Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class I | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Corporate Bonds | |
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations | |
Asset Backed Securities | |
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | |
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund∞ | |
Mutual Funds | |
Foreign Government Bonds | |
Insurance-Linked Securities | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests |
* |
|
∞ |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class II | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Corporate Bonds | |
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations | |
Asset Backed Securities | |
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | |
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund∞ | |
Mutual Funds | |
Foreign Government Bonds | |
Insurance-Linked Securities | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests |
* |
|
∞ |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class I | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Information Technology | |
Industrials | |
Consumer Discretionary | |
Health Care | |
Financials | |
Energy | |
Communication Services | |
Utilities | |
Consumer Staples | |
Basic Materials | |
Real Estate |
* |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class I | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Financials | |
Industrials | |
Consumer Discretionary | |
Energy | |
Utilities | |
Consumer Staples | |
Real Estate | |
Information Technology | |
Health Care | |
Communication Services | |
Basic Materials |
* |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class II | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Financials | |
Industrials | |
Consumer Discretionary | |
Energy | |
Utilities | |
Consumer Staples | |
Real Estate | |
Information Technology | |
Health Care | |
Communication Services | |
Basic Materials |
* |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class I | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Financials | |
Industrials | |
Health Care | |
Energy | |
Consumer Discretionary | |
Information Technology | |
Communication Services | |
Consumer Staples | |
Basic Materials | |
Utilities | |
Real Estate |
* |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class II | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Financials | |
Industrials | |
Health Care | |
Energy | |
Consumer Discretionary | |
Information Technology | |
Communication Services | |
Consumer Staples | |
Basic Materials | |
Utilities | |
Real Estate |
* |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class I | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Information Technology | |
Industrials | |
Financials | |
Basic Materials | |
Consumer Discretionary | |
Communication Services | |
Health Care | |
Energy | |
Consumer Staples | |
Utilities |
* |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class II | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Information Technology | |
Industrials | |
Financials | |
Basic Materials | |
Consumer Discretionary | |
Communication Services | |
Health Care | |
Energy | |
Consumer Staples | |
Utilities |
* |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class I | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Corporate Bonds | |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund∞ | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests | |
Common Stock | |
Convertible Corporate Bonds† | |
Rights/Warrants† | |
Insurance-Linked Securities† |
* |
|
∞ |
|
† |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class II | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Corporate Bonds | |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund∞ | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests | |
Common Stock | |
Convertible Corporate Bonds† | |
Rights/Warrants† | |
Insurance-Linked Securities† |
* |
|
∞ |
|
† |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class I | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Corporate Bonds | |
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations | |
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | |
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund∞ | |
Asset Backed Securities | |
Foreign Government Bonds | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests | |
Common Stocks | |
Convertible Corporate Bonds† | |
Insurance-Linked Securities† |
* |
|
∞ |
|
† |
|
Class Name | Costs of a $10,000 investment | Costs paid as a percentage of a $10,000 investment |
Class II | $ |
+ |
|
^ |
|
Portfolio net assets | $ |
Total number of portfolio holdings | |
Portfolio turnover rate |
^^ |
|
Corporate Bonds | |
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations | |
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | |
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund∞ | |
Asset Backed Securities | |
Foreign Government Bonds | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests | |
Common Stocks | |
Convertible Corporate Bonds† | |
Insurance-Linked Securities† |
* |
|
∞ |
|
† |
|
ITEM 2. CODE OF ETHICS.
(a) Disclose whether, as of the end of the period covered by the report, the registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the registrant or a third party. If the registrant has not adopted such a code of ethics, explain why it has not done so.
The registrant has adopted, as of the end of the period covered by this report, a code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer and controller.
(b) For purposes of this Item, the term “code of ethics” means written standards that are reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote:
(1) Honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;
(2) Full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that a registrant files with, or submits to, the Commission and in other public communications made by the registrant;
(3) Compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules, and regulations;
(4) The prompt internal reporting of violations of the code to an appropriate person or persons identified in the code; and
(5) Accountability for adherence to the code.
(c) The registrant must briefly describe the nature of any amendment, during the period covered by the report, to a provision of its code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the registrant or a third party, and that relates to any element of the code of ethics definition enumerated in paragraph (b) of this Item. The registrant must file a copy of any such amendment as an exhibit pursuant to Item 19(a), unless the registrant has elected to satisfy paragraph (f) of this Item by posting its code of ethics on its website pursuant to paragraph (f)(2) of this Item, or by undertaking to provide its code of ethics to any person without charge, upon request, pursuant to paragraph (f)(3) of this Item.
The registrant has made no amendments to the code of ethics during the period covered by this report.
(d) If the registrant has, during the period covered by the report, granted a waiver, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the code of ethics to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the registrant or a third party, that relates to one or more of the items set forth in paragraph (b) of this Item, the registrant must briefly describe the nature of the waiver, the name of the person to whom the waiver was granted, and the date of the waiver.
Not applicable.
(e) If the registrant intends to satisfy the disclosure requirement under paragraph (c) or (d) of this Item regarding an amendment to, or a waiver from, a provision of its code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions and that relates to any element of the code of ethics definition enumerated in paragraph (b) of this Item by posting such information on its Internet website, disclose the registrant’s Internet address and such intention.
Not applicable.
(f) The registrant must:
(1) File with the Commission, pursuant to Item 19(a)(1), a copy of its code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, as an exhibit to its annual report on this Form N-CSR (see attachment);
(2) Post the text of such code of ethics on its Internet website and disclose, in its most recent report on this Form N-CSR, its Internet address and the fact that it has posted such code of ethics on its Internet website; or
(3) Undertake in its most recent report on this Form N-CSR to provide to any person without charge, upon request, a copy of such code of ethics and explain the manner in which such request may be made. See Item 19(2)
ITEM 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.
(a) (1) Disclose that the registrant’s Board of Trustees has determined that the registrant either:
(i) Has at least one audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee; or
(ii) Does not have an audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee.
The registrant’s Board of Trustees has determined that the registrant has at least one audit committee financial expert.
(2) If the registrant provides the disclosure required by paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this Item, it must disclose the name of the audit committee financial expert and whether that person is “independent.” In order to be considered “independent” for purposes of this Item, a member of an audit committee may not, other than in his or her capacity as a member of the audit committee, the Board of Trustees, or any other board committee:
(i) Accept directly or indirectly any consulting, advisory, or other compensatory fee from the issuer; or
(ii) Be an “interested person” of the investment company as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 80a-2(a)(19)).
Mr. Fred J. Ricciardi, an independent Trustee, is such an audit committee financial expert.
(3) If the registrant provides the disclosure required by paragraph (a)(1) (ii) of this Item, it must explain why it does not have an audit committee financial expert.
Not applicable.
ITEM 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.
(a) Disclose, under the caption AUDIT FEES, the aggregate fees billed for each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the registrant’s annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years.
N/A
(b) Disclose, under the caption AUDIT-RELATED FEES, the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for assurance and related services by the principal accountant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the registrant’s financial statements and are not reported under paragraph (a) of this Item. Registrants shall describe the nature of the services comprising the fees disclosed under this category.
N/A
(c) Disclose, under the caption TAX FEES, the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning. Registrants shall describe the nature of the services comprising the fees disclosed under this category.
N/A
(d) Disclose, under the caption ALL OTHER FEES, the aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for products and services provided by the principal accountant, other than the services reported in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this Item. Registrants shall describe the nature of the services comprising the fees disclosed under this category.
N/A
(e) (1) Disclose the audit committee’s pre-approval policies and procedures described in paragraph (c)(7) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
PIONEER FUNDS
APPROVAL OF AUDIT, AUDIT-RELATED, TAX AND OTHER SERVICES
PROVIDED BY THE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR
SECTION I - POLICY PURPOSE AND APPLICABILITY
The Pioneer Funds recognize the importance of maintaining the independence of their outside auditors. Maintaining independence is a shared responsibility involving Amundi Asset Management US, Inc., the audit committee and the independent auditors.
The Funds recognize that a Fund’s independent auditors: 1) possess knowledge of the Funds, 2) are able to incorporate certain services into the scope of the audit, thereby avoiding redundant work, cost and disruption of Fund personnel and processes, and 3) have expertise that has value to the Funds. As a result, there are situations where it is desirable to use the Fund’s independent auditors for services in addition to the annual audit and where the potential for conflicts of interests are minimal. Consequently, this policy, which is intended to comply with Rule 210.2-01(C)(7), sets forth guidelines and procedures to be followed by the Funds when retaining the independent audit firm to perform audit, audit-related tax and other services under those circumstances, while also maintaining independence.
Approval of a service in accordance with this policy for a Fund shall also constitute approval for any other Fund whose pre-approval is required pursuant to Rule 210.2-01(c)(7)(ii).
In addition to the procedures set forth in this policy, any non-audit services that may be provided consistently with Rule 210.2-01 may be approved by the Audit Committee itself and any pre-approval that may be waived in accordance with Rule 210.2-01(c)(7)(i)(C) is hereby waived.
Selection of a Fund’s independent auditors and their compensation shall be determined by the Audit Committee and shall not be subject to this policy.
SECTION II - POLICY
| ||||
SERVICE CATEGORY |
SERVICE CATEGORY DESCRIPTION |
SPECIFIC PRE-APPROVED SERVICE | ||
I. AUDIT SERVICES | Services that are directly related to performing the independent audit of the Funds | • Accounting research assistance
• SEC consultation, registration statements, and reporting
• Tax accrual related matters
• Implementation of new accounting standards
• Compliance letters (e.g. rating agency letters)
• Regulatory reviews and assistance regarding financial matters
• Semi-annual reviews (if requested)
• Comfort letters for closed end offerings | ||
II. AUDIT-RELATED SERVICES |
Services which are not prohibited under Rule 210.2-01(C)(4) (the “Rule”) and are related extensions of the audit services support the audit, or use the knowledge/expertise gained from the audit procedures as a foundation to complete the project. In most cases, if the Audit-Related Services are not performed by the Audit firm, the scope of the Audit Services would likely increase. The Services are typically well-defined and governed by accounting professional standards (AICPA, SEC, etc.) | • AICPA attest and agreed-upon procedures
• Technology control assessments
• Financial reporting control assessments
• Enterprise security architecture assessment |
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY |
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORTING POLICY | |
• “One-time” pre-approval for the audit period for all pre-approved specific service subcategories. Approval of the independent auditors as auditors for a Fund shall constitute pre approval for these services. |
• A summary of all such services and related fees reported at each regularly scheduled Audit Committee meeting. | |
• “One-time” pre-approval for the fund fiscal year within a specified dollar limit for all pre-approved specific service subcategories |
• A summary of all such services and related fees (including comparison to specified dollar limits) reported quarterly. |
• Specific approval is needed to exceed the pre-approved dollar limit for these services (see general Audit Committee approval policy below for details on obtaining specific approvals)
• Specific approval is needed to use the Fund’s auditors for Audit-Related Services not denoted as “pre-approved”, or to add a specific service subcategory as “pre-approved” |
SECTION III - POLICY DETAIL, CONTINUED
SERVICE CATEGORY |
SERVICE CATEGORY DESCRIPTION |
SPECIFIC PRE-APPROVED SERVICE SUBCATEGORIES | ||
III. TAX SERVICES | Services which are not prohibited by the Rule, if an officer of the Fund determines that using the Fund’s auditor to provide these services creates significant synergy in the form of efficiency, minimized disruption, or the ability to maintain a desired level of confidentiality. | • Tax planning and support
• Tax controversy assistance
• Tax compliance, tax returns, excise tax returns and support
• Tax opinions |
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY |
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORTING POLICY | |
• “One-time” pre-approval for the fund fiscal year within a specified dollar limit |
• A summary of all such services and related fees (including comparison to specified dollar limits) reported quarterly. | |
• Specific approval is needed to exceed the pre-approved dollar limits for these services (see general Audit Committee approval policy below for details on obtaining specific approvals) |
||
• Specific approval is needed to use the Fund’s auditors for tax services not denoted as pre-approved, or to add a specific service subcategory as “pre-approved” |
SECTION III - POLICY DETAIL, CONTINUED
SERVICE CATEGORY |
SERVICE CATEGORY DESCRIPTION |
SPECIFIC PRE-APPROVED | ||
IV. OTHER SERVICES
A. SYNERGISTIC, UNIQUE QUALIFICATIONS |
Services which are not prohibited by the Rule, if an officer of the Fund determines that using the Fund’s auditor to provide these services creates significant synergy in the form of efficiency, minimized disruption, the ability to maintain a desired level of confidentiality, or where the Fund’s auditors posses unique or superior qualifications to provide these services, resulting in superior value and results for the Fund. | • Business Risk Management support
• Other control and regulatory compliance projects |
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY |
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORTING POLICY | |
• “One-time” pre-approval for the fund fiscal year within a specified dollar limit |
• A summary of all such services and related fees (including comparison to specified dollar limits) reported quarterly. | |
• Specific approval is needed to exceed the pre-approved dollar limits for these services (see general Audit Committee approval policy below for details on obtaining specific approvals) |
||
• Specific approval is needed to use the Fund’s auditors for “Synergistic” or “Unique Qualifications” Other Services not denoted as pre-approved to the left, or to add a specific service subcategory as “pre-approved” |
SECTION III - POLICY DETAIL, CONTINUED
SERVICE CATEGORY |
SERVICE CATEGORY DESCRIPTION |
SPECIFIC PROHIBITED SERVICE SUBCATEGORIES | ||
PROHIBITED SERVICES | Services which result in the auditors losing independence status under the Rule. | 1. Bookkeeping or other services related to the accounting records or financial statements of the audit client* | ||
2. Financial information systems design and implementation* | ||||
3. Appraisal or valuation services, fairness* opinions, or contribution-in-kind reports | ||||
4. Actuarial services (i.e., setting actuarial reserves versus actuarial audit work)* | ||||
5. Internal audit outsourcing services* | ||||
6. Management functions or human resources | ||||
7. Broker or dealer, investment advisor, or investment banking services | ||||
8. Legal services and expert services unrelated to the audit | ||||
9. Any other service that the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board determines, by regulation, is impermissible |
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY |
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORTING POLICY | |
• These services are not to be performed with the exception of the(*) services that may be permitted if they would not be subject to audit procedures at the audit client (as defined in rule 2-01(f)(4)) level the firm providing the service. |
• A summary of all services and related fees reported at each regularly scheduled Audit Committee meeting will serve as continual confirmation that has not provided any restricted services. |
GENERAL AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY:
• | For all projects, the officers of the Funds and the Fund’s auditors will each make an assessment to determine that any proposed projects will not impair independence. |
• | Potential services will be classified into the four non-restricted service categories and the “Approval of Audit, Audit-Related, Tax and Other Services” Policy above will be applied. Any services outside the specific pre-approved service subcategories set forth above must be specifically approved by the Audit Committee. |
• | At least quarterly, the Audit Committee shall review a report summarizing the services by service category, including fees, provided by the Audit firm as set forth in the above policy. |
(2) Disclose the percentage of services described in each of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this Item that were approved by the audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
N/A
(f) If greater than 50 percent, disclose the percentage of hours expended on the principal accountants engagement to audit the registrant’s financial statements for the most recent fiscal year that were attributed to work performed by persons other than the principal accountant’s full-time, permanent employees.
N/A
(g) Disclose the aggregate non-audit fees billed by the registrants accountant for services rendered to the registrant, and rendered to the registrants investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant for each of the last two fiscal years of the registrant.
N/A
(h) Disclose whether the registrants audit committee of the Board of Trustees has considered whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the registrants investment adviser (not including any subadviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant that were not pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence.
The Fund’s audit committee of the Board of Trustees has considered whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the Affiliates (as defined) that were not pre- approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence.
N/A
(i) A registrant identified by the Commission pursuant to Section 104(i)(2)(A) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. 7214(i)(2)(A)), as having retained, for the preparation of the audit report on its financial statements included in the Form NCSR, a registered public accounting firm that has a branch or office that is located in a foreign jurisdiction and that the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board has determined it is unable to inspect or investigate completely because of a position taken by an authority in the foreign jurisdiction must electronically submit to the Commission on a supplemental basis documentation that establishes that the registrant is not owned or controlled by a governmental entity in the foreign jurisdiction. The registrant must submit this documentation on or before the due date for this form. A registrant that is owned or controlled by a foreign governmental entity is not required to submit such documentation.
N/A
(j) A registrant that is a foreign issuer, as defined in 17 CFR 240.3b-4, identified by the Commission pursuant to Section 104(i)(2)(A) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. 7214(i)(2)(A)), as having retained, for the preparation of the audit report on its financial statements included in the Form N-CSR, a registered public accounting firm that has a branch or office that is located in a foreign jurisdiction and that the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board has determined it is unable to inspect or investigate completely because of a position taken by an authority in the foreign jurisdiction, for each year in which the registrant is so identified, must provide the below disclosures. Also, any such identified foreign issuer that uses a variable-interest entity or any similar structure that results in additional foreign entities being consolidated in the financial statements of the registrant is required to provide the below disclosures for itself and its consolidated foreign operating entity or entities. A registrant must disclose:
(1) That, for the immediately preceding annual financial statement period, a registered public accounting firm that the PCAOB was unable to inspect or investigate completely, because of a position taken by an authority in the foreign jurisdiction, issued an audit report for the registrant;
N/A
(2) The percentage of shares of the registrant owned by governmental entities in the foreign jurisdiction in which the registrant is incorporated or otherwise organized;
N/A
(3) Whether governmental entities in the applicable foreign jurisdiction with respect to that registered public accounting firm have a controlling financial interest with respect to the registrant; N/A
(4) The name of each official of the Chinese Communist Party who is a member of the board of directors of the registrant or the operating entity with respect to the registrant;
N/A
(5) Whether the articles of incorporation of the registrant (or equivalent organizing document) contains any charter of the Chinese Communist Party, including the text of any such charter.
N/A
ITEM 5. AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS
(a) If the registrant is a listed issuer as defined in Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.10A-3), state whether or not the registrant has a separately-designated standing audit committee established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(58)(A)). If the registrant has such a committee, however designated, identify each committee member. If the entire board of directors is acting as the registrant’s audit committee as specified in Section 3(a)(58)(B) of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(58)(B)), so state.
N/A
(b) If applicable, provide the disclosure required by Rule 10A-3(d) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.10A-3(d)) regarding an exemption from the listing standards for audit committees.
N/A
ITEM 6. SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS.
File Schedule of Investments in securities of unaffiliated issuers as of the close of the reporting period as set forth in 210.1212 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.12-12], unless the schedule is included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item 7 of this Form.
Included in Item 7
ITEM 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR OPEN-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
Schedule of Investments | 2 |
Financial Statements | 24 |
Notes to Financial Statements | 29 |
Additional Information | 41 |
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement | 42 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 104.2% | ||||||
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests — 0.2% of Net Assets*(a) | ||||||
Chemicals-Specialty — 0.0%† | ||||||
45,396 | Mativ Holdings, Inc., Term B Loan, 8.191% (Term SOFR + 375 bps), 4/20/28 | $ 45,226 | ||||
Total Chemicals-Specialty | $45,226 | |||||
Computer Services — 0.1% | ||||||
94,417 | Amentum Holdings, Inc., Initial Term Loan, 6.577% (Term SOFR + 225 bps), 9/29/31 | $ 94,387 | ||||
Total Computer Services | $94,387 | |||||
Cruise Lines — 0.0%† | ||||||
29,775 | LC Ahab US Bidco LLC, Second Amendment Incremental Term Loan, 7.327% (Term SOFR + 300 bps), 5/1/31 | $ 29,738 | ||||
Total Cruise Lines | $29,738 | |||||
Medical-Wholesale Drug Distribution — 0.1% | ||||||
59,617 | Owens & Minor, Inc., Term B-1 Loan, 8.177% (Term SOFR + 375 bps), 3/29/29 | $ 59,654 | ||||
Total Medical-Wholesale Drug Distribution | $59,654 | |||||
Total Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests (Cost $228,124) |
$229,005 | |||||
Asset Backed Securities — 9.8% of Net Assets | ||||||
138,161 | ACHM Trust, Series 2024-HE2, Class A, 5.35%, 10/25/39 (144A) | $ 137,954 | ||||
45,772 | ACM Auto Trust, Series 2024-2A, Class A, 6.06%, 2/20/29 (144A) | 45,893 | ||||
15,628 | Affirm Asset Securitization Trust, Series 2024-X1, Class A, 6.27%, 5/15/29 (144A) | 15,641 | ||||
46,179 | Affirm Asset Securitization Trust, Series 2024-X2, Class A, 5.22%, 12/17/29 (144A) | 46,202 | ||||
100,000 | American Credit Acceptance Receivables Trust, Series 2024-3, Class D, 6.04%, 7/12/30 (144A) | 102,182 | ||||
170,000 | American Credit Acceptance Receivables Trust, Series 2025-2, Class D, 5.50%, 7/14/31 (144A) | 171,305 | ||||
300,000 | Amur Equipment Finance Receivables XI LLC, Series 2022-2A, Class D, 7.25%, 5/21/29 (144A) | 304,660 | ||||
100,000 | Amur Equipment Finance Receivables XII LLC, Series 2023-1A, Class C, 6.36%, 12/20/29 (144A) | 102,912 | ||||
210,000 | Amur Equipment Finance Receivables XIV LLC, Series 2024-2A, Class D, 5.97%, 10/20/31 (144A) | 214,458 | ||||
125,000 | Avis Budget Rental Car Funding AESOP LLC, Series 2022-5A, Class C, 6.24%, 4/20/27 (144A) | 125,389 | ||||
100,000 | Avis Budget Rental Car Funding AESOP LLC, Series 2023-6A, Class D, 7.37%, 12/20/29 (144A) | 100,643 | ||||
110,000 | Avis Budget Rental Car Funding AESOP LLC, Series 2023-8A, Class D, 7.52%, 2/20/30 (144A) | 111,107 | ||||
166,000 | Blackbird Capital II Aircraft Lease, Ltd., Series 2021-1A, Class A, 2.443%, 7/15/46 (144A) | 155,657 | ||||
250,000(a) | Carlyle US CLO, Ltd., Series 2019-4A, Class CR, 7.456% (3 Month Term SOFR + 320 bps), 4/15/35 (144A) | 249,551 | ||||
200,000 | Cascade MH Asset Trust, Series 2021-MH1, Class M1, 2.992%, 2/25/46 (144A) | 159,723 | ||||
100,000 | Cascade MH Asset Trust, Series 2021-MH1, Class M2, 3.693%, 2/25/46 (144A) | 81,117 | ||||
125,000(b) | CFMT LLC, Series 2022-HB9, Class M3, 3.25%, 9/25/37 (144A) | 116,273 | ||||
100,000(b) | CFMT LLC, Series 2024-HB13, Class M2, 3.00%, 5/25/34 (144A) | 94,602 | ||||
375,000 | Continental Finance Credit Card ABS Master Trust, Series 2022-A, Class A, 6.19%, 10/15/30 (144A) | 376,170 | ||||
100,000 | Continental Finance Credit Card ABS Master Trust, Series 2024-A, Class A, 5.78%, 12/15/32 (144A) | 101,258 | ||||
56,451 | CoreVest American Finance Trust, Series 2020-3, Class A, 1.358%, 8/15/53 (144A) | 55,424 | ||||
100,000 | DataBank Issuer, Series 2021-1A, Class B, 2.65%, 2/27/51 (144A) | 97,450 | ||||
160,000 | DataBank Issuer, Series 2024-1A, Class A2, 5.30%, 1/26/54 (144A) | 159,317 | ||||
100,000 | Dell Equipment Finance Trust, Series 2024-1, Class D, 6.12%, 9/23/30 (144A) | 101,610 | ||||
390,000 | Drive Auto Receivables Trust, Series 2025-1, Class D, 5.41%, 9/15/32 | 394,370 | ||||
13,109(c) | Equifirst Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2003-1, Class IF1, 4.01%, 12/25/32 | 12,490 | ||||
300,000 | Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust, Series 2023-5A, Class D, 7.13%, 2/15/30 | 311,920 | ||||
170,000 | Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust, Series 2024-5A, Class D, 5.06%, 2/18/31 | 170,106 | ||||
370,000 | Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust, Series 2025-3A, Class D, 5.57%, 10/15/31 | 376,139 | ||||
337,564(b) | FIGRE Trust, Series 2024-HE3, Class A, 5.937%, 7/25/54 (144A) | 342,189 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Asset Backed Securities — (continued) | ||||||
553,628(b) | FIGRE Trust, Series 2024-HE6, Class A, 5.724%, 12/25/54 (144A) | $ 558,811 | ||||
288,712(b) | FIGRE Trust, Series 2025-HE1, Class A, 5.829%, 1/25/55 (144A) | 291,861 | ||||
138,884(b) | FIGRE Trust, Series 2025-HE2, Class A, 5.775%, 3/25/55 (144A) | 140,710 | ||||
312,194(c) | Finance of America Structured Securities Trust, Series 2022-S1, Class A1, 2.00%, 2/25/52 (144A) | 305,012 | ||||
300,632(c) | Finance of America Structured Securities Trust, Series 2022-S1, Class A2, 3.00%, 2/25/52 (144A) | 293,586 | ||||
69,959 | Foundation Finance Trust, Series 2019-1A, Class B, 4.22%, 11/15/34 (144A) | 69,730 | ||||
140,000 | GLS Auto Receivables Issuer Trust, Series 2023-4A, Class D, 7.18%, 8/15/29 (144A) | 145,561 | ||||
470,000 | GLS Auto Receivables Issuer Trust, Series 2024-3A, Class D, 5.53%, 2/18/31 (144A) | 476,727 | ||||
100,000 | GLS Auto Receivables Issuer Trust, Series 2025-2A, Class D, 5.59%, 1/15/31 (144A) | 101,701 | ||||
100,000 | GLS Auto Select Receivables Trust, Series 2024-4A, Class D, 5.28%, 10/15/31 (144A) | 100,806 | ||||
208,333(b) | GS Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2025-SL1, Class A1, 5.847%, 11/25/67 (144A) | 209,484 | ||||
300,000 | Hertz Vehicle Financing III LP, Series 2021-2A, Class B, 2.12%, 12/27/27 (144A) | 286,852 | ||||
193,876(d) | HOA Funding LLC - HOA, Series 2021-1A, Class A2, 4.723%, 8/20/51 (144A) | 44,591 | ||||
76,218 | Home Partners of America Trust, Series 2019-1, Class D, 3.406%, 9/17/39 (144A) | 73,241 | ||||
100,000 | HPEFS Equipment Trust, Series 2024-2A, Class D, 5.82%, 4/20/32 (144A) | 101,749 | ||||
160,483 | JG Wentworth XLIII LLC, Series 2019-1A, Class A, 3.82%, 8/17/71 (144A) | 142,984 | ||||
3,821 | JG Wentworth XXII LLC, Series 2010-3A, Class A, 3.82%, 12/15/48 (144A) | 3,778 | ||||
220,000 | Merchants Fleet Funding LLC, Series 2024-1A, Class C, 6.18%, 4/20/37 (144A) | 222,548 | ||||
110,000 | Merchants Fleet Funding LLC, Series 2024-1A, Class D, 6.85%, 4/20/37 (144A) | 111,391 | ||||
220,000 | Mission Lane Credit Card Master Trust, Series 2024-B, Class A, 5.88%, 1/15/30 (144A) | 221,749 | ||||
140,000 | Mission Lane Credit Card Master Trust, Series 2024-B, Class B, 6.32%, 1/15/30 (144A) | 141,050 | ||||
59,963 | Mosaic Solar Loan Trust, Series 2019-2A, Class A, 2.88%, 9/20/40 (144A) | 52,778 | ||||
23,377 | MVW LLC, Series 2020-1A, Class C, 4.21%, 10/20/37 (144A) | 23,050 | ||||
200,000 | Nelnet Student Loan Trust, Series 2021-A, Class B1, 2.85%, 4/20/62 (144A) | 176,882 | ||||
200,000 | NMEF Funding LLC, Series 2024-A, Class C, 6.33%, 12/15/31 (144A) | 201,683 | ||||
64,255 | Pagaya AI Debt Grantor Trust, Series 2024-10, Class A, 5.183%, 6/15/32 (144A) | 64,487 | ||||
250,000(a) | Palmer Square Loan Funding, Ltd., Series 2022-1A, Class C, 6.856% (3 Month Term SOFR + 260 bps), 4/15/30 (144A) | 249,678 | ||||
110,000 | Prestige Auto Receivables Trust, Series 2025-1A, Class D, 6.02%, 7/15/31 (144A) | 111,149 | ||||
163,794(a) | ReadyCap Lending Small Business Loan Trust, Series 2023-3, Class A, 7.57% (PRIME + 7 bps), 4/25/48 (144A) | 165,372 | ||||
86,786 | Republic Finance Issuance Trust, Series 2021-A, Class A, 2.30%, 12/22/31 (144A) | 86,270 | ||||
100,000 | Republic Finance Issuance Trust, Series 2021-A, Class C, 3.53%, 12/22/31 (144A) | 97,217 | ||||
125,000(b) | Saluda Grade Alternative Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-SEQ2, Class A3, 4.50%, 2/25/52 (144A) | 121,621 | ||||
150,000 | Santander Drive Auto Receivables Trust, Series 2024-2, Class D, 6.28%, 8/15/31 | 154,860 | ||||
340,000 | Santander Drive Auto Receivables Trust, Series 2024-4, Class D, 5.32%, 12/15/31 | 343,542 | ||||
250,000(a) | Sound Point CLO XXVIII, Ltd., Series 2020-3A, Class D, 8.193% (3 Month Term SOFR + 391 bps), 1/25/32 (144A) | 248,782 | ||||
72,050 | SpringCastle America Funding LLC, Series 2020-AA, Class A, 1.97%, 9/25/37 (144A) | 67,822 | ||||
180,000 | Tricon American Homes Trust, Series 2020-SFR2, Class E1, 2.73%, 11/17/39 (144A) | 170,238 | ||||
100,000 | VFI ABS LLC, Series 2023-1A, Class C, 9.26%, 12/24/29 (144A) | 103,164 | ||||
250,980(c) | Vista Point Securitization Trust, Series 2024-CES1, Class A1, 6.676%, 5/25/54 (144A) | 254,147 | ||||
100,000 | VStrong Auto Receivables Trust, Series 2023-A, Class D, 9.31%, 2/15/30 (144A) | 108,742 | ||||
89,286 | Westgate Resorts LLC, Series 2022-1A, Class C, 2.488%, 8/20/36 (144A) | 88,746 | ||||
250,000 | Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust, Series 2024-2A, Class D, 5.91%, 4/15/30 (144A) | 254,636 | ||||
Total Asset Backed Securities (Cost $12,185,885) |
$12,022,500 | |||||
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations—6.9% of Net Assets | ||||||
102,628(b) | Ajax Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2021-A, Class A1, 1.065%, 9/25/65 (144A) | $ 91,196 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations—(continued) | ||||||
450,000(b) | BINOM Securitization Trust, Series 2022-RPL1, Class M2, 3.00%, 2/25/61 (144A) | $ 342,240 | ||||
100,000(b) | Bunker Hill Loan Depositary Trust, Series 2020-1, Class A3, 3.253%, 2/25/55 (144A) | 94,240 | ||||
100,000(b) | CFMT LLC, Series 2024-HB14, Class M1, 3.00%, 6/25/34 (144A) | 95,585 | ||||
100,000(b) | CFMT LLC, Series 2024-HB14, Class M2, 3.00%, 6/25/34 (144A) | 94,693 | ||||
180,000(b) | CIM Trust, Series 2020-R2, Class M3, 3.00%, 10/25/59 (144A) | 137,798 | ||||
400,000(b) | Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2018-RP3, Class M3, 3.25%, 3/25/61 (144A) | 344,800 | ||||
85,000(a) | Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2022-R02, Class 2M2, 7.305% (SOFR30A + 300 bps), 1/25/42 (144A) | 86,939 | ||||
90,000(a) | Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2024-R03, Class 2M2, 6.256% (SOFR30A + 195 bps), 3/25/44 (144A) | 90,729 | ||||
100,000(a) | Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2024-R05, Class 2M2, 6.005% (SOFR30A + 170 bps), 7/25/44 (144A) | 100,366 | ||||
98,399(c) | COOPR Residential Mortgage Trust, Series 2025-CES1, Class A1A, 5.654%, 5/25/60 (144A) | 99,321 | ||||
200,000(b) | CSMC Trust, Series 2021-RPL2, Class M1, 2.75%, 1/25/60 (144A) | 150,629 | ||||
150,000(b) | CSMC Trust, Series 2021-RPL2, Class M2, 3.25%, 1/25/60 (144A) | 109,913 | ||||
200,000(a) | Eagle Re, Ltd., Series 2023-1, Class M1B, 8.255% (SOFR30A + 395 bps), 9/26/33 (144A) | 205,109 | ||||
10,189 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 2944, Class OH, 5.50%, 3/15/35 | 10,631 | ||||
144,266(a)(e) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 4091, Class SH, 2.132% (SOFR30A + 644 bps), 8/15/42 | 21,275 | ||||
69,445(e) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 4999, Class QI, 4.00%, 5/25/50 | 13,827 | ||||
90,152(e) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 5067, Class GI, 4.00%, 12/25/50 | 18,789 | ||||
350,000 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Seasoned Credit Risk Transfer Trust, Series 2018-4, Class M, 4.75%, 3/25/58 (144A) | 336,867 | ||||
159,000(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. STACR REMIC Trust, Series 2024-DNA3, Class A1, 5.355% (SOFR30A + 105 bps), 10/25/44 (144A) | 159,000 | ||||
49,115(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. STACR REMIC Trust, Series 2024-DNA3, Class M1, 5.305% (SOFR30A + 100 bps), 10/25/44 (144A) | 49,101 | ||||
550,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association REMICs, Series 2013-61, Class BY, 3.00%, 6/25/43 | 459,459 | ||||
61,335(e) | Federal National Mortgage Association REMICs, Series 2020-83, Class EI, 4.00%, 11/25/50 | 12,499 | ||||
354,521(e) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2019-159, Class CI, 3.50%, 12/20/49 | 59,988 | ||||
310,920(a)(e) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2020-9, Class SA, 7.559% (1 Month Term SOFR + 324 bps), 1/20/50 | 4,457 | ||||
271,174(c) | GS Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 2025-CES1, Class A1A, 5.568%, 5/25/55 (144A) | 272,351 | ||||
165,000(b) | GS Mortgage-Backed Securities Corp. Trust, Series 2022-PJ4, Class A33, 3.00%, 9/25/52 (144A) | 116,741 | ||||
291,730(b) | GS Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2022-PJ1, Class A4, 2.50%, 5/28/52 (144A) | 236,365 | ||||
93,752(b) | Homeward Opportunities Fund I Trust, Series 2020-2, Class A3, 3.196%, 5/25/65 (144A) | 92,721 | ||||
100,000(b) | Homeward Opportunities Fund I Trust, Series 2020-2, Class M1, 3.897%, 5/25/65 (144A) | 96,693 | ||||
387,116(b) | Hundred Acre Wood Trust, Series 2021-INV3, Class A3, 2.50%, 12/25/51 (144A) | 316,166 | ||||
100,000(b) | Imperial Fund Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-NQM2, Class B1, 3.295%, 9/25/56 (144A) | 71,922 | ||||
100,000(b) | Imperial Fund Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-NQM2, Class M1, 2.489%, 9/25/56 (144A) | 71,357 | ||||
263,786 | IMS Ecuadorian Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-1, Class GA, 3.40%, 8/18/43 (144A) | 253,894 | ||||
218,917(b) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-HYB1, Class B3, 4.97%, 10/25/49 (144A) | 219,977 | ||||
98,769(b) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-INV1, Class B1, 2.972%, 10/25/51 (144A) | 82,125 | ||||
215,000(b) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-4, Class A5, 3.00%, 10/25/52 (144A) | 152,307 | ||||
275,000(b) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-LTV1, Class M1, 3.513%, 7/25/52 (144A) | 178,490 | ||||
379,040(b) | Mello Mortgage Capital Acceptance, Series 2021-INV2, Class A15, 2.50%, 8/25/51 (144A) | 306,608 | ||||
269,013(b) | Mello Mortgage Capital Acceptance, Series 2021-MTG2, Class B1, 2.668%, 6/25/51 (144A) | 220,333 | ||||
39,772(b) | MFA Trust, Series 2020-NQM1, Class A3, 3.30%, 8/25/49 (144A) | 37,599 | ||||
130,000(b) | Onity Loan Investment Trust, Series 2024-HB2, Class M2, 5.00%, 8/25/37 (144A) | 127,576 | ||||
311,265(b) | PRMI Securitization Trust, Series 2021-1, Class B1, 2.477%, 4/25/51 (144A) | 249,524 | ||||
176,840(b) | Provident Funding Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-J1, Class B1, 2.637%, 10/25/51 (144A) | 148,551 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations—(continued) | ||||||
80,998(a) | Radnor Re, Ltd., Series 2023-1, Class M1A, 7.005% (SOFR30A + 270 bps), 7/25/33 (144A) | $ 81,401 | ||||
135,599(b) | Rate Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-J3, Class B2, 2.712%, 10/25/51 (144A) | 112,178 | ||||
279,693(b) | RCKT Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-3, Class A25, 2.50%, 7/25/51 (144A) | 226,246 | ||||
400,000(b) | RCKT Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-3, Class A17, 3.00%, 5/25/52 (144A) | 282,066 | ||||
57,076(b) | RMF Proprietary Issuance Trust, Series 2019-1, Class A, 2.75%, 10/25/63 (144A) | 54,221 | ||||
173,988(b) | RMF Proprietary Issuance Trust, Series 2021-2, Class A, 2.125%, 9/25/61 (144A) | 159,900 | ||||
1,614(b) | Sequoia Mortgage Trust, Series 2018-CH3, Class A1, 4.50%, 8/25/48 (144A) | 1,596 | ||||
150,000(b) | Sequoia Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-1, Class A7, 2.50%, 2/25/52 (144A) | 98,282 | ||||
140,000(a) | Towd Point Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-HY1, Class B2, 6.584% (1 Month Term SOFR + 226 bps), 10/25/48 (144A) | 141,919 | ||||
335,147(b) | Towd Point Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-R1, Class A1, 2.918%, 11/30/60 (144A) | 291,807 | ||||
162,474(a) | Triangle Re, Ltd., Series 2023-1, Class M1A, 7.705% (SOFR30A + 340 bps), 11/25/33 (144A) | 164,268 | ||||
28,045(b) | Visio Trust, Series 2019-2, Class A1, 2.722%, 11/25/54 (144A) | 27,633 | ||||
100,000(b) | Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 2022-2, Class A5, 3.00%, 12/25/51 (144A) | 70,488 | ||||
345,000(b) | Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 2022-2, Class A6, 2.50%, 12/25/51 (144A) | 224,502 | ||||
Total Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (Cost $9,694,237) |
$8,377,258 | |||||
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities—6.8% of Net Assets | ||||||
120,255(a) | ACREC, Ltd., Series 2021-FL1, Class A, 5.579% (1 Month Term SOFR + 126 bps), 10/16/36 (144A) | $ 119,967 | ||||
230,000(a) | Arbor Realty Collateralized Loan Obligation, Ltd., Series 2025-BTR1, Class AS, 6.958% (1 Month Term SOFR + 264 bps), 1/20/41 (144A) | 229,425 | ||||
250,000(a) | Arbor Realty Commercial Real Estate Notes, Ltd., Series 2021-FL3, Class C, 6.276% (1 Month Term SOFR + 196 bps), 8/15/34 (144A) | 248,890 | ||||
265,000(a) | Arbor Realty Commercial Real Estate Notes, Ltd., Series 2022-FL1, Class C, 6.604% (SOFR30A + 230 bps), 1/15/37 (144A) | 265,331 | ||||
150,000(a) | AREIT Trust, Series 2022-CRE6, Class D, 7.151% (SOFR30A + 285 bps), 1/20/37 (144A) | 148,761 | ||||
100,267(c)(e)+ | Bayview Commercial Asset Trust, Series 2007-2A, Class IO, 0.000%, 7/25/37 (144A) | — | ||||
250,000 | Benchmark Mortgage Trust, Series 2018-B8, Class A4, 3.963%, 1/15/52 | 245,522 | ||||
200,000(b) | Benchmark Mortgage Trust, Series 2020-IG3, Class B, 3.357%, 9/15/48 (144A) | 137,057 | ||||
100,000(b) | Benchmark Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-B34, Class AM, 3.956%, 4/15/55 | 89,093 | ||||
170,000(a) | BSPRT Issuer, Ltd., Series 2022-FL8, Class C, 6.604% (SOFR30A + 230 bps), 2/15/37 (144A) | 169,413 | ||||
500,000(b) | BX Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-VIV5, Class A, 2.843%, 3/9/44 (144A) | 451,349 | ||||
400,000 | BX Trust, Series 2019-OC11, Class A, 3.202%, 12/9/41 (144A) | 372,954 | ||||
80,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class A, 5.326% (1 Month Term SOFR + 101 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 79,925 | ||||
75,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class B, 5.723% (1 Month Term SOFR + 141 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 74,906 | ||||
450,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class D, 6.322% (1 Month Term SOFR + 201 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 449,156 | ||||
