  193,000     

Canadian Natural Resources Limited

                   5,571,910   
  188,600     

Denbury Resources Inc.

                   3,055,320   
  12,000     

Noble Energy, Inc.

                   1,220,880   
  550,000     

Talisman Energy Inc.

                                 6,231,500   
 

Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

                                 21,888,610   
 

Pharmaceuticals – 10.4%

                
  212,000     

Pfizer Inc.

                   5,316,960   
  151,500     

Sanofi-Aventis, ADR

                   7,178,070   
  100,000     

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Sponsored ADR

                                 3,734,000   
 

Total Pharmaceuticals

                                 16,229,030   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 2.9%

                
  67,600     

MKS Instruments Inc.

                   1,742,728   
  544,700     

PMC-Sierra, Inc., (2)

                                 2,837,887   
 

Total Semiconductors & Equipment

                                 4,580,615   
 

Software – 6.6%

                
  330,477     

CA Technologies, Inc.

                   7,263,884   
  110,850     

Microsoft Corporation

                                 2,963,021   
 

Total Software

                                 10,226,905   
 

Specialty Retail – 1.6%

                
  100,800     

Guess Inc.

                                 2,473,632   
 

Total Common Stocks (cost $135,619,248)

                                 156,362,732   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)            Coupon        Maturity        Value  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.4%

                
$ 562     

Repurchase Agreement with Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, dated 12/31/12, repurchase price $562,411, collateralized by $550,000 U.S. Treasury Notes, 1.750%, due 7/31/15, value $574,025

           0.010%           1/02/13         $ 562,410   
 

Total Short-Term Investments (cost $562,410)

                                 562,410   
 

Total Investments (cost $136,181,658) – 100.5%

                                 156,925,142   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – (0.5)%

                                 (762,935)   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                               $ 156,162,207   

 

       For Fund portfolio compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications into sectors for reporting ease.

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Non-income producing; issuer has not declared a dividend within the past twelve months.

 

  ADR   American Depositary Receipt.

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     37   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

COMMON STOCKS – 98.9%

                
 

Aerospace & Defense – 1.5%

                
  300,030     

Raytheon Company

                       $ 17,269,727   
 

Automobiles – 3.2%

                
  1,227,900     

General Motors Company, (2)

                         35,400,357   
 

Capital Markets – 2.8%

                
  250,100     

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

                         31,902,756   
 

Chemicals – 1.5%

                
  300,000     

Mosaic Company

                         16,989,000   
 

Commercial Banks – 2.0%

                
  668,630     

Wells Fargo & Company

                         22,853,773   
 

Commercial Services & Supplies – 0.3%

                
  300,830     

Pitney Bowes Inc.

                         3,200,831   
 

Communication Equipment – 3.4%

                
  1,926,500     

Cisco Systems, Inc.

                         37,855,725   
 

Consumer Finance – 1.8%

                
  355,430     

Capital One Financial Corporation

                         20,590,060   
 

Diversified Financial Services – 6.4%

                
  1,250,020     

Citigroup Inc.

                   49,450,791   
  520,970     

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

                         22,907,051   
       

Total Diversified Financial Services

                         72,357,842   
 

Energy Equipment & Services – 1.7%

                
  559,110     

Halliburton Company

                         19,395,526   
 

Food & Staples Retailing – 2.0%

                
  474,000     

CVS Caremark Corporation

                         22,917,900   
 

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders – 0.6%

                
  301,250     

NRG Energy Inc.

                         6,925,738   
 

Insurance – 19.1%

                
  1,139,215     

American International Group, (2)

                   40,214,290   
  525,110     

AON PLC

                   29,196,116   
  2,128,710     

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

                   47,768,252   
  192,000     

Lincoln National Corporation

                   4,972,800   
  500,031     

Loews Corporation

                   20,376,263   
  1,100,780     

MetLife, Inc.

                   36,259,693   
  1,750,780     

Unum Group

                         36,451,240   
 

Total Insurance

                         215,238,654   
 

Machinery – 3.7%

                
  475,270     

Ingersoll Rand Company Limited, Class A

                   22,793,949   
  425,000     

PACCAR Inc.

                         19,214,250   
 

Total Machinery

                         42,008,199   
 

Media – 6.5%

                
  650,090     

Interpublic Group Companies, Inc.

                   7,163,992   
  625,000     

Time Warner Inc.

                   29,893,750   
  678,120     

Viacom Inc., Class B

                         35,764,049   
 

Total Media

                         72,821,791   

 

  38       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                                  Value  
                  
 

Metals & Mining – 5.8%

                
  1,225,151     

AngloGold Ashanti Limited, Sponsored ADR

                 $ 38,432,987   
  750,290     

Barrick Gold Corporation

                                 26,267,653   
 

Total Metals & Mining

                                 64,700,640   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 13.7%

                
  515,030     

Apache Corporation

                   40,429,855   
  1,383,260     

Canadian Natural Resources Limited

                   39,934,716   
  117,000     

Noble Energy, Inc.

                   11,903,580   
  220,295     

Occidental Petroleum Corporation

                   16,876,800   
  4,000,870     

Talisman Energy Inc.

                                 45,329,857   
 

Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

                                 154,474,808   
 

Pharmaceuticals – 12.2%

                
  350,060     

Merck & Company Inc.

                   14,331,456   
  1,518,440     

Pfizer Inc.

                   38,082,475   
  1,200,930     

Sanofi-Aventis, ADR

                   56,900,063   
  752,200     

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Sponsored ADR

                                 28,087,148   
 

Total Pharmaceuticals

                                 137,401,142   
 

Road & Rail – 1.4%

                
  125,040     

Union Pacific Corporation

                                 15,720,029   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 1.3%

                
  1,264,000     

Applied Materials, Inc.

                                 14,460,160   
 

Software – 7.2%

                
  2,296,365     

CA Technologies, Inc.

                   50,474,103   
  1,119,310     

Microsoft Corporation

                                 29,919,156   
 

Total Software

                                 80,393,259   
 

Tobacco – 0.8%

                
  107,220     

Philip Morris International

                                 8,967,881   
 

Total Common Stocks (cost $1,056,429,723)

                                 1,113,845,798   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)            Coupon        Maturity        Value  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 1.1%

                
$ 12,906     

Repurchase Agreement with State Street Bank, dated 12/31/12, repurchase price $12,906,047, collateralized by $12,625,000 U.S. Treasury Notes, 1.500%, due 7/31/16, value $13,167,307

           0.010%           1/02/13         $ 12,906,040   
 

Total Short-Term Investments (cost $12,906,040)

                                 12,906,040   
 

Total Investments (cost $1,069,335,763) – 100.0%

                                 1,126,751,838   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – (0.0)%

                                 (439,953)   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                               $ 1,126,311,885   

 

       For Fund portfolio compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry subclassifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications into sectors for reporting ease.

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Non-income producing; issuer has not declared a dividend within the past twelve months.

 

  ADR   American Depositary Receipt.

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     39   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

COMMON STOCKS – 99.0%

                
 

Aerospace & Defense – 2.8%

                
  66,550     

Orbital Sciences Corporation

                       $ 916,394   
 

Biotechnology – 2.0%

                
  15,400     

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc., (2)

                         645,876   
 

Building Products – 4.2%

                
  116,650     

Griffon Corporation

                         1,336,809   
 

Commercial Banks – 5.3%

                
  19,400     

Privatebancorp, Inc.

                   297,208   
  17,000     

Texas Capital BancShares, Inc., (2)

                   761,940   
  62,250     

Western Alliance Bancorporation

                         655,493   
 

Total Commercial Banks

                         1,714,641   
 

Commercial Services & Supplies – 1.7%

                
  42,001     

Schawk Inc.

                         552,733   
 

Electronic Equipment & Instruments – 8.6%

                
  16,550     

Arrow Electronics, Inc., (2)

                   630,224   
  21,350     

Avnet Inc., (2)

                   653,524   
  23,400     

Coherent Inc.

                   1,184,508   
  5,700     

FEI Company

                         316,122   
 

Total Electronic Equipment & Instruments

                         2,784,378   
 

Food Products – 7.3%

                
  31,300     

Hormel Foods Corporation

                   976,873   
  15,148     

Treehouse Foods Inc., (2)

                   789,665   
  29,600     

Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A

                         574,240   
 

Total Food Products

                         2,340,778   
 

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure – 4.6%

                
  37,050     

Bob Evans Farms

                         1,489,410   
 

Household Durables – 2.7%

                
  19,400     

Harman International Industries Inc.

                         866,016   
 

Industrial Conglomerates – 2.4%

                
  87,500     

Orkla ASA

                         765,625   
 

Insurance – 11.1%

                
  3,950     

Allied World Assurance Holdings

                   311,260   
  22,700     

Alterra Capital Holdings Limited

                   639,913   
  18,300     

Axis Capital Holdings Limited

                   633,912   
  10,150     

PartnerRe Limited

                   816,974   
  10,250     

Reinsurance Group of America Inc.

                   548,580   
  18,100     

Willis Group Holdings PLC

                         606,893   
 

Total Insurance

                         3,557,532   
 

Machinery – 6.6%

                
  22,300     

Albany International Corporation, Class A

                   505,764   
  3,495     

Middleby Corporation

                   448,094   
  42,000     

TriMas Corporation

                         1,174,320   
 

Total Machinery

                         2,128,178   
 

Metals & Mining – 3.9%

                
  101,175     

AuRico Gold Inc., (2)

                   827,612   

 

  40       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                                  Value  
                  
 

Metals & Mining (continued)

                
  126,200     

Aurizon Mines Ltd, (2)

                               $ 439,176   
 

Total Metals & Mining

                                 1,266,788   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 5.1%

                
  40,000     

Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc.

                   836,800   
  50,100     

Denbury Resources Inc.

                                 811,620   
 

Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

                                 1,648,420   
 

Paper & Forest Products – 6.0%

                
  28,300     

Clearwater Paper Corporation, (2)

                   1,108,228   
  11,600     

Deltic Timber Corporation

                                 819,192   
 

Total Paper & Forest Products

                                 1,927,420   
 

Personal Products – 6.9%

                
  33,550     

Elizabeth Arden, Inc., (2)

                   1,510,086   
  35,900     

Inter Parfums, Inc.

                                 698,614   
 

Total Personal Products

                                 2,208,700   
 

Professional Services – 1.2%

                
  15,000     

Mistras Group Inc., (2)

                                 370,350   
 

Real Estate Management & Development – 5.0%

                
  92,200     

Forestar Group Inc.

                                 1,597,823   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 7.3%

                
  29,500     

MKS Instruments Inc.

                   760,510   
  114,900     

PMC-Sierra, Inc., (2)

                   598,629   
  59,400     

Teradyne Inc.

                                 1,003,266   
 

Total Semiconductors & Equipment

                                 2,362,405   
 

Specialty Retail – 2.3%

                
  29,850     

Guess Inc.

                                 732,519   
 

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance – 1.0%

                
  26,450     

Northwest Bancshares Inc.

                                 321,103   
 

Trading Companies & Distributors – 1.0%

                
  5,000     

WESCO International Inc., (2)

                                 337,150   
 

Total Common Stocks (cost $27,513,509)

                                 31,871,048   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)            Coupon        Maturity        Value  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 1.0%

                
$ 329     

Repurchase Agreement with State Street Bank, dated 12/31/12, repurchase price $329,067, collateralized by $325,000 U.S. Treasury Notes, 1.500%, due 7/31/16, value $338,960

           0.010%           1/02/13         $ 329,066   
 

Total Short-Term Investments (cost $329,066)

                                 329,066   
 

Total Investments (cost $27,842,575) – 100.0%

                                 32,200,114   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – (0.0)%

                                 (10,916)   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                               $ 32,189,198   

 

       For Fund portfolio compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications into sectors for reporting ease.

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Non-income producing; issuer has not declared a dividend within the past twelve months.

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     41   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

COMMON STOCKS – 94.6%

                
 

Aerospace & Defense – 2.9%

                
  260,650     

Orbital Sciences Corporation

                       $ 3,589,151   
 

Apparel, Accessories & Luxury Goods – 3.0%

                
  158,615     

Maidenform Brands Inc.

                   3,091,406   
  24,000     

True Religion Apparel, Inc.

                         610,080   
 

Total Apparel, Accessories & Luxury Goods

                         3,701,486   
 

Beverages – 0.5%

                
  68,200     

Cott Corporation

                         547,646   
 

Building Products – 3.8%

                
  408,550     

Griffon Corporation

                         4,681,983   
 

Commercial Banks – 7.0%

                
  47,450     

Pacwest Bancorp.

                   1,175,811   
  124,290     

Privatebancorp, Inc.

                   1,904,123   
  67,250     

Texas Capital BancShares, Inc., (2)

                   3,014,145   
  228,830     

Western Alliance Bancorporation

                         2,409,580   
 

Total Commercial Banks

                         8,503,659   
 

Commercial Services & Supplies – 1.1%

                
  109,900     

TMS International Corporation, Class A Shares, (2)

                         1,375,948   
 

Construction & Engineering – 1.2%

                
  203,250     

Orion Marine Group Inc., (2)

                         1,485,758   
 

Electronic Equipment & Instruments – 6.4%

                
  88,700     

Coherent Inc.

                   4,489,994   
  334,475     

Methode Electronics, Inc.

                         3,354,784   
 

Total Electronic Equipment & Instruments

                         7,844,778   
 

Food Products – 3.4%

                
  89,979     

Boulder Brands Inc.

                   1,160,729   
  57,540     

Treehouse Foods Inc., (2)

                         2,999,560   
 

Total Food Products

                         4,160,289   
 

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure – 4.6%

                
  139,050     

Bob Evans Farms

                         5,589,810   
 

Household Durables – 4.6%

                
  69,600     

Harman International Industries Inc.

                   3,106,944   
  175,815     

Hooker Furniture Corporation

                         2,554,592   
 

Total Household Durables

                         5,661,536   
 

Insurance – 6.0%

                
  14,150     

Allied World Assurance Holdings

                   1,115,020   
  128,800     

Alterra Capital Holdings Limited

                   3,630,872   
  78,850     

Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited

                         2,529,508   
 

Total Insurance

                         7,275,400   
 

IT Services – 1.4%

                
  102,050     

Convergys Corporation

                         1,674,641   
 

Machinery – 8.6%

                
  208,600     

Albany International Corporation, Class A

                   4,731,048   
  12,366     

Middleby Corporation

                   1,585,445   
  151,545     

TriMas Corporation

                         4,237,198   
 

Total Machinery

                         10,553,691   

 

  42       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                                  Value  
                  
 

Metals & Mining – 4.0%

                
  393,503     

AuRico Gold Inc., (2)

                 $ 3,218,855   
  476,600     

Aurizon Mines Ltd, (2)

                                 1,658,568   
 

Total Metals & Mining

                                 4,877,423   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 4.1%

                
  237,400     

Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc.

                                 4,966,408   
 

Paper & Forest Products – 6.1%

                
  64,308     

Buckeye Technologies Inc.

                   1,846,283   
  41,000     

Deltic Timber Corporation

                   2,895,420   
  94,513     

Neenah Paper, Inc.

                                 2,690,785   
 

Total Paper & Forest Products

                                 7,432,488   
 

Personal Products – 7.0%

                
  135,300     

Elizabeth Arden, Inc., (2)

                   6,089,853   
  128,800     

Inter Parfums, Inc.

                                 2,506,448   
 

Total Personal Products

                                 8,596,301   
 

Professional Services – 2.0%

                
  88,736     

GP Strategies Corporation, (2)

                   1,832,398   
  25,900     

Mistras Group Inc., (2)

                                 639,471   
 

Total Professional Services

                                 2,471,869   
 

Real Estate Management & Development – 4.8%

                
  339,285     

Forestar Group Inc.

                                 5,879,809   
 

Road & Rail – 2.0%

                
  135,636     

Marten Transport, Ltd.

                                 2,494,346   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 5.6%

                
  258,250     

Entegris Inc., (2)

                   2,370,735   
  101,900     

MKS Instruments Inc.

                   2,626,982   
  357,450     

PMC-Sierra, Inc., (2)

                                 1,862,314   
 

Total Semiconductors & Equipment

                                 6,860,031   
 

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance – 4.5%

                
  169,540     

HomeStreet Inc., (2)

                   4,331,747   
  98,900     

Northwest Bancshares Inc.

                                 1,200,645   
 

Total Thrifts & Mortgage Finance

                                 5,532,392   
 

Total Common Stocks (cost $95,745,469)

                                 115,756,843   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)            Coupon        Maturity        Value  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 5.7%

                
$ 6,925     

Repurchase Agreement with Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, dated 12/31/12, repurchase price $6,925,135, collateralized by $6,770,000 U.S. Treasury Notes, 1.750%, due 7/31/15, value $7,065,727

           0.010%           1/02/13         $ 6,925,131   
 

Total Short-Term Investments (cost $6,925,131)

                                 6,925,131   
 

Total Investments (cost $102,670,600) – 100.3%

                                 122,681,974   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – (0.3)%

                                 (391,546)   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                               $ 122,290,428   

 

Nuveen Investments     43   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

       For Fund portfolio compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications into sectors for reporting ease.

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Non-income producing; issuer has not declared a dividend within the past twelve months.

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  44       Nuveen Investments


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

COMMON STOCKS – 97.4%

                
 

Aerospace & Defense – 1.2%

                
  119,171     

General Dynamics Corporation

                       $ 8,254,975   
 

Airlines – 1.3%

                
  294,000     

SkyWest Inc.

                   3,663,240   
  532,790     

Southwest Airlines Co.

                         5,455,770   
 

Total Airlines

                         9,119,010   
 

Automobiles – 3.7%

                
  913,430     

General Motors Company, (2)

                         26,334,187   
 

Beverages – 1.5%

                
  247,000     

Molson Coors Brewing Company, Class B

                         10,569,130   
 

Biotechnology – 1.0%

                
  1,342,142     

Dendreon Corporation, (2)

                         7,086,510   
 

Capital Markets – 2.4%

                
  194,567     

Northern Trust Corporation

                   9,759,481   
  458,626     

UBS AG

                         7,218,773   
 

Total Capital Markets

                         16,978,254   
 

Chemicals – 1.8%

                
  228,260     

Mosaic Company

                         12,926,364   
 

Commercial Banks – 1.0%

                
  2,088,798     

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings, Sponsored ADR

                         7,206,353   
 

Communication Equipment – 2.0%

                
  728,782     

Cisco Systems, Inc.

                         14,320,566   
 

Computers & Peripherals – 1.3%

                
  226,000     

Western Digital Corporation

                         9,602,740   
 

Diversified Telecommunication Services – 1.5%

                
  170,000     

Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation, ADR

                   3,575,100   
  315,000     

Vivendi S.A., ADR

                         7,185,150   
 

Total Diversified Telecommunication Services

                         10,760,250   
 

Electric Utilities – 6.2%

                
  2,648,749     

Electricite de France S.A., ADR

                   9,826,859   
  827,409     

Exelon Corporation

                   24,607,144   
  4,185,970     

RusHydro, ADR

                         9,841,215   
 

Total Electric Utilities

                         44,275,218   
 

Electronic Components – 1.0%

                
  573,000     

Corning Incorporated

                         7,231,260   
 

Electronic Equipment & Instruments – 1.5%

                
  642,397     

Ingram Micro, Inc., Class A

                         10,869,357   
 

Energy Equipment & Services – 5.3%

                
  283,006     

Baker Hughes Incorporated

                   11,557,965   
  167,595     

Transocean Ltd.

                   7,483,117   
  1,706,838     

Weatherford International Ltd, (2)

                         19,099,517   
 

Total Energy Equipment & Services

                         38,140,599   
 

Food & Staples Retailing – 4.0%

                
  1,052,000     

Carrefour S.A., Sponsored ADR

                   5,417,800   
  478,936     

Kroger Co.

                   12,461,915   

 

Nuveen Investments     45   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Food & Staples Retailing (continued)

                
  293,497     

Walgreen Co.

                       $ 10,862,324   
 

Total Food & Staples Retailing

                         28,742,039   
 

Food Products – 5.0%

                
  664,214     

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company

                   18,192,821   
  480,800     

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

                   10,370,856   
  379,433     

Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A

                         7,361,000   
 

Total Food Products

                         35,924,677   
 

Health Care Providers & Services – 3.4%

                
  405,455     

Aetna Inc.

                   18,772,567   
  227,396     

Health Net Inc., (2)

                         5,525,723   
 

Total Health Care Providers & Services

                         24,298,290   
 

Health Care Technology – 0.8%

                
  612,000     

Allscripts Healthcare Solutions Inc., (2)

                         5,765,040   
 

Insurance – 12.9%

                
  132,594     

Ageas, Sponsored ADR

                   4,010,969   
  824,626     

American International Group, (2)

                   29,109,298   
  430,919     

Axis Capital Holdings Limited

                   14,927,034   
  296,840     

Endurance Specialty Holdings Limited

                   11,781,580   
  511,000     

Loews Corporation

                   20,823,250   
  1,054,633     

Old Republic International Corporation

                         11,231,841   
 

Total Insurance

                         91,883,972   
 

Machinery – 1.7%

                
  161,841     

AGCO Corporation, (2)

                   7,949,630   
  62,175     

Japan Steel Works Limited, ADR, (3)

                         4,012,451   
 

Total Machinery

                         11,962,081   
 

Media – 2.7%

                
  670,900     

Interpublic Group Companies, Inc.

                   7,393,318   
  41,920     

Time Warner Cable, Class A

                   4,074,205   
  169,777     

Time Warner Inc.

                         8,120,434   
 

Total Media

                         19,587,957   
 

Metals & Mining – 8.9%

                
  571,000     

Barrick Gold Corporation

                   19,990,710   
  186,142     

Impala Platinum Holdings Limited, Sponsored ADR

                   3,713,533   
  2,046,000     

Kinross Gold Corporation

                   19,887,120   
  455,000     

Newcrest Mining Limited, Sponsored ADR

                   10,742,550   
  122,250     

Newmont Mining Corporation

                   5,677,290   
  837,194     

NovaGold Resources Inc., (2)

                         3,775,745   
 

Total Metals & Mining

                         63,786,948   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 13.3%

                
  1,036,585     

Arch Coal Inc.

                   7,587,802   
  237,000     

BP PLC, Sponsored ADR

                   9,868,680   
  733,271     

Cameco Corporation

                   14,460,104   
  221,681     

Chesapeake Energy Corporation

                   3,684,338   
  340,108     

CONSOL Energy Inc.

                   10,917,467   
  145,996     

Devon Energy Corporation

                   7,597,632   

 

  46       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)                                    Value  
                  
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)

                
  350,028     

Hess Corporation

                 $ 18,537,483   
  692,500     

Gazprom OAO, Sponsored ADR

                   6,738,025   
  274,074     

Peabody Energy Corporation

                   7,293,109   
  724,865     

Talisman Energy Inc.

                                     8,212,720   
 

Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

                                     94,897,360   
 

Paper & Forest Products – 2.1%

                
  87,619     

Domtar Corporation

                   7,317,939   
  1,055,000     

Stora Enso Oyj, Sponsored ADR

                                     7,332,250   
 

Total Paper & Forest Products

                                     14,650,189   
 

Pharmaceuticals – 4.7%

                
  317,945     

Forest Laboratories, Inc.

                   11,229,817   
  120,717     

Novartis AG, ADR

                   7,641,386   
  385,000     

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Sponsored ADR

                                     14,375,900   
 

Total Pharmaceuticals

                                     33,247,103   
 

Professional Services – 0.6%

                
  91,961     

Manpower Inc.

                                     3,902,825   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 1.0%

                
  347,780     

Intel Corporation

                                     7,174,701   
 

Software – 2.4%

                
  634,000     

Microsoft Corporation

                                     16,946,820   
 

Specialty Retail – 0.5%

                
  50,250     

Advance Auto Parts, Inc.

                                     3,635,588   
 

Wireless Telecommunication Services – 0.7%

                
  722,327     

NII Holdings Inc., Class B, (2)

                                     5,150,191   
 

Total Common Stocks (cost $660,075,625)

                                     695,230,554   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (4)        Value  
 

CONVERTIBLE BONDS – 0.3%

                
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 0.3%

                
$ 4,262     

USEC Inc.

    3.000%           10/01/14           Caa2         $ 1,619,560   
  4,262     

Total Convertible Bonds (cost $3,690,806)

                                     1,619,560   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity                   Value  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.7%

                
$ 45,111     

Repurchase Agreement with Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, dated 12/31/12, repurchase price $5,110,782 collateralized by:
$444,000 U.S. Treasury Bonds, 10.625%, due 8/15/15, value $575,300 and $4,445,000 U.S. Treasury Notes, 1.750%, due 7/31/15, value $4,639,166

    0.010%           1/02/13                    $ 5,110,779   
 

Total Short-Term Investments (cost $5,110,779)

                                     5,110,779   
 

Total Investments (cost $668,877,210) – 98.4%

                                     701,960,893   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – 1.6%

                                     11,744,749   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                                   $ 713,705,642   

 

Nuveen Investments     47   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       For Fund portfolio compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications into sectors for reporting ease.

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Non-income producing; issuer has not declared a dividend within the past twelve months.

 

  (3)   For fair value measurement disclosure purposes, Common Stocks classified as Level 2. See Notes to Financial Statements, Footnote 1 – General Information and Significant Accounting Policies, Investment Valuation for more information.

 

  (4)   Ratings: Using the highest of Standard & Poor’s Group (“Standard & Poor’s”), Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”) or Fitch, Inc. (“Fitch”) rating. Ratings below BBB by Standard & Poor’s, Baa by Moody’s or BBB by Fitch are considered to be below investment grade.

 

  ADR   American Depositary Receipt.

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  48       Nuveen Investments


Statement of Assets and Liabilities (Unaudited)

December 31, 2012

 

 

      Multi-Manager
Large-Cap Value
    Multi-Cap
Value
    Large-Cap
Value
   

Small/Mid-

Cap Value

    Small-Cap
Value
    Value
Opportunities
 

Assets

           

Investments, at value (cost $250,662,944, $136,181,658, $1,069,335,763, $27,842,575, $102,670,600 and $668,877,210, respectively)

  $ 299,427,438      $ 156,925,142      $ 1,126,751,838      $ 32,200,114      $ 122,681,974      $ 701,960,893   

Receivables:

           

Dividends

    362,493        73,502        803,795        12,334        15,407        599,576   

Interest

                                       31,966   

Investments sold

    1,974,717                             260,179        20,465,732   

Reclaims

                                       240,610   

Shares sold

    558,835        252,016        5,814,939        56,506        415,215        3,882,013   

Other assets

    93,511        48,896        12,680        68        302        89,882   

Total assets

    302,416,994        157,299,556        1,133,383,252        32,269,022        123,373,077        727,270,672   

Liabilities

           

Cash overdraft

    46,282                                      

Payables:

           

Common share dividends

    1,246                                    2,561   

Investments purchased

                  2,780,022               329,299        3,593,015   

Shares redeemed

    648,123        755,711        3,310,475        51,982        596,381        7,771,445   

Accrued expenses:

           

Management fees

    240,614        105,650        722,899        20,908        93,431        923,573   

Trustees fees

    93,220        49,264        15,099        119        547        89,782   

12b-1 distribution and service fees

    69,702        53,219        15,448        2,846        5,743        209,684   

Other

    59,153        173,505        227,424        3,969        57,248        974,970   

Total liabilities

    1,158,340        1,137,349        7,071,367        79,824        1,082,649        13,565,030   

Net assets

  $ 301,258,654      $ 156,162,207      $ 1,126,311,885      $ 32,189,198      $ 122,290,428      $ 713,705,642   

Class A Shares

           

Net assets

  $ 258,609,744      $ 39,736,822      $ 46,663,783      $ 4,722,979      $ 7,535,530      $ 319,941,503   

Shares outstanding

    12,204,975        2,066,025        2,628,862        225,097        261,493        10,729,158   

Net asset value per share

  $ 21.19      $ 19.23      $ 17.75      $ 20.98      $ 28.82      $ 29.82   

Offering price per share (net asset value per share plus maximum sales charge of 5.75% of offering price)

  $ 22.48      $ 20.40      $ 18.83      $ 22.26      $ 30.58      $ 31.64   

Class B Shares

           

Net assets

  $ 808,814      $ 6,587,738        N/A        N/A        N/A      $ 3,202,892   

Shares outstanding

    39,194        360,410        N/A        N/A        N/A        109,834   

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 20.64      $ 18.28        N/A        N/A        N/A      $ 29.16   

Class C Shares

           

Net assets

  $ 16,164,744      $ 45,859,271      $ 6,597,287      $ 2,027,485      $ 4,753,807      $ 154,663,641   

Shares outstanding

    784,791        2,508,988        381,341        101,224        173,870        5,305,437   

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 20.60      $ 18.28      $ 17.30      $ 20.03      $ 27.34      $ 29.15   

Class R3 Shares

           

Net assets

  $ 92,095      $ 171,444      $ 58,635      $ 373,407      $ 87,850      $ 5,658,640   

Shares outstanding

    4,320        8,996        3,310        18,075        3,055        189,489   

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 21.32      $ 19.06      $ 17.71      $ 20.66      $ 28.76      $ 29.86   

Class I Shares

           

Net assets

  $ 25,583,257      $ 63,806,932      $ 1,072,992,180      $ 25,065,327      $ 109,913,241      $ 230,238,966   

Shares outstanding

    1,203,461        3,303,231        60,422,989        1,193,749        3,768,893        7,700,493   

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 21.26      $ 19.32      $ 17.76      $ 21.00      $ 29.16      $ 29.90   

Net assets consist of:

                                               

Capital paid-in

  $ 302,071,732      $ 386,868,210      $ 1,087,390,107      $ 60,077,348      $ 143,575,320      $ 727,409,230   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income

    2,234,919        283,628        1,750,197        (7,924     (144,070     1,047,810   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (51,812,264     (251,733,115     (20,244,494     (32,237,765     (41,152,196     (47,835,008

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    48,764,267        20,743,484        57,416,075        4,357,539        20,011,374        33,083,610   

Net assets

  $ 301,258,654      $ 156,162,207      $ 1,126,311,885      $ 32,189,198      $ 122,290,428      $ 713,705,642   

Authorized shares - per class

    Unlimited        Unlimited        Unlimited        Unlimited        Unlimited        Unlimited   

Par value per share

  $ 0.01      $ 0.01      $ 0.01      $ 0.01      $ 0.01      $ 0.01   
N/A — The Fund does not offer Class B Shares.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     49   


Statement of Operations (Unaudited)

Six Months Ended December 31, 2012

 

      Multi-Manager
Large-Cap Value
   

Multi-Cap

Value

   

Large-Cap

Value

 

Investment Income

     

Dividends (net of foreign tax withheld of $35,203, $40,995 and $269,931, respectively)

  $ 4,207,233      $ 1,696,824      $ 11,478,019   

Interest

    138        35        1,560   

Total investment income

    4,207,371        1,696,859        11,479,579   

Expenses

     

Management fees

    1,088,599        656,100        3,920,526   

12b-1 service fees – Class A

    329,967        51,765        56,239   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class B

    4,301        39,426        N/A   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class C

    83,293        244,752        34,477   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class R3

    208        438        145   

Shareholder servicing agent fees and expenses

    233,992        205,666        260,455   

Custodian fees and expenses

    47,198        23,972        90,033   

Trustees fees and expenses

    4,089        2,157        16,643   

Professional fees

    15,736        9,095        30,776   

Shareholder reporting expenses

    34,464        32,862        93,463   

Federal and state registration fees

                  29,581   

Other expenses

    6,313        4,041        20,643   

Total expenses before fee waiver/expense reimbursement

    1,848,160        1,270,274        4,552,981   

Fee waiver/expense reimbursement

    (35,004              

Net expenses

    1,813,156        1,270,274        4,552,981   

Net investment income (loss)

    2,394,215        426,585        6,926,598   

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

     

Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency

    8,397,321        (1,858,362     (19,051,996

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments and foreign currency

    10,450,428        10,199,137        86,104,959   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    18,847,749        8,340,775        67,052,963   

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

  $ 21,241,964      $ 8,767,360      $ 73,979,561   

 

N/A — The Fund does not offer Class B Shares.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  50       Nuveen Investments


       Small/Mid
Cap Value
   

Small-Cap

Value

    

Value

Opportunities

 

Investment Income

       

Dividends (net of foreign tax withheld of $—, $618 and $26,964, respectively)

   $ 191,320      $ 723,700       $ 8,011,873   

Interest

     41        354         351,920   

Total investment income

     191,361        724,054         8,363,793   

Expenses

       

Management fees

     104,284        509,204         3,484,021   

12b-1 service fees – Class A

     5,984        8,003         501,150   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class B

     N/A        N/A         19,859   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class C

     9,954        23,021         933,401   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class R3

     885        198         15,329   

Shareholder servicing agent fees and expenses

     12,699        44,371         778,999   

Custodian fees and expenses

     8,370        13,533         783,349   

Trustees fees and expenses

     262        1,313         6,384   

Professional fees

     2,502        5,443         73,948   

Shareholder reporting expenses

     5,982        13,821         193,509   

Federal and state registration fees

                    49,783   

Other expenses

     497        2,132         32,873   

Total expenses before fee waiver/expense reimbursement

     151,419        621,039         6,872,605   

Fee waiver/expense reimbursement

                      

Net expenses

     151,419        621,039         6,872,605   

Net investment income (loss)

     39,942        103,015         1,491,188   

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

       

Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency

     (306,525     2,767,578         4,638,202   

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments and foreign currency

     1,949,283        8,702,939         65,736,795   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     1,642,758        11,470,517         70,374,997   

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

   $ 1,682,700      $ 11,573,532       $ 71,866,185   

 

N/A — The Fund does not offer Class B Shares.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     51   


Statement of Changes in Net Assets (Unaudited)

 

    Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value     Multi-Cap Value  
      Six Months
Ended
12/31/12
    Year Ended
6/30/12
    Six Months
Ended
12/31/12
    Year Ended
6/30/12
 

Operations

       

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,394,215      $ 3,987,342      $ 426,585      $ 272,858   

Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency

    8,397,321        11,456,296        (1,858,362     24,820,483   

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments and foreign currency

    10,450,428        (17,674,329     10,199,137        (47,759,560

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

    21,241,964        (2,230,691     8,767,360        (22,666,219

Distributions to Shareholders

       

From net investment income:

       

Class A

    (3,566,107     (3,241,771     (170,290       

Class B

    (5,388     (6,060              

Class C

    (107,843     (79,394              

Class R3

    (1,054     (1,708     (314       

Class I

    (412,184     (366,885     (427,097       

From accumulated net realized gains:

       

Class A

                           

Class B

                           

Class C

                           

Class R3

                           

Class I

                           

Decrease in net assets from distributions to shareholders

    (4,092,576     (3,695,818     (597,701       

Fund Share Transactions

       

Proceeds from sale of shares

    9,967,366        21,346,603        5,626,306        35,004,423   

Proceeds from shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions

    3,454,091        3,008,329        571,610          
    13,421,457        24,354,932        6,197,916        35,004,423   

Cost of shares redeemed

    (29,828,036     (62,597,297     (28,353,025     (209,204,482

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from Fund share transactions

    (16,406,579     (38,242,365     (22,155,109     (174,200,059

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    742,809        (44,168,874     (13,985,450     (196,866,278

Net assets at the beginning of period

    300,515,845        344,684,719        170,147,657        367,013,935   

Net assets at the end of period

  $ 301,258,654      $ 300,515,845      $ 156,162,207      $ 170,147,657   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income at the end of period

  $ 2,234,919      $ 3,933,280      $ 283,628      $ 454,744   

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  52       Nuveen Investments


     Large-Cap Value     Small/Mid-Cap Value  
      

Six Months
Ended

12/31/12

    Year Ended
6/30/12
    Six Months
Ended
12/31/12
    Year Ended
6/30/12
 

Operations

        

Net investment income (loss)

   $ 6,926,598      $ 7,332,424      $ 39,942      $ (76,153

Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency

     (19,051,996     4,498,099        (306,525     1,307,707   

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments and foreign currency

     86,104,959        (75,767,040     1,949,283        (1,332,990

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

     73,979,561        (63,936,517     1,682,700        (101,436

Distributions to Shareholders

        

From net investment income:

        

Class A

     (387,543     (28,665              

Class B

     N/A               N/A        N/A   

Class C

     (6,290                     

Class R3

     (343                     

Class I

     (11,584,222     (1,469,402              

From accumulated net realized gains:

        

Class A

     (134,102     (414,075              

Class B

     N/A               N/A        N/A   

Class C

     (19,357     (94,389              

Class R3

     (167     (689              

Class I

     (3,074,540     (5,198,771              

Decrease in net assets from distributions to shareholders

     (15,206,564     (7,205,991              

Fund Share Transactions

        

Proceeds from sale of shares

     185,188,543        937,871,289        13,678,459        15,399,908   

Proceeds from shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions

     14,754,138        6,174,282                 
     199,942,681        944,045,571        13,678,459        15,399,908   

Cost of shares redeemed

     (240,701,822     (200,902,815     (5,123,168     (14,685,678

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from Fund share transactions

     (40,759,141     743,142,756        8,555,291        714,230   

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

     18,013,856        672,000,248        10,237,991        612,794   

Net assets at the beginning of period

     1,108,298,029        436,297,781        21,951,207        21,338,413   

Net assets at the end of period

   $ 1,126,311,885      $ 1,108,298,029      $ 32,189,198      $ 21,951,207   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income at the end of period

   $ 1,750,197      $ 6,801,997      $ (7,924   $ (47,866

 

N/A — The Fund does not offer Class B Shares. Class B Shares of Large-Cap Value converted to Class A Shares at close of business on February 15, 2012 and are no longer available for dividend reinvestment or through an exchange from other Nuveen mutual funds.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     53   


Statement of Changes in Net Assets (Unaudited) (continued)

 

    Small-Cap Value     Value Opportunities  
     

Six Months

Ended
12/31/12

    Year Ended
6/30/12
   

Six Months

Ended

12/31/12

    Year Ended
6/30/12
 

Operations

       

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 103,015      $ (473,387   $ 1,491,188      $ 30,052,490   

Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency

    2,767,578        12,299,332        4,638,202        (8,150,418

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of
investments and foreign currency

    8,702,939        (9,342,539     65,736,795        (310,437,320

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

    11,573,532        2,483,406        71,866,185        (288,535,248

Distributions to Shareholders

       

From net investment income:

       

Class A

                  (11,825,093     (30,516,121

Class B

    N/A        N/A        (94,428     (93,629

Class C

                  (4,580,445     (6,159,226

Class R3

                  (193,408     (172,981

Class I

                  (9,138,482     (38,927,620

From accumulated net realized gains:

       

Class A

                         (74,345,248

Class B

    N/A        N/A               (375,408

Class C

                         (24,536,785

Class R3

                         (486,200

Class I

                         (90,830,654

Decrease in net assets from distributions to shareholders

                  (25,831,856     (266,443,872

Fund Share Transactions

       

Proceeds from sale of shares

    23,137,241        33,355,544        35,875,480        874,992,201   

Proceeds from shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions

                  22,517,627        204,685,951   
    23,137,241        33,355,544        58,393,107        1,079,678,152   

Cost of shares redeemed

    (15,120,977     (30,116,155     (518,667,284     (2,887,574,384

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from Fund share transactions