150,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class E, 6.671% (1 Month Term SOFR + 236 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 149,625 | ||||
234,973 | Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2018-C5, Class A3, 3.963%, 6/10/51 | 232,203 | ||||
159,665 | COMM Mortgage Trust, Series 2016-CR28, Class AHR, 3.651%, 2/10/49 | 157,950 | ||||
320,000(a) | COMM Mortgage Trust, Series 2024-WCL1, Class A, 6.153% (1 Month Term SOFR + 184 bps), 6/15/41 (144A) | 319,900 | ||||
300,000(a) | Dwight Issuer LLC, Series 2025-FL1, Class A, 5.962% (1 Month Term SOFR + 166 bps), 9/18/42 (144A) | 299,437 | ||||
225,000(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Credit Risk, Series 2021-MN3, Class M2, 8.305% (SOFR30A + 400 bps), 11/25/51 (144A) | 231,905 | ||||
150,000(b) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2017-KW03, Class B, 4.214%, 7/25/27 (144A) | 144,351 | ||||
109,063(a) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2018-KSW4, Class B, 6.876% (SOFR30A + 256 bps), 10/25/28 | 104,107 | ||||
100,000(b) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-K88, Class C, 4.53%, 2/25/52 (144A) | 97,508 | ||||
134,133(a) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-KF64, Class B, 6.726% (SOFR30A + 241 bps), 6/25/26 (144A) | 132,041 | ||||
106,683(a) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-KF66, Class B, 6.826% (SOFR30A + 251 bps), 7/25/29 (144A) | 100,025 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities—(continued) | ||||||
230,000(a) | FS Rialto Issuer LLC, Series 2025-FL10, Class A, 5.703% (1 Month Term SOFR + 139 bps), 8/19/42 (144A) | $ 229,425 | ||||
596,204(b)(e) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2017-21, Class IO, 0.614%, 10/16/58 | 20,309 | ||||
250,000(a) | GS Mortgage Securities Corporation Trust, Series 2021-IP, Class D, 6.526% (1 Month Term SOFR + 221 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 248,438 | ||||
125,000(a) | HGI CRE CLO, Ltd., Series 2021-FL2, Class C, 6.226% (1 Month Term SOFR + 191 bps), 9/17/36 (144A) | 124,446 | ||||
200,000(a) | HILT Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2024-ORL, Class A, 5.853% (1 Month Term SOFR + 154 bps), 5/15/37 (144A) | 200,125 | ||||
100,000(b) | HTL Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2024-T53, Class B, 6.774%, 5/10/39 (144A) | 100,835 | ||||
323,000 | ILPT Trust, Series 2019-SURF, Class A, 4.145%, 2/11/41 (144A) | 314,404 | ||||
250,000 | JP Morgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2018-WPT, Class AFX, 4.248%, 7/5/33 (144A) | 236,563 | ||||
250,000 | JPMDB Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2018-C8, Class A4, 4.211%, 6/15/51 | 248,030 | ||||
1,600,000(b)(e) | JPMDB Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2018-C8, Class XB, 0.199%, 6/15/51 | 6,150 | ||||
223,293 | Key Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2019-S2, Class A3, 3.469%, 6/15/52 (144A) | 213,924 | ||||
250,000(b) | Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust, Series 2018-MP, Class A, 4.419%, 7/11/40 (144A) | 236,003 | ||||
85,000 | Palisades Center Trust, Series 2016-PLSD, Class A, 2.713%, 4/13/33 (144A) | 61,965 | ||||
225,000(a) | Ready Capital Mortgage Financing LLC, Series 2021-FL7, Class D, 7.384% (1 Month Term SOFR + 306 bps), 11/25/36 (144A) | 223,693 | ||||
350,000(a) | STWD, Ltd., Series 2022-FL3, Class B, 6.254% (SOFR30A + 195 bps), 11/15/38 (144A) | 343,061 | ||||
176,732(b) | THPT Mortgage Trust, Series 2023-THL, Class A, 7.227%, 12/10/34 (144A) | 179,760 | ||||
157,011(b) | Velocity Commercial Capital Loan Trust, Series 2024-6, Class A, 5.81%, 12/25/54 (144A) | 157,842 | ||||
134,826(b) | Velocity Commercial Capital Loan Trust, Series 2025-1, Class A, 6.03%, 2/25/55 (144A) | 136,133 | ||||
Total Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (Cost $8,752,114) |
$8,331,907 | |||||
Corporate Bonds — 37.7% of Net Assets | ||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 0.6% | ||||||
480,000 | Boeing Co., 3.90%, 5/1/49 | $ 343,775 | ||||
95,000 | Boeing Co., 7.008%, 5/1/64 | 104,343 | ||||
235,000(f) | Czechoslovak Group AS, 6.50%, 1/10/31 (144A) | 236,961 | ||||
110,000 | Northrop Grumman Corp., 5.25%, 7/15/35 | 112,240 | ||||
Total Aerospace & Defense | $797,319 | |||||
Agriculture — 0.4% | ||||||
455,000 | Imperial Brands Finance Plc, 5.50%, 2/1/30 (144A) | $ 469,091 | ||||
Total Agriculture | $469,091 | |||||
Airlines — 0.5% | ||||||
176,808 | Air Canada Pass-Through Trust, 3.30%, 1/15/30 (144A) | $ 165,352 | ||||
34,875 | American Airlines Pass-Through Trust, 3.95%, 7/11/30 | 32,875 | ||||
85,000 | Delta Air Lines, Inc./SkyMiles IP, Ltd., 4.75%, 10/20/28 (144A) | 85,197 | ||||
120,520 | JetBlue Pass-Through Trust, 2.75%, 5/15/32 | 105,468 | ||||
43,038 | JetBlue Pass-Through Trust, 4.00%, 11/15/32 | 40,293 | ||||
25,000 | OneSky Flight LLC, 8.875%, 12/15/29 (144A) | 26,031 | ||||
99,130 | United Airlines Pass-Through Trust, 5.45%, 2/15/37 | 100,044 | ||||
32,240 | United Airlines Pass-Through Trust, 4.875%, 1/15/26 | 32,196 | ||||
Total Airlines | $587,456 | |||||
Auto Manufacturers — 4.2% | ||||||
255,000 | American Honda Finance Corp., 4.85%, 10/23/31 | $ 255,687 | ||||
310,000 | American Honda Finance Corp., 5.05%, 7/10/31 | 314,010 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Auto Manufacturers — (continued) | ||||||
360,000 | BMW US Capital LLC, 5.40%, 3/21/35 (144A) | $ 363,105 | ||||
420,000 | Cummins, Inc., 5.30%, 5/9/35 | 426,482 | ||||
125,000 | Ford Motor Co., 6.10%, 8/19/32 | 124,824 | ||||
200,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 3.625%, 6/17/31 | 176,048 | ||||
410,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 6.054%, 11/5/31 | 407,885 | ||||
200,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 6.125%, 3/8/34 | 194,691 | ||||
200,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 6.532%, 3/19/32 | 203,100 | ||||
200,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 7.35%, 3/6/30 | 211,128 | ||||
216,000 | General Motors Co., 6.60%, 4/1/36 | 228,767 | ||||
85,000 | General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 5.75%, 2/8/31 | 87,339 | ||||
220,000 | General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 5.90%, 1/7/35 | 221,167 | ||||
390,000 | General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 6.10%, 1/7/34 | 401,399 | ||||
285,000 | General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 6.40%, 1/9/33 | 299,865 | ||||
160,000 | Hyundai Capital America, 5.30%, 1/8/30 (144A) | 163,436 | ||||
295,000 | Hyundai Capital America, 5.80%, 4/1/30 (144A) | 306,099 | ||||
115,000 | Hyundai Capital America, 6.20%, 9/21/30 (144A) | 121,681 | ||||
290,000 | Mercedes-Benz Finance North America LLC, 4.85%, 1/11/29 (144A) | 292,412 | ||||
150,000 | Mercedes-Benz Finance North America LLC, 5.45%, 4/1/35 (144A) | 152,176 | ||||
200,000 | Volkswagen Group of America Finance LLC, 5.80%, 3/27/35 (144A) | 201,459 | ||||
Total Auto Manufacturers | $5,152,760 | |||||
Auto Parts & Equipment — 0.1% | ||||||
20,000 | Magna International, Inc., 5.875%, 6/1/35 | $ 20,526 | ||||
150,000 | ZF North America Capital, Inc., 6.875%, 4/14/28 (144A) | 150,454 | ||||
Total Auto Parts & Equipment | $170,980 | |||||
Banks — 9.1% | ||||||
600,000(b) | ABN AMRO Bank NV, 3.324% (5 Year CMT Index + 190 bps), 3/13/37 (144A) | $ 527,604 | ||||
270,000(b) | Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd., 5.731% (5 Year CMT Index + 162 bps), 9/18/34 (144A) | 277,063 | ||||
600,000(b) | Banco Santander S.A., 3.225% (1 Year CMT Index + 160 bps), 11/22/32 | 538,373 | ||||
375,000(b) | Bank of America Corp., 2.572% (SOFR + 121 bps), 10/20/32 | 330,510 | ||||
205,000(b) | Bank of America Corp., 5.744% (SOFR + 170 bps), 2/12/36 | 208,308 | ||||
255,000(b) | BNP Paribas S.A., 2.159% (SOFR + 122 bps), 9/15/29 (144A) | 236,387 | ||||
295,000(b)(g) | BNP Paribas S.A., 7.45% (5 Year CMT Index + 313 bps) (144A) | 296,770 | ||||
200,000 | BPCE S.A., 4.875%, 4/1/26 (144A) | 200,026 | ||||
230,000(b) | Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, 4.631% (SOFR + 134 bps), 9/11/30 | 230,026 | ||||
250,000(b) | Citigroup, Inc., 2.52% (SOFR + 118 bps), 11/3/32 | 218,586 | ||||
40,000(b) | Citizens Financial Group, Inc., 5.253% (SOFR + 126 bps), 3/5/31 | 40,536 | ||||
195,000(b) | Citizens Financial Group, Inc., 5.718% (SOFR + 191 bps), 7/23/32 | 201,734 | ||||
120,000(b) | Citizens Financial Group, Inc., 5.841% (SOFR + 201 bps), 1/23/30 | 124,289 | ||||
365,000(b) | Comerica Bank, 5.332% (SOFR + 261 bps), 8/25/33 | 354,362 | ||||
405,000(b) | DNB Bank ASA, 4.853% (SOFR + 105 bps), 11/5/30 (144A) | 409,529 | ||||
235,000(b) | Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., 2.65% (SOFR + 126 bps), 10/21/32 | 207,658 | ||||
355,000(b) | HSBC Holdings Plc, 2.206% (SOFR + 129 bps), 8/17/29 | 330,720 | ||||
375,000(b) | HSBC Holdings Plc, 2.871% (SOFR + 141 bps), 11/22/32 | 331,726 | ||||
205,000(b) | HSBC Holdings Plc, 5.286% (SOFR + 129 bps), 11/19/30 | 209,422 | ||||
255,000(b)(g) | HSBC Holdings Plc, 6.95% (5 Year CMT Index + 264 bps) | 255,964 | ||||
105,000(b) | Huntington Bancshares, Inc., 5.272% (SOFR + 128 bps), 1/15/31 | 107,583 | ||||
435,000(b)(g) | ING Groep NV, 4.25% (5 Year CMT Index + 286 bps) | 363,920 | ||||
335,000 | Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., 7.80%, 11/28/53 (144A) | 391,818 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Banks — (continued) | ||||||
125,000(b) | KeyCorp, 5.121% (SOFR + 123 bps), 4/4/31 | $ 126,492 | ||||
335,000(b) | Macquarie Group, Ltd., 2.691% (SOFR + 144 bps), 6/23/32 (144A) | 296,422 | ||||
460,000(b) | Mizuho Financial Group, Inc., 5.422% (1 Year CMT Index + 98 bps), 5/13/36 | 465,598 | ||||
165,000(b) | Morgan Stanley, 5.942% (5 Year CMT Index + 180 bps), 2/7/39 | 169,357 | ||||
60,000(b) | Morgan Stanley, 5.948% (5 Year CMT Index + 243 bps), 1/19/38 | 61,725 | ||||
200,000(b) | NatWest Group Plc, 6.475% (5 Year CMT Index + 220 bps), 6/1/34 | 209,395 | ||||
445,000(b)(g) | Nordea Bank Abp, 3.75% (5 Year CMT Index + 260 bps) (144A) | 399,641 | ||||
210,000(b) | Santander Holdings USA, Inc., 2.49% (SOFR + 125 bps), 1/6/28 | 203,284 | ||||
55,000(b) | Santander Holdings USA, Inc., 6.124% (SOFR + 123 bps), 5/31/27 | 55,618 | ||||
375,000(b) | Societe Generale S.A., 6.10% (1 Year CMT Index + 160 bps), 4/13/33 (144A) | 389,809 | ||||
200,000(b) | Standard Chartered Plc, 5.005% (1 Year CMT Index + 115 bps), 10/15/30 (144A) | 202,053 | ||||
200,000(b) | Standard Chartered Plc, 6.228% (1 Year CMT Index + 143 bps), 1/21/36 (144A) | 212,113 | ||||
415,000(b) | UBS Group AG, 2.746% (1 Year CMT Index + 110 bps), 2/11/33 (144A) | 362,073 | ||||
200,000(b) | UBS Group AG, 6.301% (1 Year CMT Index + 200 bps), 9/22/34 (144A) | 214,790 | ||||
350,000(b) | UniCredit S.p.A., 2.569% (1 Year CMT Index + 230 bps), 9/22/26 (144A) | 348,194 | ||||
240,000(b) | UniCredit S.p.A., 5.459% (5 Year CMT Index + 475 bps), 6/30/35 (144A) | 238,612 | ||||
200,000(b) | UniCredit S.p.A., 7.296% (5 Year USD Swap Rate + 491 bps), 4/2/34 (144A) | 211,548 | ||||
595,000(b) | US Bancorp, 2.491% (5 Year CMT Index + 95 bps), 11/3/36 | 505,025 | ||||
95,000(b) | Wells Fargo & Co., 5.244% (SOFR + 111 bps), 1/24/31 | 97,455 | ||||
Total Banks | $11,162,118 | |||||
Building Materials — 0.2% | ||||||
200,000 | CRH SMW Finance DAC, 5.125%, 1/9/30 | $ 205,058 | ||||
Total Building Materials | $205,058 | |||||
Chemicals — 0.4% | ||||||
225,000 | Celanese US Holdings LLC, 7.20%, 11/15/33 | $ 238,851 | ||||
198,000 | Methanex US Operations, Inc., 6.25%, 3/15/32 (144A) | 197,424 | ||||
Total Chemicals | $436,275 | |||||
Commercial Services — 0.6% | ||||||
25,000 | Avis Budget Car Rental LLC/Avis Budget Finance, Inc., 8.375%, 6/15/32 (144A) | $ 26,156 | ||||
275,000 | Element Fleet Management Corp., 5.037%, 3/25/30 (144A) | 277,417 | ||||
75,000 | Element Fleet Management Corp., 5.643%, 3/13/27 (144A) | 76,166 | ||||
260,000 | Element Fleet Management Corp., 6.319%, 12/4/28 (144A) | 274,127 | ||||
70,000 | Verisk Analytics, Inc., 5.25%, 3/15/35 | 70,396 | ||||
Total Commercial Services | $724,262 | |||||
Cosmetics/Personal Care — 0.2% | ||||||
200,000 | L'Oreal S.A., 5.00%, 5/20/35 (144A) | $ 203,360 | ||||
Total Cosmetics/Personal Care | $203,360 | |||||
Distribution/Wholesale — 0.0%† | ||||||
30,000 | Velocity Vehicle Group LLC, 8.00%, 6/1/29 (144A) | $ 29,976 | ||||
Total Distribution/Wholesale | $29,976 | |||||
Diversified Financial Services — 2.4% | ||||||
765,000 | AerCap Ireland Capital DAC/AerCap Global Aviation Trust, 3.30%, 1/30/32 | $ 693,082 | ||||
110,000(b) | Ally Financial, Inc., 6.184% (SOFR + 229 bps), 7/26/35 | 112,198 | ||||
25,000 | Avolon Holdings Funding, Ltd., 5.375%, 5/30/30 (144A) | 25,467 | ||||
41,000 | Avolon Holdings Funding, Ltd., 5.75%, 3/1/29 (144A) | 42,118 | ||||
330,000 | Avolon Holdings Funding, Ltd., 6.375%, 5/4/28 (144A) | 344,108 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Diversified Financial Services — (continued) | ||||||
285,000(b) | Capital One Financial Corp., 2.359% (SOFR + 134 bps), 7/29/32 | $ 241,687 | ||||
90,000(b) | Capital One Financial Corp., 6.183% (SOFR + 204 bps), 1/30/36 | 91,624 | ||||
295,000 | Citadel Securities Global Holdings LLC, 6.20%, 6/18/35 (144A) | 302,677 | ||||
25,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 8.375%, 4/1/32 (144A) | 25,269 | ||||
165,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 9.125%, 5/15/31 (144A) | 170,079 | ||||
170,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 9.25%, 2/1/29 (144A) | 176,576 | ||||
125,000 | Nationstar Mortgage Holdings, Inc., 6.50%, 8/1/29 (144A) | 127,682 | ||||
404,000 | OneMain Finance Corp., 4.00%, 9/15/30 | 372,784 | ||||
55,000 | Rocket Cos., Inc., 6.125%, 8/1/30 (144A) | 56,047 | ||||
55,000 | Rocket Cos., Inc., 6.375%, 8/1/33 (144A) | 56,276 | ||||
107,000 | United Wholesale Mortgage LLC, 5.50%, 4/15/29 (144A) | 103,860 | ||||
Total Diversified Financial Services | $2,941,534 | |||||
Electric — 2.1% | ||||||
145,000 | AEP Texas, Inc., 5.45%, 5/15/29 | $ 149,672 | ||||
210,000(b) | Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., 4.75% (5 Year CMT Index + 325 bps), 1/18/82 | 204,818 | ||||
40,000(c) | Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., 5.365%, 6/15/26 | 40,213 | ||||
310,000 | Electricite de France S.A., 6.375%, 1/13/55 (144A) | 310,966 | ||||
325,000 | Entergy Louisiana LLC, 5.35%, 3/15/34 | 333,363 | ||||
55,000 | Entergy Texas, Inc., 5.25%, 4/15/35 | 55,449 | ||||
160,000 | ITC Holdings Corp., 5.65%, 5/9/34 (144A) | 164,085 | ||||
163,980 | Johnsonville Aeroderivative Combustion Turbine Generation LLC, 5.078%, 10/1/54 | 155,813 | ||||
130,000 | Monongahela Power Co., 5.85%, 2/15/34 (144A) | 135,159 | ||||
70,000 | Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc., 5.40%, 3/15/35 | 70,824 | ||||
220,000 | Puget Energy, Inc., 4.10%, 6/15/30 | 212,503 | ||||
55,000 | Puget Energy, Inc., 4.224%, 3/15/32 | 51,761 | ||||
290,000(b) | Sempra, 6.55% (5 Year CMT Index + 214 bps), 4/1/55 | 274,994 | ||||
80,000 | Southern California Edison Co., 5.45%, 6/1/31 | 81,400 | ||||
35,000 | Trans-Allegheny Interstate Line Co., 5.00%, 1/15/31 (144A) | 35,610 | ||||
295,000 | Virginia Electric and Power Co., 5.15%, 3/15/35 | 295,903 | ||||
Total Electric | $2,572,533 | |||||
Energy-Alternate Sources — 0.0%† | ||||||
34,986 | Alta Wind Holdings LLC, 7.00%, 6/30/35 (144A) | $ 33,521 | ||||
Total Energy-Alternate Sources | $33,521 | |||||
Entertainment — 0.3% | ||||||
400,000 | Resorts World Las Vegas LLC/RWLV Capital, Inc., 4.625%, 4/16/29 (144A) | $ 354,333 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $354,333 | |||||
Environmental Control — 0.1% | ||||||
145,000 | Waste Connections, Inc., 5.25%, 9/1/35 | $ 148,249 | ||||
Total Environmental Control | $148,249 | |||||
Food — 0.8% | ||||||
120,000 | JBS USA Holding Lux S.a.r.l./JBS USA Food Co./JBS Lux Co. S.a.r.l., 3.00%, 2/2/29 | $ 114,004 | ||||
57,000 | JBS USA Holding Lux S.a.r.l./JBS USA Food Co./JBS Lux Co. S.a.r.l., 3.00%, 5/15/32 | 49,901 | ||||
455,000 | Minerva Luxembourg S.A., 4.375%, 3/18/31 (144A) | 405,631 | ||||
220,000 | Smithfield Foods, Inc., 2.625%, 9/13/31 (144A) | 189,646 | ||||
200,000 | Smithfield Foods, Inc., 3.00%, 10/15/30 (144A) | 181,676 | ||||
21,000 | Smithfield Foods, Inc., 5.20%, 4/1/29 (144A) | 21,128 | ||||
Total Food | $961,986 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Gas — 0.4% | ||||||
380,000 | KeySpan Gas East Corp., 5.994%, 3/6/33 (144A) | $ 394,914 | ||||
135,856 | Nakilat, Inc., 6.267%, 12/31/33 (144A) | 141,970 | ||||
Total Gas | $536,884 | |||||
Hand & Machine Tools — 0.2% | ||||||
125,000 | Kennametal, Inc., 2.80%, 3/1/31 | $ 112,016 | ||||
125,000 | Regal Rexnord Corp., 6.30%, 2/15/30 | 130,940 | ||||
Total Hand & Machine Tools | $242,956 | |||||
Healthcare-Products — 0.7% | ||||||
252,000(b) | Dentsply Sirona, Inc., 8.375% (5 Year CMT Index + 438 bps), 9/12/55 | $ 253,390 | ||||
100,000 | GE HealthCare Technologies, Inc., 5.50%, 6/15/35 | 102,404 | ||||
348,000 | Smith & Nephew Plc, 2.032%, 10/14/30 | 304,786 | ||||
64,000 | Sotera Health Holdings LLC, 7.375%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 66,588 | ||||
140,000 | Stryker Corp., 5.20%, 2/10/35 | 142,664 | ||||
Total Healthcare-Products | $869,832 | |||||
Healthcare-Services — 0.3% | ||||||
65,000 | Elevance Health, Inc., 5.375%, 6/15/34 | $ 66,437 | ||||
165,000 | HCA, Inc., 5.50%, 3/1/32 | 170,285 | ||||
75,000 | Health Care Service Corp. A Mutual Legal Reserve Co., 5.20%, 6/15/29 (144A) | 76,537 | ||||
75,000 | Humana, Inc., 5.375%, 4/15/31 | 76,720 | ||||
Total Healthcare-Services | $389,979 | |||||
Home Builders — 0.2% | ||||||
195,000 | Lennar Corp., 5.20%, 7/30/30 | $ 198,667 | ||||
Total Home Builders | $198,667 | |||||
Insurance — 3.0% | ||||||
185,000 | Brown & Brown, Inc., 4.20%, 3/17/32 | $ 177,007 | ||||
235,000 | Brown & Brown, Inc., 5.65%, 6/11/34 | 241,384 | ||||
35,000 | CNO Financial Group, Inc., 6.45%, 6/15/34 | 36,706 | ||||
470,000 | CNO Global Funding, 2.65%, 1/6/29 (144A) | 439,004 | ||||
25,000 | CNO Global Funding, 4.875%, 12/10/27 (144A) | 25,195 | ||||
255,000(b)(g) | Dai-ichi Life Insurance Co., Ltd., 6.20% (5 Year CMT Index + 252 bps) (144A) | 257,314 | ||||
240,000(b) | Farmers Exchange Capital III, 5.454% (3 Month Term SOFR + 345 bps), 10/15/54 (144A) | 216,981 | ||||
340,000(b) | Farmers Insurance Exchange, 4.747% (3 Month USD LIBOR + 323 bps), 11/1/57 (144A) | 277,601 | ||||
130,000(b) | Farmers Insurance Exchange, 7.00% (10 Year US Treasury Yield Curve Rate T Note Constant Maturity + 386 bps), 10/15/64 (144A) | 129,038 | ||||
456,000 | Liberty Mutual Insurance Co., 7.697%, 10/15/97 (144A) | 506,643 | ||||
450,000(b) | Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Co., 6.10% (5 Year CMT Index + 291 bps), 6/11/55 (144A) | 449,128 | ||||
145,000 | Mutual of Omaha Cos. Global Funding, 5.00%, 4/1/30 (144A) | 147,745 | ||||
475,000 | Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co., 4.35%, 4/30/50 (144A) | 365,871 | ||||
355,000(b) | Nippon Life Insurance Co., 2.90% (5 Year CMT Index + 260 bps), 9/16/51 (144A) | 305,768 | ||||
86,000 | Primerica, Inc., 2.80%, 11/19/31 | 76,098 | ||||
26,000 | Teachers Insurance & Annuity Association of America, 6.85%, 12/16/39 (144A) | 29,272 | ||||
Total Insurance | $3,680,755 | |||||
Internet — 0.1% | ||||||
110,000 | Alphabet, Inc., 5.30%, 5/15/65 | $ 107,706 | ||||
Total Internet | $107,706 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Iron & Steel — 0.1% | ||||||
90,000 | Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc., 7.00%, 3/15/32 (144A) | $ 84,840 | ||||
Total Iron & Steel | $84,840 | |||||
Leisure Time — 0.1% | ||||||
145,000 | Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd., 6.00%, 2/1/33 (144A) | $ 147,795 | ||||
Total Leisure Time | $147,795 | |||||
Lodging — 0.6% | ||||||
50,000 | Choice Hotels International, Inc., 5.85%, 8/1/34 | $ 50,390 | ||||
225,000 | Genting New York LLC/GENNY Capital, Inc., 7.25%, 10/1/29 (144A) | 233,440 | ||||
135,000 | Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC/Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower, Inc., 6.625%, 1/15/32 (144A) | 137,096 | ||||
20,000 | Las Vegas Sands Corp., 6.00%, 8/15/29 | 20,556 | ||||
235,000 | Marriott International, Inc., 5.50%, 4/15/37 | 235,039 | ||||
Total Lodging | $676,521 | |||||
Machinery-Diversified — 0.2% | ||||||
205,000 | Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corp., 5.50%, 5/29/35 | $ 207,986 | ||||
Total Machinery-Diversified | $207,986 | |||||
Mining — 0.5% | ||||||
335,000 | AngloGold Ashanti Holdings Plc, 3.75%, 10/1/30 | $ 312,587 | ||||
265,000 | First Quantum Minerals, Ltd., 8.625%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 274,937 | ||||
Total Mining | $587,524 | |||||
Miscellaneous Manufacturing — 0.2% | ||||||
205,000 | Textron, Inc., 5.50%, 5/15/35 | $ 208,187 | ||||
Total Miscellaneous Manufacturing | $208,187 | |||||
Multi-National — 0.2% | ||||||
230,000 | Banque Ouest Africaine de Developpement, 4.70%, 10/22/31 (144A) | $ 209,520 | ||||
Total Multi-National | $209,520 | |||||
Oil & Gas — 2.4% | ||||||
640,000 | Aker BP ASA, 3.10%, 7/15/31 (144A) | $ 571,505 | ||||
450,000 | APA Corp., 6.75%, 2/15/55 (144A) | 425,075 | ||||
430,000(b)(g) | BP Capital Markets Plc, 6.125% (5 Year CMT Index + 192 bps) | 429,292 | ||||
180,000 | ConocoPhillips Co., 5.65%, 1/15/65 | 171,230 | ||||
195,000 | Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co., 6.875%, 5/15/34 (144A) | 186,777 | ||||
80,000 | Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co., 7.25%, 2/15/35 (144A) | 78,228 | ||||
290,000 | Phillips 66 Co., 5.25%, 6/15/31 | 297,904 | ||||
305,000 | Saudi Arabian Oil Co., 6.375%, 6/2/55 (144A) | 304,886 | ||||
35,000 | Valero Energy Corp., 5.15%, 2/15/30 | 35,692 | ||||
312,000 | Valero Energy Corp., 6.625%, 6/15/37 | 335,786 | ||||
160,000 | Woodside Finance, Ltd., 6.00%, 5/19/35 | 163,318 | ||||
Total Oil & Gas | $2,999,693 | |||||
Pharmaceuticals — 0.4% | ||||||
35,000 | CVS Health Corp., 5.25%, 1/30/31 | $ 35,784 | ||||
260,000 | CVS Health Corp., 5.25%, 2/21/33 | 261,737 | ||||
200,000 | Teva Pharmaceutical Finance Netherlands III BV, 5.125%, 5/9/29 | 201,152 | ||||
Total Pharmaceuticals | $498,673 | |||||
Pipelines — 2.0% | ||||||
75,000 | Boardwalk Pipelines LP, 3.60%, 9/1/32 | $ 67,887 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Pipelines — (continued) | ||||||
110,000 | Columbia Pipelines Holding Co. LLC, 5.097%, 10/1/31 (144A) | $ 110,477 | ||||
95,000 | DT Midstream, Inc., 5.80%, 12/15/34 (144A) | 96,749 | ||||
190,000 | Enbridge, Inc., 5.55%, 6/20/35 | 193,157 | ||||
105,000(b) | Enbridge, Inc., 7.20% (5 Year CMT Index + 297 bps), 6/27/54 | 107,871 | ||||
105,000(b) | Enbridge, Inc., 7.375% (5 Year CMT Index + 312 bps), 3/15/55 | 109,094 | ||||
160,000(b) | Enbridge, Inc., 8.50% (5 Year CMT Index + 443 bps), 1/15/84 | 178,139 | ||||
40,000 | Hess Midstream Operations LP, 5.875%, 3/1/28 (144A) | 40,596 | ||||
225,000 | MPLX LP, 5.50%, 6/1/34 | 225,915 | ||||
230,000 | NGPL PipeCo LLC, 3.25%, 7/15/31 (144A) | 204,896 | ||||
150,000 | ONEOK, Inc., 5.45%, 6/1/47 | 133,113 | ||||
134,000 | ONEOK, Inc., 5.60%, 4/1/44 | 122,231 | ||||
70,000(b) | South Bow Canadian Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd., 7.50% (5 Year CMT Index + 367 bps), 3/1/55 (144A) | 72,222 | ||||
117,000(b) | South Bow Canadian Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd., 7.625% (5 Year CMT Index + 395 bps), 3/1/55 (144A) | 121,464 | ||||
60,000 | Venture Global LNG, Inc., 8.375%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 62,318 | ||||
45,000 | Venture Global LNG, Inc., 9.50%, 2/1/29 (144A) | 49,022 | ||||
80,000(f) | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 6.50%, 1/15/34 (144A) | 80,000 | ||||
150,000(f) | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 6.75%, 1/15/36 (144A) | 150,000 | ||||
89,000 | Williams Cos., Inc., 7.75%, 6/15/31 | 101,336 | ||||
250,000 | Williams Cos., Inc., 7.50%, 1/15/31 | 282,860 | ||||
Total Pipelines | $2,509,347 | |||||
REITS — 1.0% | ||||||
65,000 | Americold Realty Operating Partnership LP, 5.409%, 9/12/34 | $ 63,620 | ||||
55,000 | Americold Realty Operating Partnership LP, 5.60%, 5/15/32 | 55,269 | ||||
70,000 | ERP Operating LP, 4.95%, 6/15/32 | 70,799 | ||||
255,000 | Healthcare Realty Holdings LP, 3.10%, 2/15/30 | 236,500 | ||||
47,000 | Highwoods Realty LP, 2.60%, 2/1/31 | 40,605 | ||||
15,000 | Highwoods Realty LP, 3.05%, 2/15/30 | 13,697 | ||||
41,000 | Highwoods Realty LP, 4.125%, 3/15/28 | 40,131 | ||||
285,000 | LXP Industrial Trust, 2.375%, 10/1/31 | 240,655 | ||||
165,000 | LXP Industrial Trust, 2.70%, 9/15/30 | 147,863 | ||||
180,000 | UDR, Inc., 4.40%, 1/26/29 | 179,954 | ||||
115,000 | Ventas Realty LP, 5.10%, 7/15/32 | 116,312 | ||||
Total REITS | $1,205,405 | |||||
Retail — 0.9% | ||||||
55,000 | AutoNation, Inc., 1.95%, 8/1/28 | $ 50,991 | ||||
55,000 | AutoNation, Inc., 2.40%, 8/1/31 | 47,326 | ||||
245,000 | AutoNation, Inc., 3.85%, 3/1/32 | 225,698 | ||||
125,000 | AutoNation, Inc., 4.75%, 6/1/30 | 124,287 | ||||
325,000 | Darden Restaurants, Inc., 6.30%, 10/10/33 | 348,278 | ||||
375,000 | Dollar Tree, Inc., 2.65%, 12/1/31 | 331,006 | ||||
Total Retail | $1,127,586 | |||||
Savings & Loans — 0.3% | ||||||
320,000 | Nationwide Building Society, 5.127%, 7/29/29 (144A) | $ 327,692 | ||||
Total Savings & Loans | $327,692 | |||||
Semiconductors — 1.4% | ||||||
35,000 | Broadcom, Inc., 3.137%, 11/15/35 (144A) | $ 29,520 | ||||
475,000 | Broadcom, Inc., 3.187%, 11/15/36 (144A) | 393,770 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Semiconductors — (continued) | ||||||
130,000 | Broadcom, Inc., 4.15%, 4/15/32 (144A) | $ 125,235 | ||||
100,000 | Broadcom, Inc., 4.30%, 11/15/32 | 97,000 | ||||
105,000 | Broadcom, Inc., 5.05%, 7/12/29 | 107,522 | ||||
445,000 | Foundry JV Holdco LLC, 5.875%, 1/25/34 (144A) | 452,177 | ||||
245,000 | Micron Technology, Inc., 5.80%, 1/15/35 | 253,366 | ||||
313,000 | Skyworks Solutions, Inc., 3.00%, 6/1/31 | 275,776 | ||||
Total Semiconductors | $1,734,366 | |||||
Software — 0.3% | ||||||
65,000 | Autodesk, Inc., 5.30%, 6/15/35 | $ 66,116 | ||||
110,000 | Roper Technologies, Inc., 4.75%, 2/15/32 | 110,193 | ||||
180,000 | Roper Technologies, Inc., 4.90%, 10/15/34 | 177,509 | ||||
Total Software | $353,818 | |||||
Transportation — 0.2% | ||||||
275,000 | Union Pacific Corp., 5.10%, 2/20/35 | $ 279,689 | ||||
Total Transportation | $279,689 | |||||
Total Corporate Bonds (Cost $47,192,467) |
$46,136,232 | |||||
Insurance-Linked Securities — 0.4% of Net Assets# | ||||||
Event Linked Bonds — 0.4% | ||||||
Windstorm – Florida — 0.2% | ||||||
250,000(a) | Merna Re II, 11.784%, (3 Month U.S. Treasury Bill + 749 bps), 7/7/25 (144A) | $ 249,750 | ||||
Windstorm – Texas — 0.2% | ||||||
250,000(a) | Merna Re II, 11.824%, (3 Month U.S. Treasury Bill + 753 bps), 7/7/25 (144A) | $ 249,750 | ||||
Total Event Linked Bonds | $499,500 |
Face Amount USD ($) |
||||||
Reinsurance Sidecars — 0.0%† | ||||||
Multiperil – Worldwide — 0.0%† | ||||||
25,723(h)(i)+ | Lorenz Re 2019, 6/30/26 | $ 185 | ||||
Total Reinsurance Sidecars | $185 | |||||
Total Insurance-Linked Securities (Cost $508,008) |
$499,685 | |||||
Principal Amount USD ($) |
||||||
Foreign Government Bonds — 0.4% of Net Assets | ||||||
Mexico — 0.2% | ||||||
200,000 | Mexico Government International Bond, 6.875%, 5/13/37 | $ 208,460 | ||||
Total Mexico | $208,460 | |||||
Peru — 0.2% | ||||||
320,000 | Peruvian Government International Bond, 5.500%, 3/30/36 | $ 320,208 | ||||
Total Peru | $320,208 | |||||
Total Foreign Government Bonds (Cost $518,018) |
$528,668 | |||||
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — 37.3% of Net Assets | ||||||
1,167,254 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 1.500%, 3/1/42 | $ 962,387 | ||||
82,305 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 2.000%, 3/1/52 | 65,182 | ||||
82,529 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 2.500%, 1/1/51 | 69,553 | ||||
44,351 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 2.500%, 2/1/51 | 37,636 | ||||
781,734 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 2.500%, 5/1/51 | 653,937 | ||||
102,015 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 2.500%, 4/1/52 | 84,596 | ||||
42,893 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 2.500%, 5/1/52 | 36,103 | ||||
8,036 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 10/1/29 | 7,879 | ||||
12,993 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 9/1/42 | 11,784 | ||||
62,486 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 11/1/42 | 56,648 | ||||
21,609 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 4/1/43 | 19,559 | ||||
71,836 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 12/1/46 | 64,204 | ||||
53,404 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 8/1/50 | 47,446 | ||||
64,543 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 8/1/52 | 57,046 | ||||
91,420 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 9/1/52 | 80,526 | ||||
8,793 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 7/1/29 | 8,687 | ||||
15,534 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 10/1/42 | 14,604 | ||||
68,581 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 7/1/46 | 63,469 | ||||
343,789 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 12/1/46 | 318,914 | ||||
7,753 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 3/1/48 | 7,152 | ||||
82,102 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 4/1/52 | 74,492 | ||||
274,572 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 7/1/52 | 247,691 | ||||
45,431 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 4.000%, 10/1/42 | 43,849 | ||||
62,910 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 4.000%, 5/1/44 | 60,686 | ||||
14,183 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 4.000%, 4/1/47 | 13,418 | ||||
10,281 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 4.000%, 6/1/50 | 9,659 | ||||
9,338 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.000%, 5/1/40 | 9,476 | ||||
2,440 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.000%, 3/1/44 | 2,480 | ||||
7,346 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.500%, 6/1/41 | 7,566 | ||||
144,689 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.500%, 7/1/49 | 147,190 | ||||
86,181 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.500%, 3/1/53 | 86,757 | ||||
71,870 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.500%, 7/1/53 | 72,372 | ||||
142 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 11/1/32 | 145 | ||||
1,279 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 12/1/32 | 1,327 | ||||
2,490 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 2/1/33 | 2,595 | ||||
2,091 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 1/1/34 | 2,174 | ||||
354 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 12/1/36 | 368 | ||||
182,040 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 4/1/53 | 186,569 | ||||
74,726 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 7/1/53 | 76,615 | ||||
73,974 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 2/1/54 | 76,061 | ||||
92,854 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 8/1/54 | 95,760 | ||||
470,868 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 8/1/54 | 479,188 | ||||
181,233 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 8/1/54 | 184,698 | ||||
183,375 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 8/1/54 | 187,023 | ||||
198,315 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 11/1/54 | 203,005 | ||||
600 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 1/1/29 | 621 | ||||
368 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 4/1/31 | 383 | ||||
1,684 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 10/1/31 | 1,741 | ||||
452 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 2/1/32 | 470 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
2,596 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 4/1/32 | $ 2,700 | ||||
1,145 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 7/1/32 | 1,193 | ||||
41,262 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 1/1/53 | 43,062 | ||||
207,220 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 2/1/53 | 218,295 | ||||
78,866 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 82,301 | ||||
25,845 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 26,830 | ||||
77,803 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 80,822 | ||||
157,576 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 164,379 | ||||
114,321 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 118,124 | ||||
134,773 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 139,778 | ||||
185,911 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 192,018 | ||||
167,165 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 172,657 | ||||
77,690 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 80,453 | ||||
65,802 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 8/1/54 | 68,610 | ||||
87,155 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 8/1/54 | 90,491 | ||||
89,925 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 8/1/54 | 93,590 | ||||
77,718 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.500%, 9/1/54 | 80,533 | ||||
276 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 7.000%, 2/1/31 | 291 | ||||
507 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 7.000%, 4/1/32 | 535 | ||||
29,688 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 7.000%, 8/1/54 | 31,390 | ||||
176,906 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 7.000%, 8/1/54 | 186,846 | ||||
308 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 7.500%, 8/1/31 | 311 | ||||
200,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 1.500%, 7/15/40 (TBA) | 177,688 | ||||
1,262,940 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 1.500%, 3/1/42 | 1,039,350 | ||||
200,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 7/15/40 (TBA) | 182,711 | ||||
503,376 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 12/1/41 | 433,311 | ||||
87,745 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 2/1/42 | 75,449 | ||||
388,625 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 4/1/42 | 332,716 | ||||
266,017 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 11/1/51 | 214,939 | ||||
73,238 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 11/1/51 | 58,744 | ||||
243,884 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 3/1/52 | 193,148 | ||||
591,563 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 10/1/52 | 468,869 | ||||
1,700,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 1,345,359 | ||||
5,384 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 7/1/30 | 5,207 | ||||
4,356 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 7/1/30 | 4,213 | ||||
8,342 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 7/1/30 | 8,071 | ||||
100,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 7/15/40 (TBA) | 93,346 | ||||
27,029 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 2/1/43 | 23,823 | ||||
5,879 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 2/1/43 | 5,139 | ||||
4,884 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 3/1/43 | 4,305 | ||||
4,809 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 8/1/43 | 4,199 | ||||
14,007 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/45 | 12,020 | ||||
17,759 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/45 | 15,196 | ||||
7,898 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/45 | 6,752 | ||||
12,118 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/45 | 10,384 | ||||
5,999 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/45 | 5,138 | ||||
5,423 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/45 | 4,769 | ||||
17,051 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/45 | 14,653 | ||||
16,916 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 8/1/45 | 14,460 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
268,807 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 8/1/50 | $ 228,305 | ||||
688,295 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 5/1/51 | 581,632 | ||||
373,103 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 5/1/51 | 315,970 | ||||
741,848 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 11/1/51 | 627,282 | ||||
186,201 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 12/1/51 | 156,642 | ||||
1,533,405 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 1/1/52 | 1,287,217 | ||||
74,236 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 2/1/52 | 62,597 | ||||
95,428 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 3/1/52 | 79,166 | ||||
344,692 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 4/1/52 | 291,432 | ||||
2,883 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 3/1/29 | 2,826 | ||||
19,254 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 10/1/30 | 18,801 | ||||
22,083 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 8/1/45 | 19,742 | ||||
90,838 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 2/1/47 | 82,189 | ||||
66,486 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 3/1/47 | 59,731 | ||||
69,016 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 4/1/47 | 61,945 | ||||
83,912 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 8/1/50 | 74,486 | ||||
341,970 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 2/1/51 | 304,025 | ||||
318,672 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 11/1/51 | 280,213 | ||||
359,100 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 1/1/52 | 316,243 | ||||
76,909 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 2/1/52 | 67,714 | ||||
488,448 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 3/1/52 | 431,232 | ||||
82,927 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 5/1/52 | 72,910 | ||||
400,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 346,056 | ||||
195,095 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 2/1/57 | 164,570 | ||||
4,186 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 10/1/41 | 3,932 | ||||
22,973 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 9/1/45 | 21,322 | ||||
60,912 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 10/1/45 | 57,110 | ||||
99,265 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 1/1/48 | 91,713 | ||||
106,429 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 5/1/49 | 98,773 | ||||
144,539 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 3/1/52 | 132,112 | ||||
348,909 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 3/1/52 | 316,860 | ||||
18,630 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 4/1/52 | 16,876 | ||||
84,786 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 4/1/52 | 76,868 | ||||
201,079 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 5/1/52 | 182,447 | ||||
700,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 630,144 | ||||
102,065 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 8/1/58 | 91,696 | ||||
72,991 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 10/1/40 | 70,535 | ||||
8,814 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 12/1/40 | 8,519 | ||||
131,465 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 4/1/44 | 126,847 | ||||
196,370 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 7/1/51 | 184,426 | ||||
53,179 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 9/1/51 | 49,941 | ||||
378,848 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 10/1/52 | 352,568 | ||||
300,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 278,918 | ||||
133,878 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, 9/1/43 | 133,573 | ||||
76,273 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, 1/1/44 | 76,076 | ||||
283,090 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, 9/1/52 | 271,371 | ||||
15,625 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 5/1/31 | 15,842 | ||||
400,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 7/15/40 (TBA) | 402,874 | ||||
2,477 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 12/1/44 | 2,508 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
229,964 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 8/1/52 | $ 227,875 | ||||
86,516 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 4/1/53 | 85,664 | ||||
400,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 391,960 | ||||
2,062 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 9/1/33 | 2,112 | ||||
2,283 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 12/1/34 | 2,342 | ||||
6,993 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 10/1/35 | 7,183 | ||||
400,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 7/1/40 (TBA) | 407,249 | ||||
159,978 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/50 | 163,369 | ||||
222,122 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/50 | 225,870 | ||||
73,052 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/53 | 73,590 | ||||
80,677 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/53 | 81,203 | ||||
88,687 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/53 | 89,087 | ||||
82,480 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/53 | 83,400 | ||||
74,890 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 7/1/53 | 75,306 | ||||
400,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 399,909 | ||||
766 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 9/1/29 | 781 | ||||
383 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 10/1/32 | 394 | ||||
1,488 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 11/1/32 | 1,525 | ||||
5,201 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 4/1/33 | 5,308 | ||||
1,947 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 5/1/33 | 1,978 | ||||
2,873 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 6/1/33 | 2,919 | ||||
5,633 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/34 | 5,849 | ||||
342 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 9/1/34 | 352 | ||||
375 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/38 | 385 | ||||
93,211 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 1/1/53 | 96,071 | ||||
25,309 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 1/1/53 | 25,936 | ||||
80,286 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 4/1/53 | 82,149 | ||||
158,138 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 5/1/53 | 163,573 | ||||
74,734 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 5/1/53 | 77,411 | ||||
148,892 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 6/1/53 | 153,942 | ||||
80,880 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/53 | 82,513 | ||||
64,547 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/53 | 65,960 | ||||
68,767 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/53 | 70,454 | ||||
58,893 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/53 | 60,109 | ||||
176,463 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 8/1/53 | 181,102 | ||||
643,575 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 9/1/53 | 654,922 | ||||
87,404 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 8/1/54 | 89,007 | ||||
1,500,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 1,524,184 | ||||
133 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 4/1/29 | 138 | ||||
361 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 2/1/32 | 379 | ||||
1,055 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 3/1/32 | 1,096 | ||||
1,808 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 4/1/32 | 1,868 | ||||
802 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/32 | 829 | ||||
599 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/32 | 619 | ||||
9,356 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/1/34 | 9,744 | ||||
143,978 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 3/1/53 | 150,325 | ||||
61,353 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 63,999 | ||||
75,967 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 79,302 | ||||
50,339 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 52,305 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
39,408 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/53 | $ 41,081 | ||||
220,088 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 9/1/53 | 229,714 | ||||
72,900 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 9/1/53 | 76,080 | ||||
80,025 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 3/1/54 | 82,941 | ||||
91,857 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 6/1/54 | 95,093 | ||||
137,881 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 142,496 | ||||
156,574 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 161,735 | ||||
119,139 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 123,376 | ||||
78,570 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/1/54 | 81,385 | ||||
89,838 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/54 | 92,799 | ||||
185,751 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/54 | 191,853 | ||||
91,090 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/54 | 94,329 | ||||
1,600,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 1,651,963 | ||||
237 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 7.000%, 11/1/29 | 250 | ||||
236 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 7.000%, 7/1/31 | 249 | ||||
602 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 7.000%, 1/1/32 | 634 | ||||
136 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 7.500%, 2/1/31 | 141 | ||||
1,021 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 8.000%, 10/1/30 | 1,068 | ||||
800,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 651,360 | ||||
900,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 764,495 | ||||
500,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 442,180 | ||||
300,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 287,117 | ||||
600,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 589,288 | ||||
600,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 600,787 | ||||
700,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 710,225 | ||||
300,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 307,959 | ||||
71,288 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 3.500%, 11/15/41 | 66,722 | ||||
24,348 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 3.500%, 8/15/42 | 22,698 | ||||
8,895 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 3.500%, 10/15/42 | 8,292 | ||||
27,863 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 3.500%, 1/15/45 | 25,974 | ||||
18,939 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 3.500%, 8/15/46 | 17,584 | ||||
41,537 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 8/15/43 | 40,045 | ||||
56,879 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 3/15/44 | 54,017 | ||||
9,098 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 9/15/44 | 8,666 | ||||
21,034 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 4/15/45 | 20,036 | ||||
30,181 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 6/15/45 | 28,736 | ||||
3,104 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 7/15/45 | 2,934 | ||||
5,591 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 8/15/45 | 5,290 | ||||
18,808 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 5/15/39 | 18,489 | ||||
538 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 8/15/41 | 525 | ||||
2,779 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 3/15/33 | 2,867 | ||||
3,263 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 7/15/33 | 3,341 | ||||
8,241 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 8/15/33 | 8,431 | ||||
4,424 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 10/15/34 | 4,537 | ||||
1,215 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 4/15/28 | 1,241 | ||||
720 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 2/15/29 | 729 | ||||
2,244 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 9/15/32 | 2,338 | ||||
884 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 10/15/32 | 900 | ||||
6,376 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 11/15/32 | 6,659 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
3,463 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 11/15/32 | $ 3,551 | ||||
1,945 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 1/15/33 | 2,031 | ||||
4,225 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 12/15/33 | 4,388 | ||||
2,671 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 8/15/34 | 2,776 | ||||
6,069 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 8/15/34 | 6,281 | ||||
75 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 3/15/26 | 76 | ||||
640 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 6/15/28 | 654 | ||||
1,963 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 5/15/29 | 2,015 | ||||
665 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 5/15/29 | 682 | ||||
5,705 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 7/15/31 | 5,860 | ||||
1,772 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 9/15/31 | 1,852 | ||||
3,513 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 10/15/31 | 3,556 | ||||
1,504 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 12/15/31 | 1,530 | ||||
634 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 12/15/31 | 655 | ||||
365 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 4/15/32 | 377 | ||||
221 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 4/15/32 | 225 | ||||
125 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 6/15/32 | 126 | ||||
818 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 6/15/32 | 846 | ||||
2,166 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 7/15/32 | 2,214 | ||||
5,068 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 12/15/32 | 5,242 | ||||
1,398 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 7/15/26 | 1,397 | ||||
197 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 9/15/27 | 198 | ||||
2,270 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 2/15/28 | 2,269 | ||||
962 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 1/15/29 | 981 | ||||
187 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 7/15/29 | 188 | ||||
412 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 7/15/29 | 418 | ||||
363 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 12/15/30 | 365 | ||||
174 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 2/15/31 | 175 | ||||
845 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.000%, 8/15/31 | 878 | ||||
742 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 7.500%, 10/15/29 | 744 | ||||
281,991 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 2.000%, 7/20/51 | 229,691 | ||||
391,514 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 2.500%, 9/20/54 | 333,067 | ||||
277,512 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.000%, 6/20/52 | 245,555 | ||||
1,928 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 3/20/45 | 1,743 | ||||
3,160 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 4/20/45 | 2,902 | ||||
11,721 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 4/20/45 | 10,720 | ||||
6,186 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 4/20/45 | 5,652 | ||||
27,293 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 1/20/46 | 25,400 | ||||
12,463 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 3/20/46 | 11,491 | ||||
50,815 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 11/20/46 | 47,133 | ||||
791,354 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 12/20/54 | 720,767 | ||||
6,308 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 8/20/39 | 5,987 | ||||
8,136 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 7/20/42 | 7,780 | ||||
102,480 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 7/20/44 | 97,487 | ||||
10,096 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 9/20/44 | 9,596 | ||||
10,669 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 3/20/46 | 10,123 | ||||
31,936 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 10/20/46 | 30,233 | ||||
23,531 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 2/20/48 | 22,006 | ||||
31,719 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 4/20/48 | 29,663 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
3,012 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 9/20/41 | $ 2,989 | ||||
16,422 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 5/20/43 | 16,295 | ||||
54,003 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 1/20/44 | 52,935 | ||||
38,627 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 9/20/44 | 37,533 | ||||
13,958 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 10/20/44 | 13,648 | ||||
26,819 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 11/20/44 | 26,225 | ||||
67,465 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 2/20/48 | 65,859 | ||||
102,445 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 5.000%, 9/20/47 | 102,287 | ||||
76,075 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 5.500%, 9/20/52 | 76,896 | ||||
3,293 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 6.000%, 11/20/33 | 3,400 | ||||
334 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 6.500%, 8/20/28 | 343 | ||||
625 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 6.500%, 12/20/28 | 642 | ||||
519 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 6.500%, 9/20/31 | 545 | ||||
85 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 7.000%, 5/20/26 | 87 | ||||
1,056 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 7.000%, 2/20/29 | 1,091 | ||||
279 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 7.000%, 1/20/31 | 291 | ||||
56 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 7.500%, 8/20/27 | 57 | ||||
0 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 8.000%, 8/20/25 | 0 | ||||
7,500,000(j) | U.S. Treasury Bills, 7/29/25 | 7,475,792 | ||||
1,297,400 | U.S. Treasury Bonds, 2.250%, 2/15/52 | 792,478 | ||||
Total U.S. Government and Agency Obligations (Cost $46,260,370) |
$45,561,771 | |||||
Shares | ||||||
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS — 4.7% of Net Assets | ||||||
Open-End Fund — 4.7% | ||||||
5,756,340(k) | Dreyfus Government Cash Management, Institutional Shares, 4.21% |
$ 5,756,340 | ||||
$5,756,340 | ||||||
TOTAL SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $5,756,340) |
$5,756,340 | |||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 104.2% (Cost $131,095,563) |
$127,443,366 |
Net Realized Gain (Loss) for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Capital Gain Distributions for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Dividend Income for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Value | ||
Affiliated Issuers — 3.7% | ||||||
Mutual Funds — 0.5% of Net Assets | ||||||
53,023(l) | Victory Pioneer CAT Bond Fund | $— | $15,906 | $— | $— | $ 591,736 |
Closed-End Fund — 3.2% of Net Assets | ||||||
431,639(m) | Pioneer ILS Interval Fund | $— | $142,441 | $— | $— | $ 3,996,976 |
Total Investments in Affiliated Issuers — 3.7% (Cost $4,776,241) |
$4,588,712 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
TBA Sales Commitments — (0.5)% of Net Assets | ||||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (0.5)% | ||||||
(100,000) | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | $ (82,897) | ||||
(100,000) | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | (95,642) | ||||
(500,000) | Government National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | (454,517) | ||||
TOTAL TBA SALES COMMITMENTS (Proceeds $621,977) |
$(633,056) | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (7.4)% | $(9,087,238) | |||||
net assets — 100.0% | $122,311,784 | |||||
(TBA) | “To Be Announced” Securities. |
bps | Basis Points. |
CMT | Constant Maturity Treasury. |
FREMF | Freddie Mac Multifamily Fixed-Rate Mortgage Loans. |
LIBOR | London Interbank Offered Rate. |
PRIME | U.S. Federal Funds Rate. |
REMICs | Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits. |
SOFR | Secured Overnight Financing Rate. |
SOFR30A | Secured Overnight Financing Rate 30 Day Average. |
(144A) | The resale of such security is exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Such securities may be resold normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2025, the value of these securities amounted to $46,857,701, or 38.3% of net assets. |
(a) | Floating rate note. Coupon rate, reference index and spread shown at June 30, 2025. |
(b) | The interest rate is subject to change periodically. The interest rate and/or reference index and spread shown at June 30, 2025. |
(c) | Debt obligation initially issued at one coupon which converts to a higher coupon at a specific date. The rate shown is the rate at June 30, 2025. |
(d) | Security is in default. |
(e) | Security represents the interest-only portion payments on a pool of underlying mortgages or mortgage-backed securities. |
(f) | Securities purchased on a when-issued basis. Rates do not take effect until settlement date. |
(g) | Security is perpetual in nature and has no stated maturity date. |
(h) | Non-income producing security. |
(i) | Issued as preference shares. |
(j) | Security issued with a zero coupon. Income is recognized through accretion of discount. |
(k) | Rate periodically changes. Rate disclosed is the 7-day yield at June 30, 2025. |
(l) | Pioneer CAT Bond Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) reorganized with the Victory Pioneer CAT Bond Fund effective May 2, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), after the end of the annual reporting period. The Predecessor Fund is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class K shares of the Predecessor Fund received Class R6. |
(m) | Pioneer ILS Interval Fund is an affiliated closed-end fund managed by Victory Capital Management Inc., (the “Adviser”). |
* | Senior secured floating rate loan interests in which the Portfolio invests generally pay interest at rates that are periodically re-determined by reference to a base lending rate plus a premium. These base lending rates are generally (i) the lending rate offered by one or more major European banks, such as SOFR, (ii) the prime rate offered by one or more major United States banks, (iii) the rate of a certificate of deposit or (iv) other base lending rates used by commercial lenders. The interest rate shown is the rate accruing at June 30, 2025. |
+ | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). |
† | Amount rounds to less than 0.1%. |
# | Securities are restricted as to resale (see Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1G). |
Restricted Securities | Acquisition date | Cost | Value |
Lorenz Re 2019 | 7/10/2019 | $ 3,608 | $ 185 |
Merna Re II | 4/14/2025 | 252,200 | 249,750 |
Merna Re II | 4/14/2025 | 252,200 | 249,750 |
Total Restricted Securities | $499,685 | ||
% of Net assets | 0.4% |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Number of Contracts Long |
Description | Expiration Date |
Notional Amount |
Market Value |
Unrealized Appreciation |
2 | U.S. 2 Year Note (CBT) | 9/30/25 | $415,947 | $416,047 | $100 |
295 | U.S. 5 Year Note (CBT) | 9/30/25 | 31,835,221 | 32,155,000 | 319,779 |
42 | U.S. 10 Year Note (CBT) | 9/19/25 | 4,635,124 | 4,709,250 | 74,126 |
2 | U.S. Long Bond (CBT) | 9/19/25 | 227,232 | 230,937 | 3,705 |
29 | U.S. Ultra Bond (CBT) | 9/19/25 | 3,354,692 | 3,454,625 | 99,933 |
$40,468,216 | $40,965,859 | $497,643 |
Number of Contracts Short |
Description | Expiration Date |
Notional Amount |
Market Value |
Unrealized (Depreciation) |
26 | U.S. 10 Year Ultra Bond (CBT) | 9/19/25 | $(2,917,386) | $(2,970,906) | $(53,520) |
TOTAL FUTURES CONTRACTS | $37,550,830 | $37,994,953 | $444,123 | ||
CBT | Chicago Board of Trade. |
CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – BUY PROTECTION | ||||||||
Notional Amount ($)(1) |
Reference Obligation/Index | Pay/ Receive(2) |
Annual Fixed Rate |
Expiration Date |
Premiums (Received) |
Unrealized (Depreciation) |
Market Value | |
3,400,000 | Markit CDX North America High Yield Index Series 44 | Pay | 5.00% | 6/20/30 | $(162,772) | $(97,762) | $(260,534) | |
TOTAL CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – BUY PROTECTION |
$(162,772) | $(97,762) | $(260,534) |
(1) | The notional amount is the maximum amount that a seller of credit protection would be obligated to pay upon occurrence of a credit event. |
(2) | Pays quarterly. |
Purchases | Sales | |
Long-Term U.S. Government Securities | $— | $184,418 |
Other Long-Term Securities | $18,924,527 | $32,538,568 |
Aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of value over tax cost | $1,904,769 |
Aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of tax cost over value | (11,492,440) |
Net unrealized depreciation | $(9,587,671) |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Level 1 | – | unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including the Adviser’s own assumptions in determining fair value of investments). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests | $— | $229,005 | $— | $229,005 |
Asset Backed Securities | — | 12,022,500 | — | 12,022,500 |
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | — | 8,377,258 | — | 8,377,258 |
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | — | 8,331,907 | —* | 8,331,907 |
Corporate Bonds | — | 46,136,232 | — | 46,136,232 |
Insurance-Linked Securities | ||||
Reinsurance Sidecars | — | — | 185 | 185 |
All Other Insurance-Linked Securities | — | 499,500 | — | 499,500 |
Foreign Government Bonds | — | 528,668 | — | 528,668 |
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations | — | 45,561,771 | — | 45,561,771 |
Open-End Fund | 5,756,340 | — | — | 5,756,340 |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund | — | 3,996,976 | — | 3,996,976 |
Affiliated Mutual Funds | — | 591,736 | — | 591,736 |
Total Investments in Securities | $5,756,340 | $126,275,553 | $185 | $132,032,078 |
Liabilities | ||||
TBA Sales Commitments | $— | $(633,056) | $— | $(633,056) |
Total Liabilities | $— | $(633,056) | $— | $(633,056) |
Other Financial Instruments | ||||
Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts | $444,123 | $— | $— | $444,123 |
Centrally cleared swap contracts^ | — | (97,762) | — | (97,762) |
Total Other Financial Instruments | $444,123 | $(97,762) | $— | $346,361 |
* | Securities valued at $0. |
^ | Reflects the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of the instruments. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ASSETS: | |
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $131,095,563) | $127,443,366 |
Investments in affiliated issuers, at value (cost $4,776,241) | 4,588,712 |
Cash | 18,775 |
Futures collateral | 1,412,457 |
Swaps collateral | 408,452 |
Variation margin for futures contracts | 75,822 |
Receivables — | |
Investment securities sold | 1,251,153 |
Portfolio shares sold | 108,688 |
Dividends | 11,077 |
Interest | 825,010 |
Due from the Adviser | 1,782 |
Other assets | 689 |
Total assets | $136,145,983 |
LIABILITIES: | |
Due to broker for futures | $75,822 |
Payables — | |
Investment securities purchased | 12,557,128 |
Portfolio shares repurchased | 186,814 |
Trustees’ fees | 137 |
Interest expense | 1,225 |
Variation margin for centrally cleared swap contracts | 17,814 |
TBA sales commitments, at value | 633,056 |
Swap contracts, at value (premium received $162,772) | 260,534 |
Management fees | 28,247 |
Administrative expenses | 5,865 |
Distribution fees | 11,587 |
Accrued expenses | 55,970 |
Total liabilities | $13,834,199 |
NET ASSETS: | |
Paid-in capital | $143,237,356 |
Distributable earnings (loss) | (20,925,572) |
Net assets | $122,311,784 |
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE: | |
No par value (unlimited number of shares authorized) | |
Class I* (based on $21,764,712/2,259,910 shares) | $9.63 |
Class II* (based on $100,547,072/10,415,508 shares) | $9.65 |
* | Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
INVESTMENT INCOME: | |||
Interest from unaffiliated issuers (net of foreign taxes withheld $(787)) | $2,949,328 | ||
Dividends from unaffiliated issuers | 41,251 | ||
Total Investment Income | $2,990,579 | ||
EXPENSES: | |||
Management fees | $245,896 | ||
Administrative expenses | 27,733 | ||
Distribution fees | |||
Class II* | 125,995 | ||
Custodian fees | 605 | ||
Professional fees | 36,249 | ||
Printing expense | 8,131 | ||
Officers’ and Trustees’ fees | 3,816 | ||
Insurance expense | 1,300 | ||
Miscellaneous | 1,442 | ||
Total expenses | $451,167 | ||
Less fees waived and expenses reimbursed by the Adviser | (38,632) | ||
Net expenses | $412,535 | ||
Net investment income | $2,578,044 | ||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS: | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $(570,238) | ||
TBA sales commitments | 95,477 | ||
Futures contracts | 254,908 | ||
Swap contracts | 84,208 | $(135,645) | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $2,746,024 | ||
Investments in affiliated issuers | 158,347 | ||
TBA sales commitments | (80,743) | ||
Futures contracts | 758,043 | ||
Swap contracts | (45,039) | $3,536,632 | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | $3,400,987 | ||
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $5,979,031 |
* | Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 | ||
FROM OPERATIONS: | |||
Net investment income (loss) | $2,578,044 | $6,035,968 | |
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | (135,645) | (2,576,079) | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 3,536,632 | 371,106 | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $5,979,031 | $3,830,995 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS: | |||
Class I* ($0.20 and $0.39 per share, respectively) | $(465,246) | $(922,620) | |
Class II* ($0.19 and $0.37 per share, respectively) | (1,992,046) | (4,242,177) | |
Tax return of capital: | |||
Class I ($— and $0.03 per share, respectively) | $— | $(85,307) | |
Class II ($— and $0.03 per share, respectively) | — | (392,236) | |
Total distributions to shareholders | $(2,457,292) | $(5,642,340) | |
FROM PORTFOLIO SHARE TRANSACTIONS: | |||
Net proceeds from sales of shares | $13,110,283 | $32,256,105 | |
Reinvestment of distributions | 2,457,292 | 5,641,963 | |
Cost of shares repurchased | (26,149,047) | (40,231,742) | |
Net decrease in net assets resulting from Portfolio share transactions | $(10,581,472) | $(2,333,674) | |
Net decrease in net assets | $(7,059,733) | $(4,145,019) | |
NET ASSETS: | |||
Beginning of period | $129,371,517 | $133,516,536 | |
End of period | $122,311,784 | $129,371,517 |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Shares (unaudited) |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Amount (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Shares |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Amount | ||||
Class I* | |||||||
Shares sold | 516,232 | $4,871,225 | 892,464 | $8,465,904 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 48,806 | 465,246 | 106,864 | 1,007,614 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (706,609) | (6,713,155) | (969,873) | (9,165,248) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
(141,571) | $(1,376,684) | 29,455 | $308,270 | |||
Class II* | |||||||
Shares sold | 868,533 | $8,239,058 | 2,501,336 | $23,790,201 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 208,493 | 1,992,046 | 490,387 | 4,634,349 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (2,049,325) | (19,435,892) | (3,269,684) | (31,066,494) | |||
Net decrease | (972,299) | $(9,204,788) | (277,961) | $(2,641,944) |
* | Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class l* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $9.36 | $9.49 | $9.23 | $11.27 | $11.78 | $11.17 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.21 | 0.45 | 0.41 | 0.28 | 0.24 | 0.30 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.26 | (0.16) | 0.22 | (1.87) | (0.20) | 0.65 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.47 | $0.29 | $0.63 | $(1.59) | $0.04 | $0.95 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.20) | (0.39) | (0.37) | (0.22) | (0.25) | (0.34) | |||||
Net realized gain | — | — | — | (0.21) | (0.30) | — | |||||
Tax return of capital | — | (0.03) | — | (0.02) | — | — | |||||
Total distributions | $(0.20) | $(0.42) | $(0.37) | $(0.45) | $(0.55) | $(0.34) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $0.27 | $(0.13) | $0.26 | $(2.04) | $(0.51) | $0.61 | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $9.63 | $9.36 | $9.49 | $9.23 | $11.27 | $11.78 | |||||
Total return(b) | 5.03%(c) | 3.15% | 6.96%(d) | (14.19)% | 0.38% | 8.70% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.47%(e) | 0.48% | 0.55% | 0.49% | 0.57% | 0.59% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.40%(e) | 4.80% | 4.38% | 2.85% | 2.12% | 2.68% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 17%(c) | 53% | 56% | 65% | 61% | 59% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $21,765 | $22,488 | $22,519 | $24,063 | $33,091 | $47,089 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 0.53%(e) | 0.53% | 0.59% | 0.52% | 0.60% | 0.62% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.34%(e) | 4.75% | 4.34% | 2.82% | 2.09% | 2.65% |
* | Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Portfolio’s total return includes a reimbursement by the Adviser. The impact on Class I’s total return was less than 0.005%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class ll* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $9.39 | $9.51 | $9.25 | $11.30 | $11.80 | $11.19 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.20 | 0.43 | 0.39 | 0.26 | 0.21 | 0.28 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.25 | (0.15) | 0.21 | (1.88) | (0.19) | 0.65 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.45 | $0.28 | $0.60 | $(1.62) | $0.02 | $0.93 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.19) | (0.37) | (0.34) | (0.20) | (0.22) | (0.32) | |||||
Net realized gain | — | — | — | (0.21) | (0.30) | — | |||||
Tax return of capital | — | (0.03) | — | (0.02) | — | — | |||||
Total distributions | $(0.19) | $(0.40) | $(0.34) | $(0.43) | $(0.52) | $(0.32) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $0.26 | $(0.12) | $0.26 | $(2.05) | $(0.50) | $0.61 | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $9.65 | $9.39 | $9.51 | $9.25 | $11.30 | $11.80 | |||||
Total return(b) | 4.78%(c) | 3.01% | 6.68%(d) | (14.45)% | 0.22% | 8.42% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.72%(e) | 0.73% | 0.80% | 0.74% | 0.82% | 0.84% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.15%(e) | 4.54% | 4.14% | 2.61% | 1.86% | 2.43% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 17%(c) | 53% | 56% | 65% | 61% | 59% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $100,547 | $106,883 | $110,998 | $118,138 | $150,361 | $140,599 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 0.78%(e) | 0.78% | 0.84% | 0.77% | 0.85% | 0.87% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.09%(e) | 4.49% | 4.10% | 2.58% | 1.83% | 2.40% |
* | Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Portfolio’s total return includes a reimbursement by the Adviser. The impact on Class II’s total return was less than 0.005%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A. | Security Valuation |
The net asset value of the Portfolio is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. | |
Fixed income securities are valued by using prices supplied by independent pricing services, which consider such factors as market prices, market events, quotations from one or more brokers, Treasury spreads, yields, maturities and ratings, or may use a pricing matrix or other fair value methods or techniques to provide an estimated value of the security or instrument. A pricing matrix is a means of valuing a debt security on the basis of current market prices for other debt securities, historical trading patterns in the market for fixed income securities and/or other factors. Non-U.S. debt securities that are listed on an exchange will be valued at the bid price obtained from an independent third party pricing service. When independent third party pricing services are unable to supply prices, or when prices or market quotations are considered to be unreliable, the value of that security may be determined using quotations from one or more broker-dealers. | |
Loan interests are valued at the mean between the last available bid and asked prices from one or more brokers or dealers as obtained from Loan Pricing Corporation, an independent third party pricing service. If price information is not available from Loan Pricing Corporation, or if the price information is deemed to be unreliable, price information will be obtained from an alternative loan interest pricing service. If no reliable price quotes are available from either the primary or alternative pricing service, broker quotes will be solicited. | |
Event-linked bonds are valued at the bid price obtained from an independent third party pricing service. Other insurance-linked securities (including reinsurance sidecars, collateralized reinsurance and industry loss warranties) may be valued at the bid price obtained from an independent pricing service, or through a third party using a pricing matrix, insurance valuation models, or other fair value methods or techniques to provide an estimated value of the instrument. | |
Equity securities that have traded on an exchange are valued by using the last sale price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Equity securities that have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale prices are not available, generally are valued using the mean between the last bid and asked prices or, if both last bid and asked prices are not available, at the last quoted bid price. Last sale and bid and asked prices are provided by independent third party pricing services. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services using a variety of techniques and methods. | |
The value of foreign securities is translated into U.S. dollars based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by a third party pricing source. Trading in non-U.S. equity securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of the Portfolio’s shares are determined as of such times. The Adviser may use a fair value model developed by an independent pricing service to value non-U.S. equity securities. | |
Futures contracts are generally valued at the closing settlement price established by the exchange on which they are traded. | |
Swap contracts, including interest rate swaps, caps and floors (other than centrally cleared swap contracts), are valued at the dealer quotations obtained from reputable International Swap Dealers Association members. Centrally cleared swaps are valued at the daily settlement price provided by the central clearing counterparty. | |
Shares of open-end registered investment companies (including money market mutual funds) are valued at such funds’ net asset value. Shares of closed-end interval funds that offer their shares at net asset value are valued at such funds’ net asset value. | |
Securities or loan interests for which independent pricing services or broker-dealers are unable to supply prices or for which market prices and/or quotations are not readily available or are considered to be unreliable are valued by a fair valuation team comprised of certain personnel of the Adviser. The Adviser is designated as the valuation designee for the Portfolio pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser’s fair valuation team is responsible for monitoring developments that may impact fair valued securities. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Inputs used when applying fair value methods to value a security may include credit ratings, financial condition, current market conditions and comparable securities. The Adviser may use fair value methods if it is determined that a significant event has occurred after the close of the exchange or market on which the security trades and prior to the determination of the Portfolio’s net asset value. Examples of a significant event might include political or economic news, corporate restructurings, natural disasters, terrorist activity, tariffs, or trading halts. Thus, the valuation of the Portfolio’s securities may differ significantly from exchange prices, and such differences could be material. | |
B. | Investment Income and Transactions |
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain dividends from foreign securities for which the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon as the Portfolio becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of reasonable diligence. | |
Interest income, including interest on income-bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend and interest income are reported net of unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates and net of income accrued on defaulted securities. | |
Interest and dividend income payable by delivery of additional shares is reclassified as PIK (payment-in-kind) income upon receipt and is included in interest and dividend income, respectively. | |
Principal amounts of mortgage-backed securities are adjusted for monthly paydowns. Premiums and discounts related to certain mortgage-backed securities are amortized or accreted in proportion to the monthly paydowns. All discounts/premiums on purchase prices of debt securities are accreted/amortized for financial reporting purposes over the life of the respective securities, and such accretion/amortization is included in interest income. | |
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes. | |
C. | Foreign Currency Translation |
The books and records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. | |
Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any, represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on foreign currency exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on investments are not segregated from the effects of changes in the market prices of those securities on the Statement of Operations, but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments. | |
D. | Federal Income Taxes |
It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net taxable income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. As of June 30, 2025, the Portfolio did not accrue any interest or penalties with respect to uncertain tax positions, which, if applicable, would be recorded as an income tax expense on the Statement of Operations. Tax returns filed within the prior three years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. | |
The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax rules, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary over distributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes. Capital accounts within the financial statements are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character, but are not adjusted for temporary differences. | |
The tax character of current year distributions payable will be determined at the end of the current taxable year. The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2024 was as follows: |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
2024 | |
Distributions paid from: | |
Ordinary income | $5,164,797 |
Tax return of capital | 477,543 |
Total | $5,642,340 |
2024 | |
Distributable earnings/(losses): | |
Capital loss carryforward | $(17,259,382) |
Other book/tax temporary differences | (64) |
Net unrealized depreciation | (7,129,128) |
Qualified late year loss deferral | (58,737) |
Total | $(24,447,311) |
E. | Portfolio Shares and Class Allocations |
The Portfolio records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date. Distribution fees for Class II shares are calculated based on the average daily net asset value attributable to Class II shares of the Portfolio (see Note 5). Class I shares do not pay distribution fees. | |
Income, common expenses (excluding transfer agent and distribution fees) and realized and unrealized gains and losses are calculated at the Portfolio level and allocated daily to each class of shares based on its respective percentage of the adjusted net assets at the beginning of the day. | |
All expenses and fees paid to the Portfolio’s transfer agent for its services are allocated between the classes of shares based on the number of accounts in each class and the ratable allocation of related out-of-pocket expenses (see Note 4). | |
The Portfolio declares as daily dividends substantially all of its net investment income. All dividends are paid on a monthly basis. Short-term capital gain distributions, if any, may be declared with the daily dividends. Distributions paid by the Portfolio with respect to each class of shares are calculated in the same manner and at the same time, except that net investment income dividends to Class I and Class II shares can reflect different transfer agent and distribution expense rates. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. | |
F. | Risks |
The value of securities held by the Portfolio may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political or regulatory conditions, recessions, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, inflation, changes in interest rates, armed conflict such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In the past several years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Portfolio’s investments and negatively impact the Portfolio’s performance. | |
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability may continue for some time. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events or conditions. | |
Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
public debt, including in the U.S. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. | |
The U.S. and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs, investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities. For example, the U.S. has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. If the political climate between the U.S. and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Portfolio’s assets may go down. | |
At times, the Portfolio’s investments may represent industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks, making the Portfolio more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets, including developing markets, may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in developed markets. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets, and the imposition of adverse governmental laws, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law and investment and repatriation restrictions. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Portfolio’s return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. | |
In response to the military action by Russia against Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia’s military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Portfolio investments, on Portfolio performance and the value of an investment in the Portfolio. In particular, securities and commodities, such as oil, natural gas and food commodities, with exposure to Russian issuers or issuers in other countries affected by the invasion are likely to have collateral impacts on market sectors globally. | |
Normally, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in bonds. For purposes of this policy, bonds include all fixed income investments other than preferred stock (e.g., debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities and debt securities (including convertible debt) of corporate or other issuers). | |
The market prices of the Portfolio’s fixed income securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. A rise in interest rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities. For example, if interest rates increase by 1%, the value of a Portfolio’s holdings with a portfolio duration of ten years would be expected to decrease by 10%, all other things being equal. A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities. The maturity of a security may be significantly longer than its effective duration. A security’s maturity and other features may be more relevant than its effective duration in determining the security’s sensitivity to other factors affecting the issuer or markets generally, such as changes in credit quality or in the yield premium that the market may establish for certain types of securities (sometimes called “credit spread”). In general, the longer its maturity, the more a security may be susceptible to these factors. When the credit spread for a fixed income security goes up, or “widens”, the value of the security will generally go down. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
If an issuer or guarantor of a security held by the Portfolio, or a counterparty to a financial contract with the Portfolio, defaults on its obligation to pay principal and/or interest, has its credit rating downgraded, is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines, the value of your investment will typically decline. Changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness may occur quickly. The Portfolio could be delayed or hindered in its enforcement of rights against an issuer, guarantor or counterparty. | |
The Portfolio invests in below-investment-grade (high-yield) debt securities and preferred stocks. Some of these high-yield securities may be convertible into equity securities of the issuer. Debt securities rated below-investment-grade are commonly referred to as “junk bonds” and are considered speculative with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal. These securities involve greater risk of loss, are subject to greater price volatility, and may be less liquid and more difficult to value, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or change, than higher rated debt securities. | |
The Portfolio may invest in mortgage-related and asset-backed securities. The value of mortgage-related and asset-backed securities will be influenced by factors affecting the assets underlying such securities. As a result, during periods of declining asset value, difficult or frozen credit markets, swings in interest rates, or deteriorating economic conditions, mortgage-related and asset-backed securities may decline in value, face valuation difficulties, become more volatile and/or become illiquid. Mortgage-backed securities tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than other types of debt securities. These securities are also subject to prepayment and extension risks. Some of these securities may receive little or no collateral protection from the underlying assets and are thus subject to the risk of default. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage-backed investments offered by non-governmental issuers and those that include so-called “sub-prime” mortgages. The structure of some of these securities may be complex and there may be less available information than for other types of debt securities. Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or defaults, the Portfolio may become the holder of underlying assets at a time when those assets may be difficult to sell or may be sold only at a loss. | |
The Portfolio may invest in credit risk transfer securities. Credit risk transfer securities are unguaranteed and unsecured debt securities issued by government sponsored enterprises and therefore are not directly linked to or backed by the underlying mortgage loans. As a result, in the event that a government sponsored enterprise fails to pay principal or interest on its credit risk transfer securities or goes through a bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding, holders of such credit risk transfer securities have no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans and will generally receive recovery on par with other unsecured note holders in such a scenario. The risks associated with an investment in credit risk transfer securities are different than the risks associated with an investment in mortgage-backed securities issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, or other government sponsored enterprise or issued by a private issuer, because some or all of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans is transferred to investors. As a result, investors in these securities could lose some or all of their investment in these securities if the underlying mortgage loans default. | |
The Portfolio may invest in REIT securities, the value of which can fall for a variety of reasons, such as declines in rental income, fluctuating interest rates, poor property management, environmental liabilities, uninsured damage, increased competition, or changes in real estate tax laws. | |
The Portfolio’s investments, payment obligations and financing terms may be based on floating rates, such as LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) or SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate). ICE Benchmark Administration, the administrator of LIBOR, has ceased publication of most LIBOR settings on a representative basis. Actions by regulators have resulted in the establishment of alternative reference rates to LIBOR in most major currencies. In the U.S., a common benchmark replacement is based on the SOFR published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, including certain spread adjustments and benchmark replacement conforming changes, although other benchmark replacements (with or without spread adjustments) may be used in certain transactions. The impact of the transition from LIBOR on the Portfolio’s transactions and financial markets generally cannot yet be determined. The transition away from LIBOR may lead to increased volatility and illiquidity in markets for instruments that have relied on LIBOR and may adversely affect the Portfolio’s performance. | |