    8,016,264        3,239,389        (460,274,177     (1,807,896,232

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    19,589,796        5,722,795        (414,239,848     (2,362,875,352

Net assets at the beginning of period

    102,700,632        96,977,837        1,127,945,490        3,490,820,842   

Net assets at the end of period

  $ 122,290,428      $ 102,700,632      $ 713,705,642      $ 1,127,945,490   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income at the end of period

  $ (144,070   $ (247,085   $ 1,047,810      $ 25,388,478   

 

N/A — The Fund does not offer Class B Shares.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  54       Nuveen Investments


 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

Nuveen Investments     55   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period:        
Class (Commencement Date)                                      
          Investment Operations     Less Distributions        

MULTI-MANAGER

LARGE-CAP VALUE

                               
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
    Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)(a)
    Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain
(Loss)
    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
    From
Accum-
ulated
Net
Realized
Gains(b)
    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
 

Class A (8/96)

  

             

2013(f)

  $ 20.03      $ .17      $ 1.29      $ 1.46      $ (.30   $      $ (.30   $ 21.19   

2012

    20.25        .26        (.24     .02        (.24            (.24     20.03   

2011

    16.11        .21        4.15        4.36        (.22            (.22     20.25   

2010

    14.23        .16        2.02        2.18        (.30            (.30     16.11   

2009

    22.53        .29        (6.82     (6.53     (.19     (1.58     (1.77     14.23   

2008

    30.05        .32        (3.15     (2.83     (.30     (4.39     (4.69     22.53   

Class B (8/96)

  

             

2013(f)

    19.44        .08        1.26        1.34        (.14            (.14     20.64   

2012

    19.65        .11        (.23     (.12     (.09            (.09     19.44   

2011

    15.65        .06        4.03        4.09        (.09            (.09     19.65   

2010

    13.84        .04        1.96        2.00        (.19            (.19     15.65   

2009

    21.90        .18        (6.63     (6.45     (.03     (1.58     (1.61     13.84   

2008

    29.32        .11        (3.06     (2.95     (.08     (4.39     (4.47     21.90   

Class C (8/96)

  

             

2013(f)

    19.41        .08        1.25        1.33        (.14            (.14     20.60   

2012

    19.61        .11        (.22     (.11     (.09            (.09     19.41   

2011

    15.61        .06        4.03        4.09        (.09            (.09     19.61   

2010

    13.80        .04        1.96        2.00        (.19            (.19     15.61   

2009

    21.86        .17        (6.62     (6.45     (.03     (1.58     (1.61     13.80   

2008

    29.27        .12        (3.06     (2.94     (.08     (4.39     (4.47     21.86   

Class R3 (8/08)

  

             

2013(f)

    20.14        .14        1.29        1.43        (.25            (.25     21.32   

2012

    20.34        .22        (.23     (.01     (.19            (.19     20.14   

2011

    16.19        .18        4.15        4.33        (.18            (.18     20.34   

2010

    14.31        .12        2.03        2.15        (.27            (.27     16.19   

2009(e)

    22.05        .23        (6.25     (6.02     (.14     (1.58     (1.72     14.31   

Class I (8/96)

  

             

2013(f)

    20.12        .19        1.30        1.49        (.35            (.35     21.26   

2012

    20.34        .31        (.24     .07        (.29            (.29     20.12   

2011

    16.18        .26        4.17        4.43        (.27            (.27     20.34   

2010

    14.28        .21        2.03        2.24        (.34            (.34     16.18   

2009

    22.64        .33        (6.87     (6.54     (.24     (1.58     (1.82     14.28   

2008

    30.18        .39        (3.17     (2.78     (.37     (4.39     (4.76     22.64   

 

  56       Nuveen Investments


                                       
                           
      Ratios/Supplemental Data  
            Ratios to Average
Net Assets Before
Waiver/Reimbursement
    Ratios to Average
Net Assets After
Waiver/Reimbursement(d)
       
Total
Return(c)
    Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
  (Loss)
    Expenses         
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
           
  7.29   $ 258,610        1.18 %*      1.56 %*      1.16 %*      1.58 %*      47
  .19        258,324        1.16        1.33        1.16        1.33        99   
  27.15        295,093        1.22        1.07        1.18        1.11        78   
  15.19        254,730        1.26        .91        1.19        .97        74   
  (28.95     239,210        1.27        1.71        1.20        1.83        85   
  (10.74     389,240        1.24        1.20        1.21        1.23        131   
           
  6.89        809        1.93     .78     1.91     .80     47   
  (.56     926        1.91        .57        1.91        .57        99   
  26.23        1,760        1.97        .31        1.93        .34        78   
  14.26        2,000        2.01        .16        1.94        .23        74   
  (29.46     3,033        2.01        .97        1.95        1.10        85   
  (11.39     8,891        1.99        .43        1.96        .46        131   
           
  6.85        16,165        1.93     .80     1.91     .82     47   
  (.51     16,644        1.91        .58        1.91        .58        99   
  26.21        17,518        1.97        .32        1.93        .36        78   
  14.37        15,565        2.01        .16        1.94        .22        74   
  (29.52     15,803        2.02        .96        1.95        1.08        85   
  (11.41     25,007        1.99        .45        1.96        .48        131   
           
  7.10        92        1.43     1.35     1.41     1.37     47   
  .04        76        1.41        1.14        1.41        1.14        99   
  26.80        164        1.49        .91        1.43        .97        78   
  14.88        110        1.50        .66        1.44        .72        74   
  (27.29     97        1.53     1.55     1.45     1.63     85   
           
  7.42        25,583        .93     1.82     .91     1.84     47   
  .45        24,546        .91        1.59        .91        1.59        99   
  27.46        30,150        .97        1.32        .93        1.36        78   
  15.53        22,950        1.00        1.16        .94        1.22        74   
  (28.83     16,604        1.02        1.95        .95        2.08        85   
  (10.52     23,684        .99        1.45        .96        1.48        131   

 

(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) After fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement from the Adviser, where applicable.
(e) For the period August 4, 2008 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2009.
(f) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     57   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period:                                
Class (Commencement Date)                                            
          Investment Operations     Less Distributions        
MULTI-CAP VALUE                                                  
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
    Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)(a)
    Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain
(Loss)
    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
    From
Accum-
ulated
Net
Realized
Gains(b)
    Return
of
Capital
    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
 

Class A (12/02)

                 

2013(e)

  $  18.29      $  .06      $ .96      $  1.02      $  (.08   $      $      $ (.08   $  19.23   

2012

    19.11        .04        (.86     (.82                                 18.29   

2011

    14.73        (.02     4.40        4.38                                    19.11   

2010

    12.22        (.06     2.61        2.55        (.03            (.01     (.04     14.73   

2009

    18.54        .04        (6.36     (6.32                                 12.22   

2008

    26.15        .04        (6.62     (6.58     (.02     (.94     (.07     (1.03     18.54   

Class B (12/02)

                 

2013(e)

    17.38        (.01     .91        .90                                    18.28   

2012

    18.29        (.10     (.81     (.91                                 17.38   

2011

    14.21        (.14     4.22        4.08                                    18.29   

2010

    11.84        (.16     2.53        2.37                                    14.21   

2009

    18.10        (.06     (6.20     (6.26                                 11.84   

2008

    25.64        (.13     (6.47     (6.60            (.94            (.94     18.10   

Class C (12/02)

                 

2013(e)

    17.38        (.01     .91        .90                                    18.28   

2012

    18.29        (.09     (.82     (.91                                 17.38   

2011

    14.21        (.14     4.22        4.08                                    18.29   

2010

    11.84        (.16     2.53        2.37                                    14.21   

2009

    18.10        (.06     (6.20     (6.26                                 11.84   

2008

    25.64        (.13     (6.47     (6.60            (.94            (.94     18.10   

Class R3 (8/08)

                 

2013(e)

    18.11        .04        .95        .99        (.04                   (.04     19.06   

2012

    18.96        **      (.85     (.85                                 18.11   

2011

    14.66        (.06     4.36        4.30                                    18.96   

2010

    12.16        (.08     2.59        2.51        (.01            **      (.01     14.66   

2009(d)

    17.60        .01        (5.45     (5.44                                 12.16   

Class I (11/97)

                 

2013(e)

    18.40        .09        .96        1.05        (.13                   (.13     19.32   

2012

    19.17        .07        (.84     (.77                                 18.40   

2011

    14.74        .03        4.40        4.43                                    19.17   

2010

    12.22        (.01     2.60        2.59        (.05            (.02     (.07     14.74   

2009

    18.50        .07        (6.35     (6.28                                 12.22   

2008

    26.09        .09        (6.59     (6.50     (.02     (.94     (.13     (1.09     18.50   

 

  58       Nuveen Investments


                           
               
      Ratios/Supplemental Data  
            Ratios to Average
Net Assets
       
Total
Return(c)
    Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses         
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
       
  5.60   $ 39,737        1.38 %*      .68 %*      11
  (4.29     42,089        1.32        .20        37   
  29.74        61,438        1.38        (.10     24   
  20.85        61,514        1.47        (.38     34   
  (34.12     76,785        1.50        .27        32   
  (25.65     293,777        1.33        .17        25   
       
  5.18        6,588        2.13     (.12 )*      11   
  (4.98     9,010        2.07        (.57     37   
  28.71        15,631        2.13        (.85     24   
  20.02        16,016        2.21        (1.12     34   
  (34.62     16,599        2.28        (.46     32   
  (26.20     36,024        2.08        (.59     25   
       
  5.18        45,859        2.13     (.08 )*      11   
  (4.98     51,646        2.06        (.54     37   
  28.71        71,116        2.13        (.84     24   
  20.02        71,209        2.21        (1.13     34   
  (34.62     78,225        2.27        (.46     32   
  (26.20     189,475        2.08        (.58     25   
       
  5.44        171        1.64     .43     11   
  (4.48     153        1.57        (.01     37   
  29.33        156        1.63        (.32     24   
  20.62        202        1.65        (.55     34   
  (30.91     104        1.81     .12     32   
       
  5.72        63,807        1.13     .93     11   
  (4.02     67,250        1.07        .41        37   
  30.05        218,673        1.13        .18        24   
  21.18        222,707        1.18        (.08     34   
  (33.95     227,320        1.29        .55        32   
  (25.47     274,886        1.09        .39        25   

 

(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) For the period August 4, 2008 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2009.
(e) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.
** Rounds to less than $.01 per share.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     59   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period:                                
Class (Commencement Date)                                      
          Investment Operations     Less Distributions        
LARGE-CAP VALUE                                            
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
   

Net
Invest-
ment
Income

(Loss)(a)

   

Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain

(Loss)

    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
   

From
Accum-
ulated

Net
Realized
Gains(b)

    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
 

Class A (12/06)

  

             

2013(f)

  $ 16.84      $ .09      $ 1.02      $ 1.11      $ (.15   $ (.05   $ (.20   $ 17.75   

2012

    18.56        .14        (1.64     (1.50     (.01     (.21     (.22     16.84   

2011

    14.73        .03        3.83        3.86        (.03            (.03     18.56   

2010

    12.71        .03        1.99        2.02                 —               14.73   

2009

    17.41        .10        (4.73     (4.63     (.07            (.07     12.71   

2008

    21.38        .15        (4.04     (3.89     (.08     **      (.08     17.41   

Class C (12/06)

  

             

2013(f)

    16.36        .02        .99        1.01        (.02     (.05     (.07     17.30   

2012

    18.15        .01        (1.59     (1.58            (.21     (.21     16.36   

2011

    14.49        (.09     3.75        3.66                             18.15   

2010

    12.60        (.08     1.97        1.89                             14.49   

2009

    17.28        **      (4.68     (4.68                          12.60   

2008

    21.30        **      (4.02     (4.02            **      **      17.28   

Class R3 (9/09)

  

             

2013(f)

    16.79        .06        1.01        1.07        (.10     (.05     (.15     17.71   

2012

    18.53        .09        (1.62     (1.53            (.21     (.21     16.79   

2011

    14.71        (.01     3.83        3.82                             18.53   

2010(e)

    15.24        **      (.53     (.53                          14.71   

Class I (12/06)

  

             

2013(f)

    16.87        .11        1.02        1.13        (.19     (.05     (.24     17.76   

2012

    18.59        .22        (1.67     (1.45     (.06     (.21     (.27     16.87   

2011

    14.75        .08        3.83        3.91        (.07            (.07     18.59   

2010

    12.72        .08        1.97        2.05        (.02            (.02     14.75   

2009

    17.43        .12        (4.72     (4.60     (.11            (.11     12.72   

2008

    21.41        .20        (4.05     (3.85     (.13     **      (.13     17.43   

 

 

  60       Nuveen Investments


                                       
                           
      Ratios/Supplemental Data  
            Ratios to Average
Net Assets Before
Waiver/Reimbursement
    Ratios to Average
Net Assets After
Waiver/Reimbursement(d)
       
Total
Return(c)
    Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
  (Loss)
    Expenses         
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
           
  6.61   $ 46,664        1.04 %*      1.00 %*      1.04 %*      1.00 %*      6
  (7.99     39,940        1.11        .84        1.11        .84        35   
  26.22        26,143        1.20        .19        1.20        .19        27   
  15.89        13,820        1.32        .20        1.32        .20        15   
  (26.57     6,075        1.61        .49        1.35        .76        16   
  (18.24     5,080        1.66        .45        1.33        .77        13   
           
  6.17        6,597        1.78     .23     1.78     .23     6   
  (8.64     6,903        1.86        .04        1.86        .04        35   
  25.26        8,660        1.95        (.55     1.95        (.55     27   
  15.00        4,665        2.07        (.55     2.07        (.55     15   
  (27.13     2,217        2.37        (.25     2.10        .02        16   
  (18.82     2,484        2.42        (.33     2.08        ***      13   
           
  6.42        59        1.29     .73     1.29     .73     6   
  (8.19     55        1.36        .55        1.36        .55        35   
  25.97        61        1.45        (.06     1.45        (.06     27   
  (3.48     48        1.58     (.02 )*      1.58     (.02 )*      15   
           
  6.74        1,072,992        .79     1.23     .79     1.23     6   
  (7.73     1,061,400        .85        1.29        .85        1.29        35   
  26.54        400,859        .95        .45        .95        .45        27   
  16.13        253,558        1.08        .53        1.08        .53        15   
  (26.35     52,618        1.36        .71        1.10        .97        16   
  (18.05     15,719        1.40        .71        1.08        1.02        13   

 

(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) After fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement from the Adviser, where applicable.
(e) For the period September 29, 2009 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2010.
(f) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.
** Rounds to less than $.01 per share.
*** Rounds to less than .01%.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     61   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period:                                
Class (Commencement Date)                                      
          Investment Operations     Less Distributions        
SMALL/MID-CAP VALUE                                            
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
    Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)(a)
   

Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain

(Loss)

    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
    From
Accum-
ulated
Net
Realized
Gains(b)
    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
 

Class A (12/06)

  

             

2013(f)

  $ 19.63      $ .01      $ 1.34      $ 1.35      $      $   —      $      $ 20.98   

2012

    19.91        (.09     (.19     (.28                          19.63   

2011

    14.32        (.09     5.68        5.59                             19.91   

2010

    11.05        (.09     3.36        3.27                             14.32   

2009

    17.12        **      (6.07     (6.07                          11.05   

2008

    21.37        (.09     (4.16     (4.25     **             **      17.12   

Class C (12/06)

  

             

2013(f)

    18.81        (.06     1.28        1.22                             20.03   

2012

    19.22        (.23     (.18     (.41                          18.81   

2011

    13.93        (.22     5.51        5.29                             19.22   

2010

    10.83        (.19     3.29        3.10                             13.93   

2009

    16.92        (.07     (6.02     (6.09                          10.83   

2008

    21.28        (.22     (4.14     (4.36                          16.92   

Class R3 (9/09)

  

             

2013(f)

    19.36        (.01     1.31        1.30                             20.66   

2012

    19.68        (.13     (.19     (.32                          19.36   

2011

    14.19        (.13     5.62        5.49                             19.68   

2010(e)

    13.53        (.09     .75        .66                             14.19   

Class I (12/06)

  

             

2013(f)

    19.62        .05        1.33        1.38                             21.00   

2012

    19.85        (.04     (.19     (.23                          19.62   

2011

    14.24        (.05     5.66        5.61                             19.85   

2010

    10.96        (.05     3.33        3.28                             14.24   

2009

    17.11        (.01     (6.14     (6.15                          10.96   

2008

    21.41        (.04     (4.21     (4.25     (.05            (.05     17.11   

 

  62       Nuveen Investments


                                       
                           
      Ratios/Supplemental Data  
            Ratios to Average
Net Assets Before
Waiver/Reimbursement
    Ratios to Average
Net Assets After
Waiver/Reimbursement(d)
       
Total
Return(c)
    Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
  (Loss)
    Expenses    

Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)

    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
           
  6.88   $ 4,723        1.24 %*      .09 %*      1.24 %*      .09 %*      23
  (1.41     4,671        1.58        (.72     1.33        (.46     54   
  39.13        5,261        1.88        (1.04     1.33        (.50     46   
  29.50        3,267        2.32        (1.51     1.44        (.63     64   
  (35.34     1,382        3.03        (1.60     1.45        (.02     204   
  (20.02 )***      3,595        1.65        (.70     1.43        (.49     84   
           
  6.49        2,027        1.99     (.66 )*      1.99     (.66 )*      23   
  (2.13     1,928        2.36        (1.49     2.08        (1.21     54   
  38.07        1,202        2.62        (1.80     2.08        (1.26     46   
  28.53        636        3.11        (2.29     2.19        (1.37     64   
  (35.88     610        4.11        (2.50     2.20        (.59     204   
  (20.63 )***      1,093        2.39        (1.40     2.18        (1.20     84   
           
  6.71        373        1.49     (.11 )*      1.49     (.11 )*      23   
  (1.63     202        1.87        (1.00     1.58        (.70     54   
  38.69        73        2.13        (1.29     1.58        (.74     46   
  4.88        52        2.54     (1.67 )*      1.69     (.81 )*      64   
           
  7.03        25,065        .99     .45     .99     .45     23   
  (1.16     15,150        1.34        (.47     1.08        (.20     54   
  39.40        14,803        1.62        (.80     1.08        (.26     46   
  29.93        7,279        2.09        (1.26     1.19        (.36     64   
  (35.98     3,792        1.44        (.33     1.20        (.08     204   
  (19.82 )***      38,574        1.16        (.20     1.16        (.20     84   

 

(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) After fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement from the Adviser, where applicable.
(e) For the period September 29, 2009 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2010.
(f) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.
** Rounds to less than $.01 per share.
*** During the year ended June 30, 2008, the Adviser reimbursed the Fund $89,561 for a cash balance maintained in the Fund. This reimbursement resulted in an increase of .23%, .28%, .19% and .14% to Classes A, B, C and I, respectively.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     63   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period:                                
Class (Commencement Date)                                            
          Investment Operations     Less Distributions        
SMALL-CAP VALUE                                                  
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
    Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)(a)
    Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain
(Loss)
    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
    From
Accum-
ulated
Net
Realized
Gains(b)
    Return
of
Capital
    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
 

Class A (12/04)

  

               

2013(f)

  $ 26.01      $ **    $ 2.81      $ 2.81      $      $      $      $      $ 28.82   

2012

    25.22        (.17     .96        .79                                    26.01   

2011

    18.30        (.18     7.10        6.92                                    25.22   

2010

    14.14        (.10     4.27        4.17        (.01                   (.01     18.30   

2009

    23.29        .02        (9.17     (9.15                                 14.14   

2008

    30.12        (.04     (6.08     (6.12     (.02     (.69     **      (.71     23.29   

Class C (12/04)

  

               

2013(f)

    24.77        (.10     2.67        2.57                                    27.34   

2012

    24.20        (.34     .91        .57                                    24.77   

2011

    17.68        (.35     6.87        6.52                                    24.20   

2010

    13.76        (.21     4.13        3.92                                    17.68   

2009

    22.83        (.11     (8.96     (9.07                                 13.76   

2008

    29.73        (.23     (5.98     (6.21            (.69            (.69     22.83   

Class R3 (9/09)

  

               

2013(f)

    25.99        (.03     2.80        2.77                                    28.76   

2012

    25.26        (.23     .96        .73                                    25.99   

2011

    18.37        (.25     7.14        6.89                                    25.26   

2010(e)

    18.07        (.08     .38        .30                                    18.37   

Class I (12/04)

  

               

2013(f)

    26.29        .03        2.84        2.87                                    29.16   

2012

    25.42        (.11     .98        .87                                    26.29   

2011

    18.40        (.14     7.16        7.02                                    25.42   

2010

    14.21        (.04     4.28        4.24        (.05                   (.05     18.40   

2009

    23.34        .05        (9.18     (9.13                                 14.21   

2008

    30.18        .02        (6.08     (6.06     (.08     (.69     (.01     (.78     23.34   

 

 

  64       Nuveen Investments


                                       
                           
      Ratios/Supplemental Data  
            Ratios to Average
Net Assets Before
Waiver/Reimbursement
    Ratios to Average
Net Assets After
Waiver/Reimbursement(d)
       
Total
Return(c)
    Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
  (Loss)
    Expenses         
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
           
  10.80   $ 7,536        1.32 %*      .01 %*      1.32 %*      .01 %*      17
  3.09        7,107        1.45        (.68     1.45        (.68     44   
  37.94        7,365        1.43        (.82     1.43        (.82     51   
  29.41        7,009        1.47        (.56     1.45        (.54     58   
  (39.29     7,733        1.46        .13        1.46        .13        71   
  (20.41     54,264        1.47        (.16     1.47        (.16     48   
           
  10.38        4,754        2.06     (.76 )*      2.06     (.76 )*      17   
  2.36        4,308        2.19        (1.43     2.19        (1.43     44   
  36.96        4,401        2.18        (1.58     2.18        (1.58     51   
  28.42        3,494        2.21        (1.23     2.19        (1.21     58   
  (39.70     3,446        2.23        (.70     2.23        (.70     71   
  (21.03     9,682        2.22        (.91     2.22        (.91     48   
           
  10.66        88        1.57     (.25 )*      1.57     (.25 )*      17   
  2.85        72        1.69        (.93     1.69        (.93     44   
  37.64        75        1.68        (1.08     1.68        (1.08     51   
  1.60        51        1.68     (.57 )*      1.68     (.57 )*      58   
           
  10.92        109,913        1.06     .24     1.06     .24     17   
  3.38        91,213        1.19        (.43     1.19        (.43     44   
  38.28        85,136        1.18        (.58     1.18        (.58     51   
  29.74        74,824        1.21        (.23     1.19        (.21     58   
  (39.12     62,423        1.24        .29        1.24        .29        71   
  (20.22     108,064        1.22        .08        1.22        .08        48   

 

(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) After fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement from the Adviser, where applicable.
(e) For the period September 29, 2009 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2010.
(f) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.
** Rounds to less than $.01 per share.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     65   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period:                          
Class (Commencement Date)                                            
          Investment Operations
    Less Distributions        
VALUE OPPORTUNITIES                                            
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
    Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)(a)
   

Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain

(Loss)

    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
    From
Accum-
ulated
Net
Realized
Gains(b)
    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
 

Class A (12/04)

  

             

2013(f)

  $ 28.51      $ .06      $ 2.38      $ 2.44      $ (1.13   $      $ (1.13   $ 29.82   

2012

    35.58        .34        (4.64     (4.30     (.75     (2.02     (2.77     28.51   

2011

    29.76        .23        7.26        7.49        (.51     (1.16     (1.67     35.58   

2010

    24.17        .13        5.46        5.59                             29.76   

2009

    29.60        .20        (4.53     (4.33     (.05     (1.05     (1.10     24.17   

2008

    32.48        .20        (1.03     (.83     (.59     (1.46     (2.05     29.60   

Class B (12/04)

  

             

2013(f)

    27.77        (.05     2.32        2.27        (.88            (.88     29.16   

2012

    34.69        .15        (4.57     (4.42     (.48     (2.02     (2.50     27.77   

2011

    29.07        (.04     7.08        7.04        (.26     (1.16     (1.42     34.69   

2010

    23.78        (.09     5.38        5.29                             29.07   

2009

    29.29        .03        (4.49     (4.46            (1.05     (1.05     23.78   

2008

    32.15        (.03     (1.02     (1.05     (.35     (1.46     (1.81     29.29   

Class C (12/04)

  

             

2013(f)

    27.76        (.05     2.32        2.27        (.88            (.88     29.15   

2012

    34.68        .13        (4.55     (4.42     (.48     (2.02     (2.50     27.76   

2011

    29.06        (.03     7.07        7.04        (.26     (1.16     (1.42     34.68   

2010

    23.77        (.09     5.38        5.29                             29.06   

2009

    29.29        .03        (4.50     (4.47            (1.05     (1.05     23.77   

2008

    32.16        (.03     (1.03     (1.06     (.35     (1.46     (1.81     29.29   

Class R3 (8/08)

  

             

2013(f)

    28.51        .03        2.38        2.41        (1.06            (1.06     29.86   

2012

    35.57        .30        (4.67     (4.37     (.67     (2.02     (2.69     28.51   

2011

    29.76        .17        7.23        7.40        (.43     (1.16     (1.59     35.57   

2010

    24.23        .07        5.46        5.53                             29.76   

2009(e)

    28.93        .15        (3.80     (3.65            (1.05     (1.05     24.23   

Class I (12/04)

  

             

2013(f)

    28.62        .10        2.39        2.49        (1.21            (1.21     29.90   

2012

    35.72        .42        (4.66     (4.24     (.84     (2.02     (2.86     28.62   

2011

    29.87        .31        7.29        7.60        (.59     (1.16     (1.75     35.72   

2010

    24.19        .20        5.48        5.68                             29.87   

2009

    29.66        .26        (4.57     (4.31     (.11     (1.05     (1.16     24.19   

2008

    32.54        .28        (1.03     (.75     (.67     (1.46     (2.13     29.66   

 

  66       Nuveen Investments


                                       
                           
      Ratios/Supplemental Data  
            Ratios to Average
Net Assets Before
Waiver/Reimbursement
    Ratios to Average
Net Assets After
Waiver/Reimbursement(d)
       
Total
Return(c)
    Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
  (Loss)
    Expenses         
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
           
  8.64   $ 319,942        1.45 %*      .41 %*      1.45 %*      .41 %*      33
  (12.46     492,397        1.17        1.05        1.17        1.05        97   
  25.31        1,291,888        1.20        .65        1.20        .65        77   
  23.13        658,037        1.43        .44        1.43        .44        48   
  (13.47     378,845        1.48        .89        1.48        .89        61   
  (2.65     368,093        1.42        .63        1.42        .63        48   
           
  8.24        3,203        2.20     (.33 )*      2.20     (.33 )*      33   
  (13.14     4,788        1.91        .47        1.91        .47        97   
  24.38        6,863        1.95        (.13     1.95        (.13     77   
  22.25        5,801        2.17        (.32     2.17        (.32     48   
  (14.10     5,080        2.22        .14        2.22        .14        61   
  (3.39     6,816        2.17        (.11     2.17        (.11     48   
           
  8.20        154,664        2.20     (.34 )*      2.20     (.34 )*      33   
  (13.11     224,079        1.91        .40        1.91        .40        97   
  24.39        436,074        1.95        (.07     1.95        (.07     77   
  22.25        192,332        2.19        (.31     2.19        (.31     48   
  (14.14     98,742        2.22        .14        2.22        .14        61   
  (3.39     116,463        2.17        (.10     2.17        (.10     48   
           
  8.51        5,659        1.70     .20     1.70     .20     33   
  (12.67     6,298        1.40        .93        1.40        .93        97   
  25.00        6,880        1.45        .49        1.45        .49        77   
  22.82        1,444        1.71        .22        1.71        .22        48   
  (11.47     414        1.76     .73     1.75     .75     61   
           
  8.79        230,239        1.20     .65     1.20     .65     33   
  (12.27     400,383        .92        1.28        .92        1.28        97   
  25.64        1,749,117        .95        .91        .95        .91        77   
  23.48        1,046,939        1.18        .69        1.18        .69        48   
  (13.29     580,149        1.24        1.19        1.23        1.20        61   
  (2.39     278,649        1.17        .89        1.17        .89        48   

 

(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) After fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement from the Adviser, where applicable.
(e) For the period August 4, 2008 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2009.
(f) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     67   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

1. General Information and Significant Accounting Policies

General Information

The Nuveen Investment Trust (the “Trust”), is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The Trust is comprised of the Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund (“Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value”), Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund (“Multi-Cap Value”), Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund (“Large-Cap Value”), Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund (“Small/Mid-Cap Value”), Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund (“Small-Cap Value”) and Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund (“Value Opportunities”) (each a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”), as diversified funds, among others. The Trust was organized as a Massachusetts business trust in 1996.

On December 31, 2012, the Funds’ investment adviser converted from a Delaware corporation to a Delaware limited liability company. As a result, Nuveen Fund Advisors, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc. (“Nuveen”), changed its name to Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC (the “Adviser”). There were no changes to the identities or roles of any personnel as a result of the change.

Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value’s investment objective is to provide investors with long-term capital appreciation. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in equity securities of companies with market capitalizations at the time of investment comparable to companies in the Russell 1000 ® Value Index. The Fund will not be forced to sell a stock because it has exceeded or fallen below the current market capitalization range. The Fund’s investment portfolio is managed by three sub-advisers, Institutional Capital LLC (“ICAP”), Nuveen Asset Management, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Adviser and Symphony Asset Management LLC (“Symphony”), an affiliate of Nuveen. The Adviser maintains a strategic asset allocation of between 25% and 40% of the Fund’s assets with each sub-adviser. The Fund may invest up to 25% of its net assets in non-U.S. equity securities that are U.S. dollar-denominated.

Multi-Cap Value’s investment objective is to provide investors with long-term capital appreciation. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of companies with large, medium and small capitalizations. The Fund’s sub-adviser, NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC (“NWQ”), an affiliate of Nuveen, seeks to identify under-valued companies with a catalyst to unlock value or improve profitability. NWQ maintains a long-term investment view and a focus on securities it believes can appreciate over an extended time, regardless of interim fluctuations. NWQ will sell securities or reduce positions if it feels that the company no longer possesses favorable risk/reward characteristics, attractive valuations or catalysts. The Fund invests primarily in U.S. equity securities, but it may invest up to 35% of its net assets in non-U.S. equity securities, including up to 10% of its net assets in equity securities of companies located in emerging market countries.

Large-Cap Value’s, Small/Mid-Cap Value’s and Small-Cap Value’s investment objective is to provide investors with long-term capital appreciation. Under normal market conditions, Large-Cap Value and Small/Mid-Cap Value invest at least 80% of their net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in equity securities of companies with market capitalizations at the time of investment comparable to companies in the Russell 1000 ® Index and Russell 2500 ® Value Index, respectively. Under normal market conditions, Small-Cap Value invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in equity securities of companies with market capitalizations at the time of investment comparable to companies in either the Russell ® 2000 Value Index or the Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Index. The Funds will not be forced to sell a stock because it has exceeded or fallen below the current market capitalization range. The Funds’ sub-adviser, NWQ, seeks to identify under-valued companies with a catalyst to unlock value or improve profitability. NWQ maintains a long-term investment view and a focus on securities it believes can appreciate over an extended time, regardless of interim fluctuations. NWQ will sell securities or reduce positions if it feels that the company no longer possesses favorable risk/reward characteristics, attractive valuation or catalysts. Each Fund invests primarily in U.S. equity securities, but may invest up to 35% of its net assets in non-U.S. equity securities, including up to 10% of its net assets in equity securities of companies located in emerging market countries.

Value Opportunities’ investment objective is to provide investors with long-term capital appreciation. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests primarily in equity securities of companies with varying market capitalizations, which may include small-, mid- and large-capitalization companies. The Fund’s sub-adviser, Tradewinds Global Investors, LLC (“Tradewinds”), an affiliate of Nuveen, seeks to identify under-valued companies considering absolute valuation and security pricing in the context of industry and market conditions. Tradewinds’ disciplined, value-oriented investment strategy focuses on rigorous financial statements and valuation analysis, qualitative factors and portfolio downside protection. The Fund invests primarily in U.S. equity securities, but it may invest up to 35% of its net assets in non-U.S. equity securities, including up to 15% of its net assets in equity securities of companies located in emerging market countries.

The Funds’ most recent prospectus provides further descriptions of each Fund’s investment objective, principal investment strategies, and principal risks.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Funds in the preparation of their financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

  68       Nuveen Investments


Investment Valuation

Common stocks and other equity-type securities are valued at the last sales price on the securities exchange on which such securities are primarily traded and are generally classified as Level 1 for fair value measurement purposes. Securities primarily traded on the NASDAQ National Market (“NASDAQ”) are valued, except as indicated below, at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price and are generally classified as Level 1. However, securities traded on a securities exchange or NASDAQ for which there were no transactions on a given day or securities not listed on a securities exchange or NASDAQ are valued at the quoted bid price and are generally classified as Level 2. Prices of certain American Depositary Receipts (“ADR”) held by the Funds that trade in the United States are valued based on the last traded price, official closing price or the most recent bid price of the underlying non-U.S.-traded stock, adjusted as appropriate for the underlying-to-ADR conversion ratio and foreign exchange rate, and from time-to-time may also be adjusted further to take into account material events that may take place after the close of the local non-U.S. market but before the close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), which may represent a transfer from a Level 1 to a Level 2 security.

Investments in investment companies are valued at their respective net asset values on valuation date. These investment vehicles are generally classified as Level 1.

Prices of fixed-income securities are provided by a pricing service approved by the Funds’ Board of Trustees. These securities are generally classified as Level 2. The pricing service establishes a security’s fair value using methods that may include consideration of the following: yields or prices of investments of comparable quality, type of issue, coupon, maturity and rating, market quotes or indications of value from security dealers, evaluations of anticipated cash flows or collateral, general market conditions and other information and analysis, including the obligor’s credit characteristics considered relevant. In pricing certain securities, particularly less liquid and lower quality securities, the pricing service may consider information about a security, its issuer, or market activity provided by the Adviser. These securities are generally classified as Level 2 or Level 3 depending on the priority of the significant inputs.

Repurchase agreements are valued at contract amount plus accrued interest, which approximates market value. These securities are generally classified as Level 2.

Certain securities may not be able to be priced by the pre-established pricing methods as described above. Such securities may be valued by the Funds’ Board of Trustees or its designee at fair value. These securities generally include, but are not limited to, restricted securities (securities which may not be publicly sold without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) for which a pricing service is unable to provide a market price; securities whose trading has been formally suspended; debt securities that have gone into default and for which there is no current market quotation; a security whose market price is not available from a pre-established pricing source; a security with respect to which an event has occurred that is likely to materially affect the value of the security after the market has closed but before the calculation of a Fund’s net asset value (as may be the case in non-U.S. markets on which the security is primarily traded) or make it difficult or impossible to obtain a reliable market quotation; and a security whose price, as provided by the pricing service, is not deemed to reflect the security’s fair value. As a general principle, the fair value of a security would appear to be the amount that the owner might reasonably expect to receive for it in a current sale. A variety of factors may be considered in determining the fair value of such securities, which may include consideration of the following: yields or prices of investments of comparable quality, type of issue, coupon, maturity and rating, market quotes or indications of value from security dealers, evaluations of anticipated cash flows or collateral, general market conditions and other information and analysis, including the obligor’s credit characteristics considered relevant. These securities are generally classified as Level 2 or Level 3 depending on the priority of the significant inputs. Regardless of the method employed to value a particular security, all valuations are subject to review by the Funds’ Board of Trustees or its designee.

Refer to Footnote 2 – Fair Value Measurements for further details on the leveling of securities held by the Funds as of the end of the reporting period.

Investment Transactions

Investment transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are determined on the specific identification method, which is the same basis used for federal income tax purposes. Investments purchased on a when-issued/delayed delivery basis may have extended settlement periods. Any investments so purchased are subject to market fluctuation during this period. The Funds have instructed the custodian to earmark securities in the Funds’ portfolios with a current value at least equal to the amount of the when-issued/delayed delivery purchase commitments. As of December 31, 2012, there were no outstanding purchase commitments in any of the Funds.

Investment Income

Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, for foreign securities, when information is available. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts for financial reporting purposes, is recorded on an accrual basis.

Professional Fees

Professional fees presented on the Statement of Operations consist of legal fees incurred in the normal course of operations, audit fees, tax consulting fees and, in some cases, workout expenditures. Workout expenditures are incurred in an attempt to protect or enhance an investment, or to pursue other claims or legal actions on behalf of Fund shareholders. Legal fee refund presented on the Statement of Operations reflects a refund of workout expenditures paid in a prior reporting period, when applicable.

 

 

Nuveen Investments     69   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Income Taxes

Each Fund is a separate taxpayer for federal income tax purposes. Each Fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net capital gains to shareholders and to otherwise comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required.

For all open tax years and all major taxing jurisdictions, management of the Funds has concluded that there are no significant uncertain tax positions that would require recognition in the financial statements. Open tax years are those that are open for examination by taxing authorities (i.e., generally the last four tax year ends and the interim tax period since then). Furthermore, management of the Funds is also not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders

Dividends from net investment income and net realized capital gains from investment transactions, if any, are declared and distributed to shareholders at least annually. Furthermore, capital gains are distributed only to the extent they exceed available capital loss carryforwards.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The amount and timing of distributions are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

In-Kind Redemptions

In certain circumstances, a Fund may distribute portfolio securities rather than cash as payment for redemption of Fund shares (“in-kind redemptions”). For financial reporting purposes, the Fund recognizes a gain on the in-kind redemptions to the extent the value of the distributed securities on the date of redemption exceeds the cost of those securities; the Fund recognizes a loss if cost exceeds value. Gains and losses realized on the in-kind redemptions are not recognized for tax purposes, and are reclassified from undistributed realized gain or loss to paid-in capital. During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Funds did not have any in-kind redemptions.

Share Classes and Sales Charges

Class A Shares are generally sold with an up-front sales charge and incur a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value, Multi-Cap Value and Value Opportunities will issue Class B Shares upon the exchange of Class B Shares from another Nuveen mutual fund or for purposes of dividend reinvestment, but Class B Shares are not available for new accounts or for additional investment into existing accounts. Class B Shares were sold without an up-front sales charge but incur a .75% annual 12b-1 distribution fee and a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class B Shares are subject to a CDSC of up to 5% depending upon the length of time the shares are held by the investor (CDSC is reduced to 0% at the end of six years). Class B Shares convert to Class A Shares eight years after purchase. Class C Shares are sold without an up-front sales charge but incur a .75% annual 12b-1 distribution fee and a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class C Shares are subject to a CDSC of 1% if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class R3 Shares are sold without an up-front sales charge but incur a .25% annual 12b-1 distribution fee and a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class I Shares are not subject to any sales charge or 12b-1 distribution or service fees.

Foreign Currency Transactions

Each Fund is authorized to engage in foreign currency exchange transactions, including forward foreign currency exchange, futures, options and swap contracts. To the extent that the Funds invest in securities and/or contracts that are denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollars, the Funds will be subject to currency risk, which is the risk that an increase in the U.S. dollar relative to the foreign currency will reduce returns or portfolio value. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the Funds’ investments denominated in that currency will lose value because its currency is worth fewer U.S. dollars; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value. Investments and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars on a spot (i.e. cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market at the time of valuation. Purchases and sales of investments and income denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars on the respective dates of such transactions.