With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet to conduct business, the Portfolio is susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, limit or mitigate, such cyber-attacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, the Portfolio cannot control the cybersecurity plans and systems put in place by service providers to the Portfolio such as the Portfolio’s custodian and accounting agent, and the Portfolio’s transfer agent. In addition, many beneficial owners of |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Portfolio shares hold them through accounts at broker-dealers, retirement platforms and other financial market participants over which neither the Portfolio nor the Adviser exercises control. Each of these intermediaries may in turn rely on their service providers, which are also subject to the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity failures or breaches at the Adviser, service providers or intermediaries may cause disruptions and impact business operations. This may cause financial losses; interference with the Portfolio’s ability to calculate its net asset value; impediments to trading; the inability of Portfolio shareholders to effect share purchases; redemptions or exchanges or receive distributions; loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information; and violations of applicable privacy; and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Such costs and losses may not be covered under any insurance. In addition, maintaining vigilance against cyber-attacks may involve substantial costs over time, and system enhancements may themselves be subject to cyber-attacks. | |
The Portfolio’s prospectus contains unaudited information regarding the Portfolio’s principal risks. Please refer to that document when considering the Portfolio’s principal risks. | |
G. | Restricted Securities |
Restricted Securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale. Restricted securities generally are resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. Private placement securities are generally considered to be restricted except for those securities traded between qualified institutional investors under the provisions of Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. | |
Disposal of restricted investments may involve negotiations and expenses, and prompt sale at an acceptable price may be difficult to achieve. Restricted investments held by the Portfolio at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
H. | Insurance-Linked Securities (“ILS”) |
The Portfolio invests in ILS. The Portfolio could lose a portion or all of the principal it has invested in an ILS, and the right to additional interest or dividend payments with respect to the security, upon the occurrence of one or more trigger events, as defined within the terms of an insurance-linked security. Trigger events, generally, are hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural events of a specific size or magnitude that occur in a designated geographic region during a specified time period, and/or that involve losses or other metrics that exceed a specific amount. There is no way to accurately predict whether a trigger event will occur, and accordingly, ILS carry significant risk. The Portfolio is entitled to receive principal, and interest and/or dividend payments so long as no trigger event occurs of the description and magnitude specified by the instrument. In addition to the specified trigger events, ILS may expose the Portfolio to other risks, including but not limited to issuer (credit) default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations and adverse tax consequences. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in ILS may include event-linked bonds. ILS also may include special purpose vehicles (“SPVs”) or similar instruments structured to comprise a portion of a reinsurer’s catastrophe-oriented business, known as quota share instruments (sometimes referred to as reinsurance sidecars), or to provide reinsurance relating to specific risks to insurance or reinsurance companies through a collateralized instrument, known as collateralized reinsurance. | |
Structured reinsurance investments also may include industry loss warranties (“ILWs”). A traditional ILW takes the form of a bilateral reinsurance contract, but there are also products that take the form of derivatives, collateralized structures, or exchange-traded instruments. | |
Where the ILS are based on the performance of underlying reinsurance contracts, the Portfolio has limited transparency into the individual underlying contracts, and therefore must rely upon the risk assessment and sound underwriting practices of the issuer. Accordingly, it may be more difficult for the Portfolio’s investment adviser to fully evaluate the underlying risk profile of the Portfolio’s structured reinsurance investments, and therefore the Portfolio’s assets are placed at greater risk of loss than if the Portfolio’s investment adviser had more complete information. Structured reinsurance instruments generally will be considered illiquid securities by the Portfolio. These securities may be difficult to purchase, sell or unwind. Illiquid securities also may be difficult to value. If the Portfolio is forced to sell an illiquid asset, the Portfolio may be forced to sell at a loss. | |
Additionally, the Portfolio may gain exposure to ILS by investing in a closed-end interval fund, Pioneer ILS Interval Fund, an affiliate of the Adviser. The Portfolio’s investment in Pioneer ILS Interval Fund at June 30, 2025 is listed in the Schedule of Investments. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
I. | TBA Purchases and Sales Commitments |
The Portfolio may enter into to-be-announced (TBA) purchases or sales commitments (collectively, “TBA transactions”), pursuant to which it agrees to purchase or sell, respectively, mortgage-backed securities for a fixed unit price, with payment and delivery at a scheduled future date beyond the customary settlement period for such securities. With TBA transactions, the particular securities to be received or delivered by the Portfolio are not identified at the trade date; however, the securities must meet specified terms, including issuer, rate, and mortgage term, and be within industry-accepted “good delivery” standards. The Portfolio may enter into TBA transactions with the intention of taking possession of or relinquishing the underlying securities, may elect to extend the settlement by “rolling” the transaction, and/or may use TBA transactions to gain or reduce interim exposure to underlying securities. Until settlement, the Portfolio maintains liquid assets sufficient to settle its commitment to purchase a TBA or, in the case of a sale commitment, the Portfolio maintains an entitlement to the security to be sold. | |
To mitigate counterparty risk, the Portfolio has entered into agreements with TBA counterparties that provide for collateral and the right to offset amounts due to or from those counterparties under specified conditions. Subject to minimum transfer amounts, collateral requirements are determined and transfers are made based on the net aggregate unrealized gain or loss on all TBA commitments with a particular counterparty. At any time, the Portfolio’s risk of loss from a particular counterparty related to its TBA commitments is the aggregate unrealized gain on appreciated TBAs in excess of unrealized loss on depreciated TBAs and collateral received, if any, from such counterparty. As of June 30, 2025, no collateral was pledged by the Portfolio. | |
J. | Futures Contracts |
The Portfolio may enter into futures transactions in order to attempt to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices and currency exchange rates or to seek to increase total return. Futures contracts are types of derivatives. | |
All futures contracts entered into by the Portfolio are traded on a futures exchange. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Portfolio is required to deposit with a broker an amount of cash or securities equal to the minimum “initial margin” requirements of the associated futures exchange. The amount of cash deposited with the broker as collateral at June 30, 2025 is recorded as “Futures collateral” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. | |
Subsequent payments for futures contracts (“variation margin”) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuation in the value of the contracts, and are recorded by the Portfolio as unrealized appreciation or depreciation. Cash received from or paid to the broker related to previous margin movement is held in a segregated account at the broker and is recorded as either “Due from broker for futures” or “Due to broker for futures” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, the Portfolio realizes a gain or loss equal to the difference between the opening and closing value of the contract as well as any fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates where applicable. Futures contracts are subject to market risk, interest rate risk and currency exchange rate risk. Changes in value of the contracts may not directly correlate to the changes in value of the underlying securities. With futures, there is reduced counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. | |
The average notional values of long position and short position futures contracts during the six months ended June 30, 2025 were $41,139,666 and $2,780,302, respectively. Open futures contracts outstanding at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
K. | Credit Default Swap Contracts |
A credit default swap is a contract between a buyer of protection and a seller of protection against a pre-defined credit event or an underlying reference obligation, which may be a single security or a basket or index of securities. The Portfolio may buy or sell credit default swap contracts to seek to increase the Portfolio’s income, or to attempt to hedge the risk of default on portfolio securities. A credit default swap index is used to hedge risk or take a position on a basket of credit entities or indices. | |
As a seller of protection, the Portfolio would be required to pay the notional (or other agreed-upon) value of the referenced debt obligation to the counterparty in the event of a default by a U.S. or foreign corporate issuer of a debt obligation, which would likely result in a loss to the Portfolio. In return, the Portfolio would receive from the counterparty a periodic stream of payments during the term of the contract, provided that no event of default occurred. The maximum exposure of loss to the seller would be the notional value of the credit default swaps outstanding. If no default occurs, the Portfolio would keep the stream of payments and would have no payment obligation. The Portfolio may also buy credit |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
default swap contracts in order to hedge against the risk of default of debt securities, in which case the Portfolio would function as the counterparty referenced above. | |
As a buyer of protection, the Portfolio makes an upfront or periodic payment to the protection seller in exchange for the right to receive a contingent payment. An upfront payment made by the Portfolio, as the protection buyer, is recorded within the “Swap contracts, at value” line item on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are recorded as realized gains or losses on the Statement of Operations. | |
Credit default swap contracts are marked-to-market daily using valuations supplied by independent sources, and the change in value, if any, is recorded within the “Swap contracts, at value” line item on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Payments received or made as a result of a credit event or upon termination of the contract are recognized, net of the appropriate amount of the upfront payment, as realized gains or losses on the Statement of Operations. | |
Credit default swap contracts involving the sale of protection may involve greater risks than if the Portfolio had invested in the referenced debt instrument directly. Credit default swap contracts are subject to general market risk, liquidity risk, counterparty risk and credit risk. If the Portfolio is a protection buyer and no credit event occurs, it will lose its investment. If the Portfolio is a protection seller and a credit event occurs, the value of the referenced debt instrument received by the Portfolio, together with the periodic payments received, may be less than the amount the Portfolio pays to the protection buyer, resulting in a loss to the Portfolio. In addition, obligations under sell protection credit default swaps may be partially offset by net amounts received from settlement of buy protection credit default swaps entered into by the Portfolio for the same reference obligation with the same counterparty. | |
The Portfolio may invest in credit default swap index products ("CDX"). A CDX is a swap on an index of credit default swaps. CDXs allow an investor to manage credit risk or take a position on a basket of credit entities (such as credit default swaps or commercial mortgage-backed securities) in a more efficient manner than transacting in a single-name credit default swap. If a credit event occurs in one of the underlying companies, the protection is paid out via the delivery of the defaulted bond by the buyer of protection in return for a payment of notional value of the defaulted bond by the seller of protection or it may be settled through a cash settlement between the two parties. The underlying company is then removed from the index. If the Portfolio holds a long position in a CDX, the Portfolio would indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by a CDX. A fund holding a long position in CDXs typically receives income from principal or interest paid on the underlying securities. By investing in CDXs, the Portfolio could be exposed to liquidity risk, counterparty risk, credit risk of the issuers of the underlying loan obligations and of the CDX markets, and operational risks. If there is a default by the CDX counterparty, the Portfolio will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. CDXs also bear the risk that the Portfolio will not be able to meet its obligation to the counterparty. | |
Certain swap contracts that are cleared through a central clearinghouse are referred to as centrally cleared swaps. All payments made or received by the Portfolio are pursuant to a centrally cleared swap contract with the central clearing party rather than the original counterparty. Upon entering into a centrally cleared swap contract, the Portfolio is required to make an initial margin deposit, either in cash or in securities. The daily change in value on open centrally cleared contracts is recorded as “Variation margin for centrally cleared swap contracts” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Cash received from or paid to the broker related to previous margin movement is held in a segregated account at the broker and is recorded as either “Due from broker for swaps” or “Due to broker for swaps” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The amount of cash deposited with a broker as collateral at June 30, 2025 is recorded as “Swaps collateral” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. | |
The average notional value of credit default swap contracts buy protection open during the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $5,013,333. Open credit default swap contracts at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
Interest Rate Risk |
Credit Risk |
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk |
Equity Risk |
Commodity Risk |
Assets | |||||
Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts^ | $444,123 | $— | $— | $— | $— |
Total Value | $444,123 | $— | $— | $— | $— |
Liabilities | |||||
Centrally cleared swap contracts† | $— | $97,762 | $— | $— | $— |
Total Value | $— | $97,762 | $— | $— | $— |
^ | Includes cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only net variation margin is reported within the assets and/or liabilities on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. |
† | Includes cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of centrally cleared swap contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only net variation margin is reported within the receivables and/or payables on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. |
Statement of Operations | Interest Rate Risk |
Credit Risk |
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk |
Equity Risk |
Commodity Risk |
Net Realized Gain (Loss) on | |||||
Futures contracts | $254,908 | $— | $— | $— | $— |
Swap contracts | — | 84,208 | — | — | — |
Total Value | $254,908 | $84,208 | $— | $— | $— |
Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | |||||
Futures contracts | $758,043 | $— | $— | $— | $— |
Swap contracts | — | (45,039) | — | — | — |
Total Value | $758,043 | $(45,039) | $— | $— | $— |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Name of the Affiliated Issuer |
Value at December 31, 2024 |
Purchases Costs |
Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) |
Net Realized Gain/(Loss) |
Dividends Received and Reinvested |
Sales Proceeds |
Shares held at June 30, 2025 |
Value at June 30, 2025 |
Pioneer ILS Interval Fund | $3,854,535 | $— | $142,441 | $— | $— | $— | 431,639 | $3,996,976 |
Victory Pioneer CAT Bond Fund | $— | $575,830 | $15,906 | $— | $— | $— | 53,023 | $591,736 |
Total | 3,854,535 | 575,830 | 158,347 | — | — | — | 484,662 | 4,588,712 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Fund | Total Voted | Votes For | Votes Against | Votes Abstained |
Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | 12,300,241 | 10,691,746 | 783,597 | 824,898 |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Schedule of Investments | 2 |
Financial Statements | 6 |
Notes to Financial Statements | 10 |
Additional Information | 15 |
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement | 16 |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 100.1% | ||||||
Common Stocks — 100.1% of Net Assets | ||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 3.4% | ||||||
3,543(a) | Axon Enterprise, Inc. | $ 2,933,391 | ||||
3,949 | BWX Technologies, Inc. | 568,893 | ||||
Total Aerospace & Defense | $3,502,284 | |||||
Beverages — 0.8% | ||||||
23,554 | Keurig Dr Pepper, Inc. | $ 778,695 | ||||
Total Beverages | $778,695 | |||||
Biotechnology — 2.9% | ||||||
1,810(a) | Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | $ 590,223 | ||||
11,702(a) | Natera, Inc. | 1,976,936 | ||||
13,659(a) | Vaxcyte, Inc. | 444,054 | ||||
Total Biotechnology | $3,011,213 | |||||
Building Products — 1.3% | ||||||
5,074(a) | Builders FirstSource, Inc. | $ 592,085 | ||||
13,948(a) | Trex Co., Inc. | 758,492 | ||||
Total Building Products | $1,350,577 | |||||
Capital Markets — 9.2% | ||||||
6,318 | Evercore, Inc., Class A | $ 1,705,986 | ||||
37,644 | Marex Group Plc | 1,485,809 | ||||
3,050 | MSCI, Inc. | 1,759,057 | ||||
33,734(a) | Robinhood Markets, Inc., Class A | 3,158,515 | ||||
9,828 | Tradeweb Markets, Inc., Class A | 1,438,819 | ||||
Total Capital Markets | $9,548,186 | |||||
Communications Equipment — 0.8% | ||||||
2,003 | Motorola Solutions, Inc. | $ 842,181 | ||||
Total Communications Equipment | $842,181 | |||||
Construction Materials — 0.9% | ||||||
10,183 | CRH Plc | $ 934,799 | ||||
Total Construction Materials | $934,799 | |||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 0.9% | ||||||
8,503(a) | BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. | $ 916,879 | ||||
Total Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail | $916,879 | |||||
Electric Utilities — 2.2% | ||||||
14,233 | NRG Energy, Inc. | $ 2,285,535 | ||||
Total Electric Utilities | $2,285,535 | |||||
Electrical Equipment — 7.8% | ||||||
8,087(a) | Generac Holdings, Inc. | $ 1,158,140 | ||||
28,452(a) | Siemens Energy AG | 3,286,484 | ||||
28,300 | Vertiv Holdings Co., Class A | 3,634,003 | ||||
Total Electrical Equipment | $8,078,627 | |||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 2.7% | ||||||
14,298 | Amphenol Corp., Class A | $ 1,411,928 | ||||
27,483(a) | Flex, Ltd. | 1,371,951 | ||||
Total Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components | $2,783,879 |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Entertainment — 2.4% | ||||||
3,298(a) | Spotify Technology S.A. | $ 2,530,687 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $2,530,687 | |||||
Ground Transportation — 0.6% | ||||||
2,337(a) | Saia, Inc. | $ 640,315 | ||||
Total Ground Transportation | $640,315 | |||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 4.2% | ||||||
1,898(a) | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | $ 246,303 | ||||
4,286(a) | Insulet Corp. | 1,346,576 | ||||
3,587(a) | Penumbra, Inc. | 920,532 | ||||
7,022 | ResMed, Inc. | 1,811,676 | ||||
Total Health Care Equipment & Supplies | $4,325,087 | |||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 2.0% | ||||||
2,796 | McKesson Corp. | $ 2,048,853 | ||||
Total Health Care Providers & Services | $2,048,853 | |||||
Health Care Technology — 1.7% | ||||||
6,239(a) | Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A | $ 1,796,707 | ||||
Total Health Care Technology | $1,796,707 | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 13.3% | ||||||
2,423(a) | Airbnb, Inc., Class A | $ 320,660 | ||||
19,826(a) | Cava Group, Inc. | 1,669,944 | ||||
25,660(a) | Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. | 1,440,809 | ||||
4,690(a) | DoorDash, Inc., Class A | 1,156,132 | ||||
24,436(a) | DraftKings, Inc., Class A | 1,048,060 | ||||
65,342(a) | Genius Sports, Ltd. | 679,557 | ||||
6,663 | Marriott International, Inc., Class A | 1,820,398 | ||||
11,608(a) | Planet Fitness, Inc., Class A | 1,265,853 | ||||
9,194 | Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. | 2,879,009 | ||||
27,973(a) | Viking Holdings, Ltd. | 1,490,681 | ||||
Total Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure | $13,771,103 | |||||
Household Durables — 1.1% | ||||||
3,592(a) | TopBuild Corp. | $ 1,162,874 | ||||
Total Household Durables | $1,162,874 | |||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.6% | ||||||
2,247(a) | Talen Energy Corp. | $ 653,360 | ||||
Total Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers | $653,360 | |||||
Insurance — 1.5% | ||||||
34,027(a) | Oscar Health, Inc., Class A | $ 729,539 | ||||
5,636(a) | Palomar Holdings, Inc. | 869,353 | ||||
Total Insurance | $1,598,892 | |||||
Interactive Media & Services — 0.9% | ||||||
26,894(a) | Pinterest, Inc., Class A | $ 964,419 | ||||
Total Interactive Media & Services | $964,419 | |||||
IT Services — 4.5% | ||||||
20,151(a) | Cloudflare, Inc., Class A | $ 3,946,170 | ||||
3,351(a) | MongoDB, Inc. | 703,677 | ||||
Total IT Services | $4,649,847 |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Life Sciences Tools & Services — 1.0% | ||||||
4,065 | Agilent Technologies, Inc. | $ 479,710 | ||||
4,510(a) | Repligen Corp. | 560,954 | ||||
Total Life Sciences Tools & Services | $1,040,664 | |||||
Media — 1.0% | ||||||
14,751(a) | Trade Desk, Inc., Class A | $ 1,061,925 | ||||
Total Media | $1,061,925 | |||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 5.0% | ||||||
55,140(a) | Comstock Resources, Inc. | $ 1,525,724 | ||||
8,829 | Expand Energy Corp. | 1,032,463 | ||||
28,301 | HF Sinclair Corp. | 1,162,605 | ||||
22,887 | Williams Cos., Inc. | 1,437,533 | ||||
Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels | $5,158,325 | |||||
Pharmaceuticals — 0.3% | ||||||
27,113(a) | Edgewise Therapeutics, Inc. | $ 355,451 | ||||
Total Pharmaceuticals | $355,451 | |||||
Professional Services — 3.4% | ||||||
6,778 | Thomson Reuters Corp. | $ 1,363,259 | ||||
7,018 | Verisk Analytics, Inc. | 2,186,107 | ||||
Total Professional Services | $3,549,366 | |||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 5.1% | ||||||
15,135(a) | Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. | $ 2,147,656 | ||||
2,182 | ASM International NV | 1,396,694 | ||||
18,866(a) | Credo Technology Group Holding, Ltd. | 1,746,803 | ||||
Total Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment | $5,291,153 | |||||
Software — 9.7% | ||||||
4,075(a) | AppLovin Corp., Class A | $ 1,426,576 | ||||
3,245(a) | CyberArk Software, Ltd. | 1,320,326 | ||||
18,034(a) | Datadog, Inc., Class A | 2,422,507 | ||||
2,908(a) | HubSpot, Inc. | 1,618,680 | ||||
2,588(a) | Monday.com, Ltd. | 813,874 | ||||
11,910(a) | Procore Technologies, Inc. | 814,882 | ||||
21,427(a) | Samsara, Inc., Class A | 852,366 | ||||
1,471(a) | Synopsys, Inc. | 754,153 | ||||
Total Software | $10,023,364 | |||||
Specialized REITs — 0.9% | ||||||
8,989 | Iron Mountain, Inc. | $ 922,002 | ||||
Total Specialized REITs | $922,002 | |||||
Specialty Retail — 3.0% | ||||||
301(a) | AutoZone, Inc. | $ 1,117,381 | ||||
8,161 | Ross Stores, Inc. | 1,041,180 | ||||
17,506 | Tractor Supply Co. | 923,792 | ||||
Total Specialty Retail | $3,082,353 | |||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 3.0% | ||||||
19,013(a) | Sandisk Corp. | $ 862,239 |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — (continued) | ||||||
14,785(a) | Super Micro Computer, Inc. | $ 724,613 | ||||
23,903 | Western Digital Corp. | 1,529,553 | ||||
Total Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | $3,116,405 | |||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 2.0% | ||||||
2,018 | WW Grainger, Inc. | $ 2,099,204 | ||||
Total Trading Companies & Distributors | $2,099,204 | |||||
Total Common Stocks (Cost $60,316,115) |
$103,875,211 | |||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 100.1% (Cost $60,316,115) |
$103,875,211 | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (0.1)% | $(130,824) | |||||
net assets — 100.0% | $103,744,387 | |||||
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust. |
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
Aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of value over tax cost | $45,056,697 |
Aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of tax cost over value | (2,856,936) |
Net unrealized appreciation | $42,199,761 |
Level 1 | – | unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including the Adviser’s own assumptions in determining fair value of investments). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
Common Stocks | $103,875,211 | $— | $— | $103,875,211 |
Total Investments in Securities | $103,875,211 | $— | $— | $103,875,211 |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ASSETS: | |
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $60,316,115) | $103,875,211 |
Foreign currencies, at value (cost $26) | 27 |
Receivables — | |
Investment securities sold | 882,935 |
Portfolio shares sold | 669 |
Dividends | 20,017 |
Due from the Adviser | 8,434 |
Other assets | 21,427 |
Total assets | $104,808,720 |
LIABILITIES: | |
Overdraft due to custodian | $539,446 |
Payables — | |
Investment securities purchased | 210,577 |
Portfolio shares repurchased | 202,901 |
Trustees’ fees | 58 |
Management fees | 61,777 |
Administrative expenses | 4,764 |
Accrued expenses | 44,810 |
Total liabilities | $1,064,333 |
NET ASSETS: | |
Paid-in capital | $57,598,126 |
Distributable earnings | 46,146,261 |
Net assets | $103,744,387 |
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE: | |
No par value (unlimited number of shares authorized) | |
Class I* (based on $103,744,387/3,756,090 shares) | $27.62 |
* | Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I shares of the Portfolio. |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
INVESTMENT INCOME: | |||
Dividends from unaffiliated issuers (net of foreign taxes withheld $2,741) | $197,439 | ||
Total Investment Income | $197,439 | ||
EXPENSES: | |||
Management fees | $346,444 | ||
Administrative expenses | 22,838 | ||
Custodian fees | 613 | ||
Professional fees | 27,013 | ||
Printing expense | 8,872 | ||
Officers’ and Trustees’ fees | 3,478 | ||
Insurance expense | 825 | ||
Miscellaneous | 1,136 | ||
Total expenses | $411,219 | ||
Less fees waived and expenses reimbursed by the Adviser | (9,367) | ||
Net expenses | $401,852 | ||
Net investment income (loss) | $(204,413) | ||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS: | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $4,148,130 | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | 1,705 | $4,149,835 | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $8,188,038 | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | (43) | $8,187,995 | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | $12,337,830 | ||
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $12,133,417 |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 | ||
FROM OPERATIONS: | |||
Net investment income (loss) | $(204,413) | $(451,003) | |
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | 4,149,835 | 13,081,040 | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 8,187,995 | 7,642,619 | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $12,133,417 | $20,272,656 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS: | |||
Class I* ($3.18 and $— per share, respectively) | $(10,732,680) | $— | |
Total distributions to shareholders | $(10,732,680) | $— | |
FROM PORTFOLIO SHARE TRANSACTIONS: | |||
Net proceeds from sales of shares | $2,936,512 | $3,911,535 | |
Reinvestment of distributions | 10,732,680 | — | |
Cost of shares repurchased | (6,579,100) | (17,788,909) | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from Portfolio share transactions | $7,090,092 | $(13,877,374) | |
Net increase in net assets | $8,490,829 | $6,395,282 | |
NET ASSETS: | |||
Beginning of period | $95,253,558 | $88,858,276 | |
End of period | $103,744,387 | $95,253,558 |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Shares (unaudited) |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Amount (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Shares |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Amount | ||||
Class I* | |||||||
Shares sold | 104,511 | $2,936,512 | 156,776 | $3,911,535 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 407,622 | 10,732,680 | — | — | |||
Less shares repurchased | (246,616) | (6,579,100) | (702,399) | (17,788,909) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
265,517 | $7,090,092 | (545,623) | $(13,877,374) |
* | Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I shares of the Portfolio. |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class l* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $27.29 | $22.02 | $18.54 | $34.90 | $37.52 | $29.12 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | (0.06) | (0.12) | (0.04) | (0.06) | (0.23) | (0.15) | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 3.57 | 5.39 | 3.52 | (11.15) | 3.17 | 10.76 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $3.51 | $5.27 | $3.48 | $(11.21) | $2.94 | $10.61 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net realized gain | (3.18) | — | — | (5.15) | (5.56) | (2.21) | |||||
Total distributions | $(3.18) | $— | $— | $(5.15) | $(5.56) | $(2.21) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $0.33 | $5.27 | $3.48 | $(16.36) | $(2.62) | $8.40 | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $27.62 | $27.29 | $22.02 | $18.54 | $34.90 | $37.52 | |||||
Total return(b) | 13.45%(c) | 23.93% | 18.77%(d) | (31.06)% | 8.07% | 39.17% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.86%(e) | 0.86% | 0.92% | 0.87% | 0.89% | 0.89% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | (0.44)%(e) | (0.48)% | (0.19)% | (0.25)% | (0.62)% | (0.49)% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 32%(c) | 53% | 74% | 84% | 41% | 82% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $103,744 | $95,254 | $88,858 | $86,108 | $140,893 | $153,420 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 0.88%(e) | 0.86% | 0.92% | 0.87% | 0.89% | 0.89% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | (0.46)%(e) | (0.48)% | (0.19)% | (0.25)% | (0.62)% | (0.49)% |
* | Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I shares of the Portfolio. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | If the Portfolio had not recognized gains in settlement of class action lawsuits during the year ended December 31, 2023, the total return would have been 18.72%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A. | Security Valuation |
The net asset value of the Portfolio is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Equity securities that have traded on an exchange are valued by using the last sale price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Equity securities that have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale prices are not available, generally are valued using the mean between the last bid and asked prices or, if both last bid and asked prices are not available, at the last quoted bid price. Last sale and bid and asked prices are provided by independent third party pricing services. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services using a variety of techniques and methods. | |
The value of foreign securities is translated into U.S. dollars based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by a third party pricing source. Trading in non-U.S. equity securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of the Portfolio’s shares are determined as of such times. The Adviser may use a fair value model developed by an independent pricing service to value non-U.S. equity securities. | |
Securities for which independent pricing services or broker-dealers are unable to supply prices or for which market prices and/or quotations are not readily available or are considered to be unreliable are valued by a fair valuation team comprised of certain personnel of the Adviser. The Adviser is designated as the valuation designee for the Portfolio pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser’s fair valuation team is responsible for monitoring developments that may impact fair valued securities. | |
Inputs used when applying fair value methods to value a security may include credit ratings, financial condition, current market conditions and comparable securities. The Adviser may use fair value methods if it is determined that a significant event has occurred after the close of the exchange or market on which the security trades and prior to the determination of the Portfolio’s net asset value. Examples of a significant event might include political or economic news, corporate restructurings, natural disasters, terrorist activity, tariffs, or trading halts. Thus, the valuation of the Portfolio’s securities may differ significantly from exchange prices, and such differences could be material. | |
B. | Investment Income and Transactions |
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain dividends from foreign securities for which the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon as the Portfolio becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of reasonable diligence. | |
Interest income, including interest on income-bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend and interest income are reported net of unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates and net of income accrued on defaulted securities. | |
Interest and dividend income payable by delivery of additional shares is reclassified as PIK (payment-in-kind) income upon receipt and is included in interest and dividend income, respectively. | |
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes. | |
C. | Foreign Currency Translation |
The books and records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. | |
Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any, represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on foreign currency exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on investments are not segregated from the effects of changes in the market prices of those securities on the Statement of Operations, but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments. | |
D. | Federal Income Taxes |
It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net taxable income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. As of June 30, 2025, the Portfolio did not accrue any interest or penalties with respect to uncertain tax positions, which, if applicable, would be recorded as an income tax expense on the Statement of Operations. Tax returns filed within the prior three years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A portion of the dividend income recorded by the Portfolio is from distributions by publicly traded real estate investment trusts (“REITs”), and such distributions for tax purposes may also consist of capital gains and return of capital. The actual return of capital and capital gains portions of such distributions will be determined by formal notifications from the REITs subsequent to the calendar year-end. Distributions received from the REITs that are determined to be a return of capital are recorded by the Portfolio as a reduction of the cost basis of the securities held and those determined to be capital gain are reflected as such on the Statement of Operations. | |
The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax rules, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary over distributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes. Capital accounts within the financial statements are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character, but are not adjusted for temporary differences. | |
The tax character of current year distributions payable will be determined at the end of the current taxable year. The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2024 was as follows: |
2024 | |
Distributions paid from: | |
Ordinary income | $— |
Total | $— |
2024 | |
Distributable earnings/(losses): | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $649,988 |
Undistributed long-term capital gains | 10,083,813 |
Net unrealized appreciation | 34,011,723 |
Total | $44,745,524 |
E. | Portfolio Shares |
The Portfolio records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. | |
F. | Risks |
The value of securities held by the Portfolio may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political or regulatory conditions, recessions, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, inflation, changes in interest rates, armed conflict such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In the past several years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Portfolio’s investments and negatively impact the Portfolio’s performance. | |
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability may continue for some time. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events or conditions. | |
Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
public debt, including in the U.S. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. | |
The U.S. and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs, investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities. For example, the U.S. has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. If the political climate between the U.S. and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Portfolio’s assets may go down. | |
At times, the Portfolio’s investments may represent industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks, making the Portfolio more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors. | |
Normally, the portfolio invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of mid-size companies. Investments in mid-sized companies may offer the potential for higher returns, but are also subject to greater short-term price fluctuations than investments in larger, more established companies. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets, including developing markets, may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in developed markets. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets and the imposition of adverse governmental laws, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law and investment and repatriation restrictions. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Portfolio’s return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. | |
In response to the military action by Russia against Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia’s military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Portfolio investments, on Portfolio performance and the value of an investment in the Portfolio. In particular, securities and commodities, such as oil, natural gas and food commodities, with exposure to Russian issuers or issuers in other countries affected by the invasion are likely to have collateral impacts on market sectors globally. | |
The Portfolio may invest in REIT securities, the value of which can fall for a variety of reasons, such as declines in rental income, fluctuating interest rates, poor property management, environmental liabilities, uninsured damage, increased competition, or changes in real estate tax laws. | |
With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet to conduct business, the Portfolio is susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, limit or mitigate, such cyber-attacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, the Portfolio cannot control the cybersecurity plans and systems put in place by service providers to the Portfolio such as the Portfolio’s custodian and accounting agent, and the Portfolio’s transfer agent. In addition, many beneficial owners of Portfolio shares hold them through accounts at broker-dealers, retirement platforms and other financial market participants over which neither the Portfolio nor the Adviser exercises control. Each of these intermediaries may in turn rely on their service providers, which are also subject to the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity failures or breaches at the Adviser, service providers or intermediaries may cause disruptions and impact business operations. This may cause |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
financial losses; interference with the Portfolio’s ability to calculate its net asset value; impediments to trading; the inability of Portfolio shareholders to effect share purchases; redemptions or exchanges or receive distributions; loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information; and violations of applicable privacy; and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Such costs and losses may not be covered under any insurance. In addition, maintaining vigilance against cyber-attacks may involve substantial costs over time, and system enhancements may themselves be subject to cyber-attacks. | |
The Portfolio’s prospectus contains unaudited information regarding the Portfolio’s principal risks. Please refer to that document when considering the Portfolio’s principal risks. |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Fund | Total Voted | Votes For | Votes Against | Votes Abstained |
Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | 3,103,357 | 2,662,525 | 429,403 | 11,429 |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Schedule of Investments | 2 |
Financial Statements | 7 |
Notes to Financial Statements | 12 |
Additional Information | 18 |
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement | 19 |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 100.0% | ||||||
Common Stocks — 99.8% of Net Assets | ||||||
Automobile Components — 0.6% | ||||||
6,723 | Lear Corp. | $ 638,551 | ||||
Total Automobile Components | $638,551 | |||||
Automobiles — 1.0% | ||||||
91,395 | Ford Motor Co. | $ 991,636 | ||||
Total Automobiles | $991,636 | |||||
Banks — 9.9% | ||||||
43,350 | Citizens Financial Group, Inc. | $ 1,939,913 | ||||
14,604 | M&T Bank Corp. | 2,833,030 | ||||
121,647 | Regions Financial Corp. | 2,861,137 | ||||
55,374 | Truist Financial Corp. | 2,380,528 | ||||
Total Banks | $10,014,608 | |||||
Beverages — 1.3% | ||||||
27,791 | Molson Coors Beverage Co., Class B | $ 1,336,469 | ||||
Total Beverages | $1,336,469 | |||||
Broadline Retail — 2.4% | ||||||
32,575 | eBay, Inc. | $ 2,425,534 | ||||
Total Broadline Retail | $2,425,534 | |||||
Capital Markets — 10.7% | ||||||
21,909 | Northern Trust Corp. | $ 2,777,842 | ||||
24,771 | Raymond James Financial, Inc. | 3,799,128 | ||||
39,112 | State Street Corp. | 4,159,170 | ||||
Total Capital Markets | $10,736,140 | |||||
Chemicals — 2.2% | ||||||
20,578 | LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A | $ 1,190,643 | ||||
9,006 | PPG Industries, Inc. | 1,024,433 | ||||
Total Chemicals | $2,215,076 | |||||
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.9% | ||||||
9,879 | Brink's Co. | $ 882,096 | ||||
Total Commercial Services & Supplies | $882,096 | |||||