The books and records of the Funds are maintained in U.S. dollars. Foreign currencies, assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. Investment transactions, income and expenses are translated on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include foreign currency gains and losses between trade date and settlement date of the transactions, foreign currency transactions, and the difference between the amounts of interest and dividends recorded on the books of a Fund and the amounts actually received.

The realized gains and losses resulting from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in foreign exchange rates associated with other assets and liabilities on investments are recognized as a component of “Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency,” on the Statement of Operations, when applicable.

The unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in foreign exchange rates associated with other assets and liabilities on investments are recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments and foreign currency,” on the Statement of Operations, when applicable.

 

  70       Nuveen Investments


Derivative Financial Instruments

Each Fund is authorized to invest in certain derivative instruments, including forward foreign currency exchange, futures, options and swap contracts. Although the Funds are authorized to invest in such derivative instruments, and may do so in the future, they did not make any such investments during the six months ended December 31, 2012.

Market and Counterparty Credit Risk

In the normal course of business each Fund may invest in financial instruments and enter into financial transactions where risk of potential loss exists due to changes in the market (market risk) or failure of the other party to the transaction to perform (counterparty credit risk). The potential loss could exceed the value of the financial assets recorded on the financial statements. Financial assets, which potentially expose each Fund to counterparty credit risk, consist principally of cash due from counterparties on forward, option and swap transactions, when applicable. The extent of each Fund’s exposure to counterparty credit risk in respect to these financial assets approximates their carrying value as recorded on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Futures contracts, when applicable, expose a Fund to minimal counterparty credit risk as they are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, which is counterparty to all exchange traded futures, guarantees the futures contracts against default.

Each Fund helps manage counterparty credit risk by entering into agreements only with counterparties the Adviser believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by having the Adviser monitor the financial stability of the counterparties. Additionally, counterparties may be required to pledge collateral daily (based on the daily valuation of the financial asset) on behalf of each Fund with a value approximately equal to the amount of any unrealized gain above a pre-determined threshold. Reciprocally, when each Fund has an unrealized loss, the Funds have instructed the custodian to pledge assets of the Funds as collateral with a value approximately equal to the amount of the unrealized loss above a pre-determined threshold. Collateral pledges are monitored and subsequently adjusted if and when the valuations fluctuate, either up or down, by at least the pre-determined threshold amount.

Repurchase Agreements

In connection with transactions in repurchase agreements, it is each Fund’s policy that its custodian take possession of the underlying collateral securities, the fair value of which exceeds the principal amount of the repurchase transaction, including accrued interest, at all times. If the counterparty defaults, and the fair value of the collateral declines, realization of the collateral may be delayed or limited.

Multiclass Operations and Allocations

Income and expenses of the Funds that are not directly attributable to a specific class of shares were prorated among the classes based on the relative net assets of each class. Expenses directly attributable to a class of shares, which presently only include 12b-1 distribution fees and shareholder service fees, are recorded to the specific class.

Income, realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the Funds are prorated among the classes based on the relative net assets of each class.

Indemnifications

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications to other parties. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred. However, the Trust has not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.

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 at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

2. Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the price that the Funds would receive upon selling an investment or transferring a liability in an orderly transaction to an independent buyer in the principal or most advantageous market for the investment. A three-tier hierarchy is used to maximize the use of observable market data and minimize the use of unobservable inputs and to establish classification of fair value measurements for disclosure purposes. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Observable inputs are based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best information available in the circumstances. The following is a summary of the three-tiered hierarchy of valuation input levels.

 

Level 1 –   Inputs are unadjusted and prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2 –   Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).
Level 3 –   Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including management’s assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

Nuveen Investments     71   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities.

The following is a summary of each Fund’s fair value measurements as of the end of the reporting period:

 

Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

           

Common Stocks

   $ 298,726,227       $   —       $   —       $ 298,726,227   

Investment Companies

     364,100                         364,100   

Short-Term Investments:

           

Repurchase Agreements

             337,111                 337,111   

Total

   $ 299,090,327       $ 337,111       $   —       $ 299,427,438   
Multi-Cap Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

           

Common Stocks

   $ 156,362,732       $       $   —       $ 156,362,732   

Short-Term Investments:

           

Repurchase Agreements

             562,410                 562,410   

Total

   $ 156,362,732       $ 562,410       $   —       $ 156,925,142   
Large-Cap Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

           

Common Stocks

   $ 1,113,845,798       $       $   —       $ 1,113,845,798   

Short-Term Investments:

           

Repurchase Agreements

             12,906,040                 12,906,040   

Total

   $ 1,113,845,798       $ 12,906,040       $       $ 1,126,751,838   
Small/Mid-Cap Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

           

Common Stocks

   $ 31,871,048       $       $   —       $ 31,871,048   

Short-Term Investments:

           

Repurchase Agreements

             329,066                 329,066   

Total

   $ 31,871,048       $ 329,066       $       $ 32,200,114   
Small-Cap Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

           

Common Stocks

   $ 115,756,843       $       $   —       $ 115,756,843   

Short-Term Investments:

           

Repurchase Agreements

             6,925,131                 6,925,131   

Total

   $ 115,756,843       $ 6,925,131       $       $ 122,681,974   
Value Opportunities    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

           

Common Stocks

   $ 691,218,103       $ 4,012,451       $   —       $ 695,230,554   

Convertible Bonds

             1,619,560                 1,619,560   

Short-Term Investments:

           

Repurchase Agreements

             5,110,779                 5,110,779   

Total

   $ 691,218,103       $ 10,742,790       $       $ 701,960,893   
* Refer to the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments for industry classifications and a breakdown of Common Stocks classified as Level 2.

The Nuveen funds’ Board of Directors/Trustees is responsible for the valuation process and has delegated the oversight of the daily valuation process to the Adviser’s Valuation Committee. The Valuation Committee, pursuant to the valuation policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors/Trustees, is responsible for making fair value determinations, evaluating the effectiveness of the funds’ pricing policies, and reporting to the Board of Directors/Trustees. The Valuation Committee is aided in its efforts by the Adviser’s dedicated Securities Valuation Team, which is responsible for administering the daily valuation process and applying fair value methodologies as approved by the Valuation Committee. When determining the reliability of independent pricing services for investments owned by the funds, the Valuation Committee, among other things, conducts due diligence reviews of the pricing services and monitors the quality of security prices received through various testing reports conducted by the Securities Valuation Team.

The Valuation Committee will consider pricing methodologies it deems relevant and appropriate when making fair value determinations. Examples of possible methodologies include, but are not limited to, multiple of earnings; discount from market of a similar freely traded security; discounted cash-flow analysis; book value or a multiple thereof; risk premium/yield analysis; yield to maturity; and/or fundamental investment analysis. The Valuation Committee will also consider factors it deems relevant and appropriate in light of the facts and circumstances. Examples of possible factors include, but are not limited to, the type of security;

 

  72       Nuveen Investments


the issuer’s financial statements; the purchase price of the security; the discount from market value of unrestricted securities of the same class at the time of purchase; analysts’ research and observations from financial institutions; information regarding any transactions or offers with respect to the security; the existence of merger proposals or tender offers affecting the security; the price and extent of public trading in similar securities of the issuer or comparable companies; and the existence of a shelf registration for restricted securities.

For each portfolio security that has been fair valued pursuant to the policies adopted by the Board of Directors/Trustees, the fair value price is compared against the last available and next available market quotations. The Valuation Committee reviews the results of such testing and fair valuation occurrences are reported to the Board of Directors/Trustees.

3. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Funds record derivative instruments at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized on the Statement of Operations, when applicable. Even though the Funds’ investments in derivatives may represent economic hedges, they are not considered to be hedge transactions for financial reporting purposes. The Funds did not invest in derivative instruments during the six months ended December 31, 2012.

4. Fund Shares

Transactions in Fund shares were as follows:

 

     Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value  
     Six Months Ended
12/31/12
    Year Ended
6/30/12
 
       Shares     Amount     Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

           

Class A

     381,178      $ 7,956,079        845,732         $ 16,012,029   

Class A – automatic conversion of Class B Shares

     130        2,728        5,440           104,726   

Class B

                   2,445           46,371   

Class C

     25,289        515,129        115,213           2,256,357   

Class R3

     554        11,484        1,293           23,117   

Class I

     70,656        1,481,946        149,860           2,904,003   

Shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions:

           

Class A

     142,861        2,980,083        138,807           2,606,795   

Class B

     249        5,054        237           4,337   

Class C

     4,232        85,818        3,220           58,788   

Class R3

                               

Class I

     18,305        383,136        17,962           338,409   
       643,454        13,421,457        1,280,209           24,354,932   

Shares redeemed:

           

Class A

     (1,212,919     (25,401,425     (2,672,024        (50,648,304

Class B

     (8,539     (171,868     (39,001        (706,518

Class B – automatic conversion to Class A Shares

     (134     (2,728     (5,606        (104,726

Class C

     (102,295     (2,066,241     (154,199        (2,849,604

Class R3

                   (5,592        (109,544

Class I

     (105,260     (2,185,774     (430,615        (8,178,601
       (1,429,147     (29,828,036     (3,307,037        (62,597,297

Net increase (decrease)

     (785,693   $ (16,406,579     (2,026,828      $ (38,242,365

 

Nuveen Investments     73   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

    Multi-Cap Value  
    Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       Year Ended
6/30/12
 
      Shares        Amount        Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

                

Class A

    115,238         $ 2,158,147           247,520         $ 4,515,222   

Class A – automatic conversion of Class B Shares

    3,874           72,584           10,844           207,951   

Class B

                                    

Class C

    13,177           234,914           74,453           1,258,961   

Class R3

    1,384           24,712           3,232           56,629   

Class I

    166,257           3,135,949           1,620,370           28,965,660   

Shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions:

                

Class A

    8,047           152,175                       

Class B

    2,006           36,501                       

Class C

                                    

Class R3

    10           184                       

Class I

    20,155           382,750                       
      330,148           6,197,916           1,956,419           35,004,423   

Shares redeemed:

                

Class A

    (361,716        (6,815,865        (1,172,912        (21,661,723

Class B

    (156,013        (2,756,545        (324,947        (5,469,358

Class B – automatic conversion to Class A Shares

    (4,086        (72,584        (11,379        (207,951

Class C

    (476,426        (8,467,624        (991,255        (17,030,431

Class R3

    (835        (15,222        (3,039        (52,860

Class I

    (538,805        (10,225,185        (9,374,263        (164,782,159
      (1,537,881        (28,353,025        (11,877,795        (209,204,482

Net increase (decrease)

    (1,207,733      $ (22,155,109        (9,921,376      $ (174,200,059
    Large-Cap Value  
    Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       Year Ended
6/30/12
 
      Shares        Amount        Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

                

Class A

    1,004,775         $ 17,686,965           2,023,048         $ 34,030,063   

Class A – automatic conversion of Class B Shares

    N/A           N/A           24,970           451,455   

Class B

    N/A           N/A           38           588   

Class C

    33,381           562,734           128,117           2,179,623   

Class R3

                        163           2,999   

Class I

    9,534,052           166,938,844           51,455,595           901,206,561   

Shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions:

                

Class A

    29,241           511,514           26,860           428,819   

Class B

    N/A           N/A           318           4,930   

Class C

    1,362           23,158           5,015           77,839   

Class R3

    29           511                       

Class I

    812,183           14,218,955           351,987           5,662,694   
      11,415,023           199,942,681           54,016,111           944,045,571   

Shares redeemed:

                

Class A

    (776,447        (13,725,862        (1,112,286        (18,878,453

Class B

    N/A           N/A           (6,404        (104,314

Class B – automatic conversion to Class A Shares

    N/A           N/A           (25,651        (451,455

Class C

    (75,411        (1,290,378        (188,332        (3,143,502

Class R3

                        (163        (2,944

Class I

    (12,836,890        (225,685,582        (10,460,457        (178,322,147
      (13,688,748        (240,701,822        (11,793,293        (200,902,815

Net increase (decrease)

    (2,273,725      $ (40,759,141        42,222,818         $ 743,142,756   
N/A – Large-Cap Value does not offer Class B Shares. Class B Shares of Large-Cap Value converted to Class A Shares at the close of business on February 15, 2012 and are no longer available for dividend reinvestment or through an exchange from other Nuveen mutual funds.

 

  74       Nuveen Investments


     Small/Mid-Cap Value  
     Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       Year Ended
6/30/12
 
       Shares        Amount        Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

                 

Class A

     39,163         $ 804,112           327,952         $ 6,247,935   

Class C

     14,839           284,702           62,283           1,187,222   

Class R3

     9,562           183,020           8,627           174,606   

Class I

     608,573           12,406,625           395,045           7,790,145   

Shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions:

                 

Class A

                                     

Class C

                                     

Class R3

                                     

Class I

                                     
       672,137           13,678,459           793,907           15,399,908   

Shares redeemed:

                 

Class A

     (51,947        (1,036,471        (354,368        (7,057,064

Class C

     (16,094        (309,529        (22,322        (421,915

Class R3

     (1,938        (38,120        (1,871        (37,128

Class I

     (186,897        (3,739,048        (368,745        (7,169,571
       (256,876        (5,123,168        (747,306        (14,685,678

Net increase (decrease)

     415,261         $ 8,555,291           46,601         $ 714,230   
     Small-Cap Value  
     Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       Year Ended
6/30/12
 
       Shares        Amount        Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

                 

Class A

     110,239         $ 3,016,201           135,049         $ 3,392,392   

Class C

     24,062           623,570           29,761           699,132   

Class R3

     288           8,000                       

Class I

     708,387           19,489,470           1,161,844           29,264,020   

Shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions:

                 

Class A

                                     

Class C

                                     

Class R3

                                     

Class I

                                     
       842,976           23,137,241           1,326,654           33,355,544   

Shares redeemed:

                 

Class A

     (122,015        (3,207,772        (153,794        (3,696,846

Class C

     (24,144        (635,330        (37,685        (886,913

Class R3

                         (214        (5,545

Class I

     (409,524        (11,277,875        (1,040,377        (25,526,851
       (555,683        (15,120,977        (1,232,070        (30,116,155

Net increase (decrease)

     287,293         $ 8,016,264           94,584         $ 3,239,389   

 

Nuveen Investments     75   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

    Value Opportunities  
    Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       Year Ended
6/30/12
 
      Shares        Amount        Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

                

Class A

    536,463         $ 15,913,044           12,031,010         $ 398,955,957   

Class A – automatic conversion of Class B Shares

                        179           6,132   

Class B

                        9,315           306,950   

Class C

    76,051           2,188,773           1,206,678           39,524,376   

Class R3

    22,605           671,210           190,034           6,263,621   

Class I

    576,874           17,102,453           12,690,671           429,935,165   

Shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions:

                

Class A

    360,847           10,561,985           3,155,445           96,095,067   

Class B

    3,263           93,387           13,640           403,860   

Class C

    132,850           3,800,839           761,915           22,551,160   

Class R3

    4,490           131,607           14,420           438,872   

Class I

    270,180           7,929,809           2,785,366           85,196,992   
      1,983,623           58,393,107           32,858,673           1,079,678,152   

Shares redeemed:

                

Class A

    (7,441,767        (219,308,215        (34,224,206        (1,091,692,179

Class B

    (65,844        (1,896,123        (48,169        (1,462,049

Class B – automatic conversion to Class A Shares

                        (184        (6,132

Class C

    (2,974,983        (85,090,139        (6,470,059        (194,403,741

Class R3

    (58,533        (1,752,147        (176,965        (5,878,757

Class I

    (7,137,148        (210,620,660        (50,452,170        (1,594,131,526
      (17,678,275        (518,667,284        (91,371,753        (2,887,574,384

Net increase (decrease)

    (15,694,652      $ (460,274,177        (58,513,080      $ (1,807,896,232

5. Investment Transactions

Purchases and sales (including maturities but excluding short-term investments, where applicable) during the six months ended December 31, 2012, were as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Purchases

   $ 141,926,231       $ 18,402,282       $ 70,021,240       $ 14,660,510       $ 24,401,544       $ 285,477,452   

Sales and maturities

     157,431,576         40,703,519         83,968,759         6,020,968         17,423,718         755,165,721   

6. Income Tax Information

The following information is presented on an income tax basis. Differences between amounts for financial statement and federal income tax purposes are primarily due to timing differences in recognizing certain gains and losses on investment transactions. To the extent that differences arise that are permanent in nature, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts as detailed below. Temporary differences do not require reclassification. Temporary and permanent differences do not impact the net asset values of the Funds.

As of December 31, 2012, the cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as determined on a federal income tax basis, were as follows:

 

      Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
    Multi-Cap
Value
    Large-Cap
Value
    Small/Mid-Cap
Value
    Small-Cap
Value
    Value
Opportunities
 

Cost of investments

  $ 260,537,959      $ 142,065,739      $ 1,070,305,032      $ 28,105,955      $ 104,414,029      $ 683,696,126   

Gross unrealized:

           

Appreciation

  $ 52,036,995      $ 28,633,086      $ 111,678,889      $ 5,114,658      $ 25,846,353      $ 74,039,883   

Depreciation

    (13,147,516     (13,773,683     (55,232,083     (1,020,499     (7,578,408     (55,775,116

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments

  $ 38,889,479      $ 14,859,403      $ 56,446,806      $ 4,094,159      $ 18,267,945      $ 18,264,767   

 

  76       Nuveen Investments


Permanent differences, primarily due to federal taxes paid, distribution reclasses, net operating losses, tax equalization, foreign currency reclassifications, and adjustments for investments in passive foreign investment companies, resulted in reclassifications among the Funds’ components of net assets as of June 30, 2012, the Funds’ last tax year end, as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
    Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Capital paid-in

   $   —       $ (235,120    $ (46,752    $ (28,287   $ (226,302    $ (1,202,695

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income

     (104      235,068         (1,098      28,287        226,302         14,597,061   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     104         52         47,850                        (13,394,366

The tax components of undistributed net ordinary income and net long-term capital gains as of June 30, 2012, the Funds’ last tax year end, were as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Undistributed net ordinary income*

   $ 3,933,280       $ 502,955       $ 7,586,713       $   —       $   —       $ 25,470,256   

Undistributed net long-term capital gains

                     2,446,811                           
* Net ordinary income consists of net taxable income derived from dividends, interest, and net short-term capital gains, if any.

The tax character of distributions paid during the Funds’ last tax year ended June 30, 2012, was designated for purposes of the dividends paid deduction as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Distributions from net ordinary income*

   $ 3,695,818       $   —       $ 3,805,178       $   —       $   —       $ 128,646,179   

Distributions from net long-term capital gains

                     3,400,813                         137,797,693   
* Net ordinary income consists of net taxable income derived from dividends, interest, and net short-term capital gains, if any.

As of June 30, 2012, the Funds’ last tax year end, the following Funds had unused capital loss carryforwards available for federal tax purposes to be applied against future capital gains, if any. If not applied, the carryforwards will expire as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value*
     Small-Cap
Value
 

Expiration:

           

June 30, 2016

   $   —       $   —       $ 9,696,398       $   —   

June 30, 2017

       —         143,374,877         21,132,667           —   

June 30, 2018

     50,334,571         100,615,795         838,796         42,176,345   

Total

   $ 50,334,571       $ 243,990,672       $ 31,667,861       $ 42,176,345   
* A portion of Small/Mid-Cap Value’s capital loss carryforwards are subject to an annual limitation under the Internal Revenue Code and related regulations.

During the Funds’ last tax year ended June 30, 2012, the following Funds utilized their capital loss carryforwards as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
 

Utilized capital loss carryforwards

   $ 13,790,606       $ 25,939,528       $ 1,507,039       $ 11,016,656   

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, capital losses incurred by the Funds after December 31, 2010, will not be subject to expiration. During the Funds’ last tax year ended June 30, 2012, there were no post-enactment capital losses generated.

 

Nuveen Investments     77   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

The Funds have elected to defer losses incurred from November 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012, the Funds’ last tax year end, in accordance with federal income tax rules. These losses are treated as having arisen on the first day of the current fiscal year. The following Funds have elected to defer losses as follows:

 

       Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Post-October capital losses

   $ 226,590       $   —       $   —       $ 37,654,294   

Late-year ordinary losses

       —         47,866         247,085           —   

7. Management Fees and Other Transactions with Affiliates

Each Fund’s management fee consists of two components – a fund-level fee, based only on the amount of assets within each individual Fund, and a complex-level fee, based on the aggregate amount of all eligible fund assets managed by the Adviser. This pricing structure enables each Fund’s shareholders to benefit from growth in the assets within their respective Fund as well as from growth in the amount of complex-wide assets managed by the Adviser.

The annual fund-level fee for each Fund, payable monthly, is calculated according to the following schedule:

 

Average Daily Net Assets    Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
Fund-Level
Fee Rate
    Multi-Cap
Value
Fund-Level
Fee Rate
    Large-Cap
Value
Fund-Level
Fee Rate
    Small/Mid-Cap
Value
Fund-Level
Fee Rate
    Small-Cap
Value
Fund-Level
Fee Rate
    Value
Opportunities
Fund-Level
Fee Rate
 

For the first $125 million

     .5500     .6300     .5500     .6000     .7500     .6300

For the next $125 million

     .5375        .6175        .5375        .5875        .7375        .6175   

For the next $250 million

     .5250        .6050        .5250        .5750        .7250        .6050   

For the next $500 million

     .5125        .5925        .5125        .5625        .7125        .5925   

For the next $1 billion

     .5000        .5800        .5000        .5500        .7000        .5800   

For net assets over $2 billion

     .4750        .5550        .4750        .5250        .6750        .5550   

The annual complex-level fee for each Fund, payable monthly, is calculated according to the following schedule:

 

Complex-Level Asset Breakpoint Level*    Effective Rate at Breakpoint Level  

$55 billion

     .2000

$56 billion

     .1996   

$57 billion

     .1989   

$60 billion

     .1961   

$63 billion

     .1931   

$66 billion

     .1900   

$71 billion

     .1851   

$76 billion

     .1806   

$80 billion

     .1773   

$91 billion

     .1691   

$125 billion

     .1599   

$200 billion

     .1505   

$250 billion

     .1469   

$300 billion

     .1445   

 

* The complex-level fee is calculated based upon the aggregate daily “eligible assets” of all Nuveen Funds. Eligible assets do not include assets attributable to investments in other Nuveen Funds or assets in excess of $2 billion added to the Nuveen Fund complex in connection with the Adviser’s assumption of the management of the former First American Funds effective January 1, 2011. Eligible assets include closed-end fund assets managed by the Adviser that are attributable to financial leverage. For these purposes, financial leverage includes the closed-end funds’ use of preferred stock and borrowings and certain investments in the residual interest certificates (also called inverse floating rate securities) in tender option bond (TOB) trusts, including the portion of assets held by a TOB trust that has been effectively financed by the trust’s issuance of floating rate securities, subject to an agreement by the Adviser as to certain funds to limit the amount of such assets for determining eligible assets in certain circumstances. As of December 31, 2012, the complex-level fee rate for each of these Funds was .1684%.

 

  78       Nuveen Investments


The management fee compensates the Adviser for overall investment advisory and administrative services and general office facilities. The Adviser is responsible for each Fund’s overall strategy and asset allocation decisions. The Adviser has entered into sub-advisory agreements with Nuveen Asset Management LLC Symphony, ICAP, NWQ and Tradewinds (collectively, the “Sub-Advisers”), under which the Sub-Advisers manage the investment portfolio for their respective Funds. The Sub-Advisers are compensated for their services to the Funds from the management fees paid to the Adviser.

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses (“Expense Cap”) of each Fund so that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding 12b-1 distribution and/or service fees, interest expenses, taxes, fees incurred in acquiring and disposing of portfolio securities, and extraordinary expenses) do not exceed the average daily net assets of any class of Fund shares in the amounts and for the time periods stated in the following table.

 

Fund    Temporary
Expense Cap
    Temporary
Expense Cap
Expiration Date
     Permanent
Expense Cap
 

Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value

     0.95     N/A         1.20

Multi-Cap Value

     1.13        October 31, 2013         N/A   

Large-Cap Value

     1.10        October 31, 2012         1.35   

Small/Mid-Cap Value

     1.10        October 31, 2013         1.45   

Small-Cap Value

     N/A        N/A         1.50   

Value Opportunities

     N/A        N/A         1.50   
N/A — Not applicable.

The Adviser may voluntarily reimburse expenses from time to time in any of the Funds. Voluntary reimbursements may be terminated at any time at the Adviser's discretion.

The Trust pays no compensation directly to those of its trustees who are affiliated with the Adviser or to its officers, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the Trust from the Adviser or its affiliates. The Board of Trustees has adopted a deferred compensation plan for independent trustees that enables trustees to elect to defer receipt of all or a portion of the annual compensation they are entitled to receive from certain Nuveen-advised funds. Under the plan, deferred amounts are treated as though equal dollar amounts had been invested in shares of select Nuveen-advised funds.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, Nuveen Securities, LLC (the “Distributor”) , a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen, collected sales charges on purchases of Class A Shares, the majority of which were paid out as concessions to financial intermediaries as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Sales charges collected

   $ 16,781       $ 4,559       $ 20,471       $ 2,900       $ 11,066       $ 37,141   

Paid to financial intermediaries

     14,694         3,961         17,885         2,551         9,641         32,373   

The Distributor also received 12b-1 service fees on Class A Shares, substantially all of which were paid to compensate financial intermediaries for providing services to shareholders relating to their investments.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Distributor compensated financial intermediaries directly with commission advances at the time of purchase as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Commission advances

   $ 1,488       $ 1,758       $ 4,799       $ 2,183       $ 4,962       $ 10,450   

To compensate for commissions advanced to financial intermediaries, all 12b-1 service and distribution fees collected on Class B Shares during the first year following a purchase, all 12b-1 distribution fees collected on Class B Shares, and all 12b-1 service and distribution fees collected on Class C Shares during the first year following a purchase are retained by the Distributor. During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Distributor retained such 12b-1 fees as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

12b-1 fees retained

   $ 5,331       $ 34,825       $ 8,260       $ 3,557       $ 3,451       $ 52,298   

The remaining 12b-1 fees charged to the Funds were paid to compensate financial intermediaries for providing services to shareholders relating to their investments.

 

Nuveen Investments     79   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

The Distributor also collected and retained CDSC on share redemptions during the six months ended December 31, 2012, as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
    

Small/Mid-Cap

Value

     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

CDSC retained

   $ 604       $ 3,972       $ 1,661       $ 128       $ 159       $ 23,956   

As of December 31, 2012, Nuveen owned shares of the Funds as follows:

 

       Multi-Manager
Large-Cap
Value
     Multi-Cap
Value
     Large-Cap
Value
     Small/Mid-Cap
Value
     Small-Cap
Value
     Value
Opportunities
 

Class A

                                               

Class B

                     N/A         N/A         N/A           

Class C

                                               

Class R3

     2,757                 3,310         3,695         2,767           

Class I

                                               
N/A – Fund does not offer Class B Shares.

8. New Accounting Pronouncements

Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

In December 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11 (“ASU No. 2011-11”) to enhance disclosures about financial instruments and derivative instruments that are subject to offsetting (“netting”) on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. This information will enable users of the entity’s financial statements to evaluate the effect or potential effect of netting arrangements on the entity’s financial position. ASU No. 2011-11 is effective prospectively during interim or annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. At this time, management is evaluating the implications of this guidance and the impact it will have to the financial statements amounts and footnote disclosures, if any.

9. Subsequent Events

On February 15, 2013, Small-Cap Value began offering Class R6 Shares as further described in the Fund’s most recent prospectus.

 

  80       Nuveen Investments


Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited)

 

The Board of Trustees (each, a “Board” and each Trustee, a “Board Member” ) of the Funds, including the Board Members who are not parties to the Funds’ advisory or sub-advisory agreements or “interested persons” of any such parties (the “Independent Board Members” ), is responsible for approving the advisory agreements (each, an “Investment Management Agreement” ) between each Fund and Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC (formerly known as Nuveen Fund Advisors, Inc.) (the “Advisor”) and the sub-advisory agreements (each, a “Sub-Advisory Agreement” ) between (a) the Advisor and NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC ( “NWQ” ) on behalf of each of the following Funds: the Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund, the Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund, the Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund and the Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund; (b) the Advisor and Tradewinds Global Investors, LLC ( “Tradewinds” ) on behalf of the Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund; and (c) the Advisor and Institutional Capital LLC ( “ICAP” ), Nuveen Asset Management, LLC ( “Nuveen Asset Management” ) and Symphony Asset Management LLC ( “Symphony” ), respectively, on behalf of the Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund, and their periodic continuation. NWQ, Tradewinds, ICAP, Nuveen Asset Management and Symphony are each a “Sub-Advisor” and the Investment Management Agreements and the Sub-Advisory Agreements are referred to collectively as the “Advisory Agreements.” Pursuant to the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act” ), the Board is required to consider the continuation of the Advisory Agreements on an annual basis. Accordingly, at an in-person meeting held on May 21-23, 2012 (the “May Meeting” ), the Board, including a majority of the Independent Board Members, considered and approved the continuation of the Advisory Agreements for the Funds for an additional one-year period.

In preparation for their considerations at the May Meeting, the Board requested and received extensive materials prepared in connection with the review of the Advisory Agreements. The materials provided a broad range of information regarding the Funds, the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors (the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors are collectively, the “Fund Advisers” and each, a “Fund Adviser” ). As described in more detail below, the information provided included, among other things, a review of Fund performance, including Fund investment performance assessments against peer groups and appropriate benchmarks, a comparison of Fund fees and expenses relative to peers, a description and assessment of shareholder service levels for the Funds, a summary of the performance of certain service providers, a review of product initiatives and shareholder communications and an analysis of the Advisor’s profitability with comparisons to comparable peers in the managed fund business. As part of their annual review, the Board also held a separate meeting on April 18-19, 2012, to review the Funds’ investment performance and consider an analysis provided by the Advisor of the Sub-Advisors which generally evaluated the Sub-Advisors’ investment teams, investment mandate, organizational structure and history, investment philosophy and process, performance of the applicable Fund, and significant changes to the foregoing. As a result of their review of the materials and discussions, the Board presented the Advisor with questions and the Advisor responded.

The materials and information prepared in connection with the annual review of the Advisory Agreements supplement the information and analysis provided to the Board during the year. In this regard, throughout the year, the Board, acting directly or through its committees, regularly reviews the performance and various services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors. The Board meets at least quarterly as well as at other times as the need arises. At its quarterly meetings, the Board reviews reports by the Advisor which include, among other things, Fund performance, a review of the investment teams and reports on compliance, regulatory matters and risk management. The Board also meets with key investment personnel managing the Fund portfolios during the year. In October 2011, the Board also created two new standing committees (the Open-end Fund Committee and the Closed-end Fund Committee) to assist the full Board in monitoring and gaining a deeper insight into the distinctive issues and business practices of open-end and closed-end funds.

In addition, the Board continues its program of seeking to have the Board Members or a subset thereof visit each sub-advisor to the Nuveen funds at least once over a multiple year rotation, meeting with key investment and business personnel. In this regard, the Independent Board Members made site visits to Tradewinds and NWQ in February 2011 during which Symphony also gave a presentation. Further, an ad hoc committee of the Board visited the then-current transfer agents of the Nuveen funds in 2011 and the audit committee of the Board visited the various pricing agents for the Nuveen funds in January 2012.

The Board considers factors and information that are relevant to its annual consideration of the renewal of the Advisory Agreements at the meetings held throughout the year. Accordingly, the Board considers the information provided and knowledge gained at these meetings when performing its annual review of the Advisory Agreements. The Independent Board Members are assisted throughout the process by independent legal counsel who provided materials describing applicable law and the duties of directors or trustees in reviewing advisory contracts and met with the Independent Board Members in executive sessions without management present. In addition, it is important to recognize that the management arrangements for the Nuveen funds are the result of many years of review and discussion between the Independent Board Members and fund management and that the Board Members’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of fee arrangements and other factors developed in previous years.

The Board considered all factors it believed relevant with respect to each Fund, including among other factors: (a) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Fund Advisers, (b) the investment performance of the Fund and Fund Advisers, (c) the advisory fees and costs of the services to be provided to the Funds and the profitability of the Fund Advisers, (d) the extent of any economies of scale, (e) any benefits derived by the Fund Advisers from the relationship with the Fund and (f) other factors. Each Board Member may have accorded different weight to the various factors in reaching his or her conclusions with respect to a Fund’s Advisory Agreements. The Independent Board Members did not identify any single factor as all important or controlling. The Independent

 

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Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited) (continued)

 

Board Members’ considerations were instead based on a comprehensive consideration of all the information presented. The principal factors considered by the Board and its conclusions are described below.

A. Nature, Extent and Quality of Services

In considering renewal of the Advisory Agreements, the Independent Board Members considered the nature, extent and quality of the Fund Adviser’s services, including advisory services and the resulting Fund performance and administrative services. The Independent Board Members further considered the overall reputation and capabilities of the Advisor and its affiliates, the commitment of the Advisor to provide high quality service to the Funds, their overall confidence in the Advisor’s integrity and the Advisor’s responsiveness to questions and concerns raised by them. The Independent Board Members reviewed materials outlining, among other things, the Fund Adviser’s organization and business; the types of services that the Fund Adviser or its affiliates provide to the Funds; the performance record of the applicable Fund (as described in further detail below); and any initiatives Nuveen had taken for the applicable fund product line.

In considering advisory services, the Board recognized that the Advisor provides various oversight, administrative, compliance and other services for the Funds and the Sub-Advisors generally provide the portfolio investment management services to the applicable Funds. In reviewing the portfolio management services provided to each Fund, the Board reviewed the materials provided by the Nuveen Investment Services Oversight Team analyzing, among other things, each applicable Sub-Advisor’s investment team and changes thereto, organization and history, assets under management, Fund objectives and mandate, each investment team’s philosophy and strategies in managing the Fund, developments affecting the Sub-Advisor(s) or Fund and Fund performance (and, in addition, with respect to the Nuveen Multi-Manager Large-Cap Value Fund (the “Multi-Manager Fund” ), the performance of the portion of such Fund’s portfolio allocated to the respective Sub-Advisors). The Independent Board Members also reviewed portfolio manager compensation arrangements to evaluate each Fund Adviser’s ability to attract and retain high quality investment personnel, preserve stability, and reward performance but not provide an inappropriate incentive to take undue risks. In addition, the Board considered the Advisor’s execution of its oversight responsibilities over the Sub-Advisors. Given the importance of compliance, the Independent Board Members also considered Nuveen’s compliance program, including the report of the chief compliance officer regarding the Funds’ compliance policies and procedures; the resources dedicated to compliance; and the record of compliance with the policies and procedures.

In addition to advisory services, the Board considered the quality and extent of administrative and other non-investment advisory services the Advisor and its affiliates provide to the Funds, including product management, investment services (such as oversight of investment policies and procedures, risk management, and pricing), fund administration, oversight of service providers, shareholder services and communications, administration of Board relations, regulatory and portfolio compliance and legal support. The Board further recognized Nuveen’s additional investments in personnel, including in compliance and risk management. In reviewing the services provided, the Board also reviewed materials describing various notable initiatives and projects the Advisor performed in connection with the open-end fund product line. These initiatives included efforts to eliminate product overlap through mergers or liquidations; commencement of various new funds; elimination of insurance mandates for various funds; updates in investment policies or guidelines for several funds; and reductions in management fees and expense caps for certain funds.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members found that, overall, the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the respective Funds under each applicable Advisory Agreement were satisfactory.

B. The Investment Performance of the Funds and Fund Advisers

The Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed and considered the performance history of each Fund over various time periods. The Board reviewed, among other things, each Fund’s historic investment performance as well as information comparing the Fund’s performance information with that of other funds (the “Performance Peer Group” ) based on data compiled by Nuveen that was provided by an independent provider of mutual fund data and with recognized and/or customized benchmarks ( i.e., benchmarks derived from multiple recognized benchmarks).

The Board reviewed reports, including a comprehensive analysis of the Funds’ performance and the applicable investment team. In this regard, the Board reviewed each Fund’s total return information compared to the returns of its Performance Peer Group and recognized and/or customized benchmarks for the quarter, one-, three- and five-year periods ending December 31, 2011, as well as performance information reflecting the first quarter of 2012. With respect to the Multi-Manager Fund, the Independent Board Members also reviewed, among other things, the returns of each sleeve of such Fund relative to the benchmark of such sleeve for the quarter, one- and three-year periods ending December 2011 as well as performance information reflecting the first quarter of 2012.

In reviewing performance comparison information, the Independent Board Members recognized that the usefulness of the comparisons of the performance of certain funds with the performance of their respective Performance Peer Group may be limited because the Performance Peer Group may not adequately represent the objectives and strategies of the applicable funds or may be limited in size or number. The Independent Board Members also noted that the investment experience of a particular shareholder in the Nuveen funds will vary depending on when such shareholder invests in the applicable fund, the class held (if multiple classes are offered in a fund) and the performance of the fund (or respective class) during that shareholder’s investment period. In addition, although the performance below reflects the performance results for the time periods ending as of the most recent calendar year end

 

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(unless otherwise indicated), the Board also recognized that selecting a different ending time period may derive different results. Furthermore, while the Board is cognizant of the relevant performance of a fund’s peer set and/or benchmark(s), the Board evaluated fund performance in light of the respective fund’s investment objectives, investment parameters and guidelines and recognized that the objectives, investment parameters and guidelines of peers and/or benchmarks may differ to some extent, thereby resulting in differences in performance results. Nevertheless, with respect to any Nuveen funds that the Board considers to have underperformed their peers and/or benchmarks from time to time, the Board monitors such funds closely and considers any steps necessary or appropriate to address such issues.

In considering the results of the comparisons, the Independent Board Members observed, among other things, that the Multi-Manager Fund had demonstrated generally favorable performance in comparison to peers, performing in the first or second quartile over various periods. The Nuveen NWQ Small/Mid-Cap Value Fund (the “Small/Mid-Cap Fund” ), also demonstrated generally favorable performance, performing in the first quartile for the one- and three-year periods, although such Fund was in the third quartile for the five-year period. The Independent Board Members observed that the Nuveen NWQ Small-Cap Value Fund (the “Small-Cap Fund” ) lagged its peers somewhat in the longer five-year period, but its performance had improved in the recent one-year period (noting that although such Fund was in the fourth quartile in the five-year period, it was in the first quartile in the one- and three-year periods). Further, they noted that the Nuveen Tradewinds Value Opportunities Fund (the “Value Opportunities Fund” ) lagged its peers somewhat in the short-term one-year period, but demonstrated more favorable performance in the longer three- and/or five-year periods. Finally, with respect to the Nuveen NWQ Large-Cap Value Fund (the “Large-Cap Value Fund” ) and the Nuveen NWQ Multi-Cap Value Fund, (the “Multi-Cap Value Fund” ), the Independent Board Members noted that such Funds had lagged their peers and/or benchmarks over various periods (although the Multi-Cap Value Fund was in the second quartile for the three-year period and the first quartile for the first quarter of 2012). With respect to the Nuveen funds that have shown periods of underperformance, the Board considered the factors affecting performance and was satisfied with the process followed in seeking to address any performance issues in light of the fund’s investment strategy.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members determined that each Fund’s investment performance had been satisfactory.

C. Fees, Expenses and Profitability

1. Fees and Expenses

The Board evaluated the management fees and expenses of each Fund reviewing, among other things, such Fund’s gross management fees, net management fees and net expense ratios in absolute terms as well as compared to the fee and expenses of a comparable universe of funds provided by an independent fund data provider (the “Peer Universe” ) and to a more focused subset of funds in the Peer Universe (the “Peer Group” ) and any expense limitations.

The Independent Board Members further reviewed the methodology regarding the construction of the applicable Peer Universe and Peer Group. In reviewing the comparisons of fee and expense information, the Independent Board Members took into account that in certain instances various factors such as: the limited size and particular composition of the Peer Universe or Peer Group (including the inclusion of other Nuveen funds in the peer set); expense anomalies; changes in the funds comprising the Peer Universe or Peer Group from year to year; levels of reimbursement or fee waivers; and the timing of information used may impact the comparative data, thereby limiting somewhat the ability to make a meaningful comparison with peers.

In reviewing the fee schedule for a Fund, the Independent Board Members also considered the fund-level and complex-wide breakpoint schedules (described in further detail below) and any fee waivers and reimbursements provided by Nuveen. In reviewing fees and expenses, the Board considered the expenses and fees to be higher if they were over 10 basis points higher, slightly higher if they were approximately 6 to 10 basis points higher, in line if they were within approximately 5 basis points higher than the peer average and below if they were below the peer average of the Peer Group. In reviewing the reports, the Board noted that the overwhelming majority of the Nuveen funds were at, close to or below their Peer Group or Peer Universe (if no separate Peer Group) average based on the net total expense ratio. The Independent Board Members noted that the Multi-Manager Fund and the Small-Cap Fund each had net management fees slightly higher or higher than the peer average but net expense ratios below or in line with the peer average. In addition, the Independent Board Members noted that the Multi-Cap Value Fund and the Value Opportunities Fund each had slightly higher net management fees than their peer average and a slightly higher or higher net expense ratio compared to their peer average, although they recognized the limits of the peer comparisons for the Multi-Cap Value Fund and noted that the management fee for the Value Opportunities Fund was reduced effective July 1, 2010. With respect to the Large-Cap Value Fund and the Small/Mid Cap Value Fund, the Independent Board Members observed that such Funds had net management fees and net expense ratios (including fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any) below or in line with their peer averages.

Based on their review of the fee and expense information provided, the Independent Board Members determined that each Fund’s management fees were reasonable in light of the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund.

2. Comparisons with the Fees of Other Clients

The Independent Board Members further reviewed information regarding the nature of services and range of fees offered by the Advisor to other clients, including separately managed accounts (both retail and institutional accounts), collective trusts, foreign

 

Nuveen Investments     83   


Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited) (continued)

 

investment funds offered by Nuveen and funds that are not offered by Nuveen but are sub-advised by one of Nuveen’s investment management teams. In evaluating the comparisons of fees, the Independent Board Members noted that the fee rates charged to the Funds and other clients vary, among other things, because of the different services involved and the additional regulatory and compliance requirements associated with registered investment companies, such as the Funds. Accordingly, the Independent Board Members considered the differences in the product types, including, but not limited to, the services provided, the structure and operations, product distribution and costs thereof, portfolio investment policies, investor profiles, account sizes and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members noted, in particular, that the range of services provided to the Funds (as discussed above) is much more extensive than that provided to separately managed accounts. Given the inherent differences in the various products, particularly the extensive services provided to the Funds, the Independent Board Members believe such facts justify the different levels of fees.

In considering the fees of the Sub-Advisors, the Independent Board Members also considered the pricing schedule or fees that the Sub-Advisors charge for similar investment management services for other Nuveen funds (if any), funds of other sponsors (if any), and other clients (such as retail and/or institutional managed accounts), as applicable. With respect to Symphony, the Independent Board Members also reviewed the fees it assesses for equity and taxable fixed-income hedge funds it manages, which include a performance fee. The Independent Board Members noted that with respect to ICAP, the sub-advisory fees were the result of arm’s-length negotiations.

3. Profitability of Fund Advisers

In conjunction with its review of fees, the Independent Board Members also considered the profitability of Nuveen for its advisory activities and its financial condition. The Independent Board Members reviewed the revenues and expenses of Nuveen’s advisory activities for the last two calendar years, the allocation methodology used in preparing the profitability data and an analysis of the key drivers behind the changes in revenues and expenses that impacted profitability in 2011. The Independent Board Members noted this information supplemented the profitability information requested and received during the year to help keep them apprised of developments affecting profitability (such as changes in fee waivers and expense reimbursement commitments). In this regard, the Independent Board Members noted that they have an Independent Board Member serve as a point person to review and keep them apprised of changes to the profitability analysis and/or methodologies during the year. The Independent Board Members also considered Nuveen’s revenues for advisory activities, expenses, and profit margin compared to that of various unaffiliated management firms with comparable assets under management (based on asset size and asset composition).

In reviewing profitability, the Independent Board Members recognized the Advisor’s continued investment in its business to enhance its services, including capital improvements to investment technology, updated compliance systems, and additional personnel in compliance, risk management, and product development as well as its ability to allocate resources to various areas of the Advisor as the need arises. In addition, in evaluating profitability, the Independent Board Members also recognized the subjective nature of determining profitability which may be affected by numerous factors including the allocation of expenses. Further, the Independent Board Members recognized the difficulties in making comparisons as the profitability of other advisers generally is not publicly available and the profitability information that is available for certain advisers or management firms may not be representative of the industry and may be affected by, among other things, the adviser’s particular business mix, capital costs, types of funds managed and expense allocations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Independent Board Members reviewed Nuveen’s methodology and assumptions for allocating expenses across product lines to determine profitability. In reviewing profitability, the Independent Board Members recognized Nuveen’s investment in its fund business. Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that the Advisor’s level of profitability for its advisory activities was reasonable in light of the services provided.

With respect to sub-advisers affiliated with Nuveen, including Symphony, NWQ, Tradewinds and Nuveen Asset Management, the Independent Board Members reviewed the sub-adviser’s revenues, expenses and profitability margins (pre- and post-tax) for its advisory activities and the methodology used for allocating expenses among the internal sub-advisers. Similarly, with respect to ICAP, the Independent Board Members also considered the Sub-Advisor’s revenues, expenses and profitability margins (pre- and post-tax) for its advisory activities with the Multi-Manager Fund. Based on their review, the Independent Board Members were satisfied that each Sub-Advisor’s level of profitability was reasonable in light of the services provided.

In evaluating the reasonableness of the compensation, the Independent Board Members also considered other amounts paid to a Fund Adviser by the Funds as well as any indirect benefits (such as soft dollar arrangements, if any) the Fund Adviser and its affiliates receive, or are expected to receive, that are directly attributable to the management of the Funds, if any. See Section E below for additional information on indirect benefits a Fund Adviser may receive as a result of its relationship with the Funds. Based on their review of the overall fee arrangements of each Fund, the Independent Board Members determined that the advisory fees and expenses of the respective Fund were reasonable.

D. Economies of Scale and Whether Fee Levels Reflect These Economies of Scale

With respect to economies of scale, the Independent Board Members have recognized the potential benefits resulting from the costs of a fund being spread over a larger asset base, although economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, particularly on a fund-by-fund basis. One method to help ensure the shareholders share in these benefits is to include breakpoints in

 

  84       Nuveen Investments


the advisory fee schedule. Generally, management fees for funds in the Nuveen complex are comprised of a fund-level component and a complex-level component, subject to certain exceptions. Accordingly, the Independent Board Members reviewed and considered the applicable fund-level breakpoints in the advisory fee schedules that reduce advisory fees as asset levels increase.

In addition to fund-level advisory fee breakpoints, the Board also considered the Funds’ complex-wide fee arrangement. Pursuant to the complex-wide fee arrangement, the fees of the funds in the Nuveen complex are generally reduced as the assets in the fund complex reach certain levels. The complex-wide fee arrangement seeks to provide the benefits of economies of scale to fund shareholders when total fund complex assets increase, even if assets of a particular fund are unchanged or have decreased. The approach reflects the notion that some of Nuveen’s costs are attributable to services provided to all its funds in the complex and therefore all funds benefit if these costs are spread over a larger asset base. In addition, with the acquisition of the funds previously advised by FAF Advisors, Inc., the Board noted that a portion of such funds’ assets at the time of acquisition were deemed eligible to be included in the complex-wide fee calculation in order to deliver fee savings to shareholders in the combined complex and such funds were subject to differing complex-level fee rates.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that the breakpoint schedules and complex-wide fee arrangement were acceptable and reflect economies of scale to be shared with shareholders when assets under management increase.

E. Indirect Benefits

In evaluating fees, the Independent Board Members received and considered information regarding potential “fall out” or ancillary benefits the respective Fund Adviser or its affiliates may receive as a result of its relationship with each Fund. In this regard, the Independent Board Members considered, among other things, any sales charges, distribution fees and shareholder services fees received and retained by the Funds’ principal underwriter, an affiliate of the Advisor, which includes fees received pursuant to any 12b-1 plan. The Independent Board Members, therefore, considered the 12b-1 fees retained by Nuveen during the last calendar year.

In addition to the above, the Independent Board Members considered whether the Fund Advisers received any benefits from soft dollar arrangements whereby a portion of the commissions paid by a Fund for brokerage may be used to acquire research that may be useful to the Fund Adviser in managing the assets of the Funds and other clients. The Independent Board Members recognized that the Advisor and Nuveen Asset Management have the authority to pay a higher commission in return for brokerage and research services if they determine in good faith that the commission paid is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided and may benefit from such soft dollar arrangements. In addition, the Independent Board Members considered that ICAP, NWQ and Tradewinds may benefit from their soft dollar arrangements pursuant to which they receive research from brokers that execute the applicable Funds’ portfolio transactions. Similarly, the Board recognized that the research received pursuant to soft dollar arrangements by the foregoing Fund Advisers may also benefit a Fund and shareholders to the extent the research enhances the ability of the Fund Adviser to manage the Fund. The Independent Board Members noted that these Fund Advisers’ profitability may be somewhat lower if they did not receive the research services pursuant to the soft dollar arrangements and had to acquire such services directly. The Board considered that Symphony currently does not enter into soft dollar arrangements; however, it has adopted a soft dollar policy in the event it does so in the future.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that any indirect benefits received by a Fund Adviser as a result of its relationship with the Funds were reasonable and within acceptable parameters.

F. Other Considerations

The Independent Board Members did not identify any single factor discussed previously as all-important or controlling. The Board Members, including the Independent Board Members, unanimously concluded that the terms of each Advisory Agreement are fair and reasonable, that the respective Fund Adviser’s fees are reasonable in light of the services provided to each Fund and that the Advisory Agreements be renewed.

 

Nuveen Investments     85   


Glossary of Terms Used in this Report

Average Annual Total Return: This is a commonly used method to express an investment’s performance over a particular, usually multi-year time period. It expresses the return that would have been necessary each year to equal the investment’s actual cumulative performance (including change in NAV or offer price and reinvested dividends and capital gains distributions, if any) over the time period being considered.

Lipper Global Multi-Cap Value Funds Classification Average: Represents the average annualized total return for all reporting funds in the Lipper Global Multi-Cap Value Funds Classification. Lipper returns account for the effects of management fees and assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not reflect any applicable sales charge.

Lipper Large-Cap Value Funds Classification Average: Represents the average annualized total return for all reporting funds in the Lipper Large-Cap Value Funds Classification. The Lipper returns account for the effects of management fees and assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not reflect any applicable sales charge.

Lipper Multi-Cap Value Funds Classification Average: Represents the average annualized total return for all reporting funds in the Lipper Multi-Cap Value Funds Classification. The Lipper returns account for the effects of management fees and assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not reflect any applicable sales charge.

Lipper Small-Cap Core Funds Classification Average: Represents the average annualized total return for all reporting funds in the Lipper Small-Cap Core Funds Classification. The Lipper returns account for the effects of management fees and assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not reflect any applicable sales charge.

Net Asset Value (NAV): The net market value of all securities held in a portfolio.

Net Asset Value (NAV) Per Share: The market value of one share of a mutual fund or closed-end fund. For a Fund, the NAV is calculated daily by taking the Fund’s total assets (securities, cash, and accrued earnings), subtracting the Fund’s liabilities, and dividing by the number of shares outstanding.

Russell 1000 ® Value Index: An index that measures the performance of those Russell 1000 companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. Index returns assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not include the effects of any applicable sales charges or management fees.

Russell 2000 ® Value Index: An index that measures the performance of those Russell 2000 companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. Index returns assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not include the effects of any applicable sales charges or management fees.

Russell 2500 ® Index: An index that measures the performance of the 2,500 smallest companies in the Russell 3000 Index, which represents approximately 20% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 3000 Index. Index returns assume reinvestment of dividends, but do not include the effects of any applicable sales charges or management fees.

Russell 3000 ® Value Index: An index that measures the performance of those Russell 3000 companies with lower price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. Index returns assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not include the effects of any applicable sales charges or management fees.

S&P 500 ® Index: An unmanaged index generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. Index returns assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not include the effects of any applicable sales charges or management fees.

Tax Equalization: The practice of treating a portion of the distribution made to a redeeming shareholder, which represents his proportionate part of undistributed net investment income and capital gain as a distribution for tax purposes. Such amounts are referred to as the equalization debits (or payments) and will be considered a distribution to the shareholder of net investment income and capital gain for calculation of the Fund’s dividends paid deduction.

 

  86       Nuveen Investments


Additional Fund Information

 

Fund Manager

Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

Sub-Advisers

Institutional Capital LLC

225 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

Nuveen Asset Management, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60603

NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC

2049 Century Park East, 16 th Floor

Los Angeles, CA 90067

Symphony Asset Management LLC

555 California Street

Rene Suite 2975

San Francisco, CA 94104

Tradewinds Global Investors, LLC

2049 Century Park East, 20 th Floor.

Los Angeles, CA 90067

Legal Counsel

Chapman and Cutler LLP

Chicago, IL

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chicago, IL

Custodian

State Street Bank & Trust Company

Boston, MA

Transfer Agent and Shareholder Services

Boston Financial

Data Services

Nuveen Investor Services

P.O. Box 8530

Boston, MA 02266-8530

(800) 257-8787

 

 

 

 

Quarterly Portfolio of Investments and Proxy Voting Information: You may obtain (i) each Fund’s quarterly portfolio of investments, (ii) information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities held during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30, and (iii) a description of the policies and procedures that the Funds used to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities without charge, upon request, by calling Nuveen Investments at (800) 257-8787 or on Nuveen’s website at www.nuveen.com.

You may also obtain this and other Fund information directly from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC may charge a copying fee for this information. Visit the SEC on-line at http://www.sec.gov or in person at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call the SEC at (202) 942-8090 for room hours and operation. You may also request Fund information by sending an e-mail request to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing to the SEC’s Public Reference Section at 100 F Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20549.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) provides a Public Disclosure Program which supplies certain information regarding the disciplinary history of FINRA members and their associated persons in response to either telephone inquiries at (800) 289-9999 or written inquiries at www.finra.org. FINRA also provides an investor brochure that includes information describing the Public Disclosure Program.

 

Nuveen Investments     87   


Nuveen Investments:

Serving Investors for Generations

 

Since 1898, financial advisors and their clients have relied on Nuveen Investments to provide dependable investment solutions through continued adherence to proven, long-term investing principles. Today, we offer a range of high quality equity and fixed-income solutions designed to be integral components of a well-diversified core portfolio.

Focused on meeting investor needs.

Nuveen Investments provides high-quality investment services designed to help secure the longterm goals of institutional and individual investors as well as the consultants and financial advisors who serve them. Nuveen Investments markets a wide range of specialized investment solutions which provide investors access to capabilities of its high-quality boutique investment affiliates-Nuveen Asset Management, Symphony Asset Management, NWQ Investment Management Company, Santa Barbara Asset Management, Tradewinds Global Investors, Winslow Capital Management, and Gresham Investment Management. In total, Nuveen Investments managed approximately $219 billion as of December 31, 2012.

Find out how we can help you.

To learn more about how the products and services of Nuveen Investments may be able to help you meet your financial goals, talk to your financial advisor, or call us at (800) 257-8787. Please read the information provided carefully before you invest. Investors should consider the investment objective and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of any investment carefully. Where applicable, be sure to obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other relevant information. To obtain a prospectus, please contact your securities representative or Nuveen Investments, 333 W. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest or send money.

Learn more about Nuveen Funds at: www.nuveen.com/mf

 

Distributed by

Nuveen Securities, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

www.nuveen.com

  

 

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Semi-Annual Report

December 31, 2012

 

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LOGO

 

Must be preceded by or accompanied by a prospectus.   NOT FDIC INSURED   MAY LOSE VALUE   NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

 

Chairman’s Letter to Shareholders

     4   

Portfolio Manager’s Comments

     5   

Fund Performance and Expense Ratios

     8   

Holding Summaries

     9   

Expense Example

     10   

Portfolio of Investments

     11   

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

     14   

Statement of Operations

     15   

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

     16   

Financial Highlights

     18   

Notes to Financial Statements

     20   

Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

     27   

Glossary of Terms Used in this Report

     34   

Additional Fund Information

     35   


Chairman’s

Letter to Shareholders

 

LOGO

 

Dear Shareholders,

Despite the global economy’s ability to muddle through the many economic headwinds of 2012, investors continue to have good reasons to remain cautious. The European Central Bank’s decisions to extend intermediate term financing to major European banks and to support sovereign debt markets have begun to show signs of a stabilized euro area financial market. The larger member states of the European Union (EU) are working diligently to strengthen the framework for a tighter financial and banking union and meaningful progress has been made by agreeing to centralize large bank regulation under the European Central Bank. However, economic conditions in the southern tier members are not improving and the pressures on their political leadership remain intense. The jury is out on whether the respective populations will support the continuing austerity measures that are needed to meet the EU fiscal targets.

In the U.S., the Fed remains committed to low interest rates into 2015 through its third program of Quantitative Easing (QE3). Inflation remains low but a growing number of economists are expressing concern about the economic distortions resulting from negative real interest rates. The highly partisan atmosphere in Congress led to a disappointingly modest solution for dealing with the end-of-year tax and spending issues. Early indications for the new Congressional term have not given much encouragement that the atmosphere for dealing with the sequestration legislation and the debt ceiling issues, let alone a more encompassing “grand bargain,” will be any better than the last Congress. Over the longer term, there are some encouraging trends for the U.S. economy: house prices are beginning to recover, banks and corporations continue to strengthen their financial positions and incentives for capital investment in the U.S. by domestic and foreign corporations are increasing due to more competitive energy and labor costs.

During 2012 U.S. investors have benefited from strong returns in the domestic equity markets and solid returns in most fixed income markets. However, many of the macroeconomic risks of 2012 remain unresolved, including negotiating through the many U.S. fiscal issues, managing the risks of another year of abnormally low U.S. interest rates, sustaining the progress being made in the euro area and reducing the potential economic impact of geopolitical issues, particularly in the Middle East. In the face of these uncertainties, the experienced investment professionals at Nuveen Investments seek out investments that are enjoying positive economic conditions. At the same time they are always on the alert for risks in markets subject to excessive optimism or for opportunities in markets experiencing undue pessimism. Monitoring this process is a critical function for the Fund Board as it oversees your Nuveen Fund on your behalf.

As always, I encourage you to communicate with your financial consultant if you have any questions about your investment in a Nuveen Fund. On behalf of the other members of your Fund Board, we look forward to continuing to earn your trust in the months and years ahead.

Sincerely,

 

LOGO

Robert P. Bremner

Chairman of the Board

February 22, 2013

 

 

  4       Nuveen Investments


Portfolio Managers’ Comments

 

 

Certain statements in this report are forward-looking statements. Discussions of specific investments are for illustration only and are not intended as recommendations of individual investments. The forward-looking statements and other views expressed herein are those of the portfolio manager as of the date of this report. Actual future results or occurrences may differ significantly from those anticipated in any forward-looking statements and the views expressed herein are subject to change at any time, due to numerous market and other factors. The Fund disclaims any obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or views expressed herein.

 

The Nuveen NWQ Equity Income Fund features management by NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC, (NWQ) an affiliate of Nuveen Investments. Jon Bosse, Chief Investment Officer of NWQ, and James Stephenson lead the team. Here they talk about their management strategy and the performance of the Fund for the six-month period ended December 31, 2012.

How did the Fund perform during the six-month period ended December 31, 2012?

The table in the Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section of this report provides total returns for the Fund’s Class A Shares for the six-month, one-year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2012. The Fund’s Class A Share total returns are compared with the performance of their corresponding market index and Lipper classification average. A more detailed account of the Fund’s performance is provided later in this report.

What is the Fund’s investment strategy?

The Fund is designed to seek high current income and capital appreciation. NWQ attempts to meet this investment objective by investing primarily in dividend-paying equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to purchase common stocks or preferred stocks, securities convertible into common or preferred stocks (such as convertible bonds and debentures) and other securities with equity characteristics. The Fund cannot invest more than 25% of its net assets in non-common stock investments. Although the Fund invests primarily in U.S. equity securities, the Fund may invest up to 35% of its net assets in non-U.S. equity securities. The Fund also has the ability to write (sell) covered call options.

How did this strategy influence performance during the six-month reporting period ended December 31, 2012?

The Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) underperformed the Russell 1000 ® Value Index and outperformed the Lipper Equity Income Funds Classification Average during the six-month reporting period ended December 31, 2012.

Several positions contributed to the Fund’s underperformance relative to the benchmark. The investment in Hewlett-Packard Company hurt performance during the period. The company had an opportunity to create value from the combination of shareholder and board activism, cost cuts, and asset sales. However, this restructuring opportunity was overwhelmed by weak fundamentals and a lack of profitability in its EDS (electronic data

 

Nuveen Investments     5   


systems) services business. We sold the Fund’s position in Hewlett Packard during the period. Best Buy Co., Inc.’s share price declined as increased competition from online retailers reduced profit margins. Despite near-term uncertainty, we remain optimistic about the appointment of a new CEO, positive traction in a new store prototype, and ongoing cost reduction initiatives. Lastly, CA Technologies declined due to lower IT spending trends and near term fundamental concerns. We reduced the Fund’s position in October due to our concerns regarding their bookings in their non-mainframe business. In mid-December the company announced a new CEO.

Several positions contributed to the Fund’s positive returns relative to the benchmark. Citigroup Inc.’s share price appreciated due to attractive valuation and improving fundamentals. The company appointed Michael Corbat as its new CEO in late 2012. Corbat’s plan to cut costs by $1.1 billion starting in 2014 was well received by investors. We believe that negative attitudes towards the financial sector have peaked and are likely to improve given strong equity capital ratios and loss reserves built since the credit crisis in 2008. General Motors Company appreciated as the government reduced its stake in the company, removing a significant overhang on the stock. In December, the U.S. Treasury sold 200 million shares back to the company and gave indications that it will liquidate its remaining 19% stake in an orderly fashion over the next 12-15 months. We believe the valuation of the stock remains very attractive. Lastly, Time Warner Inc. appreciated as the company experienced positive ratings momentum across most of its cable networks due to a successful mix of new and returning shows at both TBS and TNT. Ninety percent of Turner’s affiliate fee deals are scheduled for renewal between 2014 through 2016, and the improved ratings provide management with increased bargaining power.

During the period we initiated new positions in Applied Materials Inc., Capital One Financial Corp, Ericsson, and Proctor & Gamble Co. We eliminated positions in Intersil Corporation, and Hewlett-Packard Company as previously mentioned.

We also wrote covered call options on individual stocks, while investing in those same stocks, to enhance returns while foregoing some upside potential.

Risk Considerations

Mutual fund investing involves risk; principal loss is possible. Equity investments are subject to market risk. Foreign investments involve additional risks, including currency fluctuation, political and economic instability, lack of liquidity and differing legal and accounting standards. These risks are magnified in emerging markets. Convertible securities involve risks as the value of the Fund’s convertible securities may decline in response to such factors as rising interest rates and fluctuations in the market price of the common stock underlying the convertible securities. The value of call options sold (written) will be affected by, among other things, changes in the value of the securities or indexes underlying the options and the remaining time to the options’ expiration. By writing call options, the Fund may not participate in any appreciation of its equity portfolio as fully as it would if the Fund did not sell call options.

 

  6       Nuveen Investments


 

 

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Nuveen Investments     7   


Fund Performance and Expense Ratios

 

Nuveen NWQ Equity Income Fund

 

Returns quoted represent past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Investment returns and principal value will fluctuate so that when shares are redeemed, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Returns without sales charges would be lower if the sales charge were included. Returns do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

Returns may reflect a contractual agreement between the Fund and the investment adviser to waive certain fees and expenses; see Notes to Financial Statements, Footnote 7 — Management Fees and Other Transactions with Affiliates for more information. In addition, returns may reflect a voluntary expense limitation by the Fund’s investment adviser that may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. For the most recent month-end performance call (800) 257-8787.

Returns reflect differences in sales charges and expenses, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees. Fund returns assume reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.

Comparative index and Lipper return information is provided for the Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) only.

The expense ratios shown reflect the Fund’s total operating expenses (before fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, if any) as shown in the Fund’s most recent prospectus. The expense ratios include management fees and other fees and expenses.

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative        Average Annual  
       6-Month        1-Year        Since
Inception*
 

Class A Shares at NAV

     6.18%           11.32%           8.02%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     0.08%           4.92%           6.10%   

Russell 1000 ® Value Index**

     8.13%           17.51%           11.24%   

Lipper Equity Income Funds Classification Average**

     5.58%           12.45%           11.24%   

Class C Shares

     5.80%           10.51%           7.22%   

Class R3 Shares

     6.05%           11.05%           7.76%   

Class I Shares

     6.26%           11.60%           8.29%   

Class A Shares have a maximum 5.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and are only available for purchase by eligible retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

       Gross
Expense
Ratios
     Net
Expense
Ratios

Class A Shares

     4.15%       1.13%

Class C Shares

     4.90%       1.88%

Class R3 Shares

     4.41%       1.38%

Class I Shares

     3.90%       0.88%

The Fund’s investment adviser has agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses through October 31, 2013, so that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding 12b-1 distribution and/or service fees, interest expenses, taxes, fees incurred in acquiring and disposing of portfolio securities and extraordinary expenses) do not exceed .90% (1.15% after October 31, 2013) of the average daily net assets of any class of Fund shares. The expense limitation expiring October 31, 2013, may be terminated or modified prior to that date only with the approval of the Board of Trustees of the Fund. The expense limitation in effect thereafter may be terminated or modified only with the approval of shareholders of the Fund.

 

 

* Since inception returns are from 9/15/09.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

  8       Nuveen Investments


Holding Summaries as of December 31, 2012

 

This data relates to the securities held in the Fund’s portfolio of investments. It should not be construed as a measure of performance for the Fund itself.

Portfolio Allocation 1  
Common Stocks      99.1%   
Call Options Written      (0.0)%   
Other 2      0.9%   
Portfolio Composition 1       
Pharmaceuticals      17.9%   
Insurance      12.6%   
Media      11.6%   
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      7.3%   
Diversified Financial Services      7.0%   
Software      6.2%   
Metals & Mining      5.2%   
Commercial Banks      3.9%   
Communications Equipment      3.8%   
Consumer Finance      3.0%   
Food & Staples Retailing      2.7%   
Other 3      18.8%   
Top Five Common Stock Holdings 1  
Pfizer Inc.      5.0%   
Sanofi-Aventis, ADR      4.9%   
Wells Fargo & Company      3.9%   
Citigroup Inc.      3.7%   
CA Technologies, Inc.      3.7%   
 

 

1 As a percentage of net assets. Holdings are subject to change.

 

2 Other assets less liabilities.

 

3 Includes other assets less liabilities, call options written and all industries less than 2.7% of net assets.

 

Nuveen Investments     9   


Expense Example

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including up-front and back-end sales charges (loads) or redemption fees, where applicable; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees, where applicable; and other Fund expenses. This Example below is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The Example below is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the period.

The information under “Actual Performance,” together with the amount you invested, allows you to estimate actual expenses incurred over the reporting period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.60) and multiply the result by the cost shown for your share class, in the row entitled “Expenses Incurred During Period” to estimate the expenses incurred on your account during this period.

The information under “Hypothetical Performance,” provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expense you incurred for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund 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 transaction costs. Therefore, the hypothetical information is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds or share classes. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

                                Hypothetical Performance  
    Actual Performance         (5% annualized return before expenses)  
      A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,061.80      $ 1,058.00      $ 1,060.50      $ 1,062.60          $ 1,019.51      $ 1,015.74      $ 1,018.30      $ 1,020.82   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 5.82      $ 9.70      $ 7.12      $ 4.52          $ 5.69      $ 9.50      $ 6.97      $ 4.43   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of 1.12%, 1.87%, 1.37% and .87% for Classes A, C, R3 and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period).

 

  10       Nuveen Investments


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen NWQ Equity Income Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Aerospace & Defense – 1.1%

                
  200     

Raytheon Company

                       $ 11,512   
 

Automobiles – 2.6%

                
  975     

General Motors Company, (2)

                         28,109   
 

Chemicals – 1.6%

                
  300     

Mosaic Company

                         16,989   
 

Commercial Banks – 3.9%

                
  1,200     

Wells Fargo & Company

                         41,016   
 

Communications Equipment – 3.8%

                
  1,800     

Cisco Systems, Inc.

                   35,370   
  500     

LM Ericsson Telefonaktiebolaget, Sponsored ADR

                         5,050   
 

Total Communications Equipment

                         40,420   
 

Consumer Finance – 3.0%

                
  550     

Capital One Financial Corporation

                         31,862   
 

Diversified Financial Services – 7.0%

                
  1,000     

Citigroup Inc.

                   39,560   
  800     

JP Morgan Chase & Co.

                         35,176   
 

Total Diversified Financial Services

                         74,736   
 

Diversified Telecommunication Services – 0.9%

                
  2,200     

Frontier Communications Corporation

                         9,416   
 

Energy Equipment & Services – 1.0%

                
  300     

Halliburton Company

                         10,407   
 

Food & Staples Retailing – 2.7%

                
  600     

CVS Caremark Corporation

                         29,010   
 

Household Products – 0.5%

                
  100     

Procter & Gamble Company

                         6,789   
 

Industrial Conglomerates – 0.9%

                
  450     

General Electric Company

                         9,446   
 

Insurance – 12.6%

                
  1,100     

American International Group, (2)

                   38,830   
  1,500     

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

                   33,660   
  500     

MetLife, Inc.

                   16,470   
  800     

Symetra Financial Corporation

                   10,384   
  1,650     

Unum Group

                         34,353   
 

Total Insurance

                         133,697   
 

Machinery – 1.8%

                
  200     

Ingersoll Rand Company Limited, Class A

                   9,592   
  200     

PACCAR Inc.

                         9,042   
 

Total Machinery

                         18,634   
 

Media – 11.6%

                
  2,000     

Interpublic Group Companies, Inc.

                   22,040   
  1,000     

MDC Partners, Inc.

                   11,300   
  1,350     

National CineMedia, Inc.

                   19,076   
  400     

News Corporation, Class A

                   10,216   
  600     

Time Warner Inc.

                   28,698   
  600     

Viacom Inc., Class B

                         31,644   
 

Total Media

                         122,974   

 

Nuveen Investments     11   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen NWQ Equity Income Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Shares     Description (1)                              Value  
                  
 

Metals & Mining – 5.2%

                
  800     

AngloGold Ashanti Limited, Sponsored ADR

                 $ 25,096   
  600     

Barrick Gold Corporation

                   21,006   
  200     

Newmont Mining Corporation

                         9,288   
 

Total Metals & Mining

                         55,390   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 7.3%

                
  125     

Occidental Petroleum Corporation

                   9,576   
  400     

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A, ADR

                   27,580   
  800     

Talisman Energy Inc., (5)

                   9,064   
  600     

Total SA, Sponsored ADR

                         31,206   
 

Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

                         77,426   
 

Pharmaceuticals – 17.9%

                
  900     

GlaxoSmithKline PLC, Sponsored ADR

                   39,123   
  700     

Merck & Company Inc.

                   28,658   
  2,100     

Pfizer Inc., (5)

                   52,666   
  1,100     

Sanofi-Aventis, ADR

                   52,118   
  475     

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Sponsored ADR

                         17,737   
 

Total Pharmaceuticals

                         190,302   
 

Real Estate Investment Trust – 1.3%

                
  800     

Redwood Trust Inc.

                         13,512   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 1.1%

                
  1,000     

Applied Materials, Inc.

                         11,440   
 

Software – 6.2%

                
  1,795     

CA Technologies, Inc.

                   39,454   
  1,000     

Microsoft Corporation

                         26,730   
 

Total Software

                         66,184   
 

Specialty Retail – 0.7%

                
  600     

Best Buy Co., Inc.

                         7,110   
 

Tobacco – 2.4%

                
  300     

Philip Morris International

                         25,092   
 

Wireless Telecommunication Services – 2.0%

                
  850     

Vodafone Group PLC, Sponsored ADR

                         21,412   
 

Total Investments (cost $975,327) – 99.1%

                         1,052,885   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – 0.9% (3)

                         9,423   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                       $ 1,062,308   

Investments in Derivatives at December 31, 2012

Call Options Written outstanding:

 

Number of
Contracts
     Type      Notional
Amount (4)
     Expiration
Date
       Strike
Price
       Value (3)  
  (4)       Pfizer Inc.      $ (10,400      2/16/13         $  26.0         $ (76
  (3)       Talisman Energy Inc.        (3,600      4/20/13           12.0           (180
  (7)       Total Call Options Written (premiums received $370)      $ (14,000                          $ (256

 

  12       Nuveen Investments


 

 

 

 

      For Fund portfolio compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by the Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications into sectors for reporting ease.

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Non-income producing; issuer has not declared a dividend within the past twelve months.

 

  (3)   Other Assets Less Liabilities includes Value of derivative instruments as listed within Investments in Derivatives as of the end of the reporting period.

 

  (4)   For disclosure purposes, Notional Amount is calculated by multiplying the Number of Contracts by the Strike Price by 100.

 

  (5)   Investment, or portion of investment, has been pledged as collateral for call options written during and/or as of the end of the reporting period.

 

  ADR   American Depositary Receipt.

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     13   


Statement of Assets and Liabilities (Unaudited)

December 31, 2012

 

Assets

        

Investments, at market value (cost $975,327)

   $ 1,052,885   

Cash

     35,282   

Receivables:

  

Dividends

     2,059   

From Adviser

     1,888   

Reclaims

     117   

Other assets

     7   

Total assets

     1,092,238   

Liabilities

  

Call options written, at value (premiums received $370)

     256   

Payable for investments purchased

     9,833   

Accrued expenses:

  

Professional Fees

     5,678   

Shareholders reports – printing and mailing expenses

     12,654   

Trustees fees

     6   

12b-1 distribution and service fees

     393   

Other

     1,110   

Total liabilities

     29,930   

Net assets

   $ 1,062,308   

Class A Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 265,614   

Shares outstanding

     12,500   

Net asset value per share

   $ 21.25   

Offering price per share (net asset value per share plus maximum sales charge of 5.75% of offering price)

   $ 22.55   

Class C Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 265,474   

Shares outstanding

     12,500   

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 21.24   

Class R3 Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 265,564   

Shares outstanding

     12,500   

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 21.25   

Class I Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 265,656   

Shares outstanding

     12,500   

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 21.25   

Net Assets Consist of:

        

Capital paid-in

   $ 987,840   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income

     328   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     (3,532

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     77,672   

Net assets

   $ 1,062,308   

Authorized shares – per class

     Unlimited   

Par value per share

   $ 0.01   

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  14       Nuveen Investments


Statement of Operations (Unaudited)

Six Months Ended December 31, 2012

 

Dividend Income (net of foreign tax withheld of $414)

   $ 14,013   

Expenses

  

Management fees

     3,531   

12b-1 service fees – Class A

     329   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class C

     1,318   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class R3

     660   

Shareholder servicing agent fees and expenses

     98   

Custodian fees and expenses

     6,047   

Trustees fees and expenses

     13   

Professional fees

     5,686   

Shareholder reporting expenses

     7,346   

Other expenses

     46   

Total expenses before fee waiver/expense reimbursement

     25,074   

Fee waiver/expense reimbursement

     (18,175

Net expenses

     6,899   

Net investment income

     7,114   

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

  

Net realized gain (loss) from:

  

Investments

     (18,201

Call options written

     4,922   

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of:

  

Investments

     68,244   

Call options written

     (917

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     54,048   

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

   $ 61,162   

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     15   


Statement of Changes in Net Assets (Unaudited)

 

       Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       Year Ended
6/30/12
 

Operations

       

Net investment income

   $ 7,114         $ 17,357   

Net realized gain (loss) from:

       

Investments

     (18,201        2,435   

Call options written

     4,922           4,139   

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of:

       

Investments

     68,244           (77,645

Call options written

     (917        1,031   

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

     61,162           (52,683

Distributions to Shareholders

       

From net investment income:

       

Class A

     (1,993        (4,851

Class C

     (1,013        (2,886

Class R3

     (1,668        (4,195

Class I

     (2,322        (5,509

From accumulated net realized gains:

       

Class A

     (475        (24,562

Class C

     (475        (24,562

Class R3

     (475        (24,562

Class I

     (475        (24,562

Decrease in net assets from distributions to shareholders

     (8,896        (115,689

Fund Share Transactions

       

Net proceeds from sale of shares

                 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from Fund share transactions

                 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

     52,266           (168,372

Net assets at the beginning of period

     1,010,042           1,178,414   

Net assets at the end of period

   $ 1,062,308         $ 1,010,042   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income at the end of period

   $ 328         $ 210   

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  16       Nuveen Investments


 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

Nuveen Investments     17   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout the period:  
Class (Commencement Date)                                            
          Investment Operations     Less Distributions        
                                                       
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
    Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)(a)
   

Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain

(Loss)

    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
    From
Accum-
ulated
Net
Realized
Gains(b)
    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
    Total
Return(c)
 

Class A (9/09)

                 

2013(f)

  $ 20.20      $ .16      $ 1.09      $ 1.25      $ (.16   $ (.04   $ (.20   $ 21.25        6.18

2012

    23.57        .39        (1.40     (1.01     (.39     (1.97     (2.36     20.20        (3.57

2011

    19.81        .34        4.61        4.95        (.36     (.83     (1.19     23.57        25.34   

2010(e)

    20.00        .30        (.19     .11        (.30            (.30     19.81        .48   

Class C (9/09)

                 

2013(f)

    20.19        .08        1.09        1.17        (.08     (.04     (.12     21.24        5.80   

2012

    23.56        .23        (1.40     (1.17     (.23     (1.97     (2.20     20.19        (4.30

2011

    19.80        .17        4.61        4.78        (.19     (.83     (1.02     23.56        24.43   

2010(e)

    20.00        .18        (.20     (.02     (.18            (.18     19.80        (.14

Class R3 (9/09)

                 

2013(f)

    20.20        .14        1.08        1.22        (.13     (.04     (.17     21.25        6.05   

2012

    23.57        .33        (1.39     (1.06     (.34     (1.97     (2.31     20.20        (3.81

2011

    19.80        .29        4.62        4.91        (.31     (.83     (1.14     23.57        25.09   

2010(e)

    20.00        .26        (.20     .06        (.26            (.26     19.80        .24   

Class I (9/09)

                 

2013(f)

    20.21        .19        1.08        1.27        (.19     (.04     (.23     21.25        6.26   

2012

    23.57        .44        (1.39     (.95     (.44     (1.97     (2.41     20.21        (3.28

2011

    19.81        .40        4.61        5.01        (.42     (.83     (1.25     23.57        25.64   

2010(e)

    20.00        .35        (.20     .15        (.34            (.34     19.81        .67   

 

  18       Nuveen Investments


                                 
                     
Ratios/Supplemental Data  
      Ratios to Average
Net Assets Before 
Waiver/Reimbursement
    Ratios to Average
Net Assets After
Waiver/Reimbursement(d)
       
    
    
Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
         
$ 266        4.57 %*      (1.91 )%*      1.12 %*      1.54 %*      15
  253        4.16        (1.19     1.13        1.85        32   
  295        5.29        (2.65     1.13        1.51        44   
  248        3.79     (.82 )*      1.14     1.83     24   
         
  265        5.31     (2.66 )*      1.87     .79     15   
  252        4.91        (1.94     1.88        1.09        32   
  294        6.04        (3.40     1.88        .76        44   
  248        4.54     (1.57 )*      1.89     1.08     24   
         
  266        4.82     (2.16 )*      1.37     1.29     15   
  253        4.42        (1.45     1.38        1.59        32   
  295        5.54        (2.90     1.38        1.26        44   
  248        4.04     (1.07 )*      1.39     1.58     24   
         
  266        4.32     (1.66 )*      .87     1.78     15   
  253        3.91        (.94     .88        2.10        32   
  295        5.04        (2.40     .88        1.76        44   
  248        3.54     (.57 )*      .89     2.08     24   

 

(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) After fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement from the Adviser, where applicable.
(e) For the period September 15, 2009 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2010.
(f) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     19   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

1. General Information and Significant Accounting Policies

General Information

The Nuveen Investment Trust (the “Trust”) is an open-end investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The Trust is comprised of Nuveen NWQ Equity Income Fund (the “Fund”), as a diversified fund, among others. The Trust was organized as a Massachusetts business trust in 1996.