Communications Equipment — 1.7% | ||||||
3,981 | Motorola Solutions, Inc. | $ 1,673,851 | ||||
Total Communications Equipment | $1,673,851 | |||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 2.8% | ||||||
24,068 | Sysco Corp. | $ 1,822,911 | ||||
9,705 | Target Corp. | 957,398 | ||||
Total Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail | $2,780,309 | |||||
Containers & Packaging — 1.1% | ||||||
50,881 | Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | $ 1,072,063 | ||||
Total Containers & Packaging | $1,072,063 | |||||
Distributors — 1.6% | ||||||
13,270 | Genuine Parts Co. | $ 1,609,784 | ||||
Total Distributors | $1,609,784 |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Electric Utilities — 3.5% | ||||||
33,353 | Eversource Energy | $ 2,121,918 | ||||
32,913 | Exelon Corp. | 1,429,082 | ||||
Total Electric Utilities | $3,551,000 | |||||
Electrical Equipment — 4.0% | ||||||
8,852 | Emerson Electric Co. | $ 1,180,237 | ||||
3,682(a) | Generac Holdings, Inc. | 527,300 | ||||
7,060 | Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 2,345,120 | ||||
Total Electrical Equipment | $4,052,657 | |||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.2% | ||||||
6,863 | CDW Corp. | $ 1,225,663 | ||||
Total Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components | $1,225,663 | |||||
Energy Equipment & Services — 1.4% | ||||||
37,400 | Baker Hughes Co. | $ 1,433,916 | ||||
Total Energy Equipment & Services | $1,433,916 | |||||
Entertainment — 1.6% | ||||||
145,055(a) | Warner Bros Discovery, Inc. | $ 1,662,330 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $1,662,330 | |||||
Food Products — 1.3% | ||||||
4,189 | Hershey Co. | $ 695,164 | ||||
19,544 | The Campbell’s Co. | 599,024 | ||||
Total Food Products | $1,294,188 | |||||
Ground Transportation — 1.4% | ||||||
9,649 | JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc. | $ 1,385,596 | ||||
Total Ground Transportation | $1,385,596 | |||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 4.5% | ||||||
29,827 | GE HealthCare Technologies, Inc. | $ 2,209,286 | ||||
24,948 | Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. | 2,275,507 | ||||
Total Health Care Equipment & Supplies | $4,484,793 | |||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.5% | ||||||
2,041 | Humana, Inc. | $ 498,984 | ||||
Total Health Care Providers & Services | $498,984 | |||||
Health Care REITs — 0.5% | ||||||
29,749 | Healthpeak Properties, Inc. | $ 520,905 | ||||
Total Health Care REITs | $520,905 | |||||
Hotel & Resort REITs — 0.7% | ||||||
47,731 | Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. | $ 733,148 | ||||
Total Hotel & Resort REITs | $733,148 | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.7% | ||||||
10,122 | Expedia Group, Inc. | $ 1,707,379 | ||||
Total Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure | $1,707,379 | |||||
Household Durables — 2.9% | ||||||
8,789 | DR Horton, Inc. | $ 1,133,078 | ||||
17,357 | Whirlpool Corp. | 1,760,347 | ||||
Total Household Durables | $2,893,425 |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Industrial REITs — 0.8% | ||||||
17,653 | First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc. | $ 849,639 | ||||
Total Industrial REITs | $849,639 | |||||
Insurance — 4.5% | ||||||
37,660 | American International Group, Inc. | $ 3,223,320 | ||||
33,530 | Old Republic International Corp. | 1,288,893 | ||||
Total Insurance | $4,512,213 | |||||
Machinery — 3.8% | ||||||
20,429 | AGCO Corp. | $ 2,107,456 | ||||
5,014 | Dover Corp. | 918,715 | ||||
9,178 | Ingersoll Rand, Inc. | 763,426 | ||||
Total Machinery | $3,789,597 | |||||
Media — 2.2% | ||||||
39,287 | Fox Corp., Class A | $ 2,201,643 | ||||
Total Media | $2,201,643 | |||||
Multi-Utilities — 4.5% | ||||||
65,536 | CenterPoint Energy, Inc. | $ 2,407,792 | ||||
24,737 | Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc. | 2,082,361 | ||||
Total Multi-Utilities | $4,490,153 | |||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 7.2% | ||||||
17,540 | Chord Energy Corp. | $ 1,698,749 | ||||
130,809 | Coterra Energy, Inc. | 3,319,932 | ||||
42,033 | Range Resources Corp. | 1,709,482 | ||||
3,807 | Valero Energy Corp. | 511,737 | ||||
Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels | $7,239,900 | |||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.8% | ||||||
16,502 | Delta Air Lines, Inc. | $ 811,568 | ||||
Total Passenger Airlines | $811,568 | |||||
Personal Care Products — 2.2% | ||||||
107,529 | Kenvue, Inc. | $ 2,250,582 | ||||
Total Personal Care Products | $2,250,582 | |||||
Residential REITs — 1.6% | ||||||
7,995 | AvalonBay Communities, Inc. | $ 1,626,983 | ||||
Total Residential REITs | $1,626,983 | |||||
Retail REITs — 1.1% | ||||||
52,222 | Kimco Realty Corp. | $ 1,097,706 | ||||
Total Retail REITs | $1,097,706 | |||||
Software — 0.8% | ||||||
9,924(a) | Zoom Communications, Inc. | $ 773,874 | ||||
Total Software | $773,874 | |||||
Specialized REITs — 2.5% | ||||||
8,112 | Extra Space Storage, Inc. | $ 1,196,033 | ||||
27,790 | Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. | 1,297,237 | ||||
Total Specialized REITs | $2,493,270 | |||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 3.5% | ||||||
47,253 | HP, Inc. | $ 1,155,809 |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — (continued) | ||||||
9,435 | NetApp, Inc. | $ 1,005,299 | ||||
21,101 | Western Digital Corp. | 1,350,253 | ||||
Total Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | $3,511,361 | |||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 2.9% | ||||||
14,878 | AerCap Holdings NV | $ 1,740,726 | ||||
6,274 | WESCO International, Inc. | 1,161,945 | ||||
Total Trading Companies & Distributors | $2,902,671 | |||||
Total Common Stocks (Cost $84,267,339) |
$100,371,261 | |||||
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.2% of Net Assets | ||||||
Open-End Fund — 0.2% | ||||||
155,851(b) | Dreyfus Government Cash Management, Institutional Shares, 4.21% |
$ 155,851 | ||||
$155,851 | ||||||
TOTAL SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $155,851) |
$155,851 | |||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 100.0% (Cost $84,423,190) |
$100,527,112 | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — 0.0%† | $36,871 | |||||
net assets — 100.0% | $100,563,983 | |||||
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust. |
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Rate periodically changes. Rate disclosed is the 7-day yield at June 30, 2025. |
† | Amount rounds to less than 0.1%. |
Aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of value over tax cost | $20,659,608 |
Aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of tax cost over value | (4,754,968) |
Net unrealized appreciation | $15,904,640 |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Level 1 | – | unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including the Adviser’s own assumptions in determining fair value of investments). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
Common Stocks | $100,371,261 | $— | $— | $100,371,261 |
Open-End Fund | 155,851 | — | — | 155,851 |
Total Investments in Securities | $100,527,112 | $— | $— | $100,527,112 |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ASSETS: | |
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $84,423,190) | $100,527,112 |
Receivables — | |
Portfolio shares sold | 18,620 |
Dividends | 128,542 |
Due from the Adviser | 10,222 |
Other assets | 617 |
Total assets | $100,685,113 |
LIABILITIES: | |
Payables — | |
Portfolio shares repurchased | $8,260 |
Trustees’ fees | 125 |
Professional fees | 31,379 |
Printing expense | 12,063 |
Management fees | 54,173 |
Administrative expenses | 4,621 |
Distribution fees | 7,824 |
Accrued expenses | 2,685 |
Total liabilities | $121,130 |
NET ASSETS: | |
Paid-in capital | $82,871,184 |
Distributable earnings | 17,692,799 |
Net assets | $100,563,983 |
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE: | |
No par value (unlimited number of shares authorized) | |
Class I* (based on $31,181,859/3,009,001 shares) | $10.36 |
Class II* (based on $69,382,124/6,802,692 shares) | $10.20 |
* | Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
INVESTMENT INCOME: | ||
Dividends from unaffiliated issuers (net of foreign taxes withheld $43) | $1,415,103 | |
Total Investment Income | $1,415,103 | |
EXPENSES: | ||
Management fees | $327,316 | |
Administrative expenses | 24,266 | |
Distribution fees | ||
Class II* | 87,171 | |
Custodian fees | 543 | |
Professional fees | 25,842 | |
Printing expense | 7,482 | |
Officers’ and Trustees’ fees | 3,783 | |
Insurance expense | 980 | |
Miscellaneous | 3,847 | |
Total expenses | $481,230 | |
Less fees waived and expenses reimbursed by the Adviser | (11,034) | |
Net expenses | $470,196 | |
Net investment income | $944,907 | |
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS: | ||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | ||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $844,593 | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | ||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $(790,641) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | $53,952 | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $998,859 |
* | Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 | ||
FROM OPERATIONS: | |||
Net investment income (loss) | $944,907 | $1,979,428 | |
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | 844,593 | 8,277,621 | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | (790,641) | 971,383 | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $998,859 | $11,228,432 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS: | |||
Class I* ($1.18 and $0.91 per share, respectively) | $(3,208,507) | $(2,587,759) | |
Class II* ($1.15 and $0.89 per share, respectively) | (7,078,500) | (5,853,930) | |
Total distributions to shareholders | $(10,287,007) | $(8,441,689) | |
FROM PORTFOLIO SHARE TRANSACTIONS: | |||
Net proceeds from sales of shares | $2,566,671 | $5,437,687 | |
Reinvestment of distributions | 10,287,007 | 8,441,689 | |
Cost of shares repurchased | (10,083,527) | (18,547,219) | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from Portfolio share transactions | $2,770,151 | $(4,667,843) | |
Net decrease in net assets | $(6,517,997) | $(1,881,100) | |
NET ASSETS: | |||
Beginning of period | $107,081,980 | $108,963,080 | |
End of period | $100,563,983 | $107,081,980 |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Shares (unaudited) |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Amount (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Shares |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Amount | ||||
Class I* | |||||||
Shares sold | 54,070 | $592,682 | 101,773 | $1,162,116 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 315,798 | 3,208,507 | 244,821 | 2,587,759 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (234,739) | (2,646,335) | (456,817) | (5,215,158) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
135,129 | $1,154,854 | (110,223) | $(1,465,283) | |||
Class II* | |||||||
Shares sold | 181,511 | $1,973,989 | 381,551 | $4,275,571 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 707,850 | 7,078,500 | 562,338 | 5,853,930 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (673,651) | (7,437,192) | (1,197,209) | (13,332,061) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
215,710 | $1,615,297 | (253,320) | $(3,202,560) |
* | Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class l* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $11.44 | $11.20 | $11.47 | $23.08 | $17.97 | $18.46 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.11 | 0.22 | 0.23 | 0.27 | 0.21 | 0.17 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | (0.01) | 0.93 | 1.08 | (2.68) | 5.10 | 0.07 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.10 | $1.15 | $1.31 | $(2.41) | $5.31 | $0.24 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.24) | (0.22) | (0.23) | (0.45) | (0.20) | (0.20) | |||||
Net realized gain | (0.94) | (0.69) | (1.35) | (8.75) | — | (0.53) | |||||
Total distributions | $(1.18) | $(0.91) | $(1.58) | $(9.20) | $(0.20) | $(0.73) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $(1.08) | $0.24 | $(0.27) | $(11.61) | $5.11 | $(0.49) | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $10.36 | $11.44 | $11.20 | $11.47 | $23.08 | $17.97 | |||||
Total return(b) | 1.13%(c) | 10.94% | 12.46% | (5.64)%(d) | 29.67% | 2.14% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.76%(e) | 0.76% | 0.80% | 0.78% | 0.75% | 0.74% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 2.05%(e) | 1.98% | 2.06% | 1.83% | 1.01% | 1.10% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 6%(c) | 32% | 48% | 66% | 60% | 88% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $31,182 | $32,886 | $33,431 | $33,516 | $38,358 | $32,989 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 0.78%(e) | 0.76% | 0.80% | 0.78% | 0.75% | 0.74% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 2.03%(e) | 1.98% | 2.06% | 1.83% | 1.01% | 1.10% |
* | Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | If the Portfolio had not recognized gains in settlement of class action lawsuits during the year ended December 31, 2022, the total return would have been (5.72)%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class ll* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $11.26 | $11.04 | $11.32 | $22.78 | $17.74 | $18.23 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.10 | 0.19 | 0.20 | 0.23 | 0.14 | 0.13 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | (0.01) | 0.92 | 1.07 | (2.64) | 5.06 | 0.06 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.09 | $1.11 | $1.27 | $(2.41) | $5.20 | $0.19 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.21) | (0.20) | (0.20) | (0.30) | (0.16) | (0.15) | |||||
Net realized gain | (0.94) | (0.69) | (1.35) | (8.75) | — | (0.53) | |||||
Total distributions | $(1.15) | $(0.89) | $(1.55) | $(9.05) | $(0.16) | $(0.68) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $(1.06) | $0.22 | $(0.28) | $(11.46) | $5.04 | $(0.49) | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $10.20 | $11.26 | $11.04 | $11.32 | $22.78 | $17.74 | |||||
Total return(b) | 1.05%(c) | 10.64% | 12.20% | (5.88)%(d) | 29.37% | 1.87% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 1.01%(e) | 1.01% | 1.05% | 1.03% | 0.98% | 0.99% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 1.80%(e) | 1.73% | 1.81% | 1.56% | 0.69% | 0.85% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 6%(c) | 32% | 48% | 66% | 60% | 88% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $69,382 | $74,196 | $75,532 | $72,523 | $90,686 | $249,969 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 1.03%(e) | 1.01% | 1.05% | 1.03% | 0.98% | 0.99% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 1.78%(e) | 1.73% | 1.81% | 1.56% | 0.69% | 0.85% |
* | Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | If the Portfolio had not recognized gains in settlement of class action lawsuits during the year ended December 31, 2022, the total return would have been (5.97)%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A. | Security Valuation |
The net asset value of the Portfolio is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. | |
Equity securities that have traded on an exchange are valued by using the last sale price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Equity securities that have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale prices are not available, generally are valued using the mean between the last bid and asked prices or, if both last bid and asked prices are not available, at the last quoted bid price. Last sale and bid and asked prices are provided by independent third party pricing services. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services using a variety of techniques and methods. | |
The value of foreign securities is translated into U.S. dollars based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by a third party pricing source. Trading in non-U.S. equity securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of the Portfolio’s shares are determined as of such times. The Adviser may use a fair value model developed by an independent pricing service to value non-U.S. equity securities. | |
Shares of open-end registered investment companies (including money market mutual funds) are valued at such funds’ net asset value. | |
Securities for which independent pricing services or broker-dealers are unable to supply prices or for which market prices and/or quotations are not readily available or are considered to be unreliable are valued by a fair valuation team comprised of certain personnel of the Adviser. The Adviser is designated as the valuation designee for the Portfolio pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser’s fair valuation team is responsible for monitoring developments that may impact fair valued securities. | |
Inputs used when applying fair value methods to value a security may include credit ratings, financial condition, current market conditions and comparable securities. The Adviser may use fair value methods if it is determined that a significant event has occurred after the close of the exchange or market on which the security trades and prior to the determination of the Portfolio’s net asset value. Examples of a significant event might include political or economic news, corporate restructurings, natural disasters, terrorist activity, tariffs, or trading halts. Thus, the valuation of the Portfolio’s securities may differ significantly from exchange prices, and such differences could be material. | |
B. | Investment Income and Transactions |
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain dividends from foreign securities for which the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon as the Portfolio becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of reasonable diligence. | |
Interest income, including interest on income-bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend and interest income are reported net of unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates and net of income accrued on defaulted securities. | |
Interest and dividend income payable by delivery of additional shares is reclassified as PIK (payment-in-kind) income upon receipt and is included in interest and dividend income, respectively. | |
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes. | |
C. | Foreign Currency Translation |
The books and records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any, represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on foreign currency exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on investments are not segregated from the effects of changes in the market prices of those securities on the Statement of Operations, but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
D. | Federal Income Taxes |
It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net taxable income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. As of June 30, 2025, the Portfolio did not accrue any interest or penalties with respect to uncertain tax positions, which, if applicable, would be recorded as an income tax expense on the Statement of Operations. Tax returns filed within the prior three years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. | |
The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax rules, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary over distributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes. Capital accounts within the financial statements are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character, but are not adjusted for temporary differences. | |
A portion of the dividend income recorded by the Portfolio is from distributions by publicly traded real estate investment trusts (“REITs”), and such distributions for tax purposes may also consist of capital gains and return of capital. The actual return of capital and capital gains portions of such distributions will be determined by formal notifications from the REITs subsequent to the calendar year-end. Distributions received from the REITs that are determined to be a return of capital are recorded by the Portfolio as a reduction of the cost basis of the securities held and those determined to be capital gain are reflected as such on the Statement of Operations. | |
The tax character of current year distributions payable will be determined at the end of the current taxable year. The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2024 was as follows: |
2024 | |
Distributions paid from: | |
Ordinary income | $1,938,929 |
Long-term capital gains | 6,502,760 |
Total | $8,441,689 |
2024 | |
Distributable earnings/(losses): | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $1,955,430 |
Undistributed long-term capital gains | 8,330,236 |
Net unrealized appreciation | 16,695,281 |
Total | $26,980,947 |
E. | Portfolio Shares and Class Allocations |
The Portfolio records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date. Distribution fees for Class II shares are calculated based on the average daily net asset value attributable to Class II shares of the Portfolio (see Note 5). Class I shares do not pay distribution fees. | |
Income, common expenses (excluding transfer agent and distribution fees) and realized and unrealized gains and losses are calculated at the Portfolio level and allocated daily to each class of shares based on its respective percentage of the adjusted net assets at the beginning of the day. | |
All expenses and fees paid to the Portfolio’s transfer agent for its services are allocated between the classes of shares based on the number of accounts in each class and the ratable allocation of related out-of-pocket expenses (see Note 4). | |
Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions paid by the Portfolio with respect to each class of shares are calculated in the same manner and at the same time, except that net investment |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
income dividends to Class I and Class II shares can reflect different transfer agent and distribution expense rates. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. | |
F. | Risks |
The value of securities held by the Portfolio may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political or regulatory conditions, recessions, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, inflation, changes in interest rates, armed conflict such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In the past several years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Portfolio’s investments and negatively impact the Portfolio’s performance. | |
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability may continue for some time. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events or conditions. | |
Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the U.S. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. | |
The U.S. and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs, investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities. For example, the U.S. has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. If the political climate between the U.S. and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Portfolio’s assets may go down. | |
At times, the Portfolio’s investments may represent industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks, making the Portfolio more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors. | |
Normally, the portfolio invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of mid-size companies. Investments in mid-sized companies may offer the potential for higher returns, but are also subject to greater short-term price fluctuations than investments in larger, more established companies. | |
The Portfolio may invest in REIT securities, the value of which can fall for a variety of reasons, such as declines in rental income, fluctuating interest rates, poor property management, environmental liabilities, uninsured damage, increased competition, or changes in real estate tax laws. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets, including developing markets, may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in developed markets. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets and the imposition of adverse governmental laws, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law or currency exchange restrictions. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Portfolio’s return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
In response to the military action by Russia against Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia’s military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Portfolio investments, on Portfolio performance and the value of an investment in the Portfolio. In particular, securities and commodities, such as oil, natural gas and food commodities, with exposure to Russian issuers or issuers in other countries affected by the invasion are likely to have collateral impacts on market sectors globally. | |
With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet to conduct business, the Portfolio is susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, limit or mitigate, such cyber-attacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, the Portfolio cannot control the cybersecurity plans and systems put in place by service providers to the Portfolio such as the Portfolio’s custodian and accounting agent, and the Portfolio’s transfer agent. In addition, many beneficial owners of Portfolio shares hold them through accounts at broker-dealers, retirement platforms and other financial market participants over which neither the Portfolio nor the Adviser exercises control. Each of these intermediaries may in turn rely on their service providers, which are also subject to the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity failures or breaches at the Adviser, service providers or intermediaries may cause disruptions and impact business operations. This may cause financial losses; interference with the Portfolio’s ability to calculate its net asset value; impediments to trading; the inability of Portfolio shareholders to effect share purchases; redemptions or exchanges or receive distributions; loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information; and violations of applicable privacy; and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Such costs and losses may not be covered under any insurance. In addition, maintaining vigilance against cyber-attacks may involve substantial costs over time, and system enhancements may themselves be subject to cyber-attacks. | |
The Portfolio’s prospectus contains unaudited information regarding the Portfolio’s principal risks. Please refer to that document when considering the Portfolio’s principal risks. |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Fund | Total Voted | Votes For | Votes Against | Votes Abstained |
Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | 7,898,017 | 7,154,913 | 444,743 | 298,361 |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Schedule of Investments | 2 |
Financial Statements | 6 |
Notes to Financial Statements | 11 |
Additional Information | 17 |
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement | 18 |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 99.1% | ||||||
Common Stocks — 98.4% of Net Assets | ||||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 2.8% | ||||||
21,042 | United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B | $ 2,123,980 | ||||
Total Air Freight & Logistics | $2,123,980 | |||||
Automobiles — 1.4% | ||||||
98,896 | Ford Motor Co. | $ 1,073,022 | ||||
Total Automobiles | $1,073,022 | |||||
Banks — 13.7% | ||||||
48,955 | Bank of America Corp. | $ 2,316,551 | ||||
9,306 | JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 2,697,902 | ||||
2,122 | M&T Bank Corp. | 411,647 | ||||
25,122 | Truist Financial Corp. | 1,079,995 | ||||
7,177 | US Bancorp | 324,759 | ||||
44,093 | Wells Fargo & Co. | 3,532,731 | ||||
Total Banks | $10,363,585 | |||||
Broadline Retail — 2.0% | ||||||
20,098 | eBay, Inc. | $ 1,496,497 | ||||
Total Broadline Retail | $1,496,497 | |||||
Capital Markets — 10.2% | ||||||
15,110 | Morgan Stanley | $ 2,128,395 | ||||
14,670 | Northern Trust Corp. | 1,860,009 | ||||
9,703 | Raymond James Financial, Inc. | 1,488,149 | ||||
21,115 | State Street Corp. | 2,245,369 | ||||
Total Capital Markets | $7,721,922 | |||||
Chemicals — 3.1% | ||||||
2,670 | Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. | $ 753,100 | ||||
15,033 | LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A | 869,810 | ||||
6,604 | PPG Industries, Inc. | 751,205 | ||||
Total Chemicals | $2,374,115 | |||||
Communications Equipment — 3.3% | ||||||
36,145 | Cisco Systems, Inc. | $ 2,507,740 | ||||
Total Communications Equipment | $2,507,740 | |||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 1.8% | ||||||
13,776 | Target Corp. | $ 1,359,002 | ||||
Total Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail | $1,359,002 | |||||
Distributors — 0.4% | ||||||
2,756 | Genuine Parts Co. | $ 334,330 | ||||
Total Distributors | $334,330 | |||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.4% | ||||||
23,648 | Verizon Communications, Inc. | $ 1,023,249 | ||||
Total Diversified Telecommunication Services | $1,023,249 | |||||
Electric Utilities — 1.0% | ||||||
6,448 | Duke Energy Corp. | $ 760,864 | ||||
Total Electric Utilities | $760,864 |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Electrical Equipment — 1.5% | ||||||
3,506 | Rockwell Automation, Inc. | $ 1,164,588 | ||||
Total Electrical Equipment | $1,164,588 | |||||
Entertainment — 3.0% | ||||||
18,464 | Walt Disney Co. | $ 2,289,721 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $2,289,721 | |||||
Food Products — 3.1% | ||||||
5,823 | Hershey Co. | $ 966,327 | ||||
5,870 | John B Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. | 371,219 | ||||
14,570 | Mondelez International, Inc., Class A | 982,601 | ||||
Total Food Products | $2,320,147 | |||||
Ground Transportation — 1.9% | ||||||
6,197 | Union Pacific Corp. | $ 1,425,806 | ||||
Total Ground Transportation | $1,425,806 | |||||
Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 3.0% | ||||||
19,691 | Medtronic Plc | $ 1,716,465 | ||||
5,743 | Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. | 523,819 | ||||
Total Health Care Equipment & Supplies | $2,240,284 | |||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.8% | ||||||
3,480 | Quest Diagnostics, Inc. | $ 625,112 | ||||
Total Health Care Providers & Services | $625,112 | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 0.7% | ||||||
5,761 | Starbucks Corp. | $ 527,880 | ||||
Total Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure | $527,880 | |||||
Household Products — 2.3% | ||||||
13,380 | Kimberly-Clark Corp. | $ 1,724,950 | ||||
Total Household Products | $1,724,950 | |||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 5.7% | ||||||
14,957 | 3M Co. | $ 2,277,054 | ||||
8,729 | Honeywell International, Inc. | 2,032,809 | ||||
Total Industrial Conglomerates | $4,309,863 | |||||
Insurance — 4.2% | ||||||
23,044 | American International Group, Inc. | $ 1,972,336 | ||||
1,592 | Chubb, Ltd. | 461,234 | ||||
7,156 | Prudential Financial, Inc. | 768,841 | ||||
Total Insurance | $3,202,411 | |||||
IT Services — 2.8% | ||||||
1,201 | Accenture Plc, Class A | $ 358,967 | ||||
5,815 | International Business Machines Corp. | 1,714,146 | ||||
Total IT Services | $2,073,113 | |||||
Machinery — 1.7% | ||||||
934 | Caterpillar, Inc. | $ 362,588 | ||||
1,735 | Deere & Co. | 882,230 | ||||
Total Machinery | $1,244,818 |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Media — 2.8% | ||||||
48,425 | Comcast Corp., Class A | $ 1,728,288 | ||||
7,002 | Fox Corp., Class A | 392,392 | ||||
Total Media | $2,120,680 | |||||
Multi-Utilities — 1.8% | ||||||
19,904 | CMS Energy Corp. | $ 1,378,949 | ||||
Total Multi-Utilities | $1,378,949 | |||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 8.8% | ||||||
16,910 | ConocoPhillips | $ 1,517,503 | ||||
63,947 | Coterra Energy, Inc. | 1,622,975 | ||||
32,491 | Exxon Mobil Corp. | 3,502,530 | ||||
Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels | $6,643,008 | |||||
Pharmaceuticals — 5.9% | ||||||
23,006 | Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. | $ 1,064,948 | ||||
16,633 | Johnson & Johnson | 2,540,691 | ||||
18,214 | Sanofi S.A. (A.D.R.) | 879,918 | ||||
Total Pharmaceuticals | $4,485,557 | |||||
Residential REITs — 0.9% | ||||||
5,847 | Camden Property Trust | $ 658,898 | ||||
Total Residential REITs | $658,898 | |||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 1.9% | ||||||
3,097 | QUALCOMM, Inc. | $ 493,228 | ||||
4,345 | Texas Instruments, Inc. | 902,109 | ||||
Total Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment | $1,395,337 | |||||
Specialty Retail — 3.1% | ||||||
5,407 | Lowe's Cos., Inc. | $ 1,199,651 | ||||
9,104 | TJX Cos., Inc. | 1,124,253 | ||||
Total Specialty Retail | $2,323,904 | |||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 0.5% | ||||||
3,588 | NetApp, Inc. | $ 382,301 | ||||
Total Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | $382,301 | |||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.9% | ||||||
9,344 | NIKE, Inc., Class B | $ 663,798 | ||||
Total Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods | $663,798 | |||||
Total Common Stocks (Cost $60,616,271) |
$74,339,431 | |||||
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.7% of Net Assets | ||||||
Open-End Fund — 0.7% | ||||||
545,172(a) | Dreyfus Government Cash Management, Institutional Shares, 4.21% |
$ 545,172 | ||||
$545,172 | ||||||
TOTAL SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $545,172) |
$545,172 | |||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 99.1% (Cost $61,161,443) |
$74,884,603 | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — 0.9% | $658,725 | |||||
net assets — 100.0% | $75,543,328 | |||||
(A.D.R.) | American Depositary Receipts. |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust. |
(a) | Rate periodically changes. Rate disclosed is the 7-day yield at June 30, 2025. |
Aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of value over tax cost | $15,900,520 |
Aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of tax cost over value | (2,321,836) |
Net unrealized appreciation | $13,578,684 |
Level 1 | – | unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including the Adviser’s own assumptions in determining fair value of investments). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
Common Stocks | $74,339,431 | $— | $— | $74,339,431 |
Open-End Fund | 545,172 | — | — | 545,172 |
Total Investments in Securities | $74,884,603 | $— | $— | $74,884,603 |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ASSETS: | |
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $61,161,443) | $74,884,603 |
Cash | 5,101 |
Receivables — | |
Investment securities sold | 2,021,664 |
Portfolio shares sold | 484 |
Dividends | 101,413 |
Due from the Adviser | 8,186 |
Other assets | 460 |
Total assets | $77,021,911 |
LIABILITIES: | |
Payables — | |
Investment securities purchased | $1,348,340 |
Portfolio shares repurchased | 41,613 |
Trustees’ fees | 87 |
Management fees | 40,509 |
Administrative expenses | 3,633 |
Distribution fees | 2,507 |
Accrued expenses | 41,894 |
Total liabilities | $1,478,583 |
NET ASSETS: | |
Paid-in capital | $62,726,587 |
Distributable earnings | 12,816,741 |
Net assets | $75,543,328 |
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE: | |
No par value (unlimited number of shares authorized) | |
Class I* (based on $53,076,637/4,670,309 shares) | $11.36 |
Class II* (based on $22,466,691/1,909,446 shares) | $11.77 |
* | Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
INVESTMENT INCOME: | |||
Dividends from unaffiliated issuers (net of foreign taxes withheld $9,957) | $1,179,921 | ||
Total Investment Income | $1,179,921 | ||
EXPENSES: | |||
Management fees | $244,036 | ||
Administrative expenses | 20,968 | ||
Distribution fees | |||
Class II* | 28,303 | ||
Custodian fees | 396 | ||
Professional fees | 25,886 | ||
Printing expense | 8,515 | ||
Officers’ and Trustees’ fees | 3,668 | ||
Insurance expense | 730 | ||
Miscellaneous | 253 | ||
Total expenses | $332,755 | ||
Less fees waived and expenses reimbursed by the Adviser | (8,493) | ||
Net expenses | $324,262 | ||
Net investment income | $855,659 | ||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS: | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $(915,438) | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | (1,076) | $(916,514) | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $3,522,809 | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | 1,271 | $3,524,080 | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | $2,607,566 | ||
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $3,463,225 |
* | Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 | ||
FROM OPERATIONS: | |||
Net investment income (loss) | $855,659 | $1,723,091 | |
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | (916,514) | 11,200,917 | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 3,524,080 | (4,491,805) | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $3,463,225 | $8,432,203 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS: | |||
Class I* ($2.14 and $3.22 per share, respectively) | $(8,532,210) | $(11,224,188) | |
Class II* ($2.12 and $3.18 per share, respectively) | (3,450,331) | (5,350,222) | |
Total distributions to shareholders | $(11,982,541) | $(16,574,410) | |
FROM PORTFOLIO SHARE TRANSACTIONS: | |||
Net proceeds from sales of shares | $2,132,906 | $7,965,674 | |
Reinvestment of distributions | 11,982,541 | 16,574,410 | |
Cost of shares repurchased | (7,910,928) | (19,097,285) | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from Portfolio share transactions | $6,204,519 | $5,442,799 | |
Net decrease in net assets | $(2,314,797) | $(2,699,408) | |
NET ASSETS: | |||
Beginning of period | $77,858,125 | $80,557,533 | |
End of period | $75,543,328 | $77,858,125 |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Shares (unaudited) |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Amount (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Shares |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Amount | ||||
Class I* | |||||||
Shares sold | 43,067 | $557,475 | 155,424 | $2,106,349 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 765,311 | 8,532,210 | 915,954 | 11,224,188 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (327,036) | (4,101,544) | (648,679) | (9,047,652) | |||
Net increase | 481,342 | $4,988,141 | 422,699 | $4,282,885 | |||
Class II* | |||||||
Shares sold | 120,235 | $1,575,431 | 400,188 | $5,859,325 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 299,194 | 3,450,331 | 424,922 | 5,350,222 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (283,760) | (3,809,384) | (713,468) | (10,049,633) | |||
Net increase | 135,669 | $1,216,378 | 111,642 | $1,159,914 |
* | Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class l* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $12.94 | $14.74 | $15.13 | $19.21 | $15.51 | $16.65 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.15 | 0.31 | 0.27 | 0.28 | 0.28 | 0.28 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.41 | 1.11 | 0.80 | (1.96) | 3.68 | (0.46) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.56 | $1.42 | $1.07 | $(1.68) | $3.96 | $(0.18) | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.15) | (0.32) | (0.29) | (0.30) | (0.26) | (0.39) | |||||
Net realized gain | (1.99) | (2.90) | (1.17) | (2.10) | — | (0.57) | |||||
Total distributions | $(2.14) | $(3.22) | $(1.46) | $(2.40) | $(0.26) | $(0.96) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $(1.58) | $(1.80) | $(0.39) | $(4.08) | $3.70 | $(1.14) | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $11.36 | $12.94 | $14.74 | $15.13 | $19.21 | $15.51 | |||||
Total return(b) | 4.72%(c) | 11.26% | 7.47% | (7.76)% | 25.70% | (0.04)% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.79%(d) | 0.79% | 0.83% | 0.78% | 0.80% | 0.80% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 2.35%(d) | 2.24% | 1.84% | 1.70% | 1.59% | 1.95% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 28%(c) | 68% | 81% | 36% | 28% | 14% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $53,077 | $54,223 | $55,500 | $67,651 | $87,047 | $75,613 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 0.81%(d) | 0.79% | 0.83% | 0.78% | 0.80% | 0.80% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 2.33%(d) | 2.24% | 1.84% | 1.70% | 1.59% | 1.95% |
* | Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class ll* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $13.32 | $15.08 | $15.45 | $19.55 | $15.79 | $16.92 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.14 | 0.28 | 0.24 | 0.24 | 0.24 | 0.25 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.43 | 1.14 | 0.81 | (1.98) | 3.74 | (0.46) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.57 | $1.42 | $1.05 | $(1.74) | $3.98 | $(0.21) | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.13) | (0.28) | (0.25) | (0.26) | (0.22) | (0.35) | |||||
Net realized gain | (1.99) | (2.90) | (1.17) | (2.10) | — | (0.57) | |||||
Total distributions | $(2.12) | $(3.18) | $(1.42) | $(2.36) | $(0.22) | $(0.92) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $(1.55) | $(1.76) | $(0.37) | $(4.10) | $3.76 | $(1.13) | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $11.77 | $13.32 | $15.08 | $15.45 | $19.55 | $15.79 | |||||
Total return(b) | 4.67%(c) | 10.97% | 7.17% | (7.94)% | 25.33% | (0.26)% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 1.04%(d) | 1.04% | 1.08% | 1.03% | 1.05% | 1.05% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 2.11%(d) | 2.00% | 1.61% | 1.45% | 1.35% | 1.70% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 28%(c) | 68% | 81% | 36% | 28% | 14% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $22,467 | $23,635 | $25,057 | $27,141 | $34,258 | $34,723 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 1.06%(d) | 1.04% | 1.08% | 1.03% | 1.05% | 1.05% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 2.09%(d) | 2.00% | 1.61% | 1.45% | 1.35% | 1.70% |
* | Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions, the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period and no sales charges. Total return would be reduced if sales charges were taken into account. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A. | Security Valuation |
The net asset value of the Portfolio is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. | |
Equity securities that have traded on an exchange are valued by using the last sale price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Equity securities that have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale prices are not available, generally are valued using the mean between the last bid and asked prices or, if both last bid and asked prices are not available, at the last quoted bid price. Last sale and bid and asked prices are provided by independent third party pricing services. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services using a variety of techniques and methods. | |
The value of foreign securities is translated into U.S. dollars based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by a third party pricing source. Trading in non-U.S. equity securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of the Portfolio’s shares are determined as of such times. The Adviser may use a fair value model developed by an independent pricing service to value non-U.S. equity securities. | |
Shares of open-end registered investment companies (including money market mutual funds) are valued at such funds’ net asset value. | |
Securities for which independent pricing services or broker-dealers are unable to supply prices or for which market prices and/or quotations are not readily available or are considered to be unreliable are valued by a fair valuation team comprised of certain personnel of the Adviser. The Adviser is designated as the valuation designee for the Portfolio pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser’s fair valuation team is responsible for monitoring developments that may impact fair valued securities. | |
Inputs used when applying fair value methods to value a security may include credit ratings, financial condition, current market conditions and comparable securities. The Adviser may use fair value methods if it is determined that a significant event has occurred after the close of the exchange or market on which the security trades and prior to the determination of the Portfolio’s net asset value. Examples of a significant event might include political or economic news, corporate restructurings, natural disasters, terrorist activity, tariffs, or trading halts. Thus, the valuation of the Portfolio’s securities may differ significantly from exchange prices, and such differences could be material. | |