On December 31, 2012, the Fund’s investment adviser converted from a Delaware corporation to a Delaware limited liability company. As a result, Nuveen Fund Advisers, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc. (“Nuveen”), changed its name to Nuveen Fund Advisers, LLC (the “Adviser”). There were no changes to the identities or roles of any personnel as a result of the change.

The Fund’s investment objective is to provide high current income and long-term capital appreciation. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes in equity securities. The Fund invests primarily in income producing common stocks, but may also invest in preferred securities, convertible securities and corporate debt securities. The Fund may also write covered call options on securities in which the Fund holds a long position. The Fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in fixed-income securities, including up to 10% of its net assets in below investment-grade debt securities, commonly referred to as “high yield,” “high risk” or “junk” bonds. The Fund may also invest up to 25% of its net assets in non-U.S. securities, including up to 10% of its net assets in securities of companies located in emerging markets.

The Fund’s most recent prospectus provides further descriptions of the Fund’s investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).

Investment Valuation

Common stocks and other equity-type securities are valued at the last sales price on the securities exchange on which such securities are primarily traded and are generally classified as Level 1 for fair value measurement purposes. Securities primarily traded on the NASDAQ National Market (“NASDAQ”) are valued, except as indicated below, at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price and are generally classified as Level 1. However, securities traded on a securities exchange or NASDAQ for which there were no transactions on a given day or securities not listed on a securities exchange or NASDAQ are valued at the last quoted bid price and are generally classified as Level 2. Prices of certain American Depository Receipts (“ADR”) held by the Fund that trade only in limited volume in the United States are valued based on the last traded price, official closing price, or the most recent bid price of the underlying non-U.S.-traded stock, adjusted as appropriate for the underlying-to-ADR conversion ratio and foreign exchange rate, and from time-to-time may also be adjusted further to take into account material events that may take place after the close of the local non-U.S. market but before the close of the New York Stock Exchange, which may represent a transfer from a Level 1 to a Level 2 security.

Prices of fixed-income securities are provided by a pricing service approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees. These securities are generally classified as Level 2. The pricing service establishes a security’s fair value using methods that may include consideration of the following: yields or prices of investments of comparable quality, type of issue, coupon, maturity and rating, market quotes or indications of value from security dealers, evaluations of anticipated cash flows or collateral, general market conditions and other information and analysis, including the obligor’s credit characteristics considered relevant. In pricing certain securities, particularly less liquid and lower quality securities, the pricing service may consider information about a security, its issuer, or market activity provided by Nuveen Fund Advisors, Inc. (the “Adviser”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc. (“Nuveen”). These securities are generally classified as Level 2 or Level 3 depending on the priority of the significant inputs.

The value of exchange-traded options are based on the mean of the closing bid and ask prices. Exchange-traded options are generally classified as Level 1. Options traded in the over-the-counter market are valued using an evaluated mean price and are generally classified as Level 2.

Certain securities may not be able to be priced by the pre-established pricing methods as described above. Such securities may be valued by the Fund’s Board of Trustees or its designee at fair value. These securities generally include, but are not limited to, restricted securities (securities which may not be publicly sold without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) for which a pricing service is unable to provide a market price; securities whose trading has been formally suspended; debt securities that have gone into default and for which there is no current market quotation; a security whose market price is not available from a pre-established pricing source; a security with respect to which an event has occurred that is likely to materially affect the value of the security after the market has closed but before the calculation of the Fund’s net asset value (as may be the case in non-U.S. markets on which the security is primarily traded) or make it difficult or impossible to obtain a reliable market quotation; and a security whose price, as provided by the pricing service, is not deemed to reflect the security’s fair value. As a general principle, the fair value of a security would appear to be the amount that the owner might reasonably expect to receive for it in a current sale. A variety of factors may be considered in determining the fair value of such securities, which may include consideration of the following: yields or prices of investments of comparable quality, type of issue, coupon, maturity and rating, market quotes or indications of value from security dealers, evaluations of anticipated cash flows or collateral, general market conditions and other information and analysis, including the

 

  20       Nuveen Investments


obligor’s credit characteristics considered relevant. These securities are generally classified as Level 2 or as Level 3 depending on the priority of the significant inputs. Regardless of the method employed to value a particular security, all valuations are subject to review by the Fund’s Board of Trustees or its designee.

Refer to Footnote 2 – Fair Value Measurements for further details on the leveling of securities held by the Fund as of the end of the reporting period.

Investment Transactions

Investment transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are determined on the specific identification method, which is the same basis used for federal income tax purposes. Investments purchased on a when-issued/delayed delivery basis may have extended settlement periods. Any investments so purchased are subject to market fluctuation during this period. The Fund has instructed the custodian to earmark securities in the Fund’s portfolio with a current value at least equal to the amount of the when-issued/delayed delivery purchase commitments. As of December 31, 2012, the Fund had no such outstanding purchase commitments.

Investment Income

Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, for foreign securities, when information is available. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts for financial reporting purposes, is recorded on an accrual basis. Interest income also includes paydown gains and losses, if any.

Professional Fees

Professional fees presented on the Statement of Operations consist of legal fees incurred in the normal course of operations, audit fees, tax consulting fees and, in some cases, workout expenditures. Workout expenditures are incurred in an attempt to protect or enhance an investment, or to pursue other claims or legal actions on behalf of Fund shareholders. Legal fee refund presented on the Statement of Operations reflects a refund of workout expenditures paid in a prior reporting period, when applicable.

Income Taxes

The Fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net capital gains to shareholders and to otherwise comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies (“RIC’s”). Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required.

For all open tax years and all major taxing jurisdictions, management of the Fund has concluded that there are no significant uncertain tax positions that would require recognition in the financial statements. Open tax years are those that are open for examination by taxing authorities (i.e., generally the last four tax year ends and the interim tax period since then). Furthermore, management of the Fund is also not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders

Dividends from net investment income are declared and distributed to shareholders quarterly. Net realized capital gains from investment transactions, if any, are declared and distributed to shareholders at least annually. Furthermore, capital gains are distributed only to the extent they exceed available capital loss carryforwards.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The amount and timing of distributions are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

Share Classes and Sales Charges

Class A Shares are generally sold with an up-front sales charge and incur a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class C Shares are sold without an up-front sales charge but incur a .75% annual 12b-1 distribution fee and a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class C Shares are subject to a CDSC of 1% if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class R3 Shares are sold without an up-front sales charge but incur a .25% annual 12b-1 distribution fee and a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class I Shares are not subject to any sales charge or 12b-1 distribution or service fees.

Options Transactions

The Fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives and is authorized to write (sell) call options on securities in an attempt to manage such risk. When the Fund writes a call option, an amount equal to the net premium received (the premium less commission) is recognized as a component of “Call options written, at value” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently adjusted to reflect the current value of the written option until the option is exercised or expires or the Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction. The changes in the value of options written during the fiscal period are recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of call options written” on the Statement of Operations. When a call option is exercised or expires or the Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction, the difference between the net premium received and any amount paid at expiration or on executing a closing purchase transaction, including commission, is recognized as a component of “Net realized gain (loss) from call options written” on the Statement of Operations. The Fund, as writer of a call option, has no control over whether the underlying instrument may be sold (called) and as a result bears the risk of an unfavorable change in the market value of the instrument underlying the written option. There is also the risk the Fund may not be able to enter into a closing transaction because of an illiquid market.

 

Nuveen Investments     21   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Fund wrote covered call options on individual stocks, while investing in these same stocks, to enhance returns while foregoing some upside potential. The average notional amount of call options written during the six months ended December 31, 2012, was ($37,067). The average notional amount is calculated based on the outstanding notional at the beginning of the fiscal year and at the end of each fiscal quarter within the current fiscal year. Refer to Footnote 3 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities and Footnote 5 – Investment Transactions for further details on call options written.

Market and Counterparty Credit Risk

In the normal course of business the Fund may invest in financial instruments and enter into financial transactions where risk of potential loss exists due to changes in the market (market risk) or failure of the other party to the transaction to perform (counterparty credit risk). The potential loss could exceed the value of the financial assets recorded on the financial statements. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Fund to counterparty credit risk, consist principally of cash due from counterparties on forward, option and swap transactions, when applicable. The extent of the Fund’s exposure to counterparty credit risk in respect to these financial assets approximates their carrying value as recorded on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Futures contracts, when applicable, expose the Fund to minimal counterparty credit risk as they are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, which is counterparty to all exchange traded futures, guarantees the futures contract against default.

The Fund helps manage counterparty credit risk by entering into agreements only with counterparties the Adviser believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by having the Adviser monitor the financial stability of the counterparties. Additionally, counterparties may be required to pledge collateral daily (based on the daily valuation of the financial asset) on behalf of the Fund with a value approximately equal to the amount of any unrealized gain above a pre-determined threshold. Reciprocally, when the Fund has an unrealized loss, the Fund has instructed the custodian to pledge assets of the Fund as collateral with a value approximately equal to the amount of the unrealized loss above a pre-determined threshold. Collateral pledges are monitored and subsequently adjusted if and when the valuations fluctuate, either up or down, by at least the pre-determined threshold amount.

Multiclass Operations and Allocations

Income and expenses of the Fund that are not directly attributable to a specific class of shares are prorated among the classes based on the relative net assets of each class. Expenses directly attributable to a class of shares, which presently only include 12b-1 distribution and service fees, are recorded to the specific class.

Realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the Fund are prorated among the classes based on the relative net assets of each class.

Indemnifications

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications to other parties. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred. However, the Trust has not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.

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 at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

2. Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the price that the Fund would receive upon selling an investment or transferring a liability in an orderly transaction to an independent buyer in the principal or most advantageous market for the investment. A three-tier hierarchy is used to maximize the use of observable market data and minimize the use of unobservable inputs and to establish classification of fair value measurements for disclosure purposes. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Observable inputs are based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best information available in the circumstances. The following is a summary of the three-tier hierarchy of valuation input levels.

 

Level 1 –   Inputs are unadjusted and prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2 –   Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).
Level 3 –   Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including management’s assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

  22       Nuveen Investments


The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities. The following is a summary of the Fund’s fair value measurements as of the end of the reporting period:

 

       Level 1     Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

          

Common Stocks

   $ 1,052,885      $   —       $       $ 1,052,885   

Derivatives:

          

Call Options Written

     (256                     (256

Total

   $ 1,052,629      $       $   —       $ 1,052,629   

 

* Refer to the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments for industry classifications.

The Nuveen funds’ Board of Directors/Trustees is responsible for the valuation process and has delegated the oversight of the daily valuation process to the Adviser’s Valuation Committee. The Valuation Committee, pursuant to the valuation policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors/Trustees, is responsible for making fair value determinations, evaluating the effectiveness of the funds’ pricing policies, and reporting to the Board of Directors/Trustees. The Valuation Committee is aided in its efforts by the Adviser’s dedicated Securities Valuation Team, which is responsible for administering the daily valuation process and applying fair value methodologies as approved by the Valuation Committee. When determining the reliability of independent pricing services for investments owned by the funds, the Valuation Committee, among other things, conducts due diligence reviews of the pricing services and monitors the quality of security prices received through various testing reports conducted by the Securities Valuation Team.

The Valuation Committee will consider pricing methodologies it deems relevant and appropriate when making fair value determinations. Examples of possible methodologies include, but are not limited to, multiple of earnings; discount from market of a similar freely traded security; discounted cash-flow analysis; book value or a multiple thereof; risk premium/yield analysis; yield to maturity; and/or fundamental investment analysis. The Valuation Committee will also consider factors it deems relevant and appropriate in light of the facts and circumstances. Examples of possible factors include, but are not limited to, the type of security; the issuer’s financial statements; the purchase price of the security; the discount from market value of unrestricted securities of the same class at the time of purchase; analysts’ research and observations from financial institutions; information regarding any transactions or offers with respect to the security; the existence of merger proposals or tender offers affecting the security; the price and extent of public trading in similar securities of the issuer or comparable companies; and the existence of a shelf registration for restricted securities.

For each portfolio security that has been fair valued pursuant to the policies adopted by the Board of Directors/Trustees, the fair value price is compared against the last available and next available market quotations. The Valuation Committee reviews the results of such testing and fair valuation occurrences are reported to the Board of Directors/Trustees.

3. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Fund records derivative instruments at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized on the Statement of Operations, when applicable. Even though the Fund’s investments in derivatives may represent economic hedges, they are not considered to be hedge transactions for financial reporting purposes. For additional information on the derivative instruments in which the Fund was invested during and at the end of the reporting period, refer to the Portfolio of Investments, Financial Statements and Footnote 1 – General Information and Significant Accounting Policies.

The following table presents the fair value of all derivative instruments held by the Fund as of December 31, 2012, the location of these instruments on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, and the primary underlying risk exposure.

 

        Location on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities  
Underlying
Risk Exposure
  Derivative
Instrument
  Asset Derivatives      Liability Derivatives  
    Location      Value      Location      Value  

Equity Price

  Options        $   —       Call options written, at value      $ (256

The following tables present the amount of net realized gain (loss) and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) recognized for the six months ended December 31, 2012, on derivative instruments, as well as the primary risk exposure associated with each.

 

Net Realized Gain (Loss) from Call Options Written         

Risk Exposure

  

Equity Price

   $ 4,922   
Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) of Call Options Written         

Risk Exposure

  

Equity Price

   $ (917

 

Nuveen Investments     23   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

4. Fund Shares

Transactions in Fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       Year Ended
6/30/12
 
       Shares        Amount        Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

                 

Class A

             $   —                   $  —   

Class C

                                     

Class R3

                                     

Class I

                                     

Net increase (decrease)

             $                   $  —   

5. Investment Transactions

Purchases and sales (excluding short-term investments and derivative transactions) during the six months ended December 31, 2012, aggregated $153,787 and $181,586, respectively.

Transactions in call options written during the six months ended December 31, 2012, were as follows:

 

       Number of
Contracts
       Premiums
Received
 

Outstanding, beginning of period

     40         $ 3,740   

Call options written

     24           3,122   

Call options terminated in closing purchase transactions

     (15        (2,755

Call options expired

     (20        (1,500

Call options exercised

     (22        (2,237

Outstanding, end of period

     7         $ 370   

6. Income Tax Information

The following information is presented on an income tax basis. Differences between amounts for financial statement and federal income tax purposes are primarily due to timing differences in recognizing certain gains and losses on investment transactions. To the extent that differences arise that are permanent in nature, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts as detailed below. Temporary differences do not require reclassification. Temporary and permanent differences do not impact the net asset values of the Fund.

At December 31, 2012, the cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments (excluding investments in derivatives), as determined on a federal income tax basis, were as follows:

 

Cost of investments

   $ 976,033   

Gross unrealized:

  

Appreciation

   $ 125,292   

Depreciation

     (48,440

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments

   $ 76,852   

The tax components of undistributed net ordinary income and net long-term capital gains at June 30, 2012, the Fund’s last tax year end, were as follows:

 

Undistributed net ordinary income*

   $ 7,600   

Undistributed net long-term capital gains

       

 

* Net ordinary income consists of net taxable income derived from dividends, interest, and net short-term capital gains, if any.
   Undistributed net ordinary income (on a tax basis) has not been reduced for the dividend declared June 28, 2012 and paid on July 2, 2012.

The tax character of distributions paid during the Fund’s last tax year ended June 30, 2012, was designated for purposes of the dividends paid deduction as follows:

 

Distributions from net ordinary income*

   $ 72,747   

Distributions from net long-term capital gains

     43,250   

 

* Net ordinary income consists of net taxable income derived from dividends, interest, and net short-term capital gains, if any.

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, capital losses incurred by the Fund after December 31, 2010, will not be subject to expiration. During the Fund’s last tax year ended June 30, 2012, there were no post-enactment capital losses generated.

 

  24       Nuveen Investments


7. Management Fees and Other Transactions with Affiliates

The Fund’s management fee consists of two components – a fund-level fee, based only on the amount of assets within the Fund, and a complex-level fee, based on the aggregate amount of all eligible fund assets managed by the Adviser. This pricing structure enables Fund shareholders to benefit from growth in the assets within the Fund as well as from growth in the amount of complex-wide assets managed by the Adviser.

The annual fund-level fee, payable monthly, is calculated according to the following schedule:

 

Average Daily Net Assets    Fund-Level Fee Rate  

For the first $125 million

     0.5000

For the next $125 million

     0.4875   

For the next $250 million

     0.4750   

For the next $500 million

     0.4625   

For the next $1 billion

     0.4500   

For net assets over $2 billion

     0.4250   

The annual complex-level fee, payable monthly, is calculated according to the following schedule:

 

Complex-Level Asset Breakpoint Level*    Effective Rate at Breakpoint Level  

$55 billion

     .2000

$56 billion

     .1996   

$57 billion

     .1989   

$60 billion

     .1961   

$63 billion

     .1931   

$66 billion

     .1900   

$71 billion

     .1851   

$76 billion

     .1806   

$80 billion

     .1773   

$91 billion

     .1691   

$125 billion

     .1599   

$200 billion

     .1505   

$250 billion

     .1469   

$300 billion

     .1445   

 

* The complex-level fee is calculated based upon the aggregate daily “eligible assets” of all Nuveen Funds. Eligible assets do not include assets attributable to investments in other Nuveen Funds or assets in excess of $2 billion added to the Nuveen Fund complex in connection with the Adviser’s assumption of the management of the former First American Funds effective January 1, 2011. Eligible assets include closed-end fund assets managed by the Adviser that are attributable to financial leverage. For these purposes, financial leverage includes the closed-end funds’ use of preferred stock and borrowings and certain investments in the residual interest certificates (also called inverse floating rate securities) in tender option bond (TOB) trusts, including the portion of assets held by a TOB trust that has been effectively financed by the trust’s issuance of floating rate securities, subject to an agreement by the Adviser as to certain funds to limit the amount of such assets for determining eligible assets in certain circumstances. As of December 31, 2012, the complex-level fee rate for the Fund was .1684%.

The management fee compensates the Adviser for the overall investment advisory and administrative services and general office facilities. The Adviser is responsible for the Fund’s overall strategy and asset allocation decisions. The Adviser has entered into a sub-advisory agreement with NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC (“NWQ”), an affiliate of Nuveen, under which NWQ manages the investment portfolio of the Fund, including its options strategy. NWQ is compensated for its services to the Fund from the management fees paid to the Adviser.

The Adviser has agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses through October 31, 2013, so that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding 12b-1 distribution and/or service fees, interest expenses, taxes, fees incurred in acquiring and disposing of portfolio securities and extraordinary expenses) do not exceed .90% (1.15% after October 31, 2013) of the average daily net assets of any class of Fund shares. The Adviser may also voluntarily reimburse additional expenses from time to time. Voluntary reimbursements may be terminated at any time at the Adviser’s discretion.

The Trust pays no compensation directly to those of its trustees who are affiliated with the Adviser or to its officers, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the Trust from the Adviser or its affiliates. The Board of Trustees has adopted a deferred compensation plan for independent trustees that enables trustees to elect to defer receipt of all or a portion of the annual compensation they are entitled to receive from certain Nuveen-advised funds. Under the plan, deferred amounts are treated as though equal dollar amounts had been invested in shares of select Nuveen-advised funds.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, Nuveen Securities, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen, retained all 12b-1 fees.

 

Nuveen Investments     25   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

As of December 31, 2012, Nuveen owned shares of the Fund as follows:

 

Class A Shares

     12,500   

Class C Shares

     12,500   

Class R3 Shares

     12,500   

Class I Shares

     12,500   

8. New Accounting Pronouncements

Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

In December 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11 (“ASU No. 2011-11”) to enhance disclosures about financial instruments and derivative instruments that are subject to offsetting (“netting”) on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. This information will enable users of the entity’s financial statements to evaluate the effect or potential effect of netting arrangements on the entity’s financial position. ASU No. 2011-11 is effective prospectively during interim or annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. At this time, management is evaluating the implications of this guidance and the impact it will have to the financial statements amounts and footnote disclosures, if any.

 

  26       Nuveen Investments


Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited)

 

The Board of Trustees (the “Board” and each Trustee, a “Board Member” ) of the Fund, including the Board Members who are not parties to the Fund’s advisory or sub-advisory agreement or “interested persons” of any such parties (the “Independent Board Members” ), is responsible for approving the advisory agreement (the “Investment Management Agreement” ) between the Fund and Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC (formerly known as Nuveen Fund Advisors, Inc.) (the “Advisor” ) and the sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” ) between the Advisor and NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC (the “Sub-Advisor” ) (the Investment Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement are referred to collectively as the “Advisory Agreements” ) and their periodic continuation . Pursuant to the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act” ), the Board is required to consider the continuation of the Advisory Agreements on an annual basis. Accordingly, at an in-person meeting held on May 21-23, 2012 (the “May Meeting” ), the Board, including a majority of the Independent Board Members, considered and approved the continuation of the Advisory Agreements for the Fund for an additional one-year period.

In preparation for their considerations at the May Meeting, the Board requested and received extensive materials prepared in connection with the review of the Advisory Agreements. The materials provided a broad range of information regarding the Fund, the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor (the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor are collectively, the “Fund Advisers” and each, a “Fund Adviser” ). As described in more detail below, the information provided included, among other things, a review of Fund performance, including Fund investment performance assessments against peer groups and appropriate benchmarks, a comparison of Fund fees and expenses relative to peers, a description and assessment of shareholder service levels for the Fund, a summary of the performance of certain service providers, a review of product initiatives and shareholder communications and an analysis of the Advisor’s profitability with comparisons to comparable peers in the managed fund business. As part of their annual review, the Board also held a separate meeting on April 18-19, 2012, to review the Fund’s investment performance and consider an analysis provided by the Advisor of the Sub-Advisor which generally evaluated the Sub-Advisor’s investment team, investment mandate, organizational structure and history, investment philosophy and process, performance of the Fund, and significant changes to the foregoing. As a result of their review of the materials and discussions, the Board presented the Advisor with questions and the Advisor responded.

The materials and information prepared in connection with the annual review of the Advisory Agreements supplement the information and analysis provided to the Board during the year. In this regard, throughout the year, the Board, acting directly or through its committees, regularly reviews the performance and various services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Board meets at least quarterly as well as at other times as the need arises. At its quarterly meetings, the Board reviews reports by the Advisor which include, among other things, Fund performance, a review of the investment teams and reports on compliance, regulatory matters and risk management. The Board also meets with key investment personnel managing the Fund portfolios during the year. In October 2011, the Board also created two new standing committees (the Open-end Fund Committee and the Closed-end Fund Committee) to assist the full Board in monitoring and gaining a deeper insight into the distinctive issues and business practices of open-end and closed-end funds.

In addition, the Board continues its program of seeking to have the Board Members or a subset thereof visit each sub-advisor to the Nuveen funds at least once over a multiple year rotation, meeting with key investment and business personnel. In this regard, the Independent Board Members made a site visit to the Sub-Advisor in February 2011. Further, an ad hoc committee of the Board visited the then-current transfer agents of the Nuveen funds in 2011 and the audit committee of the Board visited the various pricing agents for the Nuveen funds in January 2012.

The Board considers factors and information that are relevant to its annual consideration of the renewal of the Advisory Agreements at the meetings held throughout the year. Accordingly, the Board considers the information provided and knowledge gained at these meetings when performing its annual review of the Advisory Agreements. The Independent Board Members are assisted throughout the process by independent legal counsel who provided materials describing applicable law and the duties of directors or trustees in reviewing advisory contracts and met with the Independent Board Members in executive sessions without management present. In addition, it is important to recognize that the management arrangements for the Nuveen funds are the result of many years of review and discussion between the Independent Board Members and fund management and that the Board Members’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of fee arrangements and other factors developed in previous years.

The Board considered all factors it believed relevant with respect to the Fund, including among other factors: (a) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Fund Advisers, (b) the investment performance of the Fund and Fund Advisers, (c) the advisory fees and costs of the services to be provided to the Fund and the profitability of the Fund Advisers, (d) the extent of any economies of scale, (e) any benefits derived by the Fund Advisers from the relationship with the Fund and (f) other factors. Each Board Member may have accorded different weight to the various factors in reaching his or her conclusions with respect to the Fund’s Advisory Agreements. The Independent Board Members did not identify any single factor as all important or controlling. The Independent Board Members’ considerations were instead based on a comprehensive consideration of all the information presented. The principal factors considered by the Board and its conclusions are described below.

A. Nature, Extent and Quality of Services

In considering renewal of the Advisory Agreements, the Independent Board Members considered the nature, extent and quality of the Fund Adviser’s services, including advisory services and the resulting Fund performance and administrative services. The Independent Board Members further considered the overall reputation and capabilities of the Advisor and its affiliates, the commitment of the

 

Nuveen Investments     27   


Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited) (continued)

 

Advisor to provide high quality service to the Fund, their overall confidence in the Advisor’s integrity and the Advisor’s responsiveness to questions and concerns raised by them. The Independent Board Members reviewed materials outlining, among other things, the Fund Adviser’s organization and business; the types of services that the Fund Adviser or its affiliates provide to the Fund; the performance record of the Fund (as described in further detail below); and any initiatives Nuveen had taken for the applicable fund product line.

In considering advisory services, the Board recognized that the Advisor provides various oversight, administrative, compliance and other services for the Fund and the Sub-Advisor generally provides the portfolio investment management services to the Fund. In reviewing the portfolio management services provided to the Fund, the Board reviewed the materials provided by the Nuveen Investment Services Oversight Team analyzing, among other things, the Sub-Advisor’s investment team and changes thereto, organization and history, assets under management, Fund objectives and mandate, the investment team’s philosophy and strategies in managing the Fund, developments affecting the Sub-Advisor or Fund and Fund performance. The Independent Board Members also reviewed portfolio manager compensation arrangements to evaluate each Fund Adviser’s ability to attract and retain high quality investment personnel, preserve stability, and reward performance but not provide an inappropriate incentive to take undue risks. In addition, the Board considered the Advisor’s execution of its oversight responsibilities over the Sub-Advisor. Given the importance of compliance, the Independent Board Members also considered Nuveen’s compliance program, including the report of the chief compliance officer regarding the Fund’s compliance policies and procedures; the resources dedicated to compliance; and the record of compliance with the policies and procedures.

In addition to advisory services, the Board considered the quality and extent of administrative and other non-investment advisory services the Advisor and its affiliates provide to the Fund, including product management, investment services (such as oversight of investment policies and procedures, risk management, and pricing), fund administration, oversight of service providers, shareholder services and communications, administration of Board relations, regulatory and portfolio compliance and legal support. The Board further recognized Nuveen’s additional investments in personnel, including in compliance and risk management. In reviewing the services provided, the Board also reviewed materials describing various notable initiatives and projects the Advisor performed in connection with the open-end fund product line. These initiatives included efforts to eliminate product overlap through mergers or liquidations; commencement of various new funds; elimination of insurance mandates for various funds; updates in investment policies or guidelines for several funds; and reductions in management fees and expense caps for certain funds.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members found that, overall, the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under each Advisory Agreement were satisfactory.

B. The Investment Performance of the Fund and Fund Advisers

The Board, including the Independent Board Members, reviewed and considered the performance history of the Fund over various time periods. The Board reviewed, among other things, the Fund’s historic investment performance as well as information comparing the Fund’s performance information with that of other funds (the “Performance Peer Group” ) based on data compiled by Nuveen that was provided by an independent provider of mutual fund data and with recognized and/or customized benchmarks ( i.e., benchmarks derived from multiple recognized benchmarks).

The Board reviewed reports, including a comprehensive analysis of the Fund’s performance and the applicable investment team. In this regard, the Board reviewed the Fund’s total return information compared to the returns of its Performance Peer Group and recognized and/or customized benchmarks for the quarter and one-year periods ending December 31, 2011, as well as performance information reflecting the first quarter of 2012.

In reviewing performance comparison information, the Independent Board Members recognized that the usefulness of the comparisons of the performance of certain funds with the performance of their respective Performance Peer Group may be limited because the Performance Peer Group may not adequately represent the objectives and strategies of the applicable funds or may be limited in size or number. The Independent Board Members also noted that the investment experience of a particular shareholder in the Nuveen funds will vary depending on when such shareholder invests in the applicable fund, the class held (if multiple classes are offered in a fund) and the performance of the fund (or respective class) during that shareholder’s investment period. In addition, although the performance below reflects the performance results for the time periods ending as of the most recent calendar year end (unless otherwise indicated), the Board also recognized that selecting a different ending time period may derive different results. Furthermore, while the Board is cognizant of the relevant performance of a fund’s peer set and/or benchmark(s), the Board evaluated fund performance in light of the respective fund’s investment objectives, investment parameters and guidelines and recognized that the objectives, investment parameters and guidelines of peers and/or benchmarks may differ to some extent, thereby resulting in differences in performance results. Nevertheless, with respect to any Nuveen funds that the Board considers to have underperformed their peers and/or benchmarks from time to time, the Board monitors such funds closely and considers any steps necessary or appropriate to address such issues.

In reviewing the performance information, the Independent Board Members noted that the Fund was relatively new with a shorter performance history available, thereby limiting the ability to make a meaningful assessment of performance.

 

  28       Nuveen Investments


C. Fees, Expenses and Profitability

1. Fees and Expenses

The Board evaluated the management fees and expenses of the Fund reviewing, among other things, the Fund’s gross management fees, net management fees and net expense ratios in absolute terms as well as compared to the fee and expenses of a comparable universe of funds provided by an independent fund data provider (the “Peer Universe” ) and to a more focused subset of funds in the Peer Universe (the “Peer Group” ) and any expense limitations.

The Independent Board Members further reviewed the methodology regarding the construction of the applicable Peer Universe and Peer Group. In reviewing the comparisons of fee and expense information, the Independent Board Members took into account that in certain instances various factors such as: the limited size and particular composition of the Peer Universe or Peer Group (including the inclusion of other Nuveen funds in the peer set); expense anomalies; changes in the funds comprising the Peer Universe or Peer Group from year to year; levels of reimbursement or fee waivers; and the timing of information used may impact the comparative data, thereby limiting somewhat the ability to make a meaningful comparison with peers.

In reviewing the fee schedule for the Fund, the Independent Board Members also considered the fund-level and complex-wide breakpoint schedules (described in further detail below) and any fee waivers and reimbursements provided by Nuveen. In reviewing fees and expenses, the Board considered the expenses and fees to be higher if they were over 10 basis points higher, slightly higher if they were approximately 6 to 10 basis points higher, in line if they were within approximately 5 basis points higher than the peer average and below if they were below the peer average of the Peer Group. In reviewing the reports, the Board noted that the overwhelming majority of the Nuveen funds were at, close to or below their Peer Group or Peer Universe (if no separate Peer Group) average based on the net total expense ratio. The Independent Board Members noted that the Fund had net management fees and a net expense ratio (including fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any) below its peer averages.

Based on their review of the fee and expense information provided, the Independent Board Members determined that the Fund’s management fees were reasonable in light of the nature, extent and quality of services provided to it.

2. Comparisons with the Fees of Other Clients

The Independent Board Members further reviewed information regarding the nature of services and range of fees offered by the Advisor to other clients, including separately managed accounts (both retail and institutional accounts), collective trusts, foreign investment funds offered by Nuveen and funds that are not offered by Nuveen but are sub-advised by one of Nuveen’s investment management teams. In evaluating the comparisons of fees, the Independent Board Members noted that the fee rates charged to the Fund and other clients vary, among other things, because of the different services involved and the additional regulatory and compliance requirements associated with registered investment companies, such as the Fund. Accordingly, the Independent Board Members considered the differences in the product types, including, but not limited to, the services provided, the structure and operations, product distribution and costs thereof, portfolio investment policies, investor profiles, account sizes and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members noted, in particular, that the range of services provided to the Fund (as discussed above) is much more extensive than that provided to separately managed accounts. Given the inherent differences in the various products, particularly the extensive services provided to the Fund, the Independent Board Members believe such facts justify the different levels of fees.

In considering the fees of the Sub-Advisor, the Independent Board Members also considered the pricing schedule or fees that the Sub-Advisor charges for similar investment management services for other Nuveen funds, funds of other sponsors (if any), and other clients (such as retail and/or institutional managed accounts).

3. Profitability of Fund Advisers

In conjunction with its review of fees, the Independent Board Members also considered the profitability of Nuveen for its advisory activities and its financial condition. The Independent Board Members reviewed the revenues and expenses of Nuveen’s advisory activities for the last two calendar years, the allocation methodology used in preparing the profitability data and an analysis of the key drivers behind the changes in revenues and expenses that impacted profitability in 2011. The Independent Board Members noted this information supplemented the profitability information requested and received during the year to help keep them apprised of developments affecting profitability (such as changes in fee waivers and expense reimbursement commitments). In this regard, the Independent Board Members noted that they have an Independent Board Member serve as a point person to review and keep them apprised of changes to the profitability analysis and/or methodologies during the year. The Independent Board Members also considered Nuveen’s revenues for advisory activities, expenses, and profit margin compared to that of various unaffiliated management firms with comparable assets under management (based on asset size and asset composition).

In reviewing profitability, the Independent Board Members recognized the Advisor’s continued investment in its business to enhance its services, including capital improvements to investment technology, updated compliance systems, and additional personnel in compliance, risk management, and product development as well as its ability to allocate resources to various areas of the Advisor as the need arises. In addition, in evaluating profitability, the Independent Board Members also recognized the subjective nature of determining profitability which may be affected by numerous factors including the allocation of expenses. Further, the Independent Board Members recognized the difficulties in making comparisons as the profitability of other advisers

 

Nuveen Investments     29   


Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited) (continued)

 

generally is not publicly available and the profitability information that is available for certain advisers or management firms may not be representative of the industry and may be affected by, among other things, the adviser’s particular business mix, capital costs, types of funds managed and expense allocations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Independent Board Members reviewed Nuveen’s methodology and assumptions for allocating expenses across product lines to determine profitability. In reviewing profitability, the Independent Board Members recognized Nuveen’s investment in its fund business. Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that the Advisor’s level of profitability for its advisory activities was reasonable in light of the services provided.

With respect to sub-advisers affiliated with Nuveen, including the Sub-Advisor, the Independent Board Members reviewed the sub-adviser’s revenues, expenses and profitability margins (pre- and post-tax) for its advisory activities and the methodology used for allocating expenses among the internal sub-advisers. Based on their review, the Independent Board Members were satisfied that the Sub-Advisor’s level of profitability was reasonable in light of the services provided.

In evaluating the reasonableness of the compensation, the Independent Board Members also considered other amounts paid to a Fund Adviser by the Fund as well as any indirect benefits (such as soft dollar arrangements, if any) the Fund Adviser and its affiliates receive, or are expected to receive, that are directly attributable to the management of the Fund, if any. See Section E below for additional information on indirect benefits a Fund Adviser may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. Based on their review of the overall fee arrangements of the Fund, the Independent Board Members determined that the advisory fees and expenses of the Fund were reasonable.

D. Economies of Scale and Whether Fee Levels Reflect These Economies of Scale

With respect to economies of scale, the Independent Board Members have recognized the potential benefits resulting from the costs of a fund being spread over a larger asset base, although economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, particularly on a fund-by-fund basis. One method to help ensure the shareholders share in these benefits is to include breakpoints in the advisory fee schedule. Generally, management fees for funds in the Nuveen complex are comprised of a fund-level component and a complex-level component, subject to certain exceptions. Accordingly, the Independent Board Members reviewed and considered the applicable fund-level breakpoints in the advisory fee schedules that reduce advisory fees as asset levels increase.

In addition to fund-level advisory fee breakpoints, the Board also considered the Fund’s complex-wide fee arrangement. Pursuant to the complex-wide fee arrangement, the fees of the funds in the Nuveen complex are generally reduced as the assets in the fund complex reach certain levels. The complex-wide fee arrangement seeks to provide the benefits of economies of scale to fund shareholders when total fund complex assets increase, even if assets of a particular fund are unchanged or have decreased. The approach reflects the notion that some of Nuveen’s costs are attributable to services provided to all its funds in the complex and therefore all funds benefit if these costs are spread over a larger asset base. In addition, with the acquisition of the funds previously advised by FAF Advisors, Inc., the Board noted that a portion of such funds’ assets at the time of acquisition were deemed eligible to be included in the complex-wide fee calculation in order to deliver fee savings to shareholders in the combined complex and such funds were subject to differing complex-level fee rates.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that the breakpoint schedules and complex-wide fee arrangement were acceptable and reflect economies of scale to be shared with shareholders when assets under management increase.

E. Indirect Benefits

In evaluating fees, the Independent Board Members received and considered information regarding potential “fall out” or ancillary benefits the respective Fund Adviser or its affiliates may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. In this regard, the Independent Board Members considered, among other things, any sales charges, distribution fees and shareholder services fees received and retained by the Fund’s principal underwriter, an affiliate of the Advisor, which includes fees received pursuant to any 12b-1 plan. The Independent Board Members, therefore, considered the 12b-1 fees retained by Nuveen during the last calendar year.

In addition to the above, the Independent Board Members considered whether the Fund Advisers received any benefits from soft dollar arrangements whereby a portion of the commissions paid by the Fund for brokerage may be used to acquire research that may be useful to the Fund Adviser in managing the assets of the Fund and other clients. The Independent Board Members recognized that the Advisor has the authority to pay a higher commission in return for brokerage and research services if it determines in good faith that the commission paid is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided and may benefit from such soft dollar arrangements. In addition, the Independent Board Members considered that the Sub-Advisor may benefit from its soft dollar arrangements pursuant to which it receives research from brokers that execute the Fund’s portfolio transactions. Similarly, the Board recognized that the research received pursuant to soft dollar arrangements by a Fund Adviser may also benefit the Fund and shareholders to the extent the research enhances the ability of the Fund Adviser to manage the Fund. The Independent Board Members noted that the Fund Advisers’ profitability may be somewhat lower if they did not receive the research services pursuant to the soft dollar arrangements and had to acquire such services directly.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that any indirect benefits received by a Fund Adviser as a result of its relationship with the Fund were reasonable and within acceptable parameters.

 

  30       Nuveen Investments


F. Other Considerations

The Independent Board Members did not identify any single factor discussed previously as all-important or controlling. The Board Members, including the Independent Board Members, unanimously concluded that the terms of each Advisory Agreement are fair and reasonable, that the respective Fund Adviser’s fees are reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund and that the Advisory Agreements be renewed.

 

Nuveen Investments     31   


Notes

 

  32       Nuveen Investments


Notes

 

Nuveen Investments     33   


Glossary of Terms Used in this Report

Average Annual Total Return: This is a commonly used method to express an investment’s performance over a particular, usually multi-year time period. It expresses the return that would have been necessary each year to equal the investment’s actual cumulative performance (including change in NAV or offer price and reinvested dividends and capital gains distributions, if any) over the time period being considered.

Lipper Equity Income Funds Classification Average: Represents the average annualized total return for all reporting funds in the Lipper Equity Income Funds Classification. Lipper returns account for the effects of management fees and assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not reflect any applicable sales charge.

Net Asset Value (NAV): The net market value of all securities held in a portfolio.

Net Asset Value (NAV) Per Share: The market value of one share of a mutual fund or closed-end fund. For a Fund, the NAV is calculated daily by taking the Fund’s total assets (securities, cash, and accrued earnings), subtracting the Fund’s liabilities, and dividing by the number of shares outstanding.

Russell 1000 ® Value Index: An index that measures the performance of those Russell 1000 companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. Index returns assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not include the effects of any applicable sales charges or management fees.

 

  34       Nuveen Investments


Additional Fund Information

 

Fund Manager

Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

Sub-Adviser

NWQ Investment Management

Company, LLC

2049 Century Park East

Los Angeles, CA 90097

Legal Counsel

Chapman and Cutler LLP

Chicago, IL

Independent Registered

Public Accounting Firm

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chicago, IL

Custodian

State Street Bank & Trust Company

Boston, MA

Transfer Agent and Shareholder Services

Boston Financial

Data Services

Nuveen Investor Services

P.O. Box 8530

Boston, MA 02266-8530

(800) 257-8787

 

 

Fund’s Quarterly Portfolio of Investments and Proxy Voting Information: You may obtain (i) the Fund’s quarterly portfolio of investments, (ii) information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities held during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30, and (iii) a description of the policies and procedures that the Fund used to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities without charge, upon request, by calling Nuveen Investments at (800) 257-8787 or on Nuveen’s website at www.nuveen.com.

You may also obtain this and other Fund information directly from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC may charge a copying fee for this information. Visit the SEC on-line at http://www.sec.gov or in person at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call the SEC at (202) 942-8090 for room hours and operation. You may also request Fund information by sending an e-mail request to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing to the SEC’s Public Reference Section at 100 F Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20549.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) provides a Public Disclosure Program which supplies certain information regarding the disciplinary history of FINRA members and their associated persons in response to either telephone inquiries at (800) 289-9999 or written inquiries at www.finra.org. FINRA also provides an investor brochure that includes information describing the Public Disclosure Program.

 

Nuveen Investments     35   


Nuveen Investments:

Serving Investors For Generations

 

Since 1898, financial advisors and their clients have relied on Nuveen Investments to provide dependable investment solutions through continued adherence to proven, long-term investing principles. Today, we offer a range of high quality equity and fixed-income solutions designed to be integral components of a well-diversified core portfolio.

Focused on meeting investor needs.

Nuveen Investments provides high-quality investment services designed to help secure the long-term goals of institutional and individual investors as well as the consultants and financial advisors who serve them. Nuveen Investments markets a wide range of specialized investment solutions which provide investors access to capabilities of its high-quality boutique investment affiliates-Nuveen Asset Management, Symphony Asset Management, NWQ Investment Management Company, Santa Barbara Asset Management, Tradewinds Global Investors, Winslow Capital Management, and Gresham Investment Management. In total, Nuveen Investments managed approximately $219 billion as of December 31, 2012.

Find out how we can help you.

To learn more about how the products and services of Nuveen Investments may be able to help you meet your financial goals, talk to your financial advisor, or call us at (800) 257-8787. Please read the information provided carefully before you invest. Investors should consider the investment objective and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of any investment carefully. Where applicable, be sure to obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other relevant information. To obtain a prospectus, please contact your securities representative or Nuveen Investments, 333 W. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest or send money.

Learn more about Nuveen Funds at: www.nuveen.com/mf

 

Distributed by

Nuveen Securities, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

www.nuveen.com

  

 

MSA-NEQI-1212P


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Mutual Funds

 

Nuveen Income Funds

For investors seeking attractive monthly income and portfolio diversification potential.

Semi-Annual Report

December 31, 2012

 

         Share Class / Ticker Symbol
Fund Name      Class A      Class C      Class R3      Class I

Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund

     NGTAX      NGTCX      NGTRX      NGTIX


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Table of Contents

 

Chairman’s Letter to Shareholders

     4   

Portfolio Managers’ Comments

     5   

Fund Performance and Expense Ratios

     9   

Yields

     11   

Holding Summaries

     12   

Expense Examples

     13   

Portfolio of Investments

     14   

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

     23   

Statement of Operations

     24   

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

     25   

Financial Highlights

     26   

Notes to Financial Statements

     28   

Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

     39   

Glossary of Terms Used in this Report

     42   

Additional Fund Information

     43   


Chairman’s

Letter to Shareholders

 

LOGO

 

Dear Shareholders,

Despite the global economy’s ability to muddle through the many economic headwinds of 2012, investors continue to have good reasons to remain cautious. The European Central Bank’s decisions to extend intermediate term financing to major European banks and to support sovereign debt markets have begun to show signs of a stabilized euro area financial market. The larger member states of the European Union (EU) are working diligently to strengthen the framework for a tighter financial and banking union and meaningful progress has been made by agreeing to centralize large bank regulation under the European Central Bank. However, economic conditions in the southern tier members are not improving and the pressures on their political leadership remain intense. The jury is out on whether the respective populations will support the continuing austerity measures that are needed to meet the EU fiscal targets.

In the U.S., the Fed remains committed to low interest rates into 2015 through its third program of Quantitative Easing (QE3). Inflation remains low but a growing number of economists are expressing concern about the economic distortions resulting from negative real interest rates. The highly partisan atmosphere in Congress led to a disappointingly modest solution for dealing with the end-of-year tax and spending issues. Early indications for the new Congressional term have not given much encouragement that the atmosphere for dealing with the sequestration legislation and the debt ceiling issues, let alone a more encompassing “grand bargain,” will be any better than the last Congress. Over the longer term, there are some encouraging trends for the U.S. economy: house prices are beginning to recover, banks and corporations continue to strengthen their financial positions and incentives for capital investment in the U.S. by domestic and foreign corporations are increasing due to more competitive energy and labor costs.

During 2012 U.S. investors have benefited from strong returns in the domestic equity markets and solid returns in most fixed income markets. However, many of the macroeconomic risks of 2012 remain unresolved, including negotiating through the many U.S. fiscal issues, managing the risks of another year of abnormally low U.S. interest rates, sustaining the progress being made in the euro area and reducing the potential economic impact of geopolitical issues, particularly in the Middle East. In the face of these uncertainties, the experienced investment professionals at Nuveen Investments seek out investments that are enjoying positive economic conditions. At the same time they are always on the alert for risks in markets subject to excessive optimism or for opportunities in markets experiencing undue pessimism. Monitoring this process is a critical function for the Fund Board as it oversees your Nuveen Fund on your behalf.

As always, I encourage you to communicate with your financial consultant if you have any questions about your investment in a Nuveen Fund. On behalf of the other members of your Fund Board, we look forward to continuing to earn your trust in the months and years ahead.

Sincerely,

 

LOGO

Robert P. Bremner

Chairman of the Board

February 22, 2013

 

 

  4       Nuveen Investments


Portfolio Managers’ Comments

 

Certain statements in this report are forward-looking statements. Discussions of specific investments are for illustration only and are not intended as recommendations of individual investments. The forward-looking statements and other views expressed herein are those of the portfolio managers as of the date of this report. Actual future results or occurrences may differ significantly from those anticipated in any forward-looking statements and the views expressed herein are subject to change at any time, due to numerous market and other factors. The Fund disclaims any obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or views expressed herein.

Ratings shown are the highest rating given by one of the following national rating agencies: Standard & Poor’s Group, Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or Fitch, Inc. Credit ratings are subject to change. AAA, AA, A and BBB are investment grade ratings; BB, B, CCC, CC, C and D are below-investment grade ratings. Certain bonds backed by U.S. Government or agency securities are regarded as having an implied rating equal to the rating of such securities. Holdings designated N/R are not rated by these national rating agencies.

 

The Fund features portfolio management by Nuveen Asset Management, LLC, an affiliate of Nuveen Investments. Timothy Palmer, CFA, and Steven Lee, CFA, have managed the Fund since its inception in 2011. Here they examine key investment strategies and the Fund’s performance during the six months ending December 31, 2012.

Effective January 1, 2013, the Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund is subject to regulation as a commodity pool under the Commodity Exchange Act, and the Adviser has registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) as a commodity pool operator. The CFTC has proposed amendments to its rules which, upon their compliance dates, will subject the Fund and the Adviser to additional disclosure, reporting and recordkeeping rules, compliance with which is likely to increase the Fund’s expenses.

How did the Fund perform during the six-month period ended December 31, 2012?

The tables in the Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section of this report provide total return performance information for the six-month, one-year and since inception periods ending December 31, 2012. The Fund’s Class A Share total returns are compared with the performance of a Barclays Index and Lipper classification average. The Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) outperformed the Barclays Global Aggregate Unhedged Bond Index and the Lipper Global Income Funds Classification Average for the six-month period.

What strategies were used to manage the Fund during the reporting period? How did these strategies influence performance?

The Fund continued to employ the same fundamental investment strategies and tactics used previously, although implementation of those strategies depended on market conditions. The Fund’s management team used a highly collaborative, research driven approach that we believe offers the best opportunity to achieve consistent, superior long-term performance on a risk-adjusted basis across the full range of market environments. Going into the reporting period, the Fund was generally positioned for an environment of continued moderate economic growth and improving financial conditions, a posture we remained committed to during the period. Nonetheless, during the period we made smaller scaled shifts on an ongoing basis that were geared toward improving the Fund’s profile in response to changing conditions and valuations. These strategic moves are discussed in more detail below. The Fund also continued to invest in various derivative instruments during this reporting period, which are described later in this report.

The Fund benefited from our positioning for an improving global growth outlook throughout the reporting period as both U.S. and global economic data came in

 

Nuveen Investments     5   


somewhat better than anticipated. By the end of the year, the global economy appeared to be on firm footing for moderate growth, while the triple threat of the U.S. fiscal stalemate, European stress and Chinese growth fears all gave signs of stabilization. Investor flows continued to indicate robust demand for fixed income securities during the six-month period as the pressure to find yield provided a strong technical underpinning to the market. This backdrop was supportive of risk assets broadly and the spread sectors of the global fixed income market specifically.

The Fund’s performance benefited from our strategic positioning during the period including: a significant overweight to credit sectors, both investment grade and high yield; a significant underweight to the U.S. dollar, Japanese yen and euro in favor of growth oriented currencies and those offering better fundamentals; and a meaningful exposure to emerging markets. The Fund’s credit positioning and currency selection were roughly equivalent contributors to outperformance during the six-month period. The Fund benefited from the additional yield available from investment-grade and high yield credits in both developed and emerging markets, as well as gains associated with narrowing risk premiums for credit. For example, U.S. investment-grade corporate bonds produced an excess return over Treasuries, U.S. high yield corporates had an excess return, while external emerging market sovereigns and emerging market credit performed even better than high yield. The corporate market was supported by investors’ quest for yield and underpinned by strong fundamentals, gradually improving global economies and accommodative global monetary policy. Another key to performance was the Fund’s overweight and security selection in bank/financial credits within the investment-grade sector. For some time, we have been strong proponents of the value of financial credits based on their solid investment fundamentals. As systemic fears diminished, the market increasingly moved toward this view, with financial spreads tightening versus industrials as the period progressed. Financial exposure and other selection within credit sectors added value above the impact of our overweight.

Currency exposures also benefited the Fund’s performance during the reporting period. The U.S. dollar declined against most currencies globally. Among the major currencies, the Korean won and the Norwegian krone were two of the best performers for the period. The euro saw a recovery from depressed levels as investors reassessed its survival and the U.S. QE3 program pressured the dollar, while Eastern European currencies performed strongly amid stability in the euro zone. The yen declined as the Japanese election set the stage for aggressive fiscal and monetary policies aimed at reflation. With this backdrop, the Fund benefited from overweights in growth-sensitive, developed and emerging currencies, including the Korean won, Mexican peso, Canadian dollar, Norwegian krone, Australian dollar, Turkish lira, and Indian rupee. Meanwhile, Fund results over the period were also aided by underweight positions in the Japanese yen and U.S. dollar.

Our underweight to U.S. Treasuries in favor of sovereign debt from other developed and emerging markets added to Fund performance. However, the Fund’s overall lower-than-market duration (interest rate sensitivity) detracted marginally from performance as interest rates generally declined globally. The Fund’s underweight to European peripherals, notably Spain and Italy, was also a drag on performance as we did not participate fully in the dramatic spread tightening of these markets. We preferred to maintain an underweight to these issues in the “direct line of fire” of the European

 

  6       Nuveen Investments


uncertainty. Our decision was based on the broadly attractive valuations of credit and the availability of other assets that had cheapened in part based on European fears, but were less fundamentally exposed to euro risk. Away from Europe, our market selection in rate exposure was beneficial, offsetting some of the drag from a lower duration.

Although key strategic themes remained in place during the reporting period, we continued to actively rotate the Fund’s exposures in response to developing fundamental conditions and shifting valuations. We maintained the Fund’s emphasis on growth-oriented, higher yielding markets and non-government sectors during the period. Nonetheless, we took advantage of market opportunities to slightly increase the Fund’s weighting in high yield corporates, while repositioning holdings based on credit developments. We also used select new corporate issues and secondary trading to take advantage of individual credit opportunities. We reduced interest rate exposure in Canada and core Europe and increased exposure in the U.K. while reducing overall exposure by the end of the period. We also actively managed the Fund’s currency exposure, maintaining its key country overweights and adding to Mexico and Turkey.

The Fund’s Investments in Derivatives

Futures

U.S. Treasury futures were used to hedge against potential increases in the U.S. interest rates and purchased selected foreign bond futures to gain exposure to those markets. The effect of these activities in the period was positive. These derivative exposures are integrated with the overall portfolio construction and as such losses and gains may be naturally related to/may offset impacts elsewhere in the portfolio.

Swaps

We used credit default swaps as a way to take on credit risk and earn a commensurate credit spread. The effect on performance during the period from credit default swaps was positive. These derivative exposures are integrated with the overall portfolio construction and as such losses and gains may be naturally related to/may offset impacts elsewhere in the portfolio.

Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts

Foreign exchange forwards were used to gain exposure to selected foreign currencies, as well as in some cases to hedge the currency risk present in a foreign bond. The overall effect on the portfolio was a strong positive during the period; these forward contacts, as well as the currency exposure arising from the foreign bonds held in the portfolio, were meaningful drivers of positive performance.

Options Contracts

Options on note and bond futures are used as part of an overall portfolio interest rate strategy. For example, call options may be purchased to hedge the portfolio against adverse interest rate movements while limiting downside exposure to a portfolio. The overall effect of performance during the period from options was slightly positive.

 

Nuveen Investments     7   


Risk Considerations

Mutual fund investing involves risk; principal loss is possible. Debt securities such as those held by the Fund, are subject to market risk, credit risk, interest rate risk, call risk, and income risk. As interest rates rise, bond prices fall. Below investment grade or high yield debt securities are subject to liquidity risk and heightened credit risk. Non U.S. or foreign investments involve additional risks, including currency fluctuation, political or economic instability, and differing legal or tax standards. These risks are magnified in emerging markets. Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities are also subject to prepayment risk, liquidity risk, default risk and adverse economic developments. The Fund’s potential use of derivative instruments involves a high degree of financial risk and additional transaction costs.

 

  8       Nuveen Investments


Fund Performance and Expense Ratios

 

The Fund Performance and Expense Ratios for the Fund are shown on the following page.

 

Returns quoted represent past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Investment returns and principal value will fluctuate so that when shares are redeemed, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Returns without sales charges would be lower if the sales charge were included. Returns do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

Returns may reflect a contractual agreement between the Fund and the investment adviser to waive certain fees and expenses; see Notes to Financial Statements, Footnote 7 — Management Fees and Other Transactions with Affiliates for more information. In addition, returns may reflect a voluntary expense limitation by the Fund’s investment adviser that may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. For the most recent month-end performance visit www.nuveen.com or call (800) 257-8787.

Returns reflect differences in sales charges and expenses, which are primarily differences in distribution and service fees. Fund returns assume reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.

Comparative index and Lipper return information is provided for the Fund’s Class A Shares at net asset value (NAV) only.

The expense ratios shown reflect the Fund’s total operating expenses (before fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, if any) as shown in the Fund’s most recent prospectus. The expense ratios include management fees and other fees and expenses.

 

Nuveen Investments     9   


Fund Performance and Expense Ratios (continued)

 

Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund

 

Refer to the first page of this Fund Performance and Expense Ratios section for further explanation of the information included within this page.

Fund Performance

Average Annual Total Returns as of December 31, 2012

     Cumulative           Average Annual   
       6-Month        1-Year       

Since

Inception*

 

Class A Shares at NAV

     9.36%           17.88%           16.09%   

Class A Shares at maximum Offering Price

     4.15%           12.31%           10.96%   

Barclays Global Aggregate Unhedged Bond Index**

     2.78%           4.32%           4.47%   

Lipper Global Income Funds Classification Average**

     4.89%           8.46%           8.39%   

Class C Shares

     9.15%           17.37%           15.56%   

Class R3 Shares

     9.36%           17.90%           16.05%   

Class I Shares

     9.61%           18.48%           16.63%   

Class A Shares have a maximum 4.75% sales charge (Offering Price). Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), also known as a back-end sales charge, if redeemed within eighteen months of purchase. Class C Shares have a 1% CDSC for redemptions within less than twelve months, which is not reflected in the one-year total return. Class R3 Shares have no sales charge and are only available to only certain retirement plans. Class I Shares have no sales charge and may be purchased under limited circumstances or by specified classes of investors.

Expense Ratios as of Most Recent Prospectus

      

Gross

Expense

Ratios

      

Net

Expense

Ratios

 

Class A Shares

     1.67%           0.98%   

Class C Shares

     2.42%           1.72%   

Class R3 Shares

     1.92%           1.23%   

Class I Shares

     1.42%           0.73%   

The Fund’s investment adviser has agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses through October 31, 2014, so that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding 12b-1 distribution and/or service fees, interest expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, taxes, fees incurred in acquiring and disposing of portfolio securities, and extraordinary expenses) do not exceed 0.75% of the average daily net assets of any class of Fund shares. The expense limitation expiring October 31, 2014, may be terminated or modified prior to that date only with the approval of the Board of Trustees of the Fund.

 

* Since inception returns are from 12/02/11.

 

** Refer to the Glossary of Terms Used in this Report for definitions. Indexes and Lipper averages are not available for direct investment.

 

  10       Nuveen Investments


Yields as of December 31, 2012

 

Dividend Yield is the most recent dividend per share (annualized) divided by the offering price per share.

The SEC 30-Day Yield is a standardized measure of a Fund’s yield that accounts for the future amortization of premiums or discounts of bonds held in the Fund’s portfolio. The SEC 30-Day Yield is computed under an SEC standardized formula and is based on the maximum offer price per share. Dividend Yield may differ from the SEC 30-Day Yield because the Fund may be paying out more or less than it is earning and it may not include the effect of amortization of bond premium.

 

       Dividend
Yield
       SEC 30-Day
Yield
 

Class A Shares 1

     3.89%           2.77%   

Class C Shares

     3.35%           2.16%   

Class R3 Shares

     3.84%           2.65%   

Class I Shares

     4.31%           3.16%   

 

 

1 The SEC Yield for Class A Shares quoted in the table reflects the maximum sales load. Investors paying a reduced load because of volume discounts, investors paying no load because they qualify for one of the several exclusions from the load, and existing shareholders who previously paid a load but would like to know the SEC Yield applicable to their shares on a going-forward basis, should understand that the SEC Yield effectively applicable to them would be higher than the figure quoted in the table.

 

Nuveen Investments     11   


Holding Summaries as of December 31, 2012

 

This data relates to the securities held in the Fund’s portfolio of investments. It should not be construed as a measure of performance for the Fund itself.

Ratings shown are the highest rating given by one of the following national rating agencies: Standard & Poor’s Group, Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or Fitch, Inc. Credit ratings are subject to change. AAA, AA, A and BBB are investment grade ratings; BB, B, CCC, CC, C and D are below investment grade ratings. Certain bonds backed by U.S. Government or agency securities are regarded as having an implied rating equal to the rating of such securities. Holdings designated N/R are not rated by these national rating agencies.

 

Portfolio Credit Quality 1

 

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Fund Allocation 2       
Sovereign Debt      38.6%   
Corporate Bonds      38.2%   
Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities      9.9%   
$25 Par (or similar) Preferred Securities      2.3%   
Capital Preferred Securities      0.5%   
Short-Term Investments      10.5%   

 

Country Allocation 2  
United States      33.9%   
United Kingdom      10.0%   
Mexico      6.9%   
Canada      5.2%   
Brazil      4.5%   
Turkey      4.0%   
Norway      2.5%   
Sweden      2.5%   
Short-Term Investments 4      10.5%   
Other      20.0%   
Corporate Debt: Industries 3       
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels      15.3%   
Diversified Financial Services      13.0%   
Metals & Mining      9.2%   
Capital Markets      8.4%   
Media      4.9%   
Food Products      3.7%   
Consumer Finance      3.6%   
Commercial Banks      3.5%   
Insurance      3.5%   
Diversified Telecommunication Services      3.2%   
Biotechnology      3.1%   
Construction & Engineering      2.8%   
Chemicals      2.4%   
Wireless Telecommunication Services      1.9%   
Energy Equipment & Services      1.7%   
Other      19.8%   

 

 

 

1 As a percentage of total investments (excluding short-term investments and investments in derivatives). Holdings are subject to change.

 

2 As a percentage of total investments (excluding investments in derivatives). Holdings are subject to change.

 

3 As a percentage of total corporate debt holdings. Corporate debt holdings include corporate bonds (high-yield investment grade rated), convertible bonds, and any other debt instruments issued by a corporation (or that references a corporation) held by the Fund. Holdings are subject to change.

 

4 Denominated in U.S. Dollars.

 

  12       Nuveen Investments


Expense Examples

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including up-front and back-end sales charges (loads) or redemption fees, where applicable; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees, where applicable; and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The Example below is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held through the period.

The information under “Actual Performance,” together with the amount you invested, allows you to estimate actual expenses incurred over the reporting period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.60) and multiply the result by the cost shown for your share class, in the row entitled “Expenses Incurred During Period” to estimate the expenses incurred on your account during this period.

The information under “Hypothetical Performance,” provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expense you incurred for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund 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 transaction costs. Therefore, the hypothetical information is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds or share classes. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

    Actual Performance         Hypothetical Performance
(5% annualized return before expenses)
 
      A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares           A Shares     C Shares     R3 Shares     I Shares  
Beginning Account Value (7/01/12)   $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00          $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00      $ 1,000.00   
Ending Account Value (12/31/12)   $ 1,093.60      $ 1,091.50      $ 1,093.60      $ 1,096.10          $ 1,020.32      $ 1,016.53      $ 1,019.06      $ 1,021.58   
Expenses Incurred During Period   $ 5.12      $ 9.07      $ 6.44      $ 3.80          $ 4.94      $ 8.74      $ 6.21      $ 3.67   

For each class of the Fund, expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratio of .97%, 1.72%, 1.22% and .72% for Classes A, C, R3, and I, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 184/365 (to reflect the one-half year period).

 

Nuveen Investments     13   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund

December 31, 2012

 

Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
                  
 

CORPORATE BONDS – 40.5%

                
 

Aerospace & Defense – 0.1%

                
$ 20     

Huntington Ingalls Industries Inc., 144A

    7.125%           3/15/21           BB         $ 21,750   
 

Airlines – 0.1%

                
  25     

Delta Air Lines Pass Through Certificates, Series 2012-1B

    6.875%           5/07/19           BB           26,031   
 

Auto Components – 0.5%

                
  45     

American & Axle Manufacturing Inc.

    6.625%           10/15/22           B           45,675   
  20     

Dana Holding Corporation

    6.500%           2/15/19           BB           21,350   
  25     

Pittsburgh Glass Works LLC, 144A

    8.500%           4/15/16           B+           23,000   
  90     

Total Auto Components

                                     90,025   
 

Automobiles – 0.2%

                
  30     

Chrysler GP/CG Company

    8.000%           6/15/19           B           32,700   
 

Biotechnology – 1.3%

                
  200     

Sinopec Group Overseas Development 2012, 144A

    3.900%           5/17/22           Aa3           216,032   
  20     

STHI Holding Corporation, 144A

    8.000%           3/15/18           B           21,650   
  220     

Total Biotechnology

                                     237,682   
 

Building Products – 0.5%

                
  25     

Corporativo Javer S.A. de C.V., 144A

    9.875%           4/06/21           B1           26,750   
  25     

Roofing Supply Group LLC Finance, 144A

    10.000%           6/01/20           B3           28,000   
  25     

USG Corporation, 144A

    8.375%           10/15/18           BB–           27,750   
  75     

Total Building Products

                                     82,500   
 

Capital Markets – 3.3%

                
  125     

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    6.000%           6/15/20           A           148,527   
  175     

Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Company

    4.875%           11/01/22           BBB+           181,194   
  70     

Morgan Stanley

    6.625%           4/01/18           A           82,500   
  125     

Morgan Stanley

    5.500%           7/24/20           A           140,626   
  25     

UBS AG Stamford

    4.875%           8/04/20           A           29,049   
  520     

Total Capital Markets

                                     581,896   
 

Chemicals – 1.0%

                
  25     

Hexion US Finance

    6.625%           4/15/20           Ba3           25,438   
  25     

Huntsman International LLC, Convertible Bond, Series 2011

    8.625%           3/15/21           B+           28,563   
  70     

Ineos Finance PLC, 144A

    7.500%           5/01/20           B+           73,325   
  50     

Taminco Global Chemical Corporation, 144A

    9.750%           3/31/20           B–           54,750   
  170     

Total Chemicals

                                     182,076   
 

Commercial Banks – 0.6%

                
  25     

HSBC Holdings PLC

    6.800%           6/01/38           A+           31,972   
  35     

Rabobank Nederland

    3.875%           2/08/22           Aa2           37,664   
  40     

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    6.125%           12/15/22           BBB–           42,219   
  100     

Total Commercial Banks

                                     111,855   
 

Commercial Services & Supplies – 0.2%

                
  27     

Ceridian Corporation, 144A

    8.875%           7/15/19           B1           29,295   
 

Communications Equipment – 0.1%

                
  20     

Goodman Networks Inc., 144A

    12.125%           7/01/18           B           21,900   
 

Computers & Peripherals – 0.4%

                
  30     

Hewlett Packard Company

    4.650%           12/09/21           A–           30,117   

 

  14       Nuveen Investments


Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
                  
 

Computers & Peripherals (continued)

                
$ 30     

Seagate HDD Cayman

    7.000%           11/01/21           BB+         $ 32,175   
  60     

Total Computers & Peripherals

                                     62,292   
 

Construction & Engineering – 1.2%

                
  200     

Odebrecht Finance Limited, 144A

    5.125%           6/26/22           BBB–           217,000   
 

Consumer Finance – 1.1%

                
  30     

Capital One Bank

    8.800%           7/15/19           Baa1           40,623   
  35     

Discover Financial Services

    5.200%           4/27/22           BBB           39,855   
  100     

Ford Motor Credit Company

    6.625%           8/15/17           Baa3           116,847   
  165     

Total Consumer Finance

                                     197,325   
 

Containers & Packaging – 0.6%

                
  5     

Intertape Polymer US Inc.

    8.500%           8/01/14           CCC+           5,000   
  100     

Reynolds Group, 144A

    7.125%           4/15/19           B+           107,500   
  105     

Total Containers & Packaging

                                     112,500   
 

Diversified Financial Services – 4.9%

                
  115     

Bank of America Corporation

    5.875%           1/05/21           A           137,687   
  100     

Bank of America Corporation

    5.700%           1/24/22           A           120,255   
  50     

Bank of America Corporation

    5.750%           12/01/17           A           58,280   
  80     

Citigroup Inc.

    5.375%           8/09/20           A           94,276   
  30     

Citigroup Inc.

    6.125%           8/25/36           BBB+           32,696   
  30     

General Electric Capital Corporation

    5.300%           2/11/21           AA           34,823   
  25     

General Electric Capital Corporation

    6.875%           1/10/39           AA+           33,982   
  105     

JPMorgan Chase & Company

    4.350%           8/15/21           A+           117,415   
  150     

JPMorgan Chase & Company

    4.500%           1/24/22           A+           169,686   
  45     

JPMorgan Chase & Company

    6.400%           5/15/38           A+           60,322   
  730     

Total Diversified Financial Services

                                     859,422   
 

Diversified Telecommunication Services – 1.4%

                
  25     

AT&T, Inc.

    5.550%           8/15/41           A2           30,003   
  35     

Brasil Telecom S.A., 144A

    5.750%           2/10/22           BBB           36,488   
  20     

CyrusOne LP Finance, 144A

    6.375%           11/15/22           B+           20,850   
  150     

Deutsche Telekom International Finance BV, 144A

    4.875%           3/06/42           BBB+           160,123   
  230     

Total Diversified Telecommunication Services

                                     247,464   
 

Electric Utilities – 0.3%

                
  55     

APT Pipelines Limited, 144A

    3.875%           10/11/22           BBB           54,772   
 

Energy Equipment & Services – 0.8%

                
  20     

Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc.

    5.700%           10/15/39           A–           25,657   
  20     

NGPL PipeCo LLC

    7.119%           12/15/17           Ba3           21,800   
  30     

Offshore Group Investment Limited, 144A

    7.500%           11/01/19           B–           30,300   
  25     

Precision Drilling Corporation

    6.500%           12/15/21           Ba1           26,625   
  25     

Weatherford International Limited

    7.000%           3/15/38           Baa2           28,857   
  120     

Total Energy Equipment & Services

                                     133,239   
 

Food Products – 1.6%

                
  200     

BRF Brasil Foods S.A., 144A

    5.875%           6/06/22           BBB–           220,500   
  20     

JBS USA LLC

    7.250%           6/01/21           BB           20,050   
  40     

Tyson Foods

    4.500%           6/15/22           BBB           43,301   
  260     

Total Food Products

                                     283,851   

 

Nuveen Investments     15   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
                  
 

Gas Utilities – 0.2%

                
$ 25     

AmeriGas Finance LLC

    6.750%           5/20/20           Ba2         $ 27,438   
 

Health Care Equipment & Supplies – 0.1%

                
  20     

Biomet Inc., 144A

    6.500%           8/01/20           B–           21,250   
 

Health Care Providers & Services – 0.6%

                
  30     

Amsurg Corporation, 144A

    5.625%           11/30/20           Ba3           31,200   
  20     

Community Health Systems, Inc.

    8.000%           11/15/19           B           21,650   
  25     

HCA Holdings Inc.

    7.750%           5/15/21           B–           27,125   
  25     

Kindred Healthcare Inc., Term Loan

    8.250%           6/01/19           B–           24,313   
  100     

Total Health Care Providers & Services

                                     104,288   
 

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure – 0.3%

                
  25     

Graton Economic Development Authority, 144A

    9.625%           9/01/19           B           26,781   
  25     

Shearer’s Foods LLC, 144A

    9.000%           11/01/19           B           26,250   
  50     

Total Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

                                     53,031   
 

Household Durables – 0.2%

                
  25     

Beazer Homes USA, Inc.

    9.125%           6/15/18           CCC+           26,063   
 

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders – 0.5%

                
  25     

Constellation Energy Group

    5.150%           12/01/20           BBB+           28,578   
  20     

GenOn Energy

    9.500%           10/15/18           B           23,600   
  25     

NRG Energy Inc.

    7.875%           5/15/21           BB           27,750   
  70     

Total Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders

                                     79,928   
 

Industrial Conglomerates – 0.1%

                
  20     

Abengoa Finance SAU, 144A

    8.875%           11/01/17           B+           18,800   
 

Insurance – 1.1%

                
  30     

Allied World Assurance Holdings Limited

    7.500%           8/01/16           A–           35,446   
  35     

Hartford Financial Services Group Inc.

    6.000%           1/15/19           BBB           40,763   
  30     

Liberty Mutual Group Inc., 144A

    4.950%           5/01/22           Baa2           32,697   
  25     

MetLife Inc.

    6.750%           6/01/16           A–           29,609   
  20     

Prudential Financial Inc.

    5.500%           3/15/16           A           22,566   
  35     

Swiss Re Treasury US Corporation, 144A

    4.250%           12/06/42           AA–           34,683   
  175     

Total Insurance

                                     195,764   
 

IT Services – 0.1%

                
  20     

First Data Corporation

    6.750%           11/01/20           BB–           20,200   
 

Machinery – 0.6%

                
  40     

Terex Corporation

    6.000%           5/15/21           B+           42,100   
  55     

Turlock Corporation

    4.150%           11/02/42           A–           55,622   
  95     

Total Machinery

                                     97,722   
 

Media – 2.1%

                
  20     

Comcast Corporation

    6.400%           5/15/38           BBB+           25,554   
  55     

DIRECTV Holdings LLC

    5.200%           3/15/20           BBB           62,415   
  25     

LIN Television Corporation

    8.375%           4/15/18           B–           27,375   
  30     

NBC Universal Media LLC

    4.375%           4/01/21           BBB+           33,700   
  35     

NBC Universal Media LLC

    2.875%           1/15/23           BBB+           35,149   
  20     

News America Holdings Inc.

    6.650%           11/15/37           BBB+           25,844   
  40     

Time Warner Inc.

    6.100%           7/15/40           BBB           48,429   

 

  16       Nuveen Investments


Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
                  
 

Media (continued)

                
$ 28     

Viacom Inc.

    4.375%           3/15/43           BBB+         $ 27,544   
  60     

Vivendi S.A., 144A

    4.750%           4/12/22           BBB           62,336   
  25     

WMG Acquisition Group, 144A

    6.000%           1/15/21           Ba2           26,375   
  338     

Total Media

                                     374,721   
 

Metals & Mining – 4.0%

                
  55     

Alcoa Inc.

    5.400%           4/15/21           BBB–           57,245   
  25     

Anglogold Holdings PLC

    6.500%           4/15/40           Baa2           25,731   
  85     

ArcelorMittal

    6.500%           2/25/22           BB+           89,209   
  100     

Bumi Investment PTE Limited, 144A

    10.750%           10/06/17           B+           88,500   
  70     

Cliffs Natural Resources Inc.

    4.800%           10/01/20           BBB–           69,566   
  50     

FMG Resources, 144A

    6.000%           4/01/17           BB+           51,000   
  25     

Freeport McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc.

    3.550%           3/01/22           BBB           24,794   
  25     

IAMGOLD Corproation, 144A

    6.750%           10/01/20           BB–           24,375   
  45     

Inmet Mining Corporation, 144A

    8.750%           6/01/20           B+           49,163   
  100     

Northland Resources AB

    13.000%           3/06/17           B–           102,000   
  20     

Taseko Mines Limited

    7.750%           4/15/19           B           19,250   
  35     

Teck Resources Limited

    6.250%           7/15/41           BBB           41,169   
  25     

Vale Overseas Limited

    6.875%           11/10/39           A–           31,345   
  35     

WPE International Cooperatief U.A., 144A

    10.375%           9/30/20           B+           30,100   
  695     

Total Metals & Mining

                                     703,447   
 

Multiline Retail – 0.2%

                
  50     

J.C. Penney Corporation Inc.

    5.650%           6/01/20           BB–           43,375   
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels – 6.6%

                
  25     

Alpha Natural Resources Inc.

    6.000%           6/01/19           B+           23,000   
  20     

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation

    6.200%           3/15/40           BBB–           24,670   
  80     

Apache Corporation

    4.250%           1/15/44           A–           81,734   
  30     

Athabasca Oil Corporation, 144A

    7.500%           11/19/17           B           30,259   
  25     

Bill Barrett Corporation

    7.000%           10/15/22           BB–           25,750   
  100     

Bumi Capital Pte Limited, 144A

    12.000%           11/10/16           B+           94,500   
  25     

Calumet Specialty Products

    9.375%           5/01/19           B           27,125   
  25     

Chesapeake Energy Corporation

    9.500%           2/15/15           BB–           28,250   
  20     

Crosstex Energy Finance

    8.875%           2/15/18           B+           21,600   
  25     

Deep Drilling Company

    14.250%           3/05/15           N/R           26,126   
  25     

Drill Rigs Holdings Inc., 144A

    6.500%           10/01/17           B           24,875   
  25     

Halcon Resources Limited Liability Corporation, 144A

    9.750%           7/15/20           B3           27,000   
  20     

Kodiak Oil and Gas Corporation, 144A

    8.125%           12/01/19           B–           22,050   
  20     

Linn Energy LLC Finance Corporation, 144A

    6.250%           11/01/19           B           20,100   
  25     

MEG Energy Corportation, 144A

    6.375%           1/30/23           BB           26,063   
  25     

Niska Gas Storage US LLC

    8.875%           3/15/18           B+           25,688   
  30     

Noble Energy Inc.

    4.150%           12/15/21           BBB           33,118   
  25     

Northern Tier Energy LLC, 144A

    7.125%           11/15/20           BB–           25,875   
  25     

OGX Petroleo e Gas Participacoes S.A., 144A

    8.500%           6/01/18           B1           22,500   
  20     

Paramount Resources Limited, 144A

    7.625%           12/04/19           B           20,107   
  50     

Petrobras International Finance Company

    5.375%           1/27/21           A3           56,291   

 

Nuveen Investments     17   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
                  
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)

                
$ 50     

Petrobras International Finance Company

    6.875%           1/20/40           A3         $ 63,518   
  250     

Reliance Holdings USA Inc., 144A

    5.400%           2/14/22           BBB           279,611   
  25     

Sabine Pass LNG LP

    7.500%           11/30/16           BB+           27,563   
  25     

Sandridge Energy Inc.

    8.125%           10/15/22           B           27,375   
  25     

SM Energy Company

    6.625%           2/15/19           BB           26,375   
  25     

United Refining Inc., 144A

    10.500%           2/28/18           B           27,125   
  25     

Valero Energy Corporation

    6.125%           2/01/20           BBB           30,400   
  1,090     

Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

                                     1,168,648   
 

Paper & Forest Products – 0.6%

                
  25     

Ainsworth Lumber Limited, 144A

    7.500%           12/15/17           B           26,188   
  30     

International Paper Company

    8.700%           6/15/38           BBB           44,587   
  25     

Tembec Industries, Inc.