B. | Investment Income and Transactions |
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain dividends from foreign securities for which the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon as the Portfolio becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of reasonable diligence. | |
Interest income, including interest on income-bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend and interest income are reported net of unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates and net of income accrued on defaulted securities. | |
Interest and dividend income payable by delivery of additional shares is reclassified as PIK (payment-in-kind) income upon receipt and is included in interest and dividend income, respectively. | |
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes. | |
C. | Foreign Currency Translation |
The books and records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. | |
Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any, represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on foreign currency exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
exchange rates on investments are not segregated from the effects of changes in the market prices of those securities on the Statement of Operations, but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments. | |
D. | Federal Income Taxes |
It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net taxable income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. As of June 30, 2025, the Portfolio did not accrue any interest or penalties with respect to uncertain tax positions, which, if applicable, would be recorded as an income tax expense on the Statement of Operations. Tax returns filed within the prior three years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. | |
The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax rules, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary over distributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes. Capital accounts within the financial statements are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character, but are not adjusted for temporary differences. | |
A portion of the dividend income recorded by the Portfolio is from distributions by publicly traded real estate investment trusts (“REITs”), and such distributions for tax purposes may also consist of capital gains and return of capital. The actual return of capital and capital gains portions of such distributions will be determined by formal notifications from the REITs subsequent to the calendar year-end. Distributions received from the REITs that are determined to be a return of capital are recorded by the Portfolio as a reduction of the cost basis of the securities held and those determined to be capital gain are reflected as such on the Statement of Operations. | |
The tax character of current year distributions payable will be determined at the end of the current taxable year. The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2024 was as follows: |
2024 | |
Distributions paid from: | |
Ordinary income | $1,713,024 |
Long-term capital gains | 14,861,386 |
Total | $16,574,410 |
2024 | |
Distributable earnings/(losses): | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $1,898,035 |
Undistributed long-term capital gains | 9,383,418 |
Net unrealized appreciation | 10,054,604 |
Total | $21,336,057 |
E. | Portfolio Shares and Class Allocations |
The Portfolio records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date. Distribution fees for Class II shares are calculated based on the average daily net asset value attributable to Class II shares of the Portfolio (see Note 5). Class I shares do not pay distribution fees. | |
Income, common expenses (excluding transfer agent and distribution fees) and realized and unrealized gains and losses are calculated at the Portfolio level and allocated daily to each class of shares based on its respective percentage of the adjusted net assets at the beginning of the day. | |
All expenses and fees paid to the Portfolio’s transfer agent for its services are allocated among the classes of shares based on the number of accounts in each class and the ratable allocation of related out-of-pocket expenses (see Note 4). |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions paid by the Portfolio with respect to each class of shares are calculated in the same manner and at the same time, except that net investment income dividends to Class I and Class II shares can reflect different transfer agent and distribution expense rates. | |
F. | Risks |
The value of securities held by the Portfolio may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political or regulatory conditions, recessions, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, inflation, changes in interest rates, armed conflict such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In the past several years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Portfolio’s investments and negatively impact the Portfolio’s performance. | |
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability may continue for some time. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events or conditions. | |
Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the U.S. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. | |
The U.S. and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs, investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities. For example, the U.S. has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. If the political climate between the U.S. and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Portfolio’s assets may go down. | |
At times, the Portfolio’s investments may represent industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks, making the Portfolio more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors. | |
Normally, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of its net assets in income producing equity securities of U.S. issuers. Large companies may fall out of favor with investors and underperform the overall equity market. Income producing securities may fall out of favor with investors and underperform the overall equity market. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets, including developing markets, may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in developed markets. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets and the imposition of adverse governmental laws, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law and investment and repatriation restrictions. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Portfolio’s return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. | |
In response to the military action by Russia against Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
adversely affected. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia’s military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Portfolio investments, on Portfolio performance and the value of an investment in the Portfolio. In particular, securities and commodities, such as oil, natural gas and food commodities, with exposure to Russian issuers or issuers in other countries affected by the invasion are likely to have collateral impacts on market sectors globally. | |
The Portfolio may invest in REIT securities, the value of which can fall for a variety of reasons, such as declines in rental income, fluctuating interest rates, poor property management, environmental liabilities, uninsured damage, increased competition, or changes in real estate tax laws. | |
With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet to conduct business, the Portfolio is susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, limit or mitigate, such cyber-attacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, the Portfolio cannot control the cybersecurity plans and systems put in place by service providers to the Portfolio such as the Portfolio’s custodian and accounting agent, and the Portfolio’s transfer agent. In addition, many beneficial owners of Portfolio shares hold them through accounts at broker-dealers, retirement platforms and other financial market participants over which neither the Portfolio nor the Adviser exercises control. Each of these intermediaries may in turn rely on their service providers, which are also subject to the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity failures or breaches at the Adviser, service providers or intermediaries may cause disruptions and impact business operations. This may cause financial losses; interference with the Portfolio’s ability to calculate its net asset value; impediments to trading; the inability of Portfolio shareholders to effect share purchases; redemptions or exchanges or receive distributions; loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information; and violations of applicable privacy; and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Such costs and losses may not be covered under any insurance. In addition, maintaining vigilance against cyber-attacks may involve substantial costs over time, and system enhancements may themselves be subject to cyber-attacks. | |
The Portfolio’s prospectus contains unaudited information regarding the Portfolio’s principal risks. Please refer to that document when considering the Portfolio’s principal risks. |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Fund | Total Voted | Votes For | Votes Against | Votes Abstained |
Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | 3,113,593 | 3,041,979 | 48,463 | 23,151 |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Schedule of Investments | 2 |
Financial Statements | 6 |
Notes to Financial Statements | 11 |
Additional Information | 17 |
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement | 18 |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 100.2% | ||||||
Common Stocks — 99.3% of Net Assets | ||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 1.1% | ||||||
11,791 | RTX Corp. | $ 1,721,722 | ||||
Total Aerospace & Defense | $1,721,722 | |||||
Air Freight & Logistics — 2.9% | ||||||
44,024 | United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B | $ 4,443,783 | ||||
Total Air Freight & Logistics | $4,443,783 | |||||
Banks — 6.3% | ||||||
167,248 | Truist Financial Corp. | $ 7,189,992 | ||||
56,965 | US Bancorp | 2,577,666 | ||||
Total Banks | $9,767,658 | |||||
Beverages — 0.5% | ||||||
10,618 | Cameco Corp. | $ 788,174 | ||||
Total Beverages | $788,174 | |||||
Biotechnology — 1.8% | ||||||
30 | Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | $ 15,750 | ||||
6,362(a) | Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 2,832,362 | ||||
Total Biotechnology | $2,848,112 | |||||
Broadline Retail — 5.1% | ||||||
36,443(a) | Amazon.com, Inc. | $ 7,995,230 | ||||
Total Broadline Retail | $7,995,230 | |||||
Capital Markets — 4.6% | ||||||
5,366 | Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. | $ 3,797,786 | ||||
24,684 | KKR & Co., Inc. | 3,283,713 | ||||
Total Capital Markets | $7,081,499 | |||||
Communications Equipment — 2.0% | ||||||
7,854(a) | Arista Networks, Inc. | $ 803,543 | ||||
33,620 | Cisco Systems, Inc. | 2,332,555 | ||||
Total Communications Equipment | $3,136,098 | |||||
Construction & Engineering — 4.3% | ||||||
3,871 | EMCOR Group, Inc. | $ 2,070,559 | ||||
12,180 | Quanta Services, Inc. | 4,605,015 | ||||
Total Construction & Engineering | $6,675,574 | |||||
Construction Materials — 4.4% | ||||||
12,519 | Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. | $ 6,872,430 | ||||
Total Construction Materials | $6,872,430 | |||||
Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail — 2.0% | ||||||
29,286(a) | BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. | $ 3,157,909 | ||||
Total Consumer Staples Distribution & Retail | $3,157,909 | |||||
Electric Utilities — 2.0% | ||||||
19,131 | NRG Energy, Inc. | $ 3,072,056 | ||||
Total Electric Utilities | $3,072,056 | |||||
Electrical Equipment — 7.0% | ||||||
56,503 | ABB, Ltd. (A.D.R.) | $ 3,371,534 | ||||
6,800 | GE Vernova, Inc. | 3,598,220 |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Electrical Equipment — (continued) | ||||||
11,912(a) | Generac Holdings, Inc. | $ 1,705,917 | ||||
17,446 | Vertiv Holdings Co., Class A | 2,240,241 | ||||
Total Electrical Equipment | $10,915,912 | |||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.9% | ||||||
25,097 | Corning, Inc. | $ 1,319,851 | ||||
Total Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components | $1,319,851 | |||||
Financial Services — 4.1% | ||||||
17,756 | Apollo Global Management, Inc. | $ 2,519,044 | ||||
10,982 | Visa, Inc., Class A | 3,899,159 | ||||
Total Financial Services | $6,418,203 | |||||
Ground Transportation — 1.7% | ||||||
27,581(a) | Uber Technologies, Inc. | $ 2,573,307 | ||||
Total Ground Transportation | $2,573,307 | |||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.9% | ||||||
5,399 | Labcorp Holdings, Inc. | $ 1,417,292 | ||||
Total Health Care Providers & Services | $1,417,292 | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 0.8% | ||||||
12,024(a) | Planet Fitness, Inc., Class A | $ 1,311,217 | ||||
Total Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure | $1,311,217 | |||||
Interactive Media & Services — 4.0% | ||||||
35,380 | Alphabet, Inc., Class A | $ 6,235,017 | ||||
Total Interactive Media & Services | $6,235,017 | |||||
IT Services — 4.3% | ||||||
9,585 | Accenture Plc, Class A | $ 2,864,861 | ||||
13,180 | International Business Machines Corp. | 3,885,200 | ||||
Total IT Services | $6,750,061 | |||||
Metals & Mining — 6.3% | ||||||
146,615 | Freeport-McMoRan, Inc. | $ 6,355,760 | ||||
85,207 | Teck Resources, Ltd., Class B | 3,440,659 | ||||
Total Metals & Mining | $9,796,419 | |||||
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 2.1% | ||||||
13,663 | Cheniere Energy, Inc. | $ 3,327,214 | ||||
Total Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels | $3,327,214 | |||||
Pharmaceuticals — 1.0% | ||||||
9,501 | Zoetis, Inc. | $ 1,481,681 | ||||
Total Pharmaceuticals | $1,481,681 | |||||
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 15.5% | ||||||
13,229(a) | Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. | $ 1,877,195 | ||||
17,684 | Applied Materials, Inc. | 3,237,410 | ||||
15,512 | Broadcom, Inc. | 4,275,883 | ||||
3,183 | KLA Corp. | 2,851,141 | ||||
75,371 | NVIDIA Corp. | 11,907,864 | ||||
Total Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment | $24,149,493 | |||||
Software — 8.6% | ||||||
4,967(a) | Autodesk, Inc. | $ 1,537,634 |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Software — (continued) | ||||||
18,532 | Microsoft Corp. | $ 9,218,002 | ||||
11,667 | Oracle Corp. | 2,550,757 | ||||
Total Software | $13,306,393 | |||||
Specialty Retail — 1.1% | ||||||
4,866 | Home Depot, Inc. | $ 1,784,070 | ||||
Total Specialty Retail | $1,784,070 | |||||
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 3.7% | ||||||
28,061 | Apple, Inc. | $ 5,757,275 | ||||
Total Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | $5,757,275 | |||||
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.3% | ||||||
4,441 | LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE (A.D.R.) | $ 466,572 | ||||
Total Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods | $466,572 | |||||
Total Common Stocks (Cost $94,877,053) |
$154,570,222 | |||||
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.9% of Net Assets | ||||||
Open-End Fund — 0.9% | ||||||
1,407,245(b) | Dreyfus Government Cash Management, Institutional Shares, 4.21% |
$ 1,407,245 | ||||
$1,407,245 | ||||||
TOTAL SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $1,407,245) |
$1,407,245 | |||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 100.2% (Cost $96,284,298) |
$155,977,467 | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (0.2)% | $(366,244) | |||||
net assets — 100.0% | $155,611,223 | |||||
(A.D.R.) | American Depositary Receipts. |
(a) | Non-income producing security. |
(b) | Rate periodically changes. Rate disclosed is the 7-day yield at June 30, 2025. |
Aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of value over tax cost | $61,117,744 |
Aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of tax cost over value | (2,659,525) |
Net unrealized appreciation | $58,458,219 |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Level 1 | – | unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including the Adviser’s own assumptions in determining fair value of investments). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
Common Stocks | $154,570,222 | $— | $— | $154,570,222 |
Open-End Fund | 1,407,245 | — | — | 1,407,245 |
Total Investments in Securities | $155,977,467 | $— | $— | $155,977,467 |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ASSETS: | |
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $96,284,298) | $155,977,467 |
Cash | 5,894 |
Receivables — | |
Investment securities sold | 283,647 |
Portfolio shares sold | 56,091 |
Dividends | 57,816 |
Due from the Adviser | 12,333 |
Other assets | 853 |
Total assets | $156,394,101 |
LIABILITIES: | |
Payables — | |
Investment securities purchased | $334,501 |
Portfolio shares repurchased | 306,711 |
Trustees’ fees | 97 |
Professional fees | 34,642 |
Management fees | 81,499 |
Administrative expenses | 6,786 |
Distribution fees | 3,602 |
Accrued expenses | 15,040 |
Total liabilities | $782,878 |
NET ASSETS: | |
Paid-in capital | $90,581,362 |
Distributable earnings | 65,029,861 |
Net assets | $155,611,223 |
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE: | |
No par value (unlimited number of shares authorized) | |
Class I* (based on $122,577,591/6,985,398 shares) | $17.55 |
Class II* (based on $33,033,632/1,856,686 shares) | $17.79 |
* | Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
INVESTMENT INCOME: | |||
Dividends from unaffiliated issuers (net of foreign taxes withheld $24,570) | $952,464 | ||
Total Investment Income | $952,464 | ||
EXPENSES: | |||
Management fees | $469,563 | ||
Administrative expenses | 32,074 | ||
Distribution fees | |||
Class II* | 39,309 | ||
Custodian fees | 777 | ||
Professional fees | 31,081 | ||
Printing expense | 9,240 | ||
Officers’ and Trustees’ fees | 3,852 | ||
Insurance expense | 1,290 | ||
Miscellaneous | 803 | ||
Total expenses | $587,989 | ||
Less fees waived and expenses reimbursed by the Adviser | (12,868) | ||
Net expenses | $575,121 | ||
Net investment income | $377,343 | ||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS: | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $6,485,993 | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | 688 | $6,486,681 | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $6,779,850 | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | (9) | $6,779,841 | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | $13,266,522 | ||
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $13,643,865 |
* | Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 | ||
FROM OPERATIONS: | |||
Net investment income (loss) | $377,343 | $985,750 | |
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | 6,486,681 | 20,554,747 | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 6,779,841 | 7,640,113 | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $13,643,865 | $29,180,610 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS: | |||
Class I* ($2.73 and $1.03 per share, respectively) | $(16,517,780) | $(6,665,993) | |
Class II* ($2.71 and $0.98 per share, respectively) | (4,307,999) | (1,377,875) | |
Total distributions to shareholders | $(20,825,779) | $(8,043,868) | |
FROM PORTFOLIO SHARE TRANSACTIONS: | |||
Net proceeds from sales of shares | $4,668,609 | $24,776,254 | |
Reinvestment of distributions | 20,825,779 | 8,043,867 | |
Cost of shares repurchased | (18,285,940) | (25,885,260) | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from Portfolio share transactions | $7,208,448 | $6,934,861 | |
Net increase in net assets | $26,534 | $28,071,603 | |
NET ASSETS: | |||
Beginning of period | $155,584,689 | $127,513,086 | |
End of period | $155,611,223 | $155,584,689 |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Shares (unaudited) |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Amount (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Shares |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Amount | ||||
Class I* | |||||||
Shares sold | 83,478 | $1,550,044 | 378,092 | $6,625,634 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 992,119 | 16,517,780 | 367,541 | 6,665,992 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (473,901) | (8,623,478) | (1,015,586) | (18,411,419) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
601,696 | $9,444,346 | (269,953) | $(5,119,793) | |||
Class II* | |||||||
Shares sold | 168,374 | $3,118,565 | 1,000,629 | $18,150,620 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 255,294 | 4,307,999 | 75,113 | 1,377,875 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (533,501) | (9,662,462) | (407,738) | (7,473,841) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
(109,833) | $(2,235,898) | 668,004 | $12,054,654 |
* | Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class l* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $18.58 | $16.01 | $13.05 | $19.80 | $16.83 | $14.95 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.05 | 0.13 | 0.12 | 0.10 | 0.05 | 0.11 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 1.65 | 3.47 | 3.57 | (4.02) | 4.49 | 3.19 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $1.70 | $3.60 | $3.69 | $(3.92) | $4.54 | $3.30 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.05) | (0.13) | (0.13) | (0.10) | (0.06) | (0.11) | |||||
Net realized gain | (2.68) | (0.90) | (0.60) | (2.73) | (1.51) | (1.31) | |||||
Total distributions | $(2.73) | $(1.03) | $(0.73) | $(2.83) | $(1.57) | $(1.42) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $(1.03) | $2.57 | $2.96 | $(6.75) | $2.97 | $1.88 | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $17.55 | $18.58 | $16.01 | $13.05 | $19.80 | $16.83 | |||||
Total return(b) | 9.97%(c) | 22.65%(d) | 28.93% | (19.50)% | 27.98% | 24.28% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.74%(e) | 0.75% | 0.80% | 0.76% | 0.79% | 0.79% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 0.58%(e) | 0.71% | 0.85% | 0.65% | 0.28% | 0.77% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 39%(c) | 65% | 64% | 53% | 87% | 91% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $122,578 | $118,605 | $106,496 | $94,581 | $133,162 | $116,401 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 0.76% | 0.75% | 0.80% | 0.76% | 0.79% | 0.79% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 0.56% | 0.71% | 0.85% | 0.65% | 0.28% | 0.77% |
* | Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | If the Portfolio had not recognized gains in settlement of class action lawsuits during the year ended December 31, 2024, the total return would have been 22.59%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class ll* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $18.80 | $16.19 | $13.19 | $19.97 | $16.97 | $15.06 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.03 | 0.09 | 0.08 | 0.06 | 0.01 | 0.08 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 1.67 | 3.50 | 3.61 | (4.05) | 4.52 | 3.21 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $1.70 | $3.59 | $3.69 | $(3.99) | $4.53 | $3.29 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.03) | (0.08) | (0.09) | (0.06) | (0.02) | (0.07) | |||||
Net realized gain | (2.68) | (0.90) | (0.60) | (2.73) | (1.51) | (1.31) | |||||
Total distributions | $(2.71) | $(0.98) | $(0.69) | $(2.79) | $(1.53) | $(1.38) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $(1.01) | $2.61 | $3.00 | $(6.78) | $3.00 | $1.91 | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $17.79 | $18.80 | $16.19 | $13.19 | $19.97 | $16.97 | |||||
Total return(b) | 9.84%(c) | 22.31%(d) | 28.58% | (19.68)% | 27.65% | 23.96% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.99%(e) | 1.00% | 1.05% | 1.01% | 1.04% | 1.04% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 0.32%(e) | 0.48% | 0.59% | 0.41% | 0.03% | 0.50% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 39%(c) | 65% | 64% | 53% | 87% | 91% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $33,034 | $36,980 | $21,017 | $20,657 | $25,816 | $18,162 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 1.01% | 1.00% | 1.05% | 1.01% | 1.04% | 1.04% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 0.30% | 0.48% | 0.59% | 0.41% | 0.03% | 0.50% |
* | Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | For the period ended December 31, 2024, the Portfolio’s total return includes gains in settlement of class action lawsuits. The impact on Class II’s total return was less than 0.005%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A. | Security Valuation |
The net asset value of the Portfolio is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. | |
Equity securities that have traded on an exchange are valued by using the last sale price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Equity securities that have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale prices are not available, generally are valued using the mean between the last bid and asked prices or, if both last bid and asked prices are not available, at the last quoted bid price. Last sale and bid and asked prices are provided by independent third party pricing services. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services using a variety of techniques and methods. | |
The value of foreign securities is translated into U.S. dollars based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by a third party pricing source. Trading in non-U.S. equity securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of the Portfolio’s shares are determined as of such times. The Adviser may use a fair value model developed by an independent pricing service to value non-U.S. equity securities. | |
Shares of open-end registered investment companies (including money market mutual funds) are valued at such funds’ net asset value. | |
Securities for which independent pricing services or broker-dealers are unable to supply prices or for which market prices and/or quotations are not readily available or are considered to be unreliable are valued by a fair valuation team comprised of certain personnel of the Adviser. The Adviser is designated as the valuation designee for the Portfolio pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser’s fair valuation team is responsible for monitoring developments that may impact fair valued securities. | |
Inputs used when applying fair value methods to value a security may include credit ratings, financial condition, current market conditions and comparable securities. The Adviser may use fair value methods if it is determined that a significant event has occurred after the close of the exchange or market on which the security trades and prior to the determination of the Portfolio’s net asset value. Examples of a significant event might include political or economic news, corporate restructurings, natural disasters, terrorist activity, tariffs, or trading halts. Thus, the valuation of the Portfolio’s securities may differ significantly from exchange prices, and such differences could be material. | |
B. | Investment Income and Transactions |
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain dividends from foreign securities for which the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon as the Portfolio becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of reasonable diligence. | |
Interest income, including interest on income-bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend and interest income are reported net of unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates and net of income accrued on defaulted securities. | |
Interest and dividend income payable by delivery of additional shares is reclassified as PIK (payment-in-kind) income upon receipt and is included in interest and dividend income, respectively. | |
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes. | |
C. | Foreign Currency Translation |
The books and records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. | |
Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any, represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on foreign currency exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
exchange rates on investments are not segregated from the effects of changes in the market prices of those securities on the Statement of Operations, but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments. | |
D. | Federal Income Taxes |
It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net taxable income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. As of June 30, 2025, the Portfolio did not accrue any interest or penalties with respect to uncertain tax positions, which, if applicable, would be recorded as an income tax expense on the Statement of Operations. Tax returns filed within the prior three years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. | |
The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax rules, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary over distributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes. Capital accounts within the financial statements are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character, but are not adjusted for temporary differences. | |
A portion of the dividend income recorded by the Portfolio is from distributions by publicly traded real estate investment trusts (“REITs”), and such distributions for tax purposes may also consist of capital gains and return of capital. The actual return of capital and capital gains portions of such distributions will be determined by formal notifications from the REITs subsequent to the calendar year-end. Distributions received from the REITs that are determined to be a return of capital are recorded by the Portfolio as a reduction of the cost basis of the securities held and those determined to be capital gain are reflected as such on the Statement of Operations. | |
The tax character of current year distributions payable will be determined at the end of the current taxable year. The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2024 was as follows: |
2024 | |
Distributions paid from: | |
Ordinary income | $2,423,077 |
Long-term capital gains | 5,620,791 |
Total | $8,043,868 |
2024 | |
Distributable earnings/(losses): | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $4,047,917 |
Undistributed long-term capital gains | 16,485,415 |
Other book/tax temporary differences | 1 |
Net unrealized appreciation | 51,678,442 |
Total | $72,211,775 |
E. | Portfolio Shares and Class Allocations |
The Portfolio records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date. Distribution fees for Class II shares are calculated based on the average daily net asset value attributable to Class II shares of the Portfolio (see Note 5). Class I shares do not pay distribution fees. | |
Income, common expenses (excluding transfer agent and distribution fees) and realized and unrealized gains and losses are calculated at the Portfolio level and allocated daily to each class of shares based on its respective percentage of the adjusted net assets at the beginning of the day. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
All expenses and fees paid to the Portfolio’s transfer agent for its services are allocated among the classes of shares based on the number of accounts in each class and the ratable allocation of related out-of-pocket expenses (see Note 4). | |
Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions paid by the Portfolio with respect to each class of shares are calculated in the same manner and at the same time, except that net investment income dividends to Class I and Class II shares can reflect different transfer agent and distribution expense rates. | |
F. | Risks |
The value of securities held by the Portfolio may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political or regulatory conditions, recessions, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, inflation, changes in interest rates, armed conflict such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In the past several years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Portfolio’s investments and negatively impact the Portfolio’s performance. | |
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability may continue for some time. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events or conditions. | |
Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of public debt, including in the U.S. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. | |
The U.S. and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs, investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities. For example, the U.S. has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. If the political climate between the U.S. and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Portfolio’s assets may go down. | |
At times, the Portfolio’s investments may represent industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks, making the Portfolio more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors. The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets and countries with limited developing markets may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in a developed market. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions and the imposition of adverse governmental laws or currency exchange restrictions. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets, including developing markets, may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in developed markets. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets and the imposition of adverse governmental laws, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law and investment and repatriation restrictions. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Portfolio’s return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
The Portfolio may invest in REIT securities, the value of which can fall for a variety of reasons, such as declines in rental income, fluctuating interest rates, poor property management, environmental liabilities, uninsured damage, increased competition, or changes in real estate tax laws. | |
In response to the military action by Russia against Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia’s military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Portfolio investments, on Portfolio performance and the value of an investment in the Portfolio. In particular, securities and commodities, such as oil, natural gas and food commodities, with exposure to Russian issuers or issuers in other countries affected by the invasion are likely to have collateral impacts on market sectors globally. | |
With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet to conduct business, the Portfolio is susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, limit or mitigate, such cyber-attacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, the Portfolio cannot control the cybersecurity plans and systems put in place by service providers to the Portfolio such as the Portfolio’s custodian and accounting agent, and the Portfolio’s transfer agent. In addition, many beneficial owners of Portfolio shares hold them through accounts at broker-dealers, retirement platforms and other financial market participants over which neither the Portfolio nor the Adviser exercises control. Each of these intermediaries may in turn rely on their service providers, which are also subject to the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity failures or breaches at the Adviser, service providers or intermediaries may cause disruptions and impact business operations. This may cause financial losses; interference with the Portfolio’s ability to calculate its net asset value; impediments to trading; the inability of Portfolio shareholders to effect share purchases; redemptions or exchanges or receive distributions; loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information; and violations of applicable privacy; and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Such costs and losses may not be covered under any insurance. In addition, maintaining vigilance against cyber-attacks may involve substantial costs over time, and system enhancements may themselves be subject to cyber-attacks. | |
The Portfolio’s prospectus contains unaudited information regarding the Portfolio’s principal risks. Please refer to that document when considering the Portfolio’s principal risks. |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Fund | Total Voted | Votes For | Votes Against | Votes Abstained |
Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | 6,223,350 | 4,632,054 | 1,006,550 | 584,746 |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Schedule of Investments | 2 |
Financial Statements | 12 |
Notes to Financial Statements | 17 |
Additional Information | 29 |
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement | 30 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 99.3% | ||||||
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests — 2.5% of Net Assets*(a) | ||||||
Auto Parts & Equipment — 0.5% | ||||||
154,786 | First Brands Group LLC, First Lien 2021 Term Loan, 9.541% (Term SOFR + 500 bps), 3/30/27 | $ 146,660 | ||||
Total Auto Parts & Equipment | $146,660 | |||||
Computer Services — 0.1% | ||||||
28,325 | Amentum Holdings, Inc., Initial Term Loan, 6.577% (Term SOFR + 225 bps), 9/29/31 | $ 28,316 | ||||
Total Computer Services | $28,316 | |||||
Cruise Lines — 0.3% | ||||||
64,512 | LC Ahab US Bidco LLC, Second Amendment Incremental Term Loan, 7.327% (Term SOFR + 300 bps), 5/1/31 | $ 64,432 | ||||
Total Cruise Lines | $64,432 | |||||
Electric-Generation — 0.2% | ||||||
54,588(b) | Alpha Generation LLC, Initial Term B Loan, (0), 9/30/31 | $ 54,656 | ||||
Total Electric-Generation | $54,656 | |||||
Gambling (Non-Hotel) — 0.8% | ||||||
235,000(b) | River Rock Entertainment Authority, California, Term Loan, 6/17/31 | $ 229,125 | ||||
Total Gambling (Non-Hotel) | $229,125 | |||||
Medical-Drugs — 0.6% | ||||||
130,000 | 1261229 B.C. Ltd., Term Loan B, 10.561% (Term SOFR + 625 bps), 10/8/30 | $ 126,262 | ||||
29,775 | Endo Finance Holdings, Inc., 2024 Refinancing Term Loan, 8.327% (Term SOFR + 400 bps), 4/23/31 | 29,789 | ||||
Total Medical-Drugs | $156,051 | |||||
Total Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests (Cost $684,059) |
$679,240 | |||||
Shares | ||||||
Common Stock — 0.4% of Net Assets | ||||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.4% | ||||||
6,730(c) | Grupo Aeromexico SAB de CV | $ 115,069 | ||||
Total Passenger Airlines | $115,069 | |||||
Total Common Stock (Cost $59,663) |
$115,069 | |||||
Principal Amount USD ($) |
||||||
Convertible Corporate Bonds — 0.0%† of Net Assets | ||||||
Entertainment — 0.0%† | ||||||
5,000 | Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., 2.875%, 1/15/30 (144A) | $ 5,437 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $5,437 | |||||
Total Convertible Corporate Bonds (Cost $5,000) |
$5,437 | |||||
Corporate Bonds — 90.4% of Net Assets | ||||||
Advertising — 1.9% | ||||||
184,000 | Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc., 7.50%, 6/1/29 (144A) | $ 170,181 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Advertising — (continued) | ||||||
125,000 | Neptune Bidco US, Inc., 9.29%, 4/15/29 (144A) | $ 121,711 | ||||
231,000 | Stagwell Global LLC, 5.625%, 8/15/29 (144A) | 220,957 | ||||
Total Advertising | $512,849 | |||||
Aerospace & Defense — 2.2% | ||||||
200,000(d) | Czechoslovak Group AS, 6.50%, 1/10/31 (144A) | $ 201,668 | ||||
200,000 | Efesto Bidco S.p.A Efesto US LLC, 7.50%, 2/15/32 (144A) | 202,501 | ||||
60,000 | Goat Holdco LLC, 6.75%, 2/1/32 (144A) | 60,992 | ||||
65,000 | Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., 9.375%, 11/30/29 (144A) | 68,966 | ||||
70,000 | Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., 9.75%, 11/15/30 (144A) | 77,200 | ||||
Total Aerospace & Defense | $611,327 | |||||
Airlines — 1.8% | ||||||
153,112(e) | ABRA Global Finance, 14.00% (8.00% PIK or 6.00% Cash), 10/22/29 (144A) | $ 116,212 | ||||
27,125 | American Airlines Pass-Through Trust, 3.95%, 7/11/30 | 25,570 | ||||
23,333 | American Airlines, Inc./AAdvantage Loyalty IP, Ltd., 5.50%, 4/20/26 (144A) | 23,280 | ||||
55,000 | American Airlines, Inc./AAdvantage Loyalty IP, Ltd., 5.75%, 4/20/29 (144A) | 54,952 | ||||
125,000 | Grupo Aeromexico S.A.B de CV, 8.625%, 11/15/31 (144A) | 119,393 | ||||
150,000 | OneSky Flight LLC, 8.875%, 12/15/29 (144A) | 156,186 | ||||
Total Airlines | $495,593 | |||||
Auto Manufacturers — 1.2% | ||||||
300,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 3.625%, 6/17/31 | $ 264,071 | ||||
80,000 | JB Poindexter & Co., Inc., 8.75%, 12/15/31 (144A) | 81,416 | ||||
Total Auto Manufacturers | $345,487 | |||||
Banks — 2.2% | ||||||
200,000(f)(g) | Barclays Plc, 7.625% (5 Year USD SOFR Swap Rate + 369 bps) | $ 200,859 | ||||
15,000 | Freedom Mortgage Corp., 6.625%, 1/15/27 (144A) | 15,025 | ||||
150,000 | Freedom Mortgage Corp., 12.25%, 10/1/30 (144A) | 166,330 | ||||
250,000 | KeyBank N.A., 4.90%, 8/8/32 | 241,242 | ||||
Total Banks | $623,456 | |||||
Building Materials — 2.0% | ||||||
133,000 | AmeriTex HoldCo Intermediate LLC, 10.25%, 10/15/28 (144A) | $ 141,085 | ||||
210,000 | Camelot Return Merger Sub, Inc., 8.75%, 8/1/28 (144A) | 193,664 | ||||
15,000 | JH North America Holdings, Inc., 5.875%, 1/31/31 (144A) | 15,131 | ||||
15,000 | JH North America Holdings, Inc., 6.125%, 7/31/32 (144A) | 15,249 | ||||
55,000 | Miter Brands Acquisition Holdco, Inc./MIWD Borrower LLC, 6.75%, 4/1/32 (144A) | 56,411 | ||||
61,000 | MIWD Holdco II LLC/MIWD Finance Corp., 5.50%, 2/1/30 (144A) | 57,988 | ||||
40,000 | Quikrete Holdings, Inc., 6.375%, 3/1/32 (144A) | 41,133 | ||||
30,000 | Quikrete Holdings, Inc., 6.75%, 3/1/33 (144A) | 30,955 | ||||
Total Building Materials | $551,616 | |||||
Chemicals — 6.1% | ||||||
100,000 | Celanese US Holdings LLC, 6.75%, 4/15/33 | $ 101,039 | ||||
140,000 | Celanese US Holdings LLC, 7.20%, 11/15/33 | 148,618 | ||||
75,000 | Mativ Holdings, Inc., 8.00%, 10/1/29 (144A) | 67,956 | ||||
217,000 | Methanex US Operations, Inc., 6.25%, 3/15/32 (144A) | 216,369 | ||||
153,000 | NOVA Chemicals Corp., 4.25%, 5/15/29 (144A) | 147,141 | ||||
60,000 | NOVA Chemicals Corp., 7.00%, 12/1/31 (144A) | 62,862 | ||||
285,000 | Olympus Water US Holding Corp., 9.75%, 11/15/28 (144A) | 300,114 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Chemicals — (continued) | ||||||
200,000 | SCIL IV LLC/SCIL USA Holdings LLC, 5.375%, 11/1/26 (144A) | $ 198,703 | ||||
EUR153,000 | SCIL IV LLC/SCIL USA Holdings LLC, 9.50%, 7/15/28 (144A) | 189,452 | ||||
302,000 | Tronox, Inc., 4.625%, 3/15/29 (144A) | 260,598 | ||||
Total Chemicals | $1,692,852 | |||||
Coal — 0.8% | ||||||
220,000 | Alliance Resource Operating Partners LP/Alliance Resource Finance Corp., 8.625%, 6/15/29 (144A) | $ 233,833 | ||||
Total Coal | $233,833 | |||||
Commercial Services — 5.7% | ||||||
200,000 | Albion Financing 1 S.a.r.l./Aggreko Holdings, Inc., 7.00%, 5/21/30 (144A) | $ 204,105 | ||||
35,000 | Allied Universal Holdco LLC, 7.875%, 2/15/31 (144A) | 36,564 | ||||
95,000 | Avis Budget Car Rental LLC/Avis Budget Finance, Inc., 8.25%, 1/15/30 (144A) | 99,218 | ||||
100,000 | Avis Budget Car Rental LLC/Avis Budget Finance, Inc., 8.375%, 6/15/32 (144A) | 104,622 | ||||
208,000 | Champions Financing, Inc., 8.75%, 2/15/29 (144A) | 200,821 | ||||
55,000 | EquipmentShare.com, Inc., 8.625%, 5/15/32 (144A) | 58,448 | ||||
80,000 | Garda World Security Corp., 7.75%, 2/15/28 (144A) | 82,765 | ||||
135,000 | Garda World Security Corp., 8.375%, 11/15/32 (144A) | 138,673 | ||||
30,000 | Herc Holdings, Inc., 7.00%, 6/15/30 (144A) | 31,331 | ||||
40,000 | Herc Holdings, Inc., 7.25%, 6/15/33 (144A) | 41,912 | ||||
169,000 | NESCO Holdings II, Inc., 5.50%, 4/15/29 (144A) | 164,655 | ||||
76,000 | Prime Security Services Borrower LLC/Prime Finance, Inc., 5.75%, 4/15/26 (144A) | 76,394 | ||||
69,000 | Prime Security Services Borrower LLC/Prime Finance, Inc., 6.25%, 1/15/28 (144A) | 69,108 | ||||
280,000 | Sotheby's, 7.375%, 10/15/27 (144A) | 276,777 | ||||
Total Commercial Services | $1,585,393 | |||||
Computers — 0.4% | ||||||
90,000 | NCR Voyix Corp., 5.00%, 10/1/28 (144A) | $ 89,088 | ||||
17,000 | NCR Voyix Corp., 5.125%, 4/15/29 (144A) | 16,744 | ||||