    11.250%           12/15/18           B–           26,500   
  80     

Total Paper & Forest Products

                                     97,275   
 

Pharmaceuticals – 0.2%

                
  25     

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, 144A

    6.375%           10/15/20           BB–           26,813   
 

Real Estate Investment Trust – 0.7%

                
  20     

Boston Properties Limited Partnership

    4.125%           5/15/21           A–           21,737   
  30     

HCP Inc.

    3.750%           2/01/19           BBB+           31,660   
  15     

Prologis Inc.

    6.875%           3/15/20           Baa2           18,158   
  20     

Simon Property Group, L.P.

    5.650%           2/01/20           A–           24,000   
  30     

Vornado Realty L.P.

    4.250%           4/01/15           BBB           31,710   
  115     

Total Real Estate Investment Trust

                                     127,265   
 

Real Estate Management & Development – 0.1%

                
  25     

Mattamy Group Corporation, 144A

    6.500%           11/15/20           BB           25,063   
 

Road & Rail – 0.2%

                
  30     

Hertz Corporation

    7.375%           1/15/21           B           33,000   
 

Semiconductors & Equipment – 0.2%

                
  25     

Freescale Semiconductor Inc.

    9.250%           4/15/18           B1           27,313   
 

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods – 0.1%

                
  20     

Jones Group

    6.875%           3/15/19           Ba3           20,800   
 

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance – 0.3%

                
  40     

WEA Finance LLC, 144A

    4.625%           5/10/21           A2           44,788   
 

Tobacco – 0.2%

                
  30     

Reynolds American Inc.

    3.250%           11/01/22           Baa2           30,135   
 

Transportation Infrastructure – 0.2%

                
  35     

Asciano Finance Limited, 144A

    5.000%           4/07/18           Baa2           37,822   
 

Wireless Telecommunication Services – 0.8%

                
  25     

American Tower Company

    5.050%           9/01/20           Baa3           28,036   
  100     

VimpelCom Limited/VIP Finance Ireland, 144A

    9.125%           4/30/18           BB           121,125   
  125     

Total Wireless Telecommunication Services

                                     149,161   
$ 6,545     

Total Corporate Bonds (cost $6,644,017)

                                     7,139,685   

 

  18       Nuveen Investments


Shares     Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
                  
 

CAPITAL PREFERRED SECURITIES – 0.6%

                
 

Capital Markets – 0.4%

                
  75     

Goldman Sachs Capital II

    4.000%           6/01/43           BB+         $ 58,581   
 

Commercial Banks – 0.2%

                
  30     

Rabobank Nederland, 144A

    11.000%           12/31/59           A–           40,575   
  105     

Total Capital Preferred Securities (cost $115,618)

                                     99,156   
Shares     Description (1)   Coupon                   Ratings (2)        Value  
 

$25 PAR (OR SIMILAR) PREFERRED SECURITIES – 2.4%

                
 

Commercial Banks – 0.6%

                
  2,400     

PNC Financial Services

    6.125%                BBB         $ 66,504   
  2,000     

Regions Financial Corporation

    6.375%                      BB           49,420   
 

Total Commercial Banks

                                     115,924   
 

Consumer Finance – 0.4%

                
  3,000     

Discover Financial Services

    6.500%                      BB           75,750   
 

Diversified Financial Services – 0.8%

                
  75     

Bank of America Corporation

    7.250%                BB+           85,125   
  50,000     

Citigroup Inc., (8)

    5.950%                      BB           50,625   
 

Total Diversified Financial Services

                                     135,750   
 

Insurance – 0.4%

                
  2,400     

Hartford Financial Services Group Inc.

    7.875%                      BB+           68,904   
 

IT Services – 0.2%

                
  25,000     

Zayo Escrow Corporation, (8)

    8.125%                      B1           27,812   
 

Total $25 Par (or similar) Preferred Securities (cost $385,749)

                                     424,140   
Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
 

ASSET BACKED AND MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES – 10.4%

                
$ 92     

Banc of America Alternative Loan Trust, Pass Through Certificates, Series 2006-6

    6.000%           7/25/46           Aaa         $ 75,637   
  56     

Countrywide Home Loans Mortgage, Series 2005-27

    5.500%           1/25/23           Aaa           52,606   
  145     

Fannie Mae TBA Mortgage Pool, (WI/DD)

    4.500%           TBA           Aaa           156,628   
  680     

Fannie Mae TBA Mortgage Pool, (WI/DD)

    4.000%           TBA           Aaa           728,875   
  535     

Fannie Mae TBA Mortgage Pool, (WI/DD)

    3.500%           TBA           Aaa           570,381   
  250     

Holmes Master Issuer PLC, Residential Mortgage Pool,
Series 2012-1A, 144A

    1.990%           10/15/54           AAA           255,956   
$ 1,758     

Total Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities (cost $1,836,267)

  

                  1,840,083   
Principal
Amount (000) (3)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
 

SOVEREIGN DEBT – 41.0%

                
 

Argentina – 0.5%

                
$ 100              

Republic of Argentina International Bond

    8.750%           6/02/17           B         $ 88,500   
 

Australia – 0.7%

                
  100 AUD     

Australian Government Bond

    5.750%           5/15/21           AAA           123,703   

 

Nuveen Investments     19   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Principal
Amount (000) (3)
    Description (1)   Coupon        Maturity        Ratings (2)        Value  
                  
 

Brazil – 0.9%

                
$ 130              

Federative Republic of Brazil

    4.875%           1/22/21           Baa2         $ 156,650   
 

Canada – 3.5%

                
  250 CAD     

Canadian Government Bond, (4)

    3.250%           6/01/21           AAA           281,633   
  300 CAD     

Province of Ontario, Canada Municipal Bond

    4.200%           3/08/18           Aa2           334,412   
  550 CAD     

Total Canada

                                     616,045   
 

Finland – 2.2%

                
  250  EUR     

Finland Government Bond

    3.375%           4/15/20           AAA           382,726   
 

Indonesia – 0.7%

                
  100              

Republic of Indonesia, 144A

    5.875%           3/13/20           Baa3           120,250   
 

Italy – 1.2%

                
  150   EUR     

Buoni Poliennali del Tesoro, Italian Treasury Bond

    4.750%           6/01/17           Baa2           210,734   
 

Mexico – 7.1%

                
  60 MXN     

Mexico Bonos de DeSarrollo

    9.500%           12/18/14           A–           505,225   
  50 MXN     

Mexico Bonos de DeSarrollo

    6.250%           6/16/16           A–           402,316   
  25 MXN     

Mexico Bonos de DeSarrollo

    5.000%           6/15/17           A–           192,334   
  17 MXN     

Mexico Bonos de DeSarrollo

    8.000%           12/07/23           A–           159,085   
  152 MXN     

Total Mexico

                                     1,258,960   
 

Netherlands – 0.9%

                
  100   EUR     

Netherlands Government

    3.750%           1/15/23           Aaa           158,706   
 

New Zealand – 1.9%

                
  350  NZD     

New Zealand Government

    6.000%           12/15/17           Aaa           329,990   
 

Norway – 2.7%

                
  2,300 NOK     

Norway Government Bond

    3.750%           5/25/21           AAA           471,584   
 

Philipines – 0.6%

                
  100              

Republic of the Philippines

    4.000%           1/15/21           Ba1           112,250   
 

Poland – 1.0%

                
  150              

Republic of Poland

    5.000%           3/23/22           A2           177,150   
 

South Africa – 2.0%

                
  2,800   ZAR     

Republic of South Africa

    7.250%           1/15/20           A           348,298   
 

Sweden – 2.0%

                
  2,000   SEK     

Swedish Government

    3.500%           6/01/22           AAA           360,049   
 

Turkey – 4.2%

                
  185   TRY     

Republic of Turkey Government Bond

    10.500%           6/15/20           BBB–           126,838   
  1,000   TRY     

Republic of Turkey Government Bond

    9.000%           3/08/17           BBB–           614,368   
  1,185   TRY     

Total Turkey

                                     741,206   
 

Ukraine – 0.6%

                
  100              

Republic of Ukraine, 144A

    7.750%           9/23/20           B           102,750   
 

United Kingdom – 8.3%

                
  250  GBP     

United Kingdom, Gilt

    3.750%           9/07/19           AAA           472,348   
  350  GBP     

United Kingdom, Gilt

    3.750%           9/07/21           AAA           667,774   
  100  GBP     

United Kingdom, Gilt

    4.000%           9/07/16           AAA           182,864   
  70  GBP     

United Kingdom, Gilt

    4.250%           9/07/39           Aaa           138,805   
  770  GBP     

Total United Kingdom

                                     1,461,791   
 

Total Sovereign Debt (cost $6,831,161)

                                     7,221,342   

 

  20       Nuveen Investments


Principal
Amount (000)
    Description (1)            Coupon        Maturity        Value  
                  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 11.1%

                
 

Repurchase Agreements – 11.1%

                
$ 1,963     

Repurchase Agreement with State Street Bank, dated 12/31/12, repurchase price $1,962,744, collateralized by $1,920,000 U.S. Treasury Notes, 1.500%, due 7/31/16, value $2,002,474

           0.010%           1/02/13         $ 1,962,743   
 

Total Short-Term Investments (cost $1,962,743)

                                 1,962,743   
 

Total Investments (cost $17,775,555) – 106.0%

                                 18,687,149   
 

Other Assets Less Liabilities – (6.0)% (5)

                                 (1,058,143)   
 

Net Assets – 100%

                               $ 17,629,006   

Investments in Derivatives as of December 31, 2012

Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts outstanding:

 

Counterparty   Currency Contracts to Deliver    Amount
(Local Currency)
     In Exchange
For Currency
     Amount
(Local Currency)
     Settlement
Date
     Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
(U.S. Dollars) (5)
 

Barclays Bank PLC

  U.S. Dollar      456,056         Malaysian Ringgit         1,400,000         1/28/13       $ 814   

Citigroup

  Swedish Krona      2,300,000         U.S. Dollar         345,618         1/18/13         (7,899

Citigroup

  Swedish Krona      3,300,000         U.S. Dollar         493,384         1/18/13         (13,837

Citigroup

  U.S. Dollar      175,721         Australian Dollar         170,000         1/16/13         618   

Citigroup

  U.S. Dollar      485,465         Swedish Krona         3,300,000         1/18/13         21,755   

Citigroup

  U.S. Dollar      443,180         Canadian Dollar         440,000         1/31/13         (1,136

Citigroup

  U.S. Dollar      488,506         South Korean Won         527,000,000         2/19/13         2,225   

Credit Suisse

  U.S. Dollar      177,097         Chilean Peso         86,000,000         1/29/13         1,776   

Credit Suisse

  U.S. Dollar      491,223         Norwegian Krone         2,800,000         2/04/13         11,903   

JPMorgan

  New Zealand Dollar      400,000         U.S. Dollar         336,498         2/22/13         7,061   

JPMorgan

  U.S. Dollar      477,502         South Korean Won         520,000,000         2/04/13         7,094   

JPMorgan

  U.S. Dollar      90,269         Indian Rupee         5,000,000         2/11/13         218   

JPMorgan

  U.S. Dollar      328,048         Indian Rupee         18,000,000         2/11/13         (2,293

JPMorgan

  U.S. Dollar      398,767         Indian Rupee         22,000,000         2/11/13         (622

JPMorgan

  U.S. Dollar      328,052         New Zealand Dollar         400,000         2/22/13         1,385   

Morgan Stanley

  Euro      250,000         U.S. Dollar         330,383         1/07/13         376   

Morgan Stanley

  Euro      1,100,000         U.S. Dollar         1,457,412         1/07/13         5,382   

Morgan Stanley

  U.S. Dollar      339,076         Euro         260,000         1/07/13         4,131   

Morgan Stanley

  U.S. Dollar      504,773         Euro         390,000         1/07/13         10,038   

Morgan Stanley

  U.S. Dollar      1,309,580         Euro         1,000,000         1/07/13         10,447   

Morgan Stanley

  U.S. Dollar      319,707         Mexican Peso         4,203,250         1/29/13         4,555   

Morgan Stanley

  U.S. Dollar      1,041,065         Canadian Dollar         1,037,223         1/31/13         978   

Morgan Stanley

  U.S. Dollar      161,354         British Pound Sterling         100,000         2/06/13         1,074   
                                             $ 66,043   

Credit Default Swaps outstanding:

 

Counterparty   Reference Entity   Buy/Sell
Protection (6)
    Current
Credit
Spread (7)
    Notional
Amount
    Fixed
Rate
(Annualized)
    Termination
Date
    Value
(U.S. Dollars)
    Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
(U.S. Dollars) (5)
 

JPMorgan

  ITRAXX Europe Crossover Index     Sell        4.83        500,000 EUR        5.000     12/20/17      $ 5,718      $ 8,030   

 

Nuveen Investments     21   


Portfolio of Investments (Unaudited)

Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund (continued)

December 31, 2012

 

Investments in Derivatives as of December 31, 2012 (continued)

Futures Contracts oustanding:

 

Type    Contract
Position
     Number of
Contracts
    Contract
Expiration
     Notional*
Value
(U.S. Dollars)
    Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
(U.S. Dollars)
 

Canadian 10-Year Bond

     Long         2        3/13       $ 272,524      $ (1,334

Japanese 10-Year Bond

     Long         1        3/13         1,658,106        (12,817

Long Gilt Future

     Long         2        3/13         386,361        (1,856

U.S. Treasury 10-Year Note

     Short         (19     3/13         (2,522,844     11,455   

U.S. Treasury Long Bond

     Short         (9     3/13         (1,327,500     24,299   

U.S. Ultra Bond

     Short         (1     3/13         (162,594     3,454   
                                       $ 23,201   
* Total Notional Value of Long and Short positions are $2,316,991 and $(4,012,938), respectively.

 

 

  (1)   All percentages shown in the Portfolio of Investments are based on net assets.

 

  (2)   Ratings: Using the highest of Standard & Poor’s Group (“Standard & Poor’s”), Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”) or Fitch, Inc. (“Fitch”) rating. Ratings below BBB by Standard & Poor’s, Baa by Moody’s or BBB by Fitch are considered to be below investment grade. Holdings designated N/R are not rated by any of these national rating agencies.

 

  (3)   Principal Amount (000) denominated in U.S. Dollars, unless otherwise noted.

 

  (4)   Investment, or portion of investment, has been pledged to collateralize the net payment obligations for investments in derivatives.

 

  (5)   Other Assets Less Liabilities includes the Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) of certain derivative instruments as listed within Investments in Derivatives as of the end of the reporting period.

 

  (6)   The Fund entered into the credit default swaps to gain investment exposure to the referenced entity. Selling protection has a similar credit risk position to owning the referenced entity. Buying protection has a similar credit risk position to selling the referenced entity short.

 

  (7)   The credit spread generally serves as an indication of the current status of the payment/performance risk and therefore the likelihood of default of the credit derivative. The credit spread also reflects the cost of buying/selling protection and may include upfront payments required to be made to enter into a credit default swap contract. Higher credit spreads are indicative of higher likelihood of performance by the seller of protection.

 

  (8)   For fair value measurement disclosure purposes, $25 Par (or similar) Preferred Security classified as Level 2. See Notes to Financial Statements, Footnote 1 – General Information and Significant Accounting Policies, Investment Valuation for more information.

 

  N/R   Not rated.

 

  TBA   To be announced. Maturity date not known prior to settlement of this transaction.

 

  WI/DD   Investment, or portion of investment, purchased on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis.

 

  144A   Investment is exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These investments may only be resold in transactions exempt from registration, which are normally those transactions with qualified institutional buyers.

 

  AUD   Austrailian Dollar

 

  CAD   Canadian Dollar

 

  EUR   Euro

 

  GBP   British Pounds

 

  MXN   Mexian Peso

 

  NOK   Norwegian Krone

 

  NZD   New Zealand Dollar

 

  SEK   Swedish Krona

 

  TRY   Turkey Lira

 

  USD   U.S. Dollar

 

  ZAR   South African Rand

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  22       Nuveen Investments


Statement of Assets & Liabilities (Unaudited)

December 31, 2012

 

Assets

        

Investments, at value (cost $15,812,812)

   $ 16,724,406   

Short-term investments (at cost, which approximates value)

     1,962,743   

Cash denominated in foreign currencies (cost $84,425)

     83,742   

Unrealized appreciation on:

  

Credit default swaps

     8,030   

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts

     91,830   

Receivables:

  

Dividends

     2,541   

From Adviser

     2,683   

Interest

     202,328   

Investments sold

     574,823   

Shares sold

     9,910   

Variation margin on futures contracts

     12,423   

Other assets

     90   

Total assets

     19,675,549   

Liabilities

  

Cash overdraft

     195,379   

Credit default swap premiums received

     2,312   

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts

     25,787   

Payables:

  

Dividends

     56,370   

Investments purchased

     1,757,497   

Shares redeemed

     1,050   

Accrued expenses:

  

12b-1 distribution and service fees

     313   

Trustees fees

     91   

Variation margin on futures contracts

     544   

Other

     7,200   

Total liabilities

     2,046,543   

Net assets

   $ 17,629,006   

Class A Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 1,160,509   

Shares outstanding

     51,969   

Net asset value per share

   $ 22.33   

Offering price per share (net asset value per share plus
maximum sales charge of 4.75% of offering price)

   $ 23.44   

Class C Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 76,282   

Shares outstanding

     3,412   

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 22.36   

Class R3 Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 55,926   

Shares outstanding

     2,500   

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 22.37   

Class I Shares

  

Net assets

   $ 16,336,289   

Shares outstanding

     729,226   

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 22.40   

Net assets consist of:

        

Capital paid-in

   $ 15,915,765   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income

     322,404   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     381,398   

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     1,009,439   

Net assets

   $ 17,629,006   

Authorized shares – per class

     Unlimited   

Par value per share

   $ 0.01   

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     23   


Statement of Operations (Unaudited)

Six Months Ended December 31, 2012

 

Dividend and Interest Income

   $ 338,531   

Expenses

  

Management fees

     47,590   

12b-1 service fees – Class A

     879   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class C

     334   

12b-1 distribution and service fees – Class R3

     139   

Shareholder servicing agent fees and expenses

     988   

Custodian fees and expenses

     33,421   

Trustees fees and expenses

     197   

Professional fees

     13,132   

Shareholder reporting expenses

     4,062   

Federal and state registration fees

     8,361   

Other expenses

     2,425   

Total expenses before fee waiver/expense reimbursement

     111,528   

Fee waiver/expense reimbursement

     (49,961

Net expenses

     61,567   

Net investment income (loss)

     276,964   

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

  

Net realized gain (loss) from:

  

Investments and foreign currency

     159,462   

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts

     376,429   

Futures contracts

     3,564   

Options purchased

     6,254   

Options written

     (3,414

Swaps

     38,753   

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of:

  

Investments and foreign currency

     601,371   

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts

     15,435   

Futures contracts

     17,093   

Swaps

     12,249   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     1,227,196   

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

   $ 1,504,160   

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

  24       Nuveen Investments


Statement of Changes in Net Assets (Unaudited)

 

       Six Months
Ended
12/31/12
      

Period 12/02/11

(commencement

of operations)

through 6/30/12

 

Operations

       

Net investment income (loss)

   $ 276,964         $ 292,301   

Net realized gain (loss) from:

       

Investments and foreign currency

     159,462           2,886   

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts

     376,429           324,366   

Futures contracts

     3,564           2,222   

Options purchased

     6,254           (29,297

Options written

     (3,414        2,460   

Swaps

     38,753           119,949   

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of:

       

Investments and foreign currency

     601,371           310,794   

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts

     15,435           50,608   

Futures contracts

     17,093           6,108   

Swaps

     12,249           (4,219

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from operations

     1,504,160           1,078,178   

Distributions to Shareholders

       

From net investment income:

       

Class A

     (14,297        (2,712

Class C

     (1,130        (596

Class R3

     (1,073        (688

Class I

     (343,270        (215,380

From accumulated net realized gains:

       

Class A

     (17,638          

Class C

     (1,263          

Class R3

     (930          

Class I

     (270,907          

Decrease in net assets from distributions to shareholders

     (650,508        (219,376

Fund Share Transactions

       

Proceeds from sale of shares

     1,674,004           14,322,080   

Proceeds from shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions

     51,642           1,978   
     1,725,646           14,324,058   

Cost of shares redeemed

     (132,654        (498

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from Fund share transactions

     1,592,992           14,323,560   

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

     2,446,644           15,182,362   

Net assets at the beginning of period

     15,182,362             

Net assets at the end of period

   $ 17,629,006         $ 15,182,362   

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income at the end of period

   $ 322,404         $ 405,210   

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     25   


Financial Highlights (Unaudited)

 

Selected data for a share outstanding throughout each period:  
Class (Commencement Date)                                            
          Investment Operations     Less Distributions              
                                             
Year Ended
June 30,
  Beginning
Net
Asset
Value
    Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)(a)
    Net
Realized/
Unrealized
Gain
(Loss)
    Total     From
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
    From
Accum-
ulated
Net
Realized
Gains(b)
    Total     Ending
Net
Asset
Value
    Total
Return(c)
 

CLASS A (12/11)

  

             

2013(f)

  $ 21.19      $ .34      $ 1.63      $ 1.97      $ (.46   $ (.37   $ (.83   $ 22.33        9.36

2012(e)

    20.00        .41        1.07        1.48        (.29            (.29     21.19        7.42   

CLASS C (12/11)

  

             

2013(f)

    21.18        .26        1.67        1.93        (.38     (.37     (.75     22.36        9.15   

2012(e)

    20.00        .29        1.13        1.42        (.24            (.24     21.18        7.10   

CLASS R3 (12/11)

  

             

2013(f)

    21.20        .32        1.65        1.97        (.43     (.37     (.80     22.37        9.36   

2012(e)

    20.00        .35        1.13        1.48        (.28            (.28     21.20        7.38   

CLASS I (12/11)

  

             

2013(f)

    21.23        .37        1.65        2.02        (.48     (.37     (.85     22.40        9.61   

2012(e)

    20.00        .42        1.12        1.54        (.31            (.31     21.23        7.71   

 

  26       Nuveen Investments


                                 
                           
Ratios/Supplemental Data  
      Ratios to Average
Net Assets Before
Waiver/Reimbursement
    Ratios to Average
Net Assets After
Waiver/Reimbursement(d)
       
Ending
Net
Assets
(000)
    Expenses     Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Expenses         
Net
Invest-
ment
Income
(Loss)
    Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
         
$ 1,161        1.49 %*      2.58 %*      .97 %*      3.09 %*      87
  310        2.44     1.99     .98     3.46     116   
         
  76        2.32     1.72     1.72     2.32     87   
  53        2.74     1.41     1.72     2.42     116   
         
  56        1.82     2.23     1.22     2.84     87   
  53        2.24     1.91     1.23     2.92     116   
         
  16,336        1.32     2.73     .72     3.33     87   
  14,767        1.74     2.41     .73     3.42     116   
(a) Per share Net Investment Income (Loss) is calculated using the average daily shares method.
(b) Distributions include short-term capital gains, if any.
(c) Total return is the combination of changes in net asset value without any sales charge, reinvested dividend income at net asset value and reinvested capital gains distributions at net asset value, if any. Total returns are not annualized.
(d) After fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement from the Adviser, where applicable.
(e) For the period December 2, 2011 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2012.
(f) For the six months ended December 31, 2012.
* Annualized.

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

Nuveen Investments     27   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

 

1. General Information and Significant Accounting Policies

General Information

Nuveen Investment Trust (the “Trust”), is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The Trust is comprised of the Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund (the “Fund”), as a diversified fund, among others. The Trust was organized as a Massachusetts business trust in 1996.

On December 31, 2012, the Funds’ investment adviser converted from a Delaware corporation to a Delaware limited liability company. As a result, Nuveen Fund Advisers, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc. (“Nuveen”), changed its name to Nuveen Fund Advisers, LLC (the “Adviser”). There were no changes to the identities or roles of any personnel as a result of the change.

The Fund’s investment objective is to seek total return. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in bonds from issuers located around the world. The bonds in which the Fund may invest may be of any maturity and include debt obligations of foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporate debt obligations, including obligations issued by special-purpose entities that are backed by corporate debt obligations; U.S. government securities (securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities), residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities, and asset-backed securities. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 40% of its net assets in non-U.S. issuers and is invested in issuers located in at least three countries (including the U.S.). The Fund may invest in debt obligations issued by governmental and corporate issuers located in emerging markets countries. The Fund invests in securities that are U.S. dollar-denominated and in securities that are denominated in foreign currencies. The Fund invests primarily in securities rated investment grade at the time of purchase or in unrated securities of comparable quality as determined by Nuveen Asset Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Adviser. Up to 30% of the Fund’s net assets may be invested in securities rated lower than investment grade or in unrated securities of comparable quality as determined by the Sub-Adviser (securities commonly referred to as “high yield” or “junk bonds”).

The Fund may invest in certain derivative financial instruments in an attempt to manage market risk, currency risk, credit risk and yield curve risk, to manage the effective maturity or duration of securities in the Fund’s portfolio or for speculative purposes in an effort to enhance returns. The Fund may also use derivatives to gain exposure to non-dollar denominated securities markets to the extent it does not do so through direct investments.

The Fund’s most recent prospectus provides further description of the Fund’s investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).

Investment Valuation

Prices of fixed-income securities, forward foreign currency exchange contracts and swap contracts are provided by a pricing service approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees. These securities are generally classified as Level 2 for fair value measurement purposes. The pricing service establishes a security’s fair value using methods that may include consideration of the following: yields or prices of investments of comparable quality, type of issue, coupon, maturity and rating, market quotes or indications of value from security dealers, evaluations of anticipated cash flows or collateral, general market conditions and other information and analysis, including the obligor’s credit characteristics considered relevant. In pricing certain securities, particularly less liquid and lower quality securities, the pricing service may consider information about a security, its issuer, or market activity provided by the Adviser. These securities are generally classified as Level 2 or Level 3 depending on the priority of the significant inputs.

The value of exchange-traded options are based on the mean of the closing bid and ask prices. Futures contracts are valued using the closing settlement price or, in the absence of such a price, the last traded price. Exchange-traded options and futures contracts are generally classified as Level 1. Options traded in the over-the-counter market are valued using an evaluated mean price and are generally classified as Level 2.

If significant market events occur between the time of determination of the closing price of a foreign security on an exchange and the time that the Fund’s net asset value (NAV) is determined, or if under the Fund’s procedures, the closing price of a foreign security is not deemed to be reliable, the security would be valued at fair value as determined in accordance with procedures established in good faith by the Fund’s Board of Trustees. These securities are generally classified as Level 2 or Level 3 depending on the priority of the significant inputs.

Repurchase agreements are valued at contract amount plus accrued interest, which approximates market value. These securities are generally classified as Level 2.

Certain securities may not be able to be priced by the pre-established pricing methods as described above. Such securities may be valued by the Fund’s Board of Trustees or its designee at fair value. These securities generally include, but are not limited to,

 

  28       Nuveen Investments


restricted securities (securities which may not be publicly sold without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) for which a pricing service is unable to provide a market price; securities whose trading has been formally suspended; debt securities that have gone into default and for which there is no current market quotation; a security whose market price is not available from a pre-established pricing source; a security with respect to which an event has occurred that is likely to materially affect the value of the security after the market has closed but before the calculation of the Fund’s net asset value (as may be the case in non-U.S. markets on which the security is primarily traded) or make it difficult or impossible to obtain a reliable market quotation; and a security whose price, as provided by the pricing service, is not deemed to reflect the security’s fair value. As a general principle, the fair value of a security would appear to be the amount that the owner might reasonably expect to receive for it in a current sale. A variety of factors may be considered in determining the fair value of such securities, which may include consideration of the following: yields or prices of investments of comparable quality, type of issue, coupon, maturity and rating, market quotes or indications of value from security dealers, evaluations of anticipated cash flows or collateral, general market conditions and other information and analysis, including the obligor’s credit characteristics considered relevant. These securities are generally classified as Level 2 or Level 3 depending on the priority of the significant inputs. Regardless of the method employed to value a particular security, all valuations are subject to review by the Fund’s Board of Trustees or its designee.

Refer to Footnote 2 – Fair Value Measurements for further details on the leveling of securities held by the Fund as of the end of the reporting period.

Investment Transactions

Investment transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are determined on the specific identification method, which is the same basis used for federal income tax purposes. Investments purchased on a when-issued/delayed delivery basis may have extended settlement periods. Any investments so purchased are subject to market fluctuation during this period. The Fund has instructed the custodian to earmark securities in the Fund’s portfolio with a current value at least equal to the amount of the when-issued/delayed delivery purchase commitments. As of December 31, 2012, the Fund had outstanding when issued/delayed delivery purchase commitments of $1,756,377.

Investment Income

Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, for foreign securities, when information is available. Interest income, which reflects the amortization of premiums and includes accretion of discounts for financial reporting purposes, is recorded on an accrual basis. Interest income also reflects paydown gains and losses, if any.

Professional Fees

Professional fees presented on the Statement of Operations consist of legal fees incurred in the normal course of operations, audit fees, tax consulting fees and, in some cases, workout expenditures. Workout expenditures are incurred in an attempt to protect or enhance an investment, or to pursue other claims or legal actions on behalf of Fund shareholders. Legal fee refund presented on the Statement of Operations reflects a refund of workout expenditures paid in a prior reporting period, when applicable.

Income Taxes

The Fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net capital gains to shareholders and to otherwise comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required.

For all open tax years and all major taxing jurisdictions, management of the Fund has concluded that there are no significant uncertain tax positions that would require recognition in the financial statements. Open tax years are those that are open for examination by taxing authorities (i.e., generally the last four tax year ends and the interim tax period since then). Furthermore, management of the Fund is also not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders

The Fund declares dividends from its net investment income daily and pays shareholders monthly. Fund shares begin to accrue dividends on the business day after the day when the monies used to purchase Fund shares are collected by the Fund’s transfer agent.

Net realized capital gains from investment transactions, if any, are declared and distributed to shareholders at least annually. Furthermore, capital gains are distributed only to the extent they exceed available capital loss carry forwards.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The amount and timing of distributions are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

Share Classes and Sales Charges

Class A Shares are generally sold with an up-front sales charge and incur a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class A Share purchases of $1 million or more are sold at net asset value without an up-front sales charge but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) if redeemed within eighteen months of purchase. Class C Shares are sold without an up-front sales charge but incur a .75% annual 12b-1 distribution fee and a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class C Shares are subject to a CDSC of 1% if redeemed within twelve months of purchase. Class R3 Shares are sold without an up-front sales charge but incur a .25% annual 12b-1 distribution fee and a .25% annual 12b-1 service fee. Class I Shares are not subject to any sales charge or 12b-1 distribution or service fees.

 

Nuveen Investments     29   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Foreign Currency Transactions

The Fund is authorized to engage in foreign currency exchange transactions, including foreign currency exchange contracts, futures, options and swap contracts. To the extent that the Fund invests in securities and/or contracts that are denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollars, the Fund will be subject to currency risk, which is the risk that an increase in the U.S. dollar relative to the foreign currency will reduce returns or portfolio value. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, the Fund’s investments denominated in that currency will lose value because its currency is worth fewer U.S. dollars; the opposite effect occurs if the U.S. dollar falls in relative value. Investments and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars on a spot (i.e. cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market at the time of valuation. Purchases and sales of investments and income denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars on the respective dates of such transactions.

The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Foreign currencies, assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. Investment transactions, income and expenses are translated on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include foreign currency gains and losses between trade date and settlement date of the transactions, foreign currency transactions, and the difference between the amounts of interest and dividends recorded on the books of the Fund and the amounts actually received.

The realized gains and losses resulting from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in foreign exchange rates associated with other assets and liabilities on investments, forward foreign currency exchange contracts, futures, options purchased, options written and swap contracts are recognized as a component of “Net realized gain (loss) from investments and foreign currency” on the Statement of Operations.

The unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in foreign exchange rates associated with other assets and liabilities on investments are recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments and foreign currency” on the Statement of Operations, when applicable. The unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in foreign exchange rates associated with forward foreign currency exchange contracts, futures, options purchased, options written and swap contracts are recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (deprecation) of forward foreign currency exchange contracts, futures and swaps, respectively” on the Statement of Operations, when applicable.

Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts

The Fund is subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives and is authorized to enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts in an attempt to manage such risk under two circumstances: (i) when a Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security denominated in a foreign currency to “lock in” the U.S. exchange rate of the transaction, with such period being a short-dated contract covering the period between transaction date and settlement date; or (ii) when the Sub-Adviser, believes that the currency of a particular foreign country may experience a substantial movement against the U.S. dollar or against another foreign currency. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued daily at the forward rate and are recognized as a component of “Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The change in value of the contracts during the reporting period is recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of forward foreign currency exchange contracts” on the Statement of Operations. When the contract is closed or offset with the same counterparty, the Fund recognizes the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was entered and the value at the time it was closed or offset as a component of “Net realized gain (loss) from forward foreign currency exchange contracts” on the Statement of Operations.

Forward foreign currency exchange contracts will generally not be entered into for terms greater than three months, but may have maturities of up to six months or more. The use of forward foreign currency exchange contracts does not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the Fund’s investment securities; however, it does establish a rate of exchange that can be achieved in the future. The use of forward foreign currency exchange contracts involves the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted. A forward foreign currency exchange contract would limit the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of a particular currency; however, it also would limit any potential gain that might result should the value of the currency increase instead of decrease. These contracts may involve market risk in excess of the unrealized gain or loss reflected on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are subject to counterparty risk if the counterparty fails to perform as specified in the contract due to financial impairment or other reason.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Fund invested in forward foreign currency exchange contracts to gain exposure to selected foreign currencies, and in some cases, to hedge the currency risk present in a foreign bond.

The average number of forward foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding during the six months ended December 31, 2012, was as follows:

 

Average number of forward foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding*

     24   
* The average number of outstanding contracts is calculated based on the outstanding contracts at the beginning of the fiscal year and at the end of each fiscal quarter within the current fiscal year.

Refer to Footnote 3 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities for further details on forward foreign currency exchange contract activity.

 

  30       Nuveen Investments


Futures Contracts

The Fund is subject to interest rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives and is authorized to invest in futures contracts in attempt to manage such risk. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund is required to deposit with the broker an amount of cash or liquid securities equal to a specified percentage of the contract amount. This is known as the “initial margin.” Cash held by the broker to cover initial margin requirements on open futures contracts, if any, is recognized as “Deposits with brokers for open futures contracts” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Subsequent payments (“variation margin”) are made or received by the Fund each day, depending on the daily fluctuation of the value of the contract. Variation margin is recognized as a receivable or payable for “Variation margin on futures contracts” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, when applicable.

During the period the futures contract is open, changes in the value of the contract are recognized as an unrealized gain or loss by “marking-to-market” on a daily basis to reflect the changes in market value of the contract, which is recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts” on the Statement of Operations. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract on the closing date and value of the contract when originally entered into, which is recognized as a component of “Net realized gain (loss) from futures contracts” on the Statement of Operations.

Risks of investments in futures contracts include the possible adverse movement in the price of the securities or indices underlying the contracts, the possibility that there may not be a liquid secondary market for the contracts and/or that a change in the value of the contract may not correlate with a change in the value of the underlying securities or indices.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Fund invested in U.S. Treasury futures to hedge against potential increases in U.S. interest rates and select foreign bond futures to gain exposure to those markets. The Fund also invested in foreign currency futures to manage foreign currency exposure. For example, to reduce unwanted currency exposure from the portfolio, a short foreign currency future would be acquired.

The average number of futures contracts outstanding during the six months ended December 31, 2012, was as follows:

 

Average number of futures contracts outstanding*

     36   
* The average number of outstanding contracts is calculated based on the outstanding contracts at the beginning of the fiscal year and at the end of each fiscal quarter within the current fiscal year.

Refer to Footnote 3 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities for further details on futures contract activity.

Options Transactions

The Fund is subject to foreign currency risk and interest rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives and is authorized to purchase and write (sell) call and put options on securities, futures contracts, swaps (“swaptions”) or currencies in an attempt to manage such risk. The purchase of options and/or swaptions involves the risk of loss of all or a part of the cash paid for the options (the premium). The market risk associated with purchasing options and/or swaptions is limited to the premium paid. The counterparty credit risk of purchasing options and/or swaptions, however, needs also to take into account the current value of the option, as this is the performance expected from the counterparty. When the Fund purchases an option and/or swaption, an amount equal to the premium paid (the premium plus commission) is recognized as a component of “Options and/or Swaptions purchased, at value” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the Fund writes an option and/or swaption, an amount equal to the net premium received (the premium less commission) is recognized as a component of “Options and/or Swaptions written, at value” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently adjusted to reflect the current value of the written option and/or swaption until the option and/or swaption is exercised or expires or the Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction. The changes in the value of options and/or swaptions purchased during the reporting period are recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of options and/or swaptions purchased” on the Statement of Operations. The changes in the value of options and/or swaptions written during the reporting period are recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of options and/or swaptions written” on the Statement of Operations. When an option and/or swaption is exercised or expires or the Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction, the difference between the net premium received and any amount paid at expiration or on executing a closing purchase transaction, including commission, is recognized as a component of “Net realized gain (loss) from options and/or swaptions purchased and/or written” on the Statement of Operations. The Fund, as a writer of an option has no control over whether the underlying instrument may be sold (called) or purchased (put) and as a result bears the risk of an unfavorable change in the market value of the instrument underlying the written option and/or swaption. There is also the risk the Fund may not be able to enter into a closing transaction because of an illiquid market.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Fund purchased and wrote options on note and bond futures as part of an overall portfolio interest rate strategy. For example, call options were purchased to hedge the portfolio against adverse interest rate movements while limiting downside exposure to a portfolio. During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Fund did not have any transactions in swaptions.

The average number of options contracts outstanding during the six months ended December 31, 2012, were as follows:

 

Average number of purchased option contracts outstanding*

     3   

Average number of written option contracts outstanding*

     ** 
* The average number of option contracts is calculated based on the outstanding contracts at the beginning of the fiscal year and at the end of each fiscal quarter within the current fiscal year.
** Rounds to less than 1.

 

Nuveen Investments     31   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Refer to Footnote 3 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities and Footnote 5 – Investment Transactions for further details on option activity.

Swap Contracts

The Fund is authorized to enter into swap contracts consistent with its investment objectives and policies to reduce, increase or otherwise alter its risk profile or to alter its portfolio characteristics (i.e. duration, yield curve positioning and credit quality).