Total Computers | $105,832 | |||||
Distribution/Wholesale — 0.7% | ||||||
207,000 | Velocity Vehicle Group LLC, 8.00%, 6/1/29 (144A) | $ 206,833 | ||||
Total Distribution/Wholesale | $206,833 | |||||
Diversified Financial Services — 8.2% | ||||||
135,000(g) | Ally Financial, Inc., 6.184% (SOFR + 229 bps), 7/26/35 | $ 137,697 | ||||
95,000 | Focus Financial Partners LLC, 6.75%, 9/15/31 (144A) | 96,973 | ||||
10,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 8.375%, 4/1/32 (144A) | 10,108 | ||||
55,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 9.125%, 5/15/31 (144A) | 56,693 | ||||
65,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 9.25%, 2/1/29 (144A) | 67,514 | ||||
25,000 | GGAM Finance, Ltd., 7.75%, 5/15/26 (144A) | 25,256 | ||||
150,000 | GGAM Finance, Ltd., 8.00%, 6/15/28 (144A) | 158,658 | ||||
240,000 | Global Aircraft Leasing Co., Ltd., 8.75%, 9/1/27 (144A) | 246,027 | ||||
40,000 | Jane Street Group/JSG Finance, Inc., 6.75%, 5/1/33 (144A) | 41,128 | ||||
255,000(d) | LFS Topco LLC, 8.75%, 7/15/30 (144A) | 250,843 | ||||
130,000 | Nationstar Mortgage Holdings, Inc., 5.125%, 12/15/30 (144A) | 131,570 | ||||
56,000 | Nationstar Mortgage Holdings, Inc., 6.50%, 8/1/29 (144A) | 57,202 | ||||
152,000 | OneMain Finance Corp., 3.50%, 1/15/27 | 148,809 | ||||
90,000 | OneMain Finance Corp., 9.00%, 1/15/29 | 94,379 | ||||
170,000 | Phoenix Aviation Capital, Ltd., 9.25%, 7/15/30 (144A) | 176,075 | ||||
195,000 | Provident Funding Associates LP/PFG Finance Corp., 9.75%, 9/15/29 (144A) | 205,046 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Diversified Financial Services — (continued) | ||||||
50,000 | Rocket Cos., Inc., 6.125%, 8/1/30 (144A) | $ 50,952 | ||||
50,000 | Rocket Cos., Inc., 6.375%, 8/1/33 (144A) | 51,160 | ||||
108,000 | United Wholesale Mortgage LLC, 5.50%, 4/15/29 (144A) | 104,831 | ||||
170,000 | United Wholesale Mortgage LLC, 5.75%, 6/15/27 (144A) | 169,592 | ||||
Total Diversified Financial Services | $2,280,513 | |||||
Electric — 3.2% | ||||||
180,000(g) | AES Corp., 6.95% (5 Year CMT Index + 289 bps), 7/15/55 | $ 175,592 | ||||
30,000 | Alpha Generation LLC, 6.75%, 10/15/32 (144A) | 30,925 | ||||
105,000 | Clearway Energy Operating LLC, 3.75%, 2/15/31 (144A) | 96,413 | ||||
65,000 | Clearway Energy Operating LLC, 3.75%, 1/15/32 (144A) | 58,331 | ||||
179,000 | Leeward Renewable Energy Operations LLC, 4.25%, 7/1/29 (144A) | 167,134 | ||||
90,000 | Lightning Power LLC, 7.25%, 8/15/32 (144A) | 94,721 | ||||
122,000 | Vistra Operations Co. LLC, 4.375%, 5/1/29 (144A) | 118,902 | ||||
145,000 | Vistra Operations Co. LLC, 7.75%, 10/15/31 (144A) | 154,112 | ||||
Total Electric | $896,130 | |||||
Entertainment — 2.2% | ||||||
100,000 | Light & Wonder International, Inc., 7.00%, 5/15/28 (144A) | $ 100,291 | ||||
100,000 | Light & Wonder International, Inc., 7.25%, 11/15/29 (144A) | 103,026 | ||||
25,000 | Light & Wonder International, Inc., 7.50%, 9/1/31 (144A) | 26,160 | ||||
132,000 | Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority/MS Digital Entertainment Holdings LLC, 8.25%, 4/15/30 (144A) | 136,252 | ||||
235,000 | Voyager Parent LLC, 9.25%, 7/1/32 (144A) | 244,500 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $610,229 | |||||
Environmental Control — 0.7% | ||||||
198,000 | GFL Environmental, Inc., 4.375%, 8/15/29 (144A) | $ 192,266 | ||||
Total Environmental Control | $192,266 | |||||
Food — 0.4% | ||||||
25,000 | Fiesta Purchaser, Inc., 7.875%, 3/1/31 (144A) | $ 26,530 | ||||
80,000 | Fiesta Purchaser, Inc., 9.625%, 9/15/32 (144A) | 84,414 | ||||
Total Food | $110,944 | |||||
Gas — 0.4% | ||||||
60,000 | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 7.50%, 5/1/33 (144A) | $ 64,249 | ||||
45,000 | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 7.75%, 5/1/35 (144A) | 48,709 | ||||
Total Gas | $112,958 | |||||
Healthcare-Products — 0.9% | ||||||
90,000(g) | Dentsply Sirona, Inc., 8.375% (5 Year CMT Index + 438 bps), 9/12/55 | $ 90,496 | ||||
155,000 | Sotera Health Holdings LLC, 7.375%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 161,269 | ||||
Total Healthcare-Products | $251,765 | |||||
Healthcare-Services — 3.5% | ||||||
140,000 | DaVita, Inc., 6.75%, 7/15/33 (144A) | $ 144,564 | ||||
315,000 | LifePoint Health, Inc., 5.375%, 1/15/29 (144A) | 293,596 | ||||
255,000 | Prime Healthcare Services, Inc., 9.375%, 9/1/29 (144A) | 253,087 | ||||
268,000 | US Acute Care Solutions LLC, 9.75%, 5/15/29 (144A) | 276,425 | ||||
Total Healthcare-Services | $967,672 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Insurance — 0.3% | ||||||
85,000 | Acrisure LLC/Acrisure Finance, Inc., 6.75%, 7/1/32 (144A) | $ 86,205 | ||||
Total Insurance | $86,205 | |||||
Internet — 0.9% | ||||||
240,000 | Acuris Finance US, Inc./Acuris Finance S.a.r.l., 9.00%, 8/1/29 (144A) | $ 245,389 | ||||
Total Internet | $245,389 | |||||
Iron & Steel — 1.0% | ||||||
113,000 | Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc., 7.00%, 3/15/32 (144A) | $ 106,521 | ||||
60,000 | Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc., 7.375%, 5/1/33 (144A) | 56,337 | ||||
30,000 | Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc., 7.50%, 9/15/31 (144A) | 28,934 | ||||
102,000 | TMS International Corp., 6.25%, 4/15/29 (144A) | 96,983 | ||||
Total Iron & Steel | $288,775 | |||||
Leisure Time — 1.7% | ||||||
195,000 | Carnival Corp., 6.00%, 5/1/29 (144A) | $ 197,036 | ||||
22,000 | NCL Corp., Ltd., 5.875%, 3/15/26 (144A) | 22,028 | ||||
135,000 | NCL Corp., Ltd., 7.75%, 2/15/29 (144A) | 143,543 | ||||
90,000 | NCL Corp., Ltd., 8.125%, 1/15/29 (144A) | 94,876 | ||||
Total Leisure Time | $457,483 | |||||
Lodging — 3.0% | ||||||
30,000 | Choice Hotels International, Inc., 5.85%, 8/1/34 | $ 30,234 | ||||
200,000 | Genting New York LLC/GENNY Capital, Inc., 7.25%, 10/1/29 (144A) | 207,502 | ||||
142,000 | Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC/Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower, Inc., 5.00%, 6/1/29 (144A) | 136,582 | ||||
250,000 | Melco Resorts Finance, Ltd., 7.625%, 4/17/32 (144A) | 252,505 | ||||
120,000 | MGM Resorts International, 6.50%, 4/15/32 | 121,958 | ||||
90,000 | Travel + Leisure Co., 6.625%, 7/31/26 (144A) | 90,989 | ||||
Total Lodging | $839,770 | |||||
Media — 4.2% | ||||||
444,000 | CCO Holdings LLC/CCO Holdings Capital Corp., 4.50%, 6/1/33 (144A) | $ 405,829 | ||||
380,000 | CSC Holdings LLC, 4.50%, 11/15/31 (144A) | 267,400 | ||||
120,000 | Gray Media, Inc., 10.50%, 7/15/29 (144A) | 128,913 | ||||
177,000 | McGraw-Hill Education, Inc., 8.00%, 8/1/29 (144A) | 180,222 | ||||
200,000 | VZ Secured Financing BV, 5.00%, 1/15/32 (144A) | 177,922 | ||||
Total Media | $1,160,286 | |||||
Mining — 3.8% | ||||||
154,000 | Coeur Mining, Inc., 5.125%, 2/15/29 (144A) | $ 150,158 | ||||
310,000 | First Quantum Minerals, Ltd., 8.625%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 321,624 | ||||
152,000 | IAMGOLD Corp., 5.75%, 10/15/28 (144A) | 150,738 | ||||
306,000 | Taseko Mines, Ltd., 8.25%, 5/1/30 (144A) | 320,345 | ||||
100,000 | Taseko Mines, Ltd., 8.25%, 5/1/30 | 104,688 | ||||
Total Mining | $1,047,553 | |||||
Miscellaneous Manufacturing — 1.8% | ||||||
205,000(d) | Maxam Prill S.a.r.l., 7.75%, 7/15/30 (144A) | $ 205,363 | ||||
274,000 | Trinity Industries, Inc., 7.75%, 7/15/28 (144A) | 285,381 | ||||
Total Miscellaneous Manufacturing | $490,744 | |||||
Oil & Gas — 5.6% | ||||||
185,437 | Borr IHC, Ltd./Borr Finance LLC, 10.375%, 11/15/30 (144A) | $ 164,112 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Oil & Gas — (continued) | ||||||
100,000 | Civitas Resources, Inc., 8.375%, 7/1/28 (144A) | $ 102,391 | ||||
45,000 | Civitas Resources, Inc., 8.625%, 11/1/30 (144A) | 45,686 | ||||
50,000 | Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co., 6.00%, 4/15/30 (144A) | 48,607 | ||||
169,000 | Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co., 6.25%, 4/15/32 (144A) | 161,373 | ||||
40,000 | Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co., 7.25%, 2/15/35 (144A) | 39,114 | ||||
200,000 | Kosmos Energy, Ltd., 7.75%, 5/1/27 (144A) | 177,750 | ||||
163,000 | Kraken Oil & Gas Partners LLC, 7.625%, 8/15/29 (144A) | 160,135 | ||||
140,000 | Long Ridge Energy LLC, 8.75%, 2/15/32 (144A) | 145,425 | ||||
34,000 | Precision Drilling Corp., 6.875%, 1/15/29 (144A) | 33,588 | ||||
60,000 | Transocean, Inc., 8.75%, 2/15/30 (144A) | 61,701 | ||||
22,619 | Transocean Titan Financing, Ltd., 8.375%, 2/1/28 (144A) | 22,976 | ||||
80,000 | Transocean, Inc., 6.80%, 3/15/38 | 56,245 | ||||
50,000 | Transocean, Inc., 8.25%, 5/15/29 (144A) | 46,227 | ||||
50,000 | Transocean, Inc., 8.50%, 5/15/31 (144A) | 44,632 | ||||
252,000 | Wildfire Intermediate Holdings LLC, 7.50%, 10/15/29 (144A) | 250,330 | ||||
Total Oil & Gas | $1,560,292 | |||||
Oil & Gas Services — 0.8% | ||||||
108,000 | Enerflex, Ltd., 9.00%, 10/15/27 (144A) | $ 111,366 | ||||
100,000 | USA Compression Partners LP/USA Compression Finance Corp., 7.125%, 3/15/29 (144A) | 102,493 | ||||
Total Oil & Gas Services | $213,859 | |||||
Packaging & Containers — 2.8% | ||||||
299,000 | Clearwater Paper Corp., 4.75%, 8/15/28 (144A) | $ 283,280 | ||||
220,000 | OI European Group BV, 4.75%, 2/15/30 (144A) | 211,628 | ||||
55,000 | Owens-Brockway Glass Container, Inc., 7.25%, 5/15/31 (144A) | 56,365 | ||||
105,000 | Sealed Air Corp., 5.00%, 4/15/29 (144A) | 103,856 | ||||
40,000 | Sealed Air Corp., 6.50%, 7/15/32 (144A) | 41,450 | ||||
65,000 | Sealed Air Corp./Sealed Air Corp. US, 7.25%, 2/15/31 (144A) | 68,411 | ||||
Total Packaging & Containers | $764,990 | |||||
Pharmaceuticals — 4.7% | ||||||
200,000 | 1261229 B.C. Ltd., 10.00%, 4/15/32 (144A) | $ 201,754 | ||||
286,000 | AdaptHealth LLC, 5.125%, 3/1/30 (144A) | 271,736 | ||||
80,000(g) | CVS Health Corp., 7.00% (5 Year CMT Index + 289 bps), 3/10/55 | 82,513 | ||||
200,000 | Organon & Co./Organon Foreign Debt Co.-Issuer BV, 5.125%, 4/30/31 (144A) | 173,571 | ||||
295,000 | Owens & Minor, Inc., 6.625%, 4/1/30 (144A) | 277,108 | ||||
102,000+ | Par Pharmaceutical, Inc., 7.50%, 4/1/27 (144A) | — | ||||
305,000 | Teva Pharmaceutical Finance Netherlands III BV, 5.125%, 5/9/29 | 306,757 | ||||
272,000+ | Tricida, Inc., 5/15/27 | — | ||||
Total Pharmaceuticals | $1,313,439 | |||||
Pipelines — 4.2% | ||||||
146,000 | CQP Holdco LP/BIP-V Chinook Holdco LLC, 5.50%, 6/15/31 (144A) | $ 144,233 | ||||
250,000 | CQP Holdco LP/BIP-V Chinook Holdco LLC, 7.50%, 12/15/33 (144A) | 271,272 | ||||
115,000 | Delek Logistics Partners LP/Delek Logistics Finance Corp., 7.125%, 6/1/28 (144A) | 115,474 | ||||
85,000 | Delek Logistics Partners LP/Delek Logistics Finance Corp., 8.625%, 3/15/29 (144A) | 88,220 | ||||
40,000(g) | South Bow Canadian Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd., 7.50% (5 Year CMT Index + 367 bps), 3/1/55 (144A) | 41,270 | ||||
185,000 | Summit Midstream Holdings LLC, 8.625%, 10/31/29 (144A) | 189,262 | ||||
66,000 | Venture Global LNG, Inc., 8.375%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 68,550 | ||||
40,000 | Venture Global LNG, Inc., 9.50%, 2/1/29 (144A) | 43,575 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Pipelines — (continued) | ||||||
65,000 | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 6.50%, 1/15/34 (144A) | $ 65,000 | ||||
125,000 | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 6.75%, 1/15/36 (144A) | 125,000 | ||||
Total Pipelines | $1,151,856 | |||||
Real Estate — 0.6% | ||||||
192,000 | Kennedy-Wilson, Inc., 4.75%, 2/1/30 | $ 175,838 | ||||
Total Real Estate | $175,838 | |||||
REITS — 1.8% | ||||||
195,000 | Iron Mountain, Inc., 7.00%, 2/15/29 (144A) | $ 201,864 | ||||
140,000 | Uniti Group LP/Uniti Group Finance 2019, Inc./CSL Capital LLC, 6.50%, 2/15/29 (144A) | 135,314 | ||||
75,000 | Uniti Group LP/Uniti Group Finance 2019, Inc./CSL Capital LLC, 8.625%, 6/15/32 (144A) | 75,761 | ||||
76,000 | Uniti Group LP/Uniti Group Finance 2019, Inc./CSL Capital LLC, 10.50%, 2/15/28 (144A) | 80,564 | ||||
Total REITS | $493,503 | |||||
Retail — 4.7% | ||||||
115,000 | Brinker International, Inc., 8.25%, 7/15/30 (144A) | $ 122,566 | ||||
95,000 | Cougar JV Subsidiary LLC, 8.00%, 5/15/32 (144A) | 101,258 | ||||
132,000 | Gap, Inc., 3.625%, 10/1/29 (144A) | 122,597 | ||||
235,000 | Gap, Inc., 3.875%, 10/1/31 (144A) | 210,050 | ||||
177,000 | Ken Garff Automotive LLC, 4.875%, 9/15/28 (144A) | 174,750 | ||||
270,000 | LCM Investments Holdings II LLC, 4.875%, 5/1/29 (144A) | 262,562 | ||||
35,000 | LCM Investments Holdings II LLC, 8.25%, 8/1/31 (144A) | 37,211 | ||||
300,000 | Macy's Retail Holdings LLC, 6.125%, 3/15/32 (144A) | 286,012 | ||||
Total Retail | $1,317,006 | |||||
Telecommunications — 2.6% | ||||||
260,000 | Altice France S.A., 5.125%, 7/15/29 (144A) | $ 214,896 | ||||
200,000 | Connect Finco S.a.r.l./Connect US Finco LLC, 9.00%, 9/15/29 (144A) | 201,026 | ||||
105,000 | Level 3 Financing, Inc., 6.875%, 6/30/33 (144A) | 106,840 | ||||
195,000 | Windstream Services LLC/Windstream Escrow Finance Corp., 8.25%, 10/1/31 (144A) | 204,221 | ||||
Total Telecommunications | $726,983 | |||||
Transportation — 1.4% | ||||||
229,000 | Carriage Purchaser, Inc., 7.875%, 10/15/29 (144A) | $ 203,477 | ||||
149,000 | Seaspan Corp., 5.50%, 8/1/29 (144A) | 141,643 | ||||
55,000 | Star Leasing Co. LLC, 7.625%, 2/15/30 (144A) | 54,539 | ||||
Total Transportation | $399,659 | |||||
Total Corporate Bonds (Cost $24,936,546) |
$25,121,178 | |||||
Shares | ||||||
Rights/Warrants — 0.0%† of Net Assets | ||||||
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.0%† | ||||||
80(c) | Option Care Health, Inc., 7/27/25 | $ 944 | ||||
80(c) | Option Care Health, Inc., 12/31/25 | 534 | ||||
Total Health Care Providers & Services | $1,478 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Value | |||||
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.0%† | ||||||
GBP6,300(c) | Avation Plc, 1/1/59 | $ 3,459 | ||||
Total Trading Companies & Distributors | $3,459 | |||||
Total Rights/Warrants (Cost $—) |
$4,937 | |||||
Face Amount USD ($) |
||||||
Insurance-Linked Securities — 0.0%† of Net Assets# | ||||||
Reinsurance Sidecars — 0.0%† | ||||||
Multiperil – Worldwide — 0.0%† | ||||||
25,723(c)(h)+ | Lorenz Re 2019, 6/30/26 | $ 185 | ||||
Total Reinsurance Sidecars | $185 | |||||
Total Insurance-Linked Securities (Cost $3,608) |
$185 | |||||
Shares | ||||||
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS — 6.0% of Net Assets | ||||||
Open-End Fund — 6.0% | ||||||
1,684,398(i) | Dreyfus Government Cash Management, Institutional Shares, 4.21% |
$ 1,684,398 | ||||
$1,684,398 | ||||||
TOTAL SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $1,684,398) |
$1,684,398 | |||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 99.3% (Cost $27,373,274) |
$27,610,444 |
Net Realized Gain (Loss) for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Capital Gain Distributions for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Dividend Income for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Value | ||
Affiliated Issuer — 2.7% | ||||||
Closed-End Fund — 2.7% of Net Assets | ||||||
80,577(j) | Pioneer ILS Interval Fund | $— | $26,590 | $— | $— | $ 746,139 |
Total Investments in Affiliated Issuer — 2.7% (Cost $810,891) |
$746,139 | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (2.0)% | $(565,413) | |||||
net assets — 100.0% | $27,791,170 | |||||
bps | Basis Points. |
CMT | Constant Maturity Treasury. |
SOFR | Secured Overnight Financing Rate. |
(144A) | The resale of such security is exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Such securities may be resold normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2025, the value of these securities amounted to $22,620,010, or 81.4% of net assets. |
(a) | Floating rate note. Coupon rate, reference index and spread shown at June 30, 2025. |
(b) | All or a portion of this senior loan position has not settled. Rates do not take effect until settlement date. Rates shown, if any, are for the settled portion. |
(c) | Non-income producing security. |
(d) | Securities purchased on a when-issued basis. Rates do not take effect until settlement date. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
(e) | Payment-in-kind (PIK) security which may pay interest in the form of additional principal amount. |
(f) | Security is perpetual in nature and has no stated maturity date. |
(g) | The interest rate is subject to change periodically. The interest rate and/or reference index and spread shown at June 30, 2025. |
(h) | Issued as preference shares. |
(i) | Rate periodically changes. Rate disclosed is the 7-day yield at June 30, 2025. |
(j) | Pioneer ILS Interval Fund is an affiliated closed-end fund managed by Victory Capital Management Inc., (the “Adviser”). |
* | Senior secured floating rate loan interests in which the Portfolio invests generally pay interest at rates that are periodically re-determined by reference to a base lending rate plus a premium. These base lending rates are generally (i) the lending rate offered by one or more major European banks, such as SOFR, (ii) the prime rate offered by one or more major United States banks, (iii) the rate of a certificate of deposit or (iv) other base lending rates used by commercial lenders. The interest rate shown is the rate accruing at June 30, 2025. |
+ | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). |
† | Amount rounds to less than 0.1%. |
# | Securities are restricted as to resale (see Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1G). |
Restricted Securities | Acquisition date | Cost | Value |
Lorenz Re 2019 | 7/10/2019 | $ 3,608 | $ 185 |
% of Net assets | 0.0%† |
† | Amount rounds to less than 0.1%. |
Currency Purchased |
In Exchange for |
Currency Sold |
Deliver | Counterparty | Settlement Date |
Unrealized (Depreciation) |
USD | 194,232 | EUR | 170,000 | State Street Bank and Trust Co. | 7/24/25 | $(6,356) |
TOTAL FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS | $(6,356) |
CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – BUY PROTECTION | ||||||||
Notional Amount ($)(1) |
Reference Obligation/Index | Pay/ Receive(2) |
Annual Fixed Rate |
Expiration Date |
Premiums (Received) |
Unrealized (Depreciation) |
Market Value | |
2,910,000 | Markit CDX North America High Yield Index Series 44 | Pay | 5.00% | 6/20/30 | $(105,905) | $(117,082) | $(222,987) | |
TOTAL CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – BUY PROTECTION |
$(105,905) | $(117,082) | $(222,987) |
(1) | The notional amount is the maximum amount that a seller of credit protection would be obligated to pay upon occurrence of a credit event. |
(2) | Pays quarterly. |
EUR — Euro |
GBP — Great British Pound |
USD — United States Dollar |
Aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of value over tax cost | $677,101 |
Aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of tax cost over value | (626,198) |
Net unrealized appreciation | $50,903 |
Level 1 | – | unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including the Adviser’s own assumptions in determining fair value of investments). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests | $— | $679,240 | $— | $679,240 |
Common Stock | — | 115,069 | — | 115,069 |
Convertible Corporate Bonds | — | 5,437 | — | 5,437 |
Corporate Bonds | ||||
Pharmaceuticals | — | 1,313,439 | —* | 1,313,439 |
All Other Corporate Bonds | — | 23,807,739 | — | 23,807,739 |
Rights/Warrants | ||||
Health Care Providers & Services | — | 1,478 | — | 1,478 |
Trading Companies & Distributors | 3,459 | — | — | 3,459 |
Insurance-Linked Securities | ||||
Reinsurance Sidecars | — | — | 185 | 185 |
Open-End Fund | 1,684,398 | — | — | 1,684,398 |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund | — | 746,139 | — | 746,139 |
Total Investments in Securities | $1,687,857 | $26,668,541 | $185 | $28,356,583 |
Other Financial Instruments | ||||
Net unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $— | $(6,356) | $— | $(6,356) |
Centrally cleared swap contracts^ | — | (117,082) | — | (117,082) |
Total Other Financial Instruments | $— | $(123,438) | $— | $(123,438) |
* | Securities valued at $0. |
^ | Reflects the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of the instruments. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ASSETS: | |
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $27,373,274) | $27,610,444 |
Investments in affiliated issuers, at value (cost $810,891) | 746,139 |
Cash | 16,820 |
Swaps collateral | 349,587 |
Receivables — | |
Investment securities sold | 18,084 |
Portfolio shares sold | 51,742 |
Dividends | 5,473 |
Interest | 418,234 |
Due from the Adviser | 11,678 |
Other assets | 172 |
Total assets | $29,228,373 |
LIABILITIES: | |
Payables — | |
Investment securities purchased | $1,129,959 |
Portfolio shares repurchased | 366 |
Trustees’ fees | 54 |
Variation margin for centrally cleared swap contracts | 15,247 |
Swap contracts, at value (premium received $105,905) | 222,987 |
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 6,356 |
Management fees | 13,054 |
Administrative expenses | 1,331 |
Distribution fees | 461 |
Accrued expenses | 47,388 |
Total liabilities | $1,437,203 |
NET ASSETS: | |
Paid-in capital | $30,976,281 |
Distributable earnings (loss) | (3,185,111) |
Net assets | $27,791,170 |
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE: | |
No par value (unlimited number of shares authorized) | |
Class I* (based on $23,778,809/2,764,097 shares) | $8.60 |
Class II* (based on $4,012,361/473,136 shares) | $8.48 |
* | Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
INVESTMENT INCOME: | |||
Interest from unaffiliated issuers | $958,464 | ||
Dividends from unaffiliated issuers | 27,988 | ||
Total Investment Income | $986,452 | ||
EXPENSES: | |||
Management fees | $90,441 | ||
Administrative expenses | 11,824 | ||
Distribution fees | |||
Class II* | 5,789 | ||
Custodian fees | 188 | ||
Professional fees | 35,717 | ||
Printing expense | 7,446 | ||
Officers’ and Trustees’ fees | 3,583 | ||
Insurance expense | 257 | ||
Miscellaneous | 170 | ||
Total expenses | $155,415 | ||
Less fees waived and expenses reimbursed by the Adviser | (24,400) | ||
Net expenses | $131,015 | ||
Net investment income | $855,437 | ||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS: | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $(98,615) | ||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (8,552) | ||
Swap contracts | 9,723 | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | (69) | $(97,513) | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $435,368 | ||
Investments in affiliated issuers | 26,590 | ||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (14,134) | ||
Swap contracts | (123,513) | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | 846 | $325,157 | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | $227,644 | ||
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $1,083,081 |
* | Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 | ||
FROM OPERATIONS: | |||
Net investment income (loss) | $855,437 | $1,746,343 | |
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | (97,513) | (325,427) | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 325,157 | 864,054 | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $1,083,081 | $2,284,970 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS: | |||
Class I* ($0.26 and $0.49 per share, respectively) | $(716,309) | $(1,282,442) | |
Class II* ($0.25 and $0.46 per share, respectively) | (136,247) | (290,035) | |
Total distributions to shareholders | $(852,556) | $(1,572,477) | |
FROM PORTFOLIO SHARE TRANSACTIONS: | |||
Net proceeds from sales of shares | $4,955,766 | $8,893,490 | |
Reinvestment of distributions | 851,608 | 1,572,477 | |
Cost of shares repurchased | (7,274,522) | (10,389,352) | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from Portfolio share transactions | $(1,467,148) | $76,615 | |
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | $(1,236,623) | $789,108 | |
NET ASSETS: | |||
Beginning of period | $29,027,793 | $28,238,685 | |
End of period | $27,791,170 | $29,027,793 |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Shares (unaudited) |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Amount (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Shares |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Amount | ||||
Class I* | |||||||
Shares sold | 257,736 | $2,183,624 | 502,402 | $4,225,657 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 84,095 | 716,309 | 152,466 | 1,282,442 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (347,982) | (2,951,893) | (471,523) | (3,949,416) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
(6,151) | $(51,960) | 183,345 | $1,558,683 | |||
Class II* | |||||||
Shares sold | 330,596 | $2,772,142 | 563,313 | $4,667,833 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 16,105 | 135,299 | 34,921 | 290,035 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (517,731) | (4,322,629) | (781,402) | (6,439,936) | |||
Net decrease | (171,030) | $(1,415,188) | (183,168) | $(1,482,068) |
* | Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class l* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $8.52 | $8.30 | $7.86 | $9.34 | $9.29 | $9.58 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.26 | 0.54 | 0.51 | 0.45 | 0.43 | 0.46 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.08 | 0.17 | 0.38 | (1.50) | 0.10 | (0.27) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.34 | $0.71 | $0.89 | $(1.05) | $0.53 | $0.19 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.26) | (0.49) | (0.45) | (0.42) | (0.48) | (0.48) | |||||
Tax return of capital | — | — | — | (0.01) | — | — | |||||
Total distributions | $(0.26) | $(0.49) | $(0.45) | $(0.43) | $(0.48) | $(0.48) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $0.08 | $0.22 | $0.44 | $(1.48) | $0.05 | $(0.29) | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $8.60 | $8.52 | $8.30 | $7.86 | $9.34 | $9.29 | |||||
Total return(b) | 4.06%(c) | 8.71% | 11.63%(d) | (11.43)% | 5.82% | 2.37% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.90%(e) | 0.90% | 0.90% | 0.90% | 0.90% | 1.02% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 6.20%(e) | 6.39% | 6.38% | 5.37% | 4.60% | 5.15% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 23%(c) | 53% | 40% | 31% | 99% | 90% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $23,779 | $23,615 | $21,472 | $21,048 | $28,234 | $34,218 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 1.08%(e) | 1.05% | 1.30% | 1.13% | 1.12% | 1.10% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 6.02%(e) | 6.24% | 5.98% | 5.14% | 4.38% | 5.07% |
* | Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Portfolio’s total return includes a reimbursement by the Adviser. The impact on Class I’s total return was less than 0.005%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class ll* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $8.40 | $8.18 | $7.75 | $9.21 | $9.16 | $9.47 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.25 | 0.51 | 0.49 | 0.42 | 0.40 | 0.42 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.08 | 0.17 | 0.36 | (1.48) | 0.10 | (0.28) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.33 | $0.68 | $0.85 | $(1.06) | $0.50 | $0.14 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.25) | (0.46) | (0.42) | (0.39) | (0.45) | (0.45) | |||||
Tax return of capital | — | — | — | (0.01) | — | — | |||||
Total distributions | $(0.25) | $(0.46) | $(0.42) | $(0.40) | $(0.45) | $(0.45) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $0.08 | $0.22 | $0.43 | $(1.46) | $0.05 | $(0.31) | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $8.48 | $8.40 | $8.18 | $7.75 | $9.21 | $9.16 | |||||
Total return(b) | 3.94%(c) | 8.48% | 11.29%(d) | (11.66)% | 5.56% | 1.87% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 1.15%(e) | 1.15% | 1.15% | 1.15% | 1.15% | 1.26% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 5.89%(e) | 6.14% | 6.18% | 5.06% | 4.29% | 4.81% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 23%(c) | 53% | 40% | 31% | 99% | 90% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $4,012 | $5,412 | $6,767 | $6,384 | $15,161 | $8,125 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 1.33%(e) | 1.30% | 1.55% | 1.38% | 1.37% | 1.33% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 5.71%(e) | 5.99% | 5.78% | 4.83% | 4.07% | 4.74% |
* | Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Portfolio’s total return includes a reimbursement by the Adviser. The impact on Class II’s total return was less than 0.005%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A. | Security Valuation |
The net asset value of the Portfolio is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. | |
Fixed income securities are valued by using prices supplied by independent pricing services, which consider such factors as market prices, market events, quotations from one or more brokers, Treasury spreads, yields, maturities and ratings, or may use a pricing matrix or other fair value methods or techniques to provide an estimated value of the security or instrument. A pricing matrix is a means of valuing a debt security on the basis of current market prices for other debt securities, historical trading patterns in the market for fixed income securities and/or other factors. Non-U.S. debt securities that are listed on an exchange will be valued at the bid price obtained from an independent third party pricing service. When independent third party pricing services are unable to supply prices, or when prices or market quotations are considered to be unreliable, the value of that security may be determined using quotations from one or more broker-dealers. | |
Loan interests are valued at the mean between the last available bid and asked prices from one or more brokers or dealers as obtained from Loan Pricing Corporation, an independent third party pricing service. If price information is not available from Loan Pricing Corporation, or if the price information is deemed to be unreliable, price information will be obtained from an alternative loan interest pricing service. If no reliable price quotes are available from either the primary or alternative pricing service, broker quotes will be solicited. | |
Event-linked bonds are valued at the bid price obtained from an independent third party pricing service. Other insurance-linked securities (including reinsurance sidecars, collateralized reinsurance and industry loss warranties) may be valued at the bid price obtained from an independent pricing service, or through a third party using a pricing matrix, insurance valuation models, or other fair value methods or techniques to provide an estimated value of the instrument. | |
Equity securities that have traded on an exchange are valued by using the last sale price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Equity securities that have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale prices are not available, generally are valued using the mean between the last bid and asked prices or, if both last bid and asked prices are not available, at the last quoted bid price. Last sale and bid and asked prices are provided by independent third party pricing services. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services using a variety of techniques and methods. | |
The value of foreign securities is translated into U.S. dollars based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by a third party pricing source. Trading in non-U.S. equity securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of the Portfolio’s shares are determined as of such times. The Adviser may use a fair value model developed by an independent pricing service to value non-U.S. equity securities. | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued daily using the foreign exchange rate or, for longer term forward contract positions, the spot currency rate and the forward points on a daily basis, in each case provided by a third party pricing service. Contracts whose forward settlement date falls between two quoted days are valued by interpolation. | |
Swap contracts, including interest rate swaps, caps and floors (other than centrally cleared swap contracts), are valued at the dealer quotations obtained from reputable International Swap Dealers Association members. Centrally cleared swaps are valued at the daily settlement price provided by the central clearing counterparty. | |
Shares of open-end registered investment companies (including money market mutual funds) are valued at such funds’ net asset value. Shares of closed-end interval funds that offer their shares at net asset value are valued at such funds’ net asset value. | |
Securities or loan interests for which independent pricing services or broker-dealers are unable to supply prices or for which market prices and/or quotations are not readily available or are considered to be unreliable are valued by a fair valuation team comprised of certain personnel of the Adviser. The Adviser is designated as the valuation designee for the Portfolio pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser’s fair valuation team is responsible for monitoring developments that may impact fair valued securities. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Inputs used when applying fair value methods to value a security may include credit ratings, financial condition, current market conditions and comparable securities. The Adviser may use fair value methods if it is determined that a significant event has occurred after the close of the exchange or market on which the security trades and prior to the determination of the Portfolio’s net asset value. Examples of a significant event might include political or economic news, corporate restructurings, natural disasters, terrorist activity, tariffs, or trading halts. Thus, the valuation of the Portfolio’s securities may differ significantly from exchange prices, and such differences could be material. | |
B. | Investment Income and Transactions |
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain dividends from foreign securities for which the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon as the Portfolio becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of reasonable diligence. | |
Interest income, including interest on income-bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend and interest income are reported net of unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates and net of income accrued on defaulted securities. | |
Interest and dividend income payable by delivery of additional shares is reclassified as PIK (payment-in-kind) income upon receipt and is included in interest and dividend income, respectively. | |
Principal amounts of mortgage-backed securities are adjusted for monthly paydowns. Premiums and discounts related to certain mortgage-backed securities are amortized or accreted in proportion to the monthly paydowns. All discounts/premiums on purchase prices of debt securities are accreted/amortized for financial reporting purposes over the life of the respective securities, and such accretion/amortization is included in interest income. | |
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes. | |
C. | Foreign Currency Translation |
The books and records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. | |
Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any, represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on foreign currency exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on investments are not segregated from the effects of changes in the market prices of those securities on the Statement of Operations, but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments. | |
D. | Federal Income Taxes |
It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net taxable income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. As of June 30, 2025, the Portfolio did not accrue any interest or penalties with respect to uncertain tax positions, which, if applicable, would be recorded as an income tax expense on the Statement of Operations. Tax returns filed within the prior three years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. | |
The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax rules, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary over distributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes. Capital accounts within the financial statements are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character, but are not adjusted for temporary differences. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
The tax character of current year distributions payable will be determined at the end of the current taxable year. The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2024 was as follows: |
2024 | |
Distributions paid from: | |
Ordinary income | $1,572,477 |
Total | $1,572,477 |
2024 | |
Distributable earnings/(losses): | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $149,582 |
Capital loss carryforward | (3,277,288) |
Net unrealized depreciation | (287,930) |
Total | $(3,415,636) |
E. | Portfolio Shares and Class Allocations |
The Portfolio records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date. Distribution fees for Class II shares are calculated based on the average daily net asset value attributable to Class II shares of the Portfolio (see Note 5). Class I shares do not pay distribution fees. | |
Income, common expenses (excluding transfer agent and distribution fees) and realized and unrealized gains and losses are calculated at the Portfolio level and allocated daily to each class of shares based on its respective percentage of the adjusted net assets at the beginning of the day. | |
All expenses and fees paid to the Portfolio’s transfer agent for its services are allocated between the classes of shares based on the number of accounts in each class and the ratable allocation of related out-of-pocket expenses (see Note 4). | |
The Portfolio declares as daily dividends substantially all of its net investment income. All dividends are paid on a monthly basis. Short-term capital gain distributions, if any, may be declared with the daily dividends. Distributions paid by the Portfolio with respect to each class of shares are calculated in the same manner and at the same time, except that net investment income dividends to Class I and Class II shares can reflect different transfer agent and distribution expense rates. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. | |
F. | Risks |
The value of securities held by the Portfolio may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political or regulatory conditions, recessions, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, inflation, changes in interest rates, armed conflict such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In the past several years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Portfolio’s investments and negatively impact the Portfolio’s performance. | |
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability may continue for some time. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events or conditions. | |
Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
public debt, including in the U.S. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. | |
The U.S. and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs, investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities. For example, the U.S. has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. If the political climate between the U.S. and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Portfolio’s assets may go down. | |
At times, the Portfolio’s investments may represent industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks, making the Portfolio more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets, including developing markets, may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in developed markets. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets and the imposition of adverse governmental laws, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law and investment and repatriation restrictions. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Portfolio’s return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. | |
In response to the military action by Russia against Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia’s military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Portfolio investments, on Portfolio performance and the value of an investment in the Portfolio. In particular, securities and commodities, such as oil, natural gas and food commodities, with exposure to Russian issuers or issuers in other countries affected by the invasion are likely to have collateral impacts on market sectors globally. | |
Normally, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of its total assets in below-investment-grade (high-yield) debt securities and preferred stocks. Some of these high-yield securities may be convertible into equity securities of the issuer. Debt securities rated below-investment-grade are commonly referred to as “junk bonds” and are considered speculative with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal. These securities involve greater risk of loss, are subject to greater price volatility, and may be less liquid and more difficult to value, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or change, than higher rated debt securities. | |
The market prices of the Portfolio’s fixed income securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. A rise in interest rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities. For example, if interest rates increase by 1%, the value of a Portfolio’s holdings with a portfolio duration of ten years would be expected to decrease by 10%, all other things being equal. A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities. The maturity of a security may be significantly longer than its effective duration. A security’s maturity and other features may be more relevant than its effective duration in determining the security’s sensitivity to other factors affecting the issuer or markets generally, such as changes in credit quality or in the yield premium that the market may establish for certain types of securities (sometimes called “credit spread”). In general, the longer its maturity, the more a security may be susceptible to these factors. When the credit spread for a fixed income security goes up, or “widens”, the value of the security will generally go down. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
If an issuer or guarantor of a security held by the Portfolio, or a counterparty to a financial contract with the Portfolio, defaults on its obligation to pay principal and/or interest, has its credit rating downgraded, is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines, the value of your investment will typically decline. Changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness may occur quickly. The Portfolio could be delayed or hindered in its enforcement of rights against an issuer, guarantor or counterparty. | |
The Portfolio may invest in REIT securities, the value of which can fall for a variety of reasons, such as declines in rental income, fluctuating interest rates, poor property management, environmental liabilities, uninsured damage, increased competition, or changes in real estate tax laws. | |
With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet to conduct business, the Portfolio is susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, limit or mitigate, such cyber-attacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, the Portfolio cannot control the cybersecurity plans and systems put in place by service providers to the Portfolio such as the Portfolio’s custodian and accounting agent, and the Portfolio’s transfer agent. In addition, many beneficial owners of Portfolio shares hold them through accounts at broker-dealers, retirement platforms and other financial market participants over which neither the Portfolio nor the Adviser exercises control. Each of these intermediaries may in turn rely on their service providers, which are also subject to the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity failures or breaches at the Adviser, service providers or intermediaries may cause disruptions and impact business operations. This may cause financial losses; interference with the Portfolio’s ability to calculate its net asset value; impediments to trading; the inability of Portfolio shareholders to effect share purchases; redemptions or exchanges or receive distributions; loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information; and violations of applicable privacy and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Such costs and losses may not be covered under any insurance. In addition, maintaining vigilance against cyber-attacks may involve substantial costs over time, and system enhancements may themselves be subject to cyber-attacks. | |