Credit Default Swaps

The Fund is subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. The Fund may enter into a credit default swap contract to seek to maintain a total return on a particular investment or portion of its portfolio, or to take an active long or short position with respect to the likelihood of a particular issuer’s default. Credit default swap contracts involve one party making a stream of payments to another party in exchange for the right to receive a specified return if/when there is a credit event by a third party. Generally, a credit event means bankruptcy, failure to pay, or restructuring. The specific credit events applicable for each credit default swap are stated in the terms of the particular swap agreement. As a purchaser of a credit default swap contract, the Fund pays to the counterparty a periodic interest fee based on the notional amount of the credit default swap. This interest fee is accrued daily and recognized with the daily change in the market value of the contract as a component of “Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on credit default swaps (, net)” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is recorded as a realized loss upon payment. Upon occurrence of a specific credit event with respect to the underlying referenced entity, the Fund is obligated to deliver that security, or an equivalent amount of cash, to the counterparty in exchange for receipt of the notional amount from the counterparty. The difference between the value of the security delivered and the notional amount received is recorded as a realized gain. Payments received or made at the beginning of the measurement period are recognized as a component of “Credit default swap premiums paid and/or received” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, when applicable. As a seller of a credit default swap contract, the Fund generally receives from the counterparty a periodic interest fee based on the notional amount of the credit default swap. This interest fee is accrued daily as a component of unrealized appreciation or depreciation and is recorded as a realized gain upon payment. Upon occurrence of a specific credit event with respect to the underlying referenced entity, the Fund will either receive that security, or an equivalent amount of cash, from the counterparty in exchange for payment of the notional amount to the counterparty, or pay a net settlement amount of the credit default swap contract less the recovery value of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced index. The difference between the value of the security received and the notional amount paid is recorded as a realized loss. Changes in the value of a credit default swap during the reporting period are recognized as a component of “Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of swaps” and realized gains and losses are recognized as a component of “Net realized gain (loss) from swaps” on the Statement of Operations. The maximum potential amount of future payments the Fund could incur as a seller of protection in a credit default swap contract is limited to the notional amount of the contract. The maximum potential amount would be offset by the recovery value, if any, of the respective referenced entity.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Fund invested in credit default swaps as a way to take on credit risk and earn a commensurate credit spread. These derivative exposures are integrated with the overall portfolio construction and as such losses and gains may be naturally related to/may offset impacts elsewhere in the portfolio.

The average number of credit default swap contracts outstanding during the six months ended December 31, 2012, was as follows:

 

Average number of credit default swap contracts outstanding*

     2   
* The average notional amount is calculated based on the outstanding contracts at the beginning of the fiscal year and at the end of each fiscal quarter within the current fiscal year.

Refer to Footnote 3 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities for further details on swap contract activity.

Market and Counterparty Credit Risk

In the normal course of business the Fund may invest in financial instruments and enter into financial transactions where risk of potential loss exists due to changes in the market (market risk) or failure of the other party to the transaction to perform (counterparty credit risk). The potential loss could exceed the value of the financial assets recorded on the financial statements. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Fund to counterparty credit risk, consist principally of cash due from counterparties on forward, option and swap transactions, when applicable. The extent of the Fund’s exposure to counterparty credit risk in respect to these financial assets approximates their carrying value as recorded on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Futures contracts, when applicable, expose the Fund to minimal counterparty credit risk as they are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, which is counterparty to all exchange traded futures, guarantees the futures contracts against default.

The Fund helps manage counterparty credit risk by entering into agreements only with counterparties the Adviser believes have the financial resources to honor their obligations and by having the Adviser monitor the financial stability of the counterparties. Additionally, counterparties may be required to pledge collateral daily (based on the daily valuation of the financial asset) on behalf of the Fund with a value approximately equal to the amount of any unrealized gain above a predetermined threshold. Reciprocally, when the Fund has an unrealized loss, the Fund has instructed the custodian to pledge assets of the Fund as collateral with a value approximately equal to the amount of the unrealized loss above a pre-determined threshold. Collateral pledges are monitored and subsequently adjusted if and when the valuations fluctuate, either up or down, by at least the pre-determined threshold amount.

 

  32       Nuveen Investments


Repurchase Agreements

In connection with transactions in repurchase agreements, it is the Fund’s policy that its custodian take possession of the underlying collateral securities, the fair value of which exceeds the principal amount of the repurchase transaction, including accrued interest, at all times. If the counterparty defaults, and the fair value of the collateral declines, realization of the collateral may be delayed or limited.

Zero Coupon Securities

The Fund is authorized to invest in zero coupon securities. A zero coupon security does not pay a regular interest coupon to its holders during the life of the security. Income to the holder of the security comes from accretion of the difference between the original purchase price of the security at issuance and the par value of the security at maturity and is effectively paid at maturity. The market prices of zero coupon securities generally are more volatile than the market prices of securities that pay interest periodically.

Multiclass Operations and Allocations

Income and expenses of the Fund that are not directly attributable to a specific class of shares are prorated among the classes based on the relative settled shares of each class. Expenses directly attributable to a class of shares, which presently only include 12b-1 distribution and shareholder service fees, are recorded to the specific class.

Realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the Fund are prorated among the classes based on the relative net assets of each class.

Indemnifications

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications to other parties. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred. However, the Trust has not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.

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 at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

2. Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the price that the Fund would receive upon selling an investment or transferring a liability in an orderly transaction to an independent buyer in the principal or most advantageous market for the investment. A three-tier hierarchy is used to maximize the use of observable market data and minimize the use of unobservable inputs and to establish classification of fair value measurements for disclosure purposes. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Observable inputs are based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best information available in the circumstances. The following is a summary of the three-tiered hierarchy of valuation input levels:

 

Level 1 –   Inputs are unadjusted and prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2 –   Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).
Level 3 –   Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including management’s assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risks associated with investing in those securities. The following is a summary of the Fund’s fair value measurements as of the end of the reporting period:

 

       Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Long-Term Investments*:

           

Corporate Bonds

   $       $ 7,139,685       $       $ 7,139,685   

Capital Preferred Securities

     99,156                         99,156   

$25 Par (or similar) Preferred Securities

     345,703         78,437                 424,140   

Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities

             1,840,083                 1,840,083   

Sovereign Debt

             7,221,342                 7,221,342   

Short-Term Investments:

           

Repurchase Agreements

             1,962,743                 1,962,743   

Derivatives:

           

Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts**

             66,043                 66,043   

Credit Default Swaps**

             8,030                 8,030   

Futures Contracts**

     23,201                         23,201   

Total

   $ 468,060       $ 18,316,363       $   —       $ 18,784,423   
* Refer to the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments for industry classifications, a breakdown of $25 Par (or similar) Preferred Security classified as Level 2.
** Represents net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) as reported in the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.

 

Nuveen Investments     33   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

The Nuveen funds’ Board of Directors/Trustees is responsible for the valuation process and has delegated the oversight of the daily valuation process to the Adviser’s Valuation Committee. The Valuation Committee, pursuant to the valuation policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors/Trustees, is responsible for making fair value determinations, evaluating the effectiveness of the funds’ pricing policies, and reporting to the Board of Directors/Trustees. The Valuation Committee is aided in its efforts by the Adviser’s dedicated Securities Valuation Team, which is responsible for administering the daily valuation process and applying fair value methodologies as approved by the Valuation Committee. When determining the reliability of independent pricing services for investments owned by the funds, the Valuation Committee, among other things, conducts due diligence reviews of the pricing services and monitors the quality of security prices received through various testing reports conducted by the Securities Valuation Team.

The Valuation Committee will consider pricing methodologies it deems relevant and appropriate when making fair value determinations. Examples of possible methodologies include, but are not limited to, multiple of earnings; discount from market of a similar freely traded security; discounted cash-flow analysis; book value or a multiple thereof; risk premium/yield analysis; yield to maturity; and/or fundamental investment analysis. The Valuation Committee will also consider factors it deems relevant and appropriate in light of the facts and circumstances. Examples of possible factors include, but are not limited to, the type of security; the issuer’s financial statements; the purchase price of the security; the discount from market value of unrestricted securities of the same class at the time of purchase; analysts’ research and observations from financial institutions; information regarding any transactions or offers with respect to the security; the existence of merger proposals or tender offers affecting the security; the price and extent of public trading in similar securities of the issuer or comparable companies; and the existence of a shelf registration for restricted securities.

For each portfolio security that has been fair valued pursuant to the policies adopted by the Board of Directors/Trustees, the fair value price is compared against the last available and next available market quotations. The Valuation Committee reviews the results of such testing and fair valuation occurrences are reported to the Board of Directors/Trustees.

3. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Fund records derivative instruments at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized on the Statement of Operations, when applicable. Even though the Fund’s investments in derivatives may represent economic hedges, they are not considered to be hedge transactions for financial reporting purposes. For additional information on the derivative instruments in which the Fund was invested during and at the end of the reporting period, refer to the Portfolio of Investments, Financial Statements and Footnote 1 – General Information and Significant Accounting Policies.

The following table presents the fair value of all derivative instruments held by the Fund as of December 31, 2012, the location of these instruments on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, and the primary underlying risk exposure.

 

           

Location on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 
Underlying
Risk Exposure
   Derivative
Instrument
    

Asset Derivatives

      

Liability Derivatives

 
        Location      Value        Location      Value  

Foreign Currency

Exchange Rate

   Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts      Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts      $ 91,830         Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts        $(25,787)   

Interest Rate

   Futures
Contracts
     Deposits with brokers for open futures contracts and Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts*        39,208         Deposits with brokers for open futures contracts and Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts*        (16,007

Credit

   Swaps      Unrealized appreciation on credit default swaps**        8,030                  

Total

                 $ 139,068                  $(41,794)   
* Value represents unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments, and not the deposits with brokers, if any, or the receivable or payable for variation margin presented on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
** Some swap contracts require a counterparty to pay or receive a premium, which is disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities but is not reflected in the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) presented above.

The following tables present the amount of net realized gain (loss) and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) recognized for the six months ended December 31, 2012, on derivative instruments, as well as the primary risk exposure associated with each.

 

Net Realized Gain (Loss) from Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts         

Risk Exposure

  

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate

   $ 376,429   

 

  34       Nuveen Investments


Net Realized Gain (Loss) from Futures Contracts         

Risk Exposure

  

Interest Rate

   $ 3,564   

 

Net Realized Gain (Loss) from Options Purchased         

Risk Exposure

  

Interest Rate

   $ 6,254   

 

Net Realized Gain (Loss) from Options Written         

Risk Exposure

  

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate

   $ (3,414

 

Net Realized Gain (Loss) from Swaps         

Risk Exposure

  

Credit

   $ 38,753   

 

Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) of Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts         

Risk Exposure

  

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate

   $ 15,435   

 

Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) of Futures Contracts         

Risk Exposure

  

Interest Rate

   $ 17,093   

 

Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) of Swaps         

Risk Exposure

  

Credit

   $ 12,249   

4. Fund Shares

Transactions in Fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six Months Ended
12/31/12
       For the period 12/02/11
(commencement of operations)
through 6/30/12
 
       Shares        Amount        Shares        Amount  

Shares sold:

                 

Class A

     41,583         $ 923,978           14,546         $ 306,302   

Class C

     889           19,538           2,500           50,000   

Class R3

                         2,500           50,000   

Class I

     33,017           730,488           695,643           13,915,778   

Shares issued to shareholders due to reinvestment of distributions:

                 

Class A

     1,308           29,166           93           1,966   

Class C

     24           525                       

Class R3

                                     

Class I

     981           21,951           1           12   
       77,802           1,725,646           715,283           14,324,058   

Shares redeemed:

                 

Class A

     (5,537        (123,306        (24        (498

Class C

     (1        (15                    

Class R3

                                     

Class I

     (416        (9,333                    
       (5,954        (132,654        (24        (498

Net increase (decrease)

     71,848         $ 1,592,992           715,259         $ 14,323,560   

 

Nuveen Investments     35   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

5. Investment Transactions

Purchases and sales (including maturities but excluding short-term investments and derivative transactions) during the six months ended December 31, 2012, were as follows:

 

Purchases:

       

Investment securities

  $ 4,936,992   

U.S. Government and agency obligations

    10,529,176   

Sales and maturities:

 

Investment securities

    4,380,783   

U.S. Government and agency obligations

    9,468,476   

6. Income Tax Information

The following information is presented on an income tax basis. Differences between amounts for financial statement and federal income tax purposes are primarily due to timing differences in recognizing certain gains and losses on investment transactions. To the extent that differences arise that are permanent in nature, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts as detailed below. Temporary differences do not require reclassification. Temporary and permanent differences do not impact the net asset values of the Fund.

As of December 31, 2012, the cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments (excluding investments in derivatives), as determined on a federal income tax basis, were as follows:

 

Cost of investments

   $ 17,775,555   

Gross unrealized:

  

Appreciation

     961,698   

Depreciation

     (50,104

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments

   $ 911,594   

Permanent differences, primarily due to treatment of notional principal contracts and foreign currency reclassifications resulted in reclassifications among the Fund’s components of net assets at June 30, 2012, the Fund’s last tax year end as follows:

 

Capital paid-in

   $ (788

Undistributed (Over-distribution of) net investment income

     332,285   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     (331,497

The tax components of undistributed net ordinary income and net long-term capital gains at June 30, 2012, the Fund’s last tax year end were as follows:

 

Undistributed net ordinary income*

   $ 727,571   

Undistributed net long-term capital gains

     50,648   
* Net ordinary income consists of net taxable income derived from dividends, interest and net short-term capital gains, if any.
   Undistributed net ordinary income (on a tax basis) has not been reduced for the dividends declared during the period June 1, 2012 through June 30, 2012 and paid on July 2, 2012.

The tax character of distributions paid during the Fund’s last tax year ended June 30, 2012, was designated for purposes of the dividends paid deduction as follows:

 

For the Period December 2, 2011 (commencement of operations) through June 30, 2012        

Distributions from net ordinary income*

  $ 162,229   

Distributions from net long-term capital gains

      
* Net ordinary income consists of net taxable income derived from dividends, interest and net short-term capital gains, if any.

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, capital losses incurred by the Fund after December 31, 2010, will not be subject to expiration. During the Fund’s last tax year ended June 30, 2012, there were no post-enactment capital losses generated.

7. Management Fees and Other Transactions with Affiliates

The Fund’s management fee consists of two components – a fund-level fee, based only on the amount of assets within the Fund, and a complex-level fee, based on the aggregate amount of all eligible fund assets managed by the Adviser. This pricing structure enables Fund shareholders to benefit from growth in the assets within their Fund as well as from growth in the amount of complex-wide assets managed by the Adviser.

 

  36       Nuveen Investments


The annual fund-level fee for the Fund, payable monthly, is calculated according to the following schedule:

 

Average Daily Net Assets   Fund Level Fee Rate  

For the first $125 million

    .4000

For the next $125 million

    .3875   

For the next $250 million

    .3750   

For the next $500 million

    .3625   

For the next $1 billion

    .3500   

For net assets over $2 billion

    .3250   

The annual complex-level fee for the Fund, payable monthly, is determined by taking the complex-level fee rate, which is based on the aggregate amount of “eligible assets” of all Nuveen funds as set forth in the schedule below, and making, as appropriate, an upward adjustment to that rate based upon the percentage of the particular fund’s assets that are not “eligible assets.” The complex-level fee schedule for the Fund is as follows:

 

Complex-Level Asset Breakpoint Level*    Effective Rate at Breakpoint Level  

$55 billion

     .2000

$56 billion

     .1996   

$57 billion

     .1989   

$60 billion

     .1961   

$63 billion

     .1931   

$66 billion

     .1900   

$71 billion

     .1851   

$76 billion

     .1806   

$80 billion

     .1773   

$91 billion

     .1691   

$125 billion

     .1599   

$200 billion

     .1505   

$250 billion

     .1469   

$300 billion

     .1445   
* The complex-level fee is calculated based upon the aggregate daily “eligible assets” of all Nuveen Funds. Eligible assets do not include assets attributable to investments in other Nuveen Funds or assets in excess of $2 billion added to the Nuveen Fund complex in connection with the Adviser’s assumption of the management of the former First American Funds effective January 1, 2011. Eligible assets include closed-end fund assets managed by the Adviser that are attributable to financial leverage. For these purposes, financial leverage includes the closed-end funds’ use of preferred stock and borrowings and certain investments in the residual interest certificates (also called inverse floating rate securities) in tender option bond (TOB) trusts, including the portion of assets held by the TOB trust that has been effectively financed by the trust’s issuance of floating rate securities, subject to an agreement by the Adviser as to certain funds to limit the amount of such assets for determining eligible assets in certain circumstances. As of December 31, 2012, the complex-level fee rate for the Fund was .1684%.

The management fee compensates the Adviser for overall investment advisory and administrative services and general office facilities. The Adviser is responsible for the Fund’s overall investment strategy and asset allocation decisions. The Adviser has entered into a sub-advisory agreement with the Sub-Adviser under which the Sub-Adviser manages the investment portfolios of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser is compensated for its services to the Fund from the management fees paid to the Adviser.

The Adviser has agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses through October 31, 2014, so that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding 12b-1 distribution and/or service fees, interest expenses, taxes, acquired fund fees and expenses, fees incurred in acquiring and disposing of portfolio securities and extraordinary expenses) do not exceed .75% of the average daily net assets of any class of Fund shares. The Adviser may also voluntarily reimburse expenses from time to time. Voluntarily reimbursements may be terminated at any time at the Adviser’s discretion.

The Trust pays no compensation directly to those of its trustees who are affiliated with the Adviser or to its officers, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the Trust from the Adviser or its affiliates. The Board of Trustees has adopted a deferred compensation plan for independent trustees that enable trustees to elect to defer receipt of all or a portion of the annual compensation they are entitled to receive from certain Nuveen-advised funds. Under the plan, deferred amounts are treated as though equal dollar amounts had been invested in shares of select Nuveen-advised funds.

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, Nuveen Securities, LLC. (the “Distributor”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nuveen, collected sales charges on purchases of Class A Shares, the majority of which were paid out as concessions to financial intermediaries as follows:

 

Sales charges collected

     $ 6,749   

Paid to financial intermediaries

       6,034   

The Distributor also received 12b-1 service fees on Class A Shares, substantially all of which were paid to compensate financial intermediaries for providing services to shareholders relating to their investments.

 

Nuveen Investments     37   


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited) (continued)

 

During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Distributor compensated financial intermediaries directly with commission advances at the time of purchase as follows:

 

Commission advances

     $ 1,420   

To compensate for commissions advanced to financial intermediaries, all 12b-1 service and distribution fees collected on Class C Shares during the first year following a purchase were retained by the Distributor. During the six months ended December 31, 2012, the Distributor retained such 12b-1 fees as follows:

 

12b-1 fees retained

     $ 334   

The remaining 12b-1 fees charged to the Fund were paid to compensate financial intermediaries for providing services to shareholders relating to their investments.

The Distributor also collected and retained CDSC on share redemptions during the six months ended December 31, 2012, as follows:

 

CDSC retained

     $   —   

As of December 31, 2012, Nuveen owned 2,500, 2,500, 2,500 and 692,500 Shares of Class A, C, R3 and I, respectively, of the Fund.

8. New Accounting Pronouncements

Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

In December 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11 (“ASU No. 2011-11”)to enhance disclosures about financial instruments and derivative instruments that are subject to offsetting (“netting”) on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. This information will enable users of the entity’s financial statements to evaluate the effect or potential effect of netting arrangements on the entity’s financial position. ASU No. 2011-11 is effective prospectively during interim or annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. At this time, management is evaluating the implications of this guidance and the impact it will have to the financial statements amounts and footnote disclosures, if any.

 

  38       Nuveen Investments


Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited)

 

The Board of Trustees (the “Board,” and each Trustee, a “Board Member” ) of the Nuveen Global Total Return Bond Fund (the “Fund” ), including the Board Members who are not parties to its advisory or sub-advisory agreements or “interested persons” of any such parties (the “Independent Board Members” ), is responsible for approving advisory arrangements for the Fund. At a meeting held on November 14-16, 2011 (the “Meeting” ), the Board Members, including the Independent Board Members, considered and approved the investment management agreement (the “Investment Management Agreement” ) between the Fund and Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC (formerly known as Nuveen Fund Advisors, Inc.) (the “Advisor” ) and the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” ) between the Advisor and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser” ), on behalf of the Fund. The Advisor and the Sub-Adviser are each hereafter a “Fund Adviser.” The Investment Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement are each hereafter an “Advisory Agreement.”

To assist the Board in its evaluation of an Advisory Agreement with a Fund Adviser at the Meeting, the Independent Board Members had received, in adequate time in advance of the Meeting or at prior meetings, materials which outlined, among other things:

 

   

the nature, extent and quality of services expected to be provided by the Fund Adviser;

 

   

the organization of the Fund Adviser, including the responsibilities of various departments and key personnel;

 

   

the expertise and background of the Fund Adviser with respect to the Fund’s investment strategy;

 

   

certain performance-related information (as described below);

 

   

the profitability of Nuveen Investments, Inc. ( “Nuveen” ) (which incorporated Nuveen’s wholly-owned affiliated sub-advisers);

 

   

the proposed management fees of the Fund Adviser, including comparisons of such fees with the management fees of comparable funds;

 

   

the expected expenses of the Fund, including comparisons of the Fund’s expected expense ratio with the expense ratios of comparable funds; and

 

   

the soft dollar practices of the Fund Adviser, if any.

At the Meeting, the Advisor made a presentation to and responded to questions from the Board. During the Meeting, the Independent Board Members also met privately with their legal counsel to review the Board’s duties under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act” ), the general principles of state law in reviewing and approving advisory contracts, the standards used by courts in determining whether investment company boards of directors have fulfilled their duties, factors to be considered in voting on advisory contracts and an adviser’s fiduciary duty with respect to advisory agreements and compensation. It is with this background that the Independent Board Members considered the Advisory Agreements with the Fund Advisers for the Fund. As outlined in more detail below, the Independent Board Members considered all factors they believed relevant with respect to the Fund, including the following: (a) the nature, extent and quality of the services to be provided by the Fund Adviser; (b) investment performance, as described below; (c) the advisory fees and costs of the services to be provided to the Fund and the profitability of Nuveen and its affiliates; (d) the extent of any economies of scale; and (e) any benefits derived by the Fund Advisers from the relationship with the Fund.

A. Nature, Extent and Quality of Services

The Independent Board Members considered the nature, extent and quality of the respective Fund Adviser’s services, including advisory services and administrative services. As the Advisor and the Sub-Adviser already serve as adviser and sub-adviser, respectively, to other Nuveen funds overseen by the Board Members, the Board has a good understanding of each such Fund Adviser’s organization, operations and personnel. As the Independent Board Members meet regularly throughout the year to oversee the Nuveen funds, including funds currently advised by the Fund Advisers, the Independent Board Members have relied upon their knowledge from their meetings and any other interactions throughout the year of the respective Fund Adviser and its services in evaluating the Advisory Agreements.

At the Meeting and at prior meetings, the Independent Board Members reviewed materials outlining, among other things, the respective Fund Adviser’s organization and business; the types of services that such Fund Adviser or its affiliates provide to the Nuveen funds and are expected to provide to the Fund; and the experience of the respective Fund Adviser with applicable investment strategies. Further, the Independent Board Members have evaluated the background and experience of the Fund Adviser’s investment personnel.

In addition to advisory services, the Independent Board Members considered the quality and extent of administrative or other non-advisory services to be provided. In this regard, the Advisor is expected to provide the Fund with such administrative and other services (exclusive of, and in addition to, any such services provided by others for the Fund) and officers and other personnel as are necessary for the operations of the Fund. In addition to investment management services, the Advisor and its affiliates will provide the Fund with a wide range of services, including, among other things, product management, investment services (such as oversight of investment policies and procedures, risk management, and pricing), fund administration, oversight of service providers, shareholder services, administration of Board relations, regulatory and portfolio compliance and legal support. The Independent Board Members also recognized that the Advisor would oversee the Sub-Adviser.

 

Nuveen Investments     39   


Annual Investment Management Agreement Approval Process

(Unaudited) (continued)

 

In evaluating the services of the Sub-Adviser, the Independent Board Members noted that the Sub-Advisory Agreement was essentially an agreement for portfolio management services only and the Sub-Adviser was not expected to supply other significant administrative services to the Fund. In addition, the Board Members recognized the Sub-Adviser’s experience and established philosophy and process.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members found that, overall, the nature, extent and quality of services expected to be provided to the Fund under each Advisory Agreement were satisfactory.

B. Investment Performance

The Fund was new and therefore did not have its own performance history. However, the Independent Board Members are familiar with the Sub-Adviser’s track record in managing fixed income strategies as well as with the performance records of other Nuveen funds advised by the Advisor and sub-advised by the Sub-Adviser, including the Nuveen Total Return Bond Fund (the “Total Return Fund” ) (currently, the Nuveen Strategic Income Fund), a domestic-oriented variation of the Fund. In this regard, the Independent Board Members were provided with performance information for the Total Return Fund, including returns for the one-year, three-year, five-year and ten-year periods, and the period since inception, in each case ending September 30, 2011.

C. Fees, Expenses and Profitability

1. Fees and Expenses

In evaluating the management fees and expenses that the Fund was expected to bear, the Independent Board Members considered, among other things, the Fund’s proposed management fee structure, the rationale for its proposed fee levels, and its expected expense ratios in absolute terms as well as compared with the fees and expense ratios of comparable funds.

The Independent Board Members reviewed, among other things, the management fees and expense ratios of various other unaffiliated funds classified as global income funds. In this regard, the Independent Board Members noted that, for the Fund, the proposed gross management fee is at, and the net expense ratio is slightly below, the medians for this peer set.

In addition, the Independent Board Members considered the fund-level breakpoint schedule and the complex-wide breakpoint schedule (described in further detail below) and any applicable fee waivers and expense reimbursements expected to be provided. Based on their review of the fee and expense information provided, the Independent Board Members determined that the Fund’s management fees were reasonable in light of the nature, extent and quality of services to be provided to the Fund.

2. Comparisons with the Fees of Other Clients

Due to their experience with other Nuveen funds, the Board Members were familiar with the fees the Advisor assesses to other clients, including separately managed accounts (both retail and institutional accounts), foreign investment funds offered by Nuveen and funds that are not offered by Nuveen but are sub-advised by one of Nuveen’s investment management teams. In evaluating the comparisons of fees, the Independent Board Members have noted, at the Meeting or at prior meetings, that the fee rates charged to a fund (such as the Fund) and charged to other clients vary, among other things, because of the different services involved and the additional regulatory and compliance requirements associated with registered investment companies, such as the Fund. Accordingly, the Independent Board Members have considered the differences in the product types, including, but not limited to, the services to be provided, the structure and operations, product distribution and costs thereof, portfolio investment policies, investor profiles, account sizes and regulatory requirements. The Independent Board Members have noted, in particular, that the range of services as described above to be provided to a fund (such as the Fund) is much more extensive than that provided to separately managed accounts. Given the inherent differences in the products, particularly the extensive services to be provided to the Fund, the Independent Board Members believe such facts justify the different levels of fees. In considering the advisory fees of the Sub-Adviser, the Independent Board Members are familiar with the pricing schedule or fees the Sub-Adviser charges for similar investment management services for other Nuveen funds.

3. Profitability of Fund Advisers

In conjunction with its review of fees at prior meetings, the Independent Board Members have considered the profitability of Nuveen for its advisory activities (which incorporated Nuveen’s wholly-owned affiliated sub-advisers) and its financial condition. At the Meeting or prior meetings, the Independent Board Members reviewed the revenues and expenses of Nuveen’s advisory activities, the allocation methodology used in preparing the profitability data and an analysis of the key drivers behind the changes in revenues and expenses that impacted profitability. They also reviewed financial statements as of June 30, 2011 and certain other financial information pertaining to Nuveen. The Independent Board Members have also considered, at the Meeting or at prior meetings, Nuveen’s revenues for advisory activities, expenses, and profit margin compared to that of various unaffiliated management firms with similar amounts of assets under management and relatively comparable asset composition prepared by Nuveen.

In reviewing profitability, the Independent Board Members have recognized the subjective nature of determining profitability, which may be affected by numerous factors, including the allocation of expenses. Further, the Independent Board Members have recognized the difficulties in making comparisons as the profitability of other advisers generally is not publicly available and the profitability information that is available for certain advisers or management firms may not be representative of the industry and

 

  40       Nuveen Investments


may be affected by, among other things, the adviser’s particular business mix, capital costs, types of funds managed and expense allocations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Independent Board Members reviewed Nuveen’s methodology and assumptions for allocating expenses across product lines to determine profitability. In reviewing profitability, the Independent Board Members recognized Nuveen’s investment in its fund business. Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that Nuveen’s level of profitability for its advisory activities was reasonable in light of the services to be provided.

In evaluating the reasonableness of the compensation, the Independent Board Members also considered any other amounts expected to be paid to a Fund Adviser as well as any indirect benefits (such as soft dollar arrangements, if any) the respective Fund Adviser and its affiliates are expected to receive that are directly attributable to their management of the Fund, if any. See Section E below for additional information on indirect benefits a Fund Adviser may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. Based on their review of the overall fee arrangements of the Fund, the Independent Board Members determined that the advisory fees and expected expenses of the Fund were reasonable.

D. Economies of Scale and Whether Fee Levels Reflect These Economies of Scale

With respect to economies of scale, the Independent Board Members have recognized the potential benefits resulting from the costs of a fund being spread over a larger asset base, although economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, particularly on a fund-by-fund basis. The Independent Board Members therefore considered whether the Fund could be expected to benefit from any economies of scale. One method to help ensure that shareholders share in these benefits is to include breakpoints in the advisory fee schedule. Generally, management fees for funds in the Nuveen complex are comprised of a fund-level component and a complex-level component. Accordingly, the Independent Board Members received and reviewed the schedule of proposed advisory fees for the Fund, including fund-level breakpoints thereto.

In addition to fund-level advisory fee breakpoints, the Board also considered the Fund’s complex-wide fee arrangement. Pursuant to the complex-wide fee arrangement, the fees of the funds in the Nuveen complex, including the Fund, are generally reduced as the assets in the fund complex reach certain levels. In evaluating the complex-wide fee arrangement, the Independent Board Members have considered that the complex-wide fee arrangement seeks to provide the benefits of economies of scale to fund shareholders when total fund complex assets increase, even if assets of a particular fund are unchanged or have decreased. The approach reflects the notion that some of Nuveen’s costs are attributable to services provided to all its funds in the complex and therefore all funds benefit if these costs are spread over a larger asset base. Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that the breakpoint schedules and complex-wide fee arrangement were acceptable and reflect economies of scale to be shared with the Fund’s shareholders when assets under management increase.

E. Indirect Benefits

In evaluating fees, the Independent Board Members also considered information regarding potential “fall out” or ancillary benefits that a Fund Adviser or its affiliates may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. In this regard, the Independent Board Members considered, among other things, any sales charges, distribution fees and shareholder services fees expected to be received and retained by the Fund’s principal underwriter, an affiliate of the Advisor, including fees to be received pursuant to any 12b-1 plan.

In addition to the above, the Independent Board Members considered whether the Fund Advisers will receive any benefits from soft dollar arrangements whereby a portion of the commissions paid by the Fund for brokerage may be used to acquire research that may be useful to a Fund Adviser in managing the assets of the Fund and other clients. The Independent Board Members recognized that each of the Fund Advisers has authority to pay a higher commission in return for brokerage and research services if it determines in good faith that the commission paid is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided. Nevertheless, the Independent Board Members noted that commissions are generally not paid in connection with fixed income securities transactions which are typically executed on a principal basis.

Based on their review, the Independent Board Members concluded that any indirect benefits received by a Fund Adviser as a result of its relationship with the Fund were reasonable and within acceptable parameters.

F. Approval

The Independent Board Members did not identify any single factor discussed previously as all-important or controlling. The Board Members, including a majority of the Independent Board Members, concluded that the terms of the Investment Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were fair and reasonable, that the respective Fund Adviser’s fees are reasonable in light of the services to be provided to the Fund and that the Investment Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement should be and were approved on behalf of the Fund.

 

Nuveen Investments     41   


Glossary of Terms Used in this Report

Asset-Backed Securities (ABS): Securities whose value and income payments are derived from and collateralized by a specific pool of underlying assets. The pool of assets typically is a group of small and/or illiquid assets that may be difficult to sell individually. The underlying pools of asset-backed securities often include payments from credit cards, auto loans or mortgage loans.

Barclays Global Aggregate Unhedged Bond Index: An index that provides a broad-based measure of the global investment-grade fixed-rate debt markets. Index returns assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not include the effects of any applicable sales charges or management fees.

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (CMBS): Commercial mortgage-backed securities are backed by cash flows of a mortgage or pool of mortgages on commercial real estate. CMBS generally are structured to provide protection to the senior class investors against potential losses on the underlying mortgage loans. CMBS are typically characterized by the following: i) loans on multi-family housing, non-residential property, ii) payments based on the amortization schedule of 25 - 30 years with a balloon payment due usually after 10 years, and iii) restrictions on prepayments.

Duration: A measure of the price sensitivity of a security or fund to changes in prevailing interest rates. The longer the duration, the more price sensitivity to interest rate movements in either direction.

Lipper Global Income Funds Classification Average: Represents the average annualized returns for all reporting funds in the Lipper Global Income Funds Classification. Lipper returns account for the effects of management fees and assume reinvestment of distributions, but do not reflect any applicable sales charge.

Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS): Mortgage-backed securities (MBS) are bonds backed by pools of mortgages, usually with similar characteristics, and which return principal and interest in each payment. MBS are composed of residential mortgages (RMBS) or commercial mortgages (CMBS). RMBS are further divided into agency RMBS and non-agency RMBS, depending on the issuer.

Net Asset Value (NAV): The net market value of all securities held in a portfolio.

Net Asset Value (NAV) Per Share: The market value of one share of a mutual fund or closed-end fund. For a Fund, the NAV is calculated daily by taking the Fund’s total assets (securities, cash, and accrued earnings), subtracting the Fund’s liabilities, and dividing by the number of shares outstanding.

Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities (RMBS): Residential mortgage-backed securities are securities the payments on which depend primarily on the cash flow from residential mortgage loans made to borrowers that are secured by residential real estate. RMBS consist of agency and non-agency RMBS. Agency RMBS have agency guarantees that assure investors that they will receive timely payment of interest and principal, regardless of delinquency or default rates on the underlying loans. Agency RMBS include securities issued by the Government National Mortgage Association, the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, and other federal agencies, or issues guaranteed by them. Non-agency RMBS do not have agency guarantees. Non-agency RMBS have credit enhancement built into the structure to shield investors from borrower delinquencies. The spectrum of non-agency residential mortgage loans includes traditional jumbo loans (prime), alternative-A loans (Alt-A), and home equity loans (sub-prime).

Tax Equalization: The practice of treating a portion of the distribution made to a redeeming shareholder, which represents his proportionate part of undistributed net investment income and capital gain as a distribution for tax purposes. Such amounts are referred to as the equalization debits (or payments) and will be considered a distribution to the shareholder of net investment income and capital gain for calculation of the Fund’s dividends paid deduction.

 

  42       Nuveen Investments


Additional Fund Information

 

Fund Manager

Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

Sub-Adviser

Nuveen Asset Management, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

Legal Counsel

Chapman and Cutler LLP

Chicago, IL

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chicago, IL

Custodian

State Street Bank & Trust Company

Boston, MA

Transfer Agent and Shareholder Services

Boston Financial

Data Services, Inc.

Nuveen Investor Services

P.O. Box 8530

Boston, MA 02266-8530

(800) 257-8787

 

Quarterly Portfolio of Investments and Proxy Voting information : You may obtain (i) the Fund’s quarterly portfolio of investments, (ii) information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities held during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30, and (iii) a description of the policies and procedures that the Fund used to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities without charge, upon request, by calling Nuveen Investments at (800) 257-8787 or on Nuveen’s website at www.nuveen.com.

You may also obtain this and other Fund information directly from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC may charge a copying fee for this information. Visit the SEC on-line at http://www.sec.gov or in person at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call the SEC at (202) 942-8090 for room hours and operation. You may also request Fund information by sending an e-mail request to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing to the SEC’s Public Reference Section at 100 F Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20549.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) provides a Public Disclosure Program which supplies certain information regarding the disciplinary history of FINRA members and their associated persons in response to either telephone inquiries at (800) 289-9999 or written inquiries at www.finra.org. FINRA also provides an investor brochure that includes information describing the Public Disclosure Program.

 

Nuveen Investments     43   


Nuveen Investments:

Serving Investors for Generations

 

Since 1898, financial advisors and their clients have relied on Nuveen Investments to provide dependable investment solutions through continued adherence to proven, long-term investing principles. Today, we offer a range of high quality equity and fixed-income solutions designed to be integral components of a well-diversified core portfolio.

Focused on meeting investor needs.

Nuveen Investments provides high-quality investment services designed to help secure the longterm goals of institutional and individual investors as well as the consultants and financial advisors who serve them. Nuveen Investments markets a wide range of specialized investment solutions which provide investors access to capabilities of its high-quality boutique investment affiliates-Nuveen Asset Management, Symphony Asset Management, NWQ Investment Management Company, Santa Barbara Asset Management, Tradewinds Global Investors, Winslow Capital Management, and Gresham Investment Management. In total, Nuveen Investments managed approximately $219 billion as of December 31, 2012.

Find out how we can help you.

To learn more about how the products and services of Nuveen Investments may be able to help you meet your financial goals, talk to your financial advisor, or call us at (800) 257-8787. Please read the information provided carefully before you invest. Investors should consider the investment objective and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of any investment carefully. Where applicable, be sure to obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other relevant information. To obtain a prospectus, please contact your securities representative or Nuveen Investments, 333 W. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest or send money.

Learn more about Nuveen Funds at: www.nuveen.com/mf

 

Distributed by

Nuveen Securities, LLC

333 West Wacker Drive

Chicago, IL 60606

www.nuveen.com

  

 

MSA-GTRB-1212P


Item 2. Code of Ethics.

Not applicable to this filing.

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

Not applicable to this filing.

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

Not applicable to this filing.

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

Not applicable to this registrant.

Item 6. Schedule of Investments.

(a) See Portfolio of Investments in Item 1.

(b) Not applicable.

Item 7. Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not applicable to this registrant.

Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not applicable to this registrant.

Item 9. Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers.

Not applicable to this registrant.

Item 10. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s Board implemented after the registrant last provided disclosure in response to this Item.

Item 11. Controls and Procedures.

 

(a) The registrant’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) (17 CFR 270.30a-3(c))) are effective, as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on their evaluation of the controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(b)) and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) (17 CFR 240.13a-15(b) or 240.15d-15(b)).

 

(b) There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(d)) that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Item 12. Exhibits.

File the exhibits listed below as part of this Form.

(a)(1) Any code of ethics, or amendment thereto, that is the subject of the disclosure required by Item 2, to the extent that the registrant intends to satisfy the Item 2 requirements through filing of an exhibit: Not applicable to this filing.

(a)(2) A separate certification for each principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the registrant as required by Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-2(a)) in the exact form set forth below: See EX-99.CERT attached hereto.

(a)(3) Any written solicitation to purchase securities under Rule 23c-1 under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.23c-1) sent or given during the period covered by the report by or on behalf of the registrant to 10 or more persons: Not applicable to this registrant.

(b) If the report is filed under Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, provide the certifications required by Rule 30a-2(b) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-2(b)), Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13a-14(b) or 240.15d-14(b)), and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code (18 U.S.C. 1350) as an Exhibit. A certification furnished pursuant to this paragraph will not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 78r), or otherwise subject to the liability of that section. Such certification will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the registration specifically incorporates it by reference: See EX-99.906 CERT attached hereto.


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

(Registrant) Nuveen Investment Trust

 

By   (Signature and Title)   /s/ Kevin J. McCarthy  
   

Kevin J. McCarthy

Vice President and Secretary

 

Date: March 8, 2013

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By   (Signature and Title)   /s/ Gifford R. Zimmerman  
   

Gifford R. Zimmerman

Chief Administrative Officer

(principal executive officer)

 

Date: March 8, 2013

 

By   (Signature and Title)   /s/ Stephen D. Foy  
   

Stephen D. Foy

Vice President and Controller

(principal financial officer)

 

Date: March 8, 2013