The Portfolio’s prospectus contains unaudited information regarding the Portfolio’s principal risks. Please refer to that document when considering the Portfolio’s principal risks. | |
G. | Restricted Securities |
Restricted Securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale. Restricted securities generally are resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. Private placement securities are generally considered to be restricted except for those securities traded between qualified institutional investors under the provisions of Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. | |
Disposal of restricted investments may involve negotiations and expenses, and prompt sale at an acceptable price may be difficult to achieve. Restricted investments held by the Portfolio at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
H. | Insurance-Linked Securities (“ILS”) |
The Portfolio invests in ILS. The Portfolio could lose a portion or all of the principal it has invested in an ILS, and the right to additional interest or dividend payments with respect to the security, upon the occurrence of one or more trigger events, as defined within the terms of an insurance-linked security. Trigger events, generally, are hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural events of a specific size or magnitude that occur in a designated geographic region during a specified time period, and/or that involve losses or other metrics that exceed a specific amount. There is no way to accurately predict whether a trigger event will occur, and accordingly, ILS carry significant risk. The Portfolio is entitled to receive principal, and interest and/or dividend payments so long as no trigger event occurs of the description and magnitude specified by the instrument. In addition to the specified trigger events, ILS may expose the Portfolio to other risks, including but not limited to issuer (credit) default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations and adverse tax consequences. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in ILS may include event-linked bonds. ILS also may include special purpose vehicles (“SPVs”) or similar instruments structured to comprise a portion of a reinsurer’s catastrophe-oriented business, known as quota share instruments (sometimes referred to as reinsurance sidecars), or to provide reinsurance relating to specific risks to insurance or reinsurance companies through a collateralized instrument, known as collateralized reinsurance. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Structured reinsurance investments also may include industry loss warranties (“ILWs”). A traditional ILW takes the form of a bilateral reinsurance contract, but there are also products that take the form of derivatives, collateralized structures, or exchange-traded instruments. | |
Where the ILS are based on the performance of underlying reinsurance contracts, the Portfolio has limited transparency into the individual underlying contracts, and therefore must rely upon the risk assessment and sound underwriting practices of the issuer. Accordingly, it may be more difficult for the Portfolio’s investment adviser to fully evaluate the underlying risk profile of the Portfolio’s structured reinsurance investments, and therefore the Portfolio’s assets are placed at greater risk of loss than if the Portfolio’s investment adviser had more complete information. Structured reinsurance instruments generally will be considered illiquid securities by the Portfolio. These securities may be difficult to purchase, sell or unwind. Illiquid securities also may be difficult to value. If the Portfolio is forced to sell an illiquid asset, the Portfolio may be forced to sell at a loss. | |
Additionally, the Portfolio may gain exposure to ILS by investing in a closed-end interval fund, Pioneer ILS Interval Fund, an affiliate of the Adviser. The Portfolio’s investment in Pioneer ILS Interval Fund at June 30, 2025 is listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
I. | Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts |
The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts (“contracts”) for the purchase or sale of a specific foreign currency at a fixed price on a future date. All contracts are marked-to-market daily at the applicable exchange rates, and any resulting unrealized appreciation or depreciation is recorded in the Portfolio’s financial statements. The Portfolio records realized gains and losses at the time a contract is offset by entry into a closing transaction or extinguished by delivery of the currency. Risks may arise upon entering into these contracts from the potential inability of counterparties to meet the terms of the contract and from unanticipated movements in the value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar (see Note 7). | |
During the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Portfolio had entered into various forward foreign currency exchange contracts that obligated the Portfolio to deliver or take delivery of currencies at specified future maturity dates. Alternatively, prior to the settlement date of a forward foreign currency exchange contract, the Portfolio may close out such contract by entering into an offsetting contract. | |
The average market value of forward foreign currency exchange contracts open during the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $186,987 for sells. Open forward foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
J. | Credit Default Swap Contracts |
A credit default swap is a contract between a buyer of protection and a seller of protection against a pre-defined credit event or an underlying reference obligation, which may be a single security or a basket or index of securities. The Portfolio may buy or sell credit default swap contracts to seek to increase the Portfolio’s income, or to attempt to hedge the risk of default on portfolio securities. A credit default swap index is used to hedge risk or take a position on a basket of credit entities or indices. | |
As a seller of protection, the Portfolio would be required to pay the notional (or other agreed-upon) value of the referenced debt obligation to the counterparty in the event of a default by a U.S. or foreign corporate issuer of a debt obligation, which would likely result in a loss to the Portfolio. In return, the Portfolio would receive from the counterparty a periodic stream of payments during the term of the contract, provided that no event of default occurred. The maximum exposure of loss to the seller would be the notional value of the credit default swaps outstanding. If no default occurs, the Portfolio would keep the stream of payments and would have no payment obligation. The Portfolio may also buy credit default swap contracts in order to hedge against the risk of default of debt securities, in which case the Portfolio would function as the counterparty referenced above. | |
As a buyer of protection, the Portfolio makes an upfront or periodic payment to the protection seller in exchange for the right to receive a contingent payment. An upfront payment made by the Portfolio, as the protection buyer, is recorded within the “Swap contracts, at value” line item on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are recorded as realized gains or losses on the Statement of Operations. | |
Credit default swap contracts are marked-to-market daily using valuations supplied by independent sources, and the change in value, if any, is recorded within the “Swap contracts, at value” line item on the Statement of Assets and |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Liabilities. Payments received or made as a result of a credit event or upon termination of the contract are recognized, net of the appropriate amount of the upfront payment, as realized gains or losses on the Statement of Operations. | |
Credit default swap contracts involving the sale of protection may involve greater risks than if the Portfolio had invested in the referenced debt instrument directly. Credit default swap contracts are subject to general market risk, liquidity risk, counterparty risk and credit risk. If the Portfolio is a protection buyer and no credit event occurs, it will lose its investment. If the Portfolio is a protection seller and a credit event occurs, the value of the referenced debt instrument received by the Portfolio, together with the periodic payments received, may be less than the amount the Portfolio pays to the protection buyer, resulting in a loss to the Portfolio. In addition, obligations under sell protection credit default swaps may be partially offset by net amounts received from settlement of buy protection credit default swaps entered into by the Portfolio for the same reference obligation with the same counterparty. | |
The Portfolio may invest in credit default swap index products (“CDX”). A CDX is a swap on an index of credit default swaps. CDXs allow an investor to manage credit risk or take a position on a basket of credit entities (such as credit default swaps or commercial mortgage-backed securities) in a more efficient manner than transacting in a single-name credit default swap. If a credit event occurs in one of the underlying companies, the protection is paid out via the delivery of the defaulted bond by the buyer of protection in return for a payment of notional value of the defaulted bond by the seller of protection or it may be settled through a cash settlement between the two parties. The underlying company is then removed from the index. If the Portfolio holds a long position in a CDX, the Portfolio would indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by a CDX. A fund holding a long position in CDXs typically receives income from principal or interest paid on the underlying securities. By investing in CDXs, the Portfolio could be exposed to liquidity risk, counterparty risk, credit risk of the issuers of the underlying loan obligations and of the CDX markets, and operational risks. If there is a default by the CDX counterparty, the Portfolio will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. CDXs also bear the risk that the Portfolio will not be able to meet its obligation to the counterparty. | |
Certain swap contracts that are cleared through a central clearinghouse are referred to as centrally cleared swaps. All payments made or received by the Portfolio are pursuant to a centrally cleared swap contract with the central clearing party rather than the original counterparty. Upon entering into a centrally cleared swap contract, the Portfolio is required to make an initial margin deposit, either in cash or in securities. The daily change in value on open centrally cleared contracts is recorded as “Variation margin for centrally cleared swap contracts” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Cash received from or paid to the broker related to previous margin movement is held in a segregated account at the broker and is recorded as either “Due from broker for swaps” or “Due to broker for swaps” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The amount of cash deposited with a broker as collateral at June 30, 2025 is recorded as “Swaps collateral” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. | |
The average notional values of credit default swap contracts buy protection and credit default swap contracts sell protection open during the six months ended June 30, 2025 were $1,220,000 and $246,667, respectively. Open credit default swap contracts at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Counterparty | Derivative Liabilities Subject to Master Netting Agreement |
Derivatives Available for Offset |
Non-Cash Collateral Pledged(a) |
Cash Collateral Pledged(a) |
Net Amount of Derivative Liabilities(b) |
State Street Bank & Trust Co. | $6,356 | $— | $— | $— | $6,356 |
Total | $6,356 | $— | $— | $— | $6,356 |
(a) | The amount presented here may be less than the total amount of collateral received/pledged, as the net amount of derivative assets and liabilities cannot be less than $0. |
(b) | Represents the net amount payable to the counterparty in the event of default. |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
Interest Rate Risk |
Credit Risk |
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk |
Equity Risk |
Commodity Risk |
Liabilities | |||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $— | $— | $6,356 | $— | $— |
Centrally cleared swap contracts† | — | 117,082 | — | — | — |
Total Value | $— | $117,082 | $6,356 | $— | $— |
† | Includes cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of centrally cleared swap contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only net variation margin is reported within the receivables and/or payables on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. |
Statement of Operations | Interest Rate Risk |
Credit Risk |
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk |
Equity Risk |
Commodity Risk |
Net Realized Gain (Loss) on | |||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $— | $— | $(8,552) | $— | $— |
Swap contracts | — | 9,723 | — | — | — |
Total Value | $— | $9,723 | $(8,552) | $— | $— |
Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | |||||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $— | $— | $(14,134) | $— | $— |
Swap contracts | — | (123,513) | — | — | — |
Total Value | $— | $(123,513) | $(14,134) | $— | $— |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Name of the Affiliated Issuer |
Value at December 31, 2024 |
Purchases Costs |
Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) |
Net Realized Gain/(Loss) |
Dividends Received and Reinvested |
Sales Proceeds |
Shares held at June 30, 2025 |
Value at June 30, 2025 |
Pioneer ILS Interval Fund | $719,549 | $— | $26,590 | $— | $— | $— | 80,577 | $746,139 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Fund | Total Voted | Votes For | Votes Against | Votes Abstained |
Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | 2,353,376 | 2,248,605 | 11,085 | 93,686 |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Schedule of Investments | 2 |
Financial Statements | 18 |
Notes to Financial Statements | 23 |
Additional Information | 38 |
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement | 39 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 102.5% | ||||||
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests — 1.3% of Net Assets*(a) | ||||||
Cruise Lines — 0.1% | ||||||
19,850 | LC Ahab US Bidco LLC, Second Amendment Incremental Term Loan, 7.327% (Term SOFR + 300 bps), 5/1/31 | $ 19,825 | ||||
Total Cruise Lines | $19,825 | |||||
Gambling (Non-Hotel) — 0.2% | ||||||
65,000(b) | River Rock Entertainment Authority, California, Term Loan, 6/17/31 | $ 63,375 | ||||
Total Gambling (Non-Hotel) | $63,375 | |||||
Medical-Drugs — 0.2% | ||||||
40,000 | 1261229 B.C. Ltd., Term Loan B, 10.561% (Term SOFR + 625 bps), 10/8/30 | $ 38,850 | ||||
9,925 | Endo Finance Holdings, Inc., 2024 Refinancing Term Loan, 8.327% (Term SOFR + 400 bps), 4/23/31 | 9,930 | ||||
Total Medical-Drugs | $48,780 | |||||
Medical-Wholesale Drug Distribution — 0.1% | ||||||
29,808 | Owens & Minor, Inc., Term B-1 Loan, 8.177% (Term SOFR + 375 bps), 3/29/29 | $ 29,827 | ||||
Total Medical-Wholesale Drug Distribution | $29,827 | |||||
Recreational Centers — 0.0%† | ||||||
15,366 | Fitness International LLC, Term B Loan, 9.577% (Term SOFR + 525 bps), 2/12/29 | $ 15,442 | ||||
Total Recreational Centers | $15,442 | |||||
Rental Auto & Equipment — 0.7% | ||||||
203,200 | Hertz Corp., Initial Term B Loan, 8.041% (Term SOFR + 350 bps), 6/30/28 | $ 169,672 | ||||
39,531 | Hertz Corp., Initial Term C Loan, 8.041% (Term SOFR + 350 bps), 6/30/28 | 33,008 | ||||
Total Rental Auto & Equipment | $202,680 | |||||
Total Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests (Cost $400,035) |
$379,929 | |||||
Shares | ||||||
Common Stocks — 0.1% of Net Assets | ||||||
Household Durables — 0.0%† | ||||||
15,463(c) | Desarrolladora Homex SAB de CV | $ 1 | ||||
Total Household Durables | $1 | |||||
Paper & Forest Products — 0.0% | ||||||
1,032(c)+ | Emerald Plantation Holdings, Ltd. | $ — | ||||
Total Paper & Forest Products | $— | |||||
Passenger Airlines — 0.1% | ||||||
1,529(c) | Grupo Aeromexico SAB de CV | $ 26,143 | ||||
Total Passenger Airlines | $26,143 | |||||
Total Common Stocks (Cost $19,081) |
$26,144 | |||||
Principal Amount USD ($) |
||||||
Asset Backed Securities — 3.8% of Net Assets | ||||||
6,795 | Affirm Asset Securitization Trust, Series 2024-X1, Class A, 6.27%, 5/15/29 (144A) | $ 6,800 | ||||
100,000 | Amur Equipment Finance Receivables XII LLC, Series 2023-1A, Class D, 7.48%, 7/22/30 (144A) | 104,753 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Asset Backed Securities — (continued) | ||||||
100,000 | Avis Budget Rental Car Funding AESOP LLC, Series 2023-8A, Class D, 7.52%, 2/20/30 (144A) | $ 101,006 | ||||
100,000 | Cascade MH Asset Trust, Series 2021-MH1, Class B1, 4.573%, 2/25/46 (144A) | 84,759 | ||||
100,000 | Cologix Canadian Issuer LP, Series 2022-1CAN, Class A2, 4.94%, 1/25/52 (144A) | 71,982 | ||||
100,000 | Continental Finance Credit Card ABS Master Trust, Series 2022-A, Class C, 9.33%, 10/15/30 (144A) | 103,342 | ||||
83,333 | Crockett Partners Equipment Co. IIA LLC, Series 2024-1C, Class A, 6.05%, 1/20/31 (144A) | 84,185 | ||||
60,000 | DataBank Issuer, Series 2024-1A, Class A2, 5.30%, 1/26/54 (144A) | 59,744 | ||||
13,109(d) | Equifirst Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2003-1, Class IF1, 4.01%, 12/25/32 | 12,490 | ||||
50,000 | Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust, Series 2024-3A, Class D, 5.98%, 9/16/30 | 51,120 | ||||
133,942(e) | FIGRE Trust, Series 2024-HE6, Class A, 5.724%, 12/25/54 (144A) | 135,196 | ||||
100,000 | NMEF Funding LLC, Series 2022-B, Class C, 8.54%, 6/15/29 (144A) | 102,169 | ||||
100,000 | PEAR LLC, Series 2021-1, Class B, 0.000%, 1/15/34 (144A) | 87,535 | ||||
69,717(d) | Vista Point Securitization Trust, Series 2024-CES1, Class A1, 6.676%, 5/25/54 (144A) | 70,596 | ||||
44,643 | Westgate Resorts LLC, Series 2022-1A, Class D, 3.838%, 8/20/36 (144A) | 44,312 | ||||
Total Asset Backed Securities (Cost $1,125,209) |
$1,119,989 | |||||
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations—7.9% of Net Assets | ||||||
100,000(e) | Bayview MSR Opportunity Master Fund Trust, Series 2021-2, Class A8, 2.50%, 6/25/51 (144A) | $ 66,848 | ||||
100,000(e) | BINOM Securitization Trust, Series 2022-RPL1, Class M3, 3.00%, 2/25/61 (144A) | 72,680 | ||||
20,000(a) | Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2020-SBT1, Class 1M2, 8.07% (SOFR30A + 376 bps), 2/25/40 (144A) | 20,778 | ||||
50,000(a) | Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2020-SBT1, Class 2M2, 8.07% (SOFR30A + 376 bps), 2/25/40 (144A) | 51,928 | ||||
70,000(a) | Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2022-R02, Class 2B1, 8.805% (SOFR30A + 450 bps), 1/25/42 (144A) | 73,047 | ||||
50,000(a) | Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2024-R03, Class 2M2, 6.256% (SOFR30A + 195 bps), 3/25/44 (144A) | 50,405 | ||||
150,000(a) | Eagle Re, Ltd., Series 2023-1, Class M1B, 8.255% (SOFR30A + 395 bps), 9/26/33 (144A) | 153,832 | ||||
62,305(a)(f) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 4087, Class SB, 1.612% (SOFR30A + 592 bps), 7/15/42 | 7,515 | ||||
35,887(a)(f) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 4091, Class SH, 2.132% (SOFR30A + 644 bps), 8/15/42 | 5,292 | ||||
34,723(f) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 4999, Class QI, 4.00%, 5/25/50 | 6,914 | ||||
45,076(f) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMICs, Series 5067, Class GI, 4.00%, 12/25/50 | 9,395 | ||||
50,000(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. STACR REMIC Trust, Series 2020-DNA6, Class B2, 9.955% (SOFR30A + 565 bps), 12/25/50 (144A) | 57,027 | ||||
30,000(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. STACR REMIC Trust, Series 2020-HQA3, Class B2, 14.42% (SOFR30A + 1,011 bps), 7/25/50 (144A) | 39,582 | ||||
80,000(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. STACR REMIC Trust, Series 2020-HQA5, Class B2, 11.705% (SOFR30A + 740 bps), 11/25/50 (144A) | 96,088 | ||||
45,000(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. STACR REMIC Trust, Series 2021-HQA4, Class B1, 8.055% (SOFR30A + 375 bps), 12/25/41 (144A) | 46,315 | ||||
13,727(a)(f) | Federal National Mortgage Association REMICs, Series 2012-14, Class SP, 2.13% (SOFR30A + 644 bps), 8/25/41 | 1,252 | ||||
14,142(a)(f) | Federal National Mortgage Association REMICs, Series 2018-43, Class SM, 1.78% (SOFR30A + 609 bps), 6/25/48 | 1,799 | ||||
15,886(a)(f) | Federal National Mortgage Association REMICs, Series 2019-33, Class S, 1.63% (SOFR30A + 594 bps), 7/25/49 | 1,873 | ||||
14,485(a)(f) | Federal National Mortgage Association REMICs, Series 2019-41, Class PS, 1.63% (SOFR30A + 594 bps), 8/25/49 | 1,898 | ||||
14,967(a)(f) | Federal National Mortgage Association REMICs, Series 2019-41, Class SM, 1.63% (SOFR30A + 594 bps), 8/25/49 | 2,045 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations—(continued) | ||||||
9,034 | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2009-83, Class EB, 4.50%, 9/20/39 | $ 9,106 | ||||
123,660(a)(f) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2019-117, Class SB, 7.629% (1 Month Term SOFR + 331 bps), 9/20/49 | 1,612 | ||||
180,295(f) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2019-128, Class IB, 3.50%, 10/20/49 | 30,187 | ||||
180,472(f) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2019-128, Class ID, 3.50%, 10/20/49 | 29,718 | ||||
88,630(f) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2019-159, Class CI, 3.50%, 12/20/49 | 14,997 | ||||
99,871(a)(f) | Government National Mortgage Association, Series 2020-9, Class SA, 7.559% (1 Month Term SOFR + 324 bps), 1/20/50 | 1,432 | ||||
90,391(d) | GS Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 2025-CES1, Class A1A, 5.568%, 5/25/55 (144A) | 90,784 | ||||
100,000(e) | GS Mortgage-Backed Securities Corp. Trust, Series 2022-PJ4, Class A33, 3.00%, 9/25/52 (144A) | 70,752 | ||||
88,466(e) | Hundred Acre Wood Trust, Series 2021-INV1, Class B2, 3.232%, 7/25/51 (144A) | 76,210 | ||||
90,121(e) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-7, Class B3, 2.803%, 11/25/51 (144A) | 71,504 | ||||
89,790(e) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-INV1, Class B3, 2.972%, 10/25/51 (144A) | 72,950 | ||||
92,589(e) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-3, Class B3, 3.096%, 8/25/52 (144A) | 75,266 | ||||
100,000(e) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-4, Class A5, 3.00%, 10/25/52 (144A) | 70,840 | ||||
100,000(e) | JP Morgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-LTV1, Class M1, 3.513%, 7/25/52 (144A) | 64,905 | ||||
54,170(a) | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. - JPMWM, Series 2021-CL1, Class M3, 6.105% (SOFR30A + 180 bps), 3/25/51 (144A) | 53,487 | ||||
100,000(e) | Mello Mortgage Capital Acceptance, Series 2021-INV2, Class A5, 2.50%, 8/25/51 (144A) | 65,803 | ||||
83,695(a) | Multifamily Connecticut Avenue Securities Trust, Series 2019-01, Class M10, 7.67% (SOFR30A + 336 bps), 10/25/49 (144A) | 84,951 | ||||
88,887(e) | Rate Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-J1, Class B2, 2.706%, 7/25/51 (144A) | 74,071 | ||||
100,000(e) | Sequoia Mortgage Trust, Series 2022-1, Class A7, 2.50%, 2/25/52 (144A) | 65,521 | ||||
50,000(a) | STACR Trust, Series 2018-HRP2, Class B2, 14.92% (SOFR30A + 1,061 bps), 2/25/47 (144A) | 62,324 | ||||
100,000(e) | Towd Point Mortgage Trust, Series 2017-1, Class B3, 3.817%, 10/25/56 (144A) | 83,716 | ||||
100,000(a) | Towd Point Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-HY1, Class B2, 6.584% (1 Month Term SOFR + 226 bps), 10/25/48 (144A) | 101,371 | ||||
83,787(e) | Towd Point Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-R1, Class A1, 2.918%, 11/30/60 (144A) | 72,952 | ||||
97,484(a) | Triangle Re, Ltd., Series 2023-1, Class M1A, 7.705% (SOFR30A + 340 bps), 11/25/33 (144A) | 98,561 | ||||
87,029(e) | Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 2020-5, Class B2, 2.909%, 9/25/50 (144A) | 75,084 | ||||
100,000(e) | Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 2022-2, Class A6, 2.50%, 12/25/51 (144A) | 65,073 | ||||
Total Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (Cost $2,694,425) |
$2,349,690 | |||||
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities—6.3% of Net Assets | ||||||
60,000(a) | Alen Mortgage Trust, Series 2021-ACEN, Class E, 8.426% (1 Month Term SOFR + 411 bps), 4/15/34 (144A) | $ 45,900 | ||||
100,000(a) | AREIT Trust, Series 2022-CRE6, Class D, 7.151% (SOFR30A + 285 bps), 1/20/37 (144A) | 99,174 | ||||
100,000(e) | Benchmark Mortgage Trust, Series 2020-IG3, Class B, 3.357%, 9/15/48 (144A) | 68,529 | ||||
40,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class A, 5.326% (1 Month Term SOFR + 101 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 39,962 | ||||
35,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class B, 5.723% (1 Month Term SOFR + 141 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 34,956 | ||||
50,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class E, 6.671% (1 Month Term SOFR + 236 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 49,875 | ||||
100,000(a) | BX Trust, Series 2021-ARIA, Class G, 7.569% (1 Month Term SOFR + 326 bps), 10/15/36 (144A) | 99,190 | ||||
100,000(e) | CSAIL Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2015-C1, Class C, 3.959%, 4/15/50 | 90,795 | ||||
25,000(e) | CSAIL Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2015-C4, Class D, 3.886%, 11/15/48 | 24,299 | ||||
75,000(a) | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Credit Risk, Series 2021-MN3, Class M2, 8.305% (SOFR30A + 400 bps), 11/25/51 (144A) | 77,302 | ||||
49,000(e) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2017-KW02, Class B, 3.885%, 12/25/26 (144A) | 47,347 | ||||
50,000(e) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2017-KW03, Class B, 4.214%, 7/25/27 (144A) | 48,117 | ||||
75,000(e) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2018-KHG1, Class B, 4.03%, 12/25/27 (144A) | 70,997 | ||||
25,000(e) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2018-KW07, Class B, 4.253%, 10/25/31 (144A) | 22,404 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities—(continued) | ||||||
31,052(e) | FREMF Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-KJ24, Class B, 7.60%, 10/25/27 (144A) | $ 29,481 | ||||
50,000(e) | FREMF Trust, Series 2018-KW04, Class B, 4.069%, 9/25/28 (144A) | 45,755 | ||||
100,000(a) | FS Rialto Issuer LLC, Series 2025-FL10, Class A, 5.703% (1 Month Term SOFR + 139 bps), 8/19/42 (144A) | 99,750 | ||||
92,363(a) | GS Mortgage Securities Corp. Trust, Series 2020-DUNE, Class E, 7.08% (1 Month Term SOFR + 276 bps), 12/15/36 (144A) | 88,977 | ||||
100,000(e) | JP Morgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2020-LOOP, Class F, 3.99%, 12/5/38 (144A) | 11,988 | ||||
49,621 | Key Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2019-S2, Class A3, 3.469%, 6/15/52 (144A) | 47,539 | ||||
100,000 | Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust, Series 2014-150E, Class AS, 4.012%, 9/9/32 (144A) | 84,555 | ||||
15,000 | Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust, Series 2016-UBS9, Class D, 3.00%, 3/15/49 (144A) | 11,865 | ||||
100,000(e) | Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust, Series 2018-MP, Class A, 4.419%, 7/11/40 (144A) | 94,401 | ||||
40,000 | Palisades Center Trust, Series 2016-PLSD, Class A, 2.713%, 4/13/33 (144A) | 29,160 | ||||
50,000(a) | Ready Capital Mortgage Financing LLC, Series 2021-FL7, Class D, 7.384% (1 Month Term SOFR + 306 bps), 11/25/36 (144A) | 49,710 | ||||
100,000(e) | Ready Capital Mortgage Trust, Series 2019-5, Class E, 5.236%, 2/25/52 (144A) | 88,825 | ||||
100,000 | SLG Office Trust, Series 2021-OVA, Class E, 2.851%, 7/15/41 (144A) | 84,154 | ||||
100,000 | SLG Office Trust, Series 2021-OVA, Class F, 2.851%, 7/15/41 (144A) | 79,748 | ||||
100,000(e) | THPT Mortgage Trust, Series 2023-THL, Class B, 7.924%, 12/10/34 (144A) | 101,030 | ||||
1,000,000(e)(f) | UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2018-C9, Class XB, 0.487%, 3/15/51 | 9,482 | ||||
96,304(e) | Velocity Commercial Capital Loan Trust, Series 2025-1, Class A, 6.03%, 2/25/55 (144A) | 97,238 | ||||
Total Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (Cost $2,069,428) |
$1,872,505 | |||||
Convertible Corporate Bonds — 0.0%† of Net Assets | ||||||
Entertainment — 0.0%† | ||||||
5,000 | Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., 2.875%, 1/15/30 (144A) | $ 5,438 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $5,438 | |||||
Total Convertible Corporate Bonds (Cost $5,000) |
$5,438 | |||||
Corporate Bonds — 36.3% of Net Assets | ||||||
Aerospace & Defense — 0.5% | ||||||
110,000 | Boeing Co., 6.858%, 5/1/54 | $ 120,419 | ||||
35,000 | Boeing Co., 7.008%, 5/1/64 | 38,442 | ||||
Total Aerospace & Defense | $158,861 | |||||
Airlines — 0.8% | ||||||
52,797(g) | ABRA Global Finance, 14.00% (8.00% PIK or 6.00% Cash), 10/22/29 (144A) | $ 40,073 | ||||
11,625 | American Airlines Pass-Through Trust, 3.95%, 7/11/30 | 10,959 | ||||
14,816 | JetBlue Pass-Through Trust, 4.00%, 11/15/32 | 13,871 | ||||
40,000 | Latam Airlines Group S.A., 7.875%, 4/15/30 (144A) | 40,800 | ||||
10,000 | OneSky Flight LLC, 8.875%, 12/15/29 (144A) | 10,412 | ||||
EUR100,000 | Transportes Aereos Portugueses S.A., 5.125%, 11/15/29 (144A) | 118,340 | ||||
Total Airlines | $234,455 | |||||
Auto Manufacturers — 4.8% | ||||||
135,000 | Ford Motor Co., 4.346%, 12/8/26 | $ 134,068 | ||||
40,000 | Ford Motor Co., 6.10%, 8/19/32 | 39,944 | ||||
200,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 5.875%, 11/7/29 | 200,587 | ||||
205,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 6.125%, 3/8/34 | 199,558 | ||||
200,000 | Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, 6.50%, 2/7/35 | 199,723 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Auto Manufacturers — (continued) | ||||||
195,000 | General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 5.90%, 1/7/35 | $ 196,034 | ||||
125,000 | General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 6.10%, 1/7/34 | 128,654 | ||||
165,000 | General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 6.40%, 1/9/33 | 173,606 | ||||
150,000 | Mercedes-Benz Finance North America LLC, 5.45%, 4/1/35 (144A) | 152,176 | ||||
Total Auto Manufacturers | $1,424,350 | |||||
Auto Parts & Equipment — 0.0%† | ||||||
5,000 | Magna International, Inc., 5.875%, 6/1/35 | $ 5,132 | ||||
Total Auto Parts & Equipment | $5,132 | |||||
Banks — 6.5% | ||||||
200,000(e) | ABN AMRO Bank NV, 3.324% (5 Year CMT Index + 190 bps), 3/13/37 (144A) | $ 175,867 | ||||
200,000(e) | Banco Santander S.A., 3.225% (1 Year CMT Index + 160 bps), 11/22/32 | 179,458 | ||||
90,000(e) | Bank of America Corp., 5.744% (SOFR + 170 bps), 2/12/36 | 91,452 | ||||
200,000(e)(h) | BNP Paribas S.A., 7.45% (5 Year CMT Index + 313 bps) (144A) | 201,200 | ||||
76,000(e)(h) | Citigroup, Inc., 6.75% (5 Year CMT Index + 257 bps) | 76,560 | ||||
81,000(e)(h) | Citigroup, Inc., 6.95% (5 Year CMT Index + 273 bps) | 82,727 | ||||
65,000(e) | Citizens Financial Group, Inc., 5.718% (SOFR + 191 bps), 7/23/32 | 67,245 | ||||
41,000(e) | Citizens Financial Group, Inc., 5.841% (SOFR + 201 bps), 1/23/30 | 42,465 | ||||
25,000 | Freedom Mortgage Corp., 6.625%, 1/15/27 (144A) | 25,042 | ||||
5,000 | Freedom Mortgage Corp., 12.25%, 10/1/30 (144A) | 5,544 | ||||
75,000(e) | Morgan Stanley, 5.942% (5 Year CMT Index + 180 bps), 2/7/39 | 76,981 | ||||
20,000(e) | Morgan Stanley, 5.948% (5 Year CMT Index + 243 bps), 1/19/38 | 20,575 | ||||
235,000(e)(h) | Nordea Bank Abp, 3.75% (5 Year CMT Index + 260 bps) (144A) | 211,046 | ||||
250,000(e) | Societe Generale S.A., 6.10% (1 Year CMT Index + 160 bps), 4/13/33 (144A) | 259,872 | ||||
200,000(e) | UniCredit S.p.A., 5.459% (5 Year CMT Index + 475 bps), 6/30/35 (144A) | 198,844 | ||||
200,000(e) | UniCredit S.p.A., 7.296% (5 Year USD Swap Rate + 491 bps), 4/2/34 (144A) | 211,548 | ||||
Total Banks | $1,926,426 | |||||
Biotechnology — 0.4% | ||||||
EUR100,000 | Cidron Aida Finco S.a.r.l., 7.00%, 10/27/31 (144A) | $ 120,241 | ||||
Total Biotechnology | $120,241 | |||||
Chemicals — 0.7% | ||||||
115,000 | Celanese US Holdings LLC, 7.20%, 11/15/33 | $ 122,079 | ||||
93,000 | Methanex US Operations, Inc., 6.25%, 3/15/32 (144A) | 92,730 | ||||
Total Chemicals | $214,809 | |||||
Commercial Services — 0.8% | ||||||
5,000 | Avis Budget Car Rental LLC/Avis Budget Finance, Inc., 8.375%, 6/15/32 (144A) | $ 5,231 | ||||
68,000 | Champions Financing, Inc., 8.75%, 2/15/29 (144A) | 65,653 | ||||
60,000 | Element Fleet Management Corp., 5.643%, 3/13/27 (144A) | 60,933 | ||||
64,000 | Garda World Security Corp., 6.00%, 6/1/29 (144A) | 62,468 | ||||
15,000 | Herc Holdings, Inc., 7.00%, 6/15/30 (144A) | 15,665 | ||||
20,000 | Herc Holdings, Inc., 7.25%, 6/15/33 (144A) | 20,956 | ||||
Total Commercial Services | $230,906 | |||||
Distribution/Wholesale — 0.0%† | ||||||
10,000 | Velocity Vehicle Group LLC, 8.00%, 6/1/29 (144A) | $ 9,992 | ||||
Total Distribution/Wholesale | $9,992 | |||||
Diversified Financial Services — 3.1% | ||||||
29,000(e)(h) | Ally Financial, Inc., 4.70% (7 yr. US Treasury Yield Curve Rate T Note Constant Maturity + 348 bps) | $ 26,009 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Diversified Financial Services — (continued) | ||||||
75,000(e) | Ally Financial, Inc., 6.184% (SOFR + 229 bps), 7/26/35 | $ 76,498 | ||||
60,000(e) | Capital One Financial Corp., 2.359% (SOFR + 134 bps), 7/29/32 | 50,882 | ||||
20,000(e) | Capital One Financial Corp., 6.183% (SOFR + 204 bps), 1/30/36 | 20,361 | ||||
100,000(e) | Capital One Financial Corp., 6.377% (SOFR + 286 bps), 6/8/34 | 106,460 | ||||
5,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 8.375%, 4/1/32 (144A) | 5,054 | ||||
45,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 9.125%, 5/15/31 (144A) | 46,385 | ||||
40,000 | Freedom Mortgage Holdings LLC, 9.25%, 2/1/29 (144A) | 41,547 | ||||
150,000 | Global Aircraft Leasing Co., Ltd., 8.75%, 9/1/27 (144A) | 153,767 | ||||
15,000 | Jane Street Group/JSG Finance, Inc., 6.75%, 5/1/33 (144A) | 15,423 | ||||
50,000 | Nationstar Mortgage Holdings, Inc., 6.50%, 8/1/29 (144A) | 51,073 | ||||
130,000 | OneMain Finance Corp., 4.00%, 9/15/30 | 119,955 | ||||
45,000 | Phoenix Aviation Capital, Ltd., 9.25%, 7/15/30 (144A) | 46,608 | ||||
75,000 | Provident Funding Associates LP/PFG Finance Corp., 9.75%, 9/15/29 (144A) | 78,864 | ||||
25,000 | Rocket Cos., Inc., 6.125%, 8/1/30 (144A) | 25,476 | ||||
30,000 | Rocket Cos., Inc., 6.375%, 8/1/33 (144A) | 30,696 | ||||
32,000 | United Wholesale Mortgage LLC, 5.50%, 4/15/29 (144A) | 31,061 | ||||
Total Diversified Financial Services | $926,119 | |||||
Electric — 0.7% | ||||||
75,000(e) | Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., 4.75% (5 Year CMT Index + 325 bps), 1/18/82 | $ 73,149 | ||||
15,000(d) | Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., 5.365%, 6/15/26 | 15,080 | ||||
30,000 | Pampa Energia S.A., 7.875%, 12/16/34 (144A) | 29,928 | ||||
100,000(e) | Sempra, 6.55% (5 Year CMT Index + 214 bps), 4/1/55 | 94,826 | ||||
Total Electric | $212,983 | |||||
Energy-Alternate Sources — 0.1% | ||||||
34,986 | Alta Wind Holdings LLC, 7.00%, 6/30/35 (144A) | $ 33,521 | ||||
Total Energy-Alternate Sources | $33,521 | |||||
Entertainment — 0.9% | ||||||
200,000 | Resorts World Las Vegas LLC/RWLV Capital, Inc., 4.625%, 4/16/29 (144A) | $ 177,167 | ||||
90,000 | Voyager Parent LLC, 9.25%, 7/1/32 (144A) | 93,638 | ||||
Total Entertainment | $270,805 | |||||
Food — 0.1% | ||||||
25,000 | Fiesta Purchaser, Inc., 9.625%, 9/15/32 (144A) | $ 26,379 | ||||
Total Food | $26,379 | |||||
Healthcare-Products — 0.5% | ||||||
117,000(e) | Dentsply Sirona, Inc., 8.375% (5 Year CMT Index + 438 bps), 9/12/55 | $ 117,645 | ||||
24,000 | Sotera Health Holdings LLC, 7.375%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 24,971 | ||||
Total Healthcare-Products | $142,616 | |||||
Healthcare-Services — 0.6% | ||||||
12,000 | DaVita, Inc., 6.75%, 7/15/33 (144A) | $ 12,391 | ||||
100,000 | Prime Healthcare Services, Inc., 9.375%, 9/1/29 (144A) | 99,250 | ||||
55,000 | US Acute Care Solutions LLC, 9.75%, 5/15/29 (144A) | 56,729 | ||||
Total Healthcare-Services | $168,370 | |||||
Insurance — 3.1% | ||||||
105,000 | CNO Financial Group, Inc., 6.45%, 6/15/34 | $ 110,117 | ||||
290,000(e)(h) | Dai-ichi Life Insurance Co., Ltd., 6.20% (5 Year CMT Index + 252 bps) (144A) | 292,632 | ||||
100,000(e) | Farmers Exchange Capital III, 5.454% (3 Month Term SOFR + 345 bps), 10/15/54 (144A) | 90,409 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Insurance — (continued) | ||||||
120,000(e) | Farmers Insurance Exchange, 4.747% (3 Month USD LIBOR + 323 bps), 11/1/57 (144A) | $ 97,977 | ||||
60,000(e) | Farmers Insurance Exchange, 7.00% (10 Year US Treasury Yield Curve Rate T Note Constant Maturity + 386 bps), 10/15/64 (144A) | 59,556 | ||||
85,000 | Liberty Mutual Group, Inc., 5.50%, 6/15/52 (144A) | 78,709 | ||||
200,000(e) | Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Co., 6.10% (5 Year CMT Index + 291 bps), 6/11/55 (144A) | 199,612 | ||||
Total Insurance | $929,012 | |||||
Iron & Steel — 0.4% | ||||||
30,000 | Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc., 7.00%, 3/15/32 (144A) | $ 28,280 | ||||
85,000 | Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc., 7.375%, 5/1/33 (144A) | 79,811 | ||||
Total Iron & Steel | $108,091 | |||||
Leisure Time — 0.4% | ||||||
EUR100,000 | Carnival Corp., 5.75%, 1/15/30 (144A) | $ 125,549 | ||||
Total Leisure Time | $125,549 | |||||
Lodging — 0.2% | ||||||
15,000 | Choice Hotels International, Inc., 5.85%, 8/1/34 | $ 15,117 | ||||
30,000 | Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC/Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower, Inc., 5.00%, 6/1/29 (144A) | 28,855 | ||||
30,000 | Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC/Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower, Inc., 6.625%, 1/15/32 (144A) | 30,466 | ||||
Total Lodging | $74,438 | |||||
Media — 0.1% | ||||||
35,000 | Gray Media, Inc., 10.50%, 7/15/29 (144A) | $ 37,600 | ||||
Total Media | $37,600 | |||||
Miscellaneous Manufacturing — 0.2% | ||||||
45,000 | Amsted Industries, Inc., 6.375%, 3/15/33 (144A) | $ 45,741 | ||||
Total Miscellaneous Manufacturing | $45,741 | |||||
Multi-National — 0.7% | ||||||
TRY8,250,000(i) | European Bank for Reconstruction & Development, 7/11/36 | $ 14,649 | ||||
INR4,700,000 | European Bank For Reconstruction & Development, 6.25%, 4/11/28 | 54,490 | ||||
INR4,000,000 | International Bank for Reconstruction & Development, 6.50%, 4/17/30 | 46,394 | ||||
INR5,500,000 | International Bank for Reconstruction & Development, 6.85%, 4/24/28 | 64,750 | ||||
KZT11,000,000 | International Bank for Reconstruction & Development, 10.00%, 9/16/26 | 19,450 | ||||
Total Multi-National | $199,733 | |||||
Oil & Gas — 5.5% | ||||||
150,000 | Aker BP ASA, 6.00%, 6/13/33 (144A) | $ 154,645 | ||||
155,000 | APA Corp., 6.75%, 2/15/55 (144A) | 146,415 | ||||
290,000(e)(h) | BP Capital Markets Plc, 6.125% (5 Year CMT Index + 192 bps) | 289,523 | ||||
72,000 | Energean Israel Finance, Ltd., 5.875%, 3/30/31 (144A) | 66,240 | ||||
75,000 | Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co., 6.875%, 5/15/34 (144A) | 71,837 | ||||
222,000 | Hilcorp Energy I LP/Hilcorp Finance Co., 7.25%, 2/15/35 (144A) | 217,083 | ||||
75,000 | Long Ridge Energy LLC, 8.75%, 2/15/32 (144A) | 77,907 | ||||
40,000 | Petroleos Mexicanos, 6.70%, 2/16/32 | 37,163 | ||||
210,000 | Saudi Arabian Oil Co., 6.375%, 6/2/55 (144A) | 209,921 | ||||
50,000 | Transocean, Inc., 8.25%, 5/15/29 (144A) | 46,227 | ||||
10,000 | Transocean, Inc., 8.50%, 5/15/31 (144A) | 8,926 | ||||
11,000 | Vermilion Energy, Inc., 6.875%, 5/1/30 (144A) | 10,575 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Oil & Gas — (continued) | ||||||
45,000 | Vista Energy Argentina SAU, 7.625%, 12/10/35 (144A) | $ 43,628 | ||||
160,000 | Wildfire Intermediate Holdings LLC, 7.50%, 10/15/29 (144A) | 158,939 | ||||
55,000 | Woodside Finance, Ltd., 6.00%, 5/19/35 | 56,141 | ||||
45,000 | YPF S.A., 6.95%, 7/21/27 (144A) | 44,639 | ||||
Total Oil & Gas | $1,639,809 | |||||
Oil & Gas Services — 0.3% | ||||||
44,000 | Enerflex, Ltd., 9.00%, 10/15/27 (144A) | $ 45,371 | ||||
30,000 | USA Compression Partners LP/USA Compression Finance Corp., 7.125%, 3/15/29 (144A) | 30,748 | ||||
Total Oil & Gas Services | $76,119 | |||||
Pharmaceuticals — 0.8% | ||||||
31,000+ | Par Pharmaceutical, Inc., 7.50%, 4/1/27 (144A) | $ — | ||||
EUR200,000 | Teva Pharmaceutical Finance Netherlands II BV, 4.375%, 5/9/30 | 239,660 | ||||
150,000+ | Tricida, Inc., 5/15/27 | — | ||||
Total Pharmaceuticals | $239,660 | |||||
Pipelines — 2.5% | ||||||
40,000 | Columbia Pipelines Holding Co. LLC, 5.097%, 10/1/31 (144A) | $ 40,174 | ||||
30,000 | DT Midstream, Inc., 5.80%, 12/15/34 (144A) | 30,552 | ||||
50,000(e) | Enbridge, Inc., 7.20% (5 Year CMT Index + 297 bps), 6/27/54 | 51,367 | ||||
50,000(e) | Enbridge, Inc., 7.375% (5 Year CMT Index + 312 bps), 3/15/55 | 51,949 | ||||
58,000(e) | Enbridge, Inc., 8.50% (5 Year CMT Index + 443 bps), 1/15/84 | 64,575 | ||||
15,000 | Hess Midstream Operations LP, 5.875%, 3/1/28 (144A) | 15,224 | ||||
9,000 | ONEOK, Inc., 5.05%, 4/1/45 | 7,570 | ||||
105,000 | ONEOK, Inc., 5.45%, 6/1/47 | 93,179 | ||||
34,000 | ONEOK, Inc., 5.60%, 4/1/44 | 31,014 | ||||
35,000(e) | South Bow Canadian Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd., 7.50% (5 Year CMT Index + 367 bps), 3/1/55 (144A) | 36,111 | ||||
88,000(e) | South Bow Canadian Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd., 7.625% (5 Year CMT Index + 395 bps), 3/1/55 (144A) | 91,358 | ||||
55,000 | Summit Midstream Holdings LLC, 8.625%, 10/31/29 (144A) | 56,267 | ||||
29,000 | Venture Global LNG, Inc., 8.375%, 6/1/31 (144A) | 30,120 | ||||
15,000 | Venture Global LNG, Inc., 9.50%, 2/1/29 (144A) | 16,341 | ||||
45,000(j) | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 6.50%, 1/15/34 (144A) | 45,000 | ||||
80,000(j) | Venture Global Plaquemines LNG LLC, 6.75%, 1/15/36 (144A) | 80,000 | ||||
Total Pipelines | $740,801 | |||||
Real Estate — 0.2% | ||||||
50,000 | Kennedy-Wilson, Inc., 4.75%, 2/1/30 | $ 45,791 | ||||
Total Real Estate | $45,791 | |||||
REITS — 0.4% | ||||||
25,000 | Americold Realty Operating Partnership LP, 5.409%, 9/12/34 | $ 24,469 | ||||
6,000 | Highwoods Realty LP, 2.60%, 2/1/31 | 5,184 | ||||
6,000 | Highwoods Realty LP, 3.05%, 2/15/30 | 5,479 | ||||
65,000 | Uniti Group LP/Uniti Group Finance 2019, Inc./CSL Capital LLC, 6.50%, 2/15/29 (144A) | 62,824 | ||||
10,000 | Uniti Group LP/Uniti Group Finance 2019, Inc./CSL Capital LLC, 8.625%, 6/15/32 (144A) | 10,102 | ||||
Total REITS | $108,058 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Semiconductors — 0.7% | ||||||
200,000 | Foundry JV Holdco LLC, 5.90%, 1/25/30 (144A) | $ 208,996 | ||||
Total Semiconductors | $208,996 | |||||
Telecommunications — 0.2% | ||||||
55,000 | Level 3 Financing, Inc., 6.875%, 6/30/33 (144A) | $ 55,964 | ||||
Total Telecommunications | $55,964 | |||||
Transportation — 0.1% | ||||||
20,000 | Star Leasing Co. LLC, 7.625%, 2/15/30 (144A) | $ 19,832 | ||||
Total Transportation | $19,832 | |||||
Total Corporate Bonds (Cost $10,710,605) |
$10,761,159 | |||||
Face Amount USD ($) |
||||||
Insurance-Linked Securities — 0.0%† of Net Assets# | ||||||
Reinsurance Sidecars — 0.0%† | ||||||
Multiperil – Worldwide — 0.0%† | ||||||
20,578(c)(k)+ | Lorenz Re 2019, 6/30/26 | $ 148 | ||||
Total Reinsurance Sidecars | $148 | |||||
Total Insurance-Linked Securities (Cost $2,886) |
$148 | |||||
Principal Amount USD ($) |
||||||
Foreign Government Bonds — 3.0% of Net Assets | ||||||
Argentina — 0.3% | ||||||
5,850 | Argentine Republic Government International Bond, 1.000%, 7/9/29 | $ 4,896 | ||||
145,500(d) | Argentine Republic Government International Bond, 4.125%, 7/9/35 | 97,881 | ||||
Total Argentina | $102,777 | |||||
Colombia — 0.7% | ||||||
200,000 | Colombia Government International Bond, 7.750%, 11/7/36 | $ 195,290 | ||||
Total Colombia | $195,290 | |||||
Ivory Coast — 0.4% | ||||||
EUR100,000 | Ivory Coast Government International Bond, 5.875%, 10/17/31 (144A) | $ 111,273 | ||||
Total Ivory Coast | $111,273 | |||||
Kazakhstan — 0.6% | ||||||
KZT100,000,000 | Development Bank of Kazakhstan JSC, 10.950%, 5/6/26 | $ 184,550 | ||||
Total Kazakhstan | $184,550 | |||||
Romania — 0.4% | ||||||
EUR60,000 | Romanian Government International Bond, 5.250%, 5/30/32 (144A) | $ 69,672 | ||||
EUR40,000 | Romanian Government International Bond, 5.625%, 5/30/37 (144A) | 44,300 | ||||
Total Romania | $113,972 | |||||
Serbia — 0.3% | ||||||
EUR100,000 | Serbia International Bond, 2.050%, 9/23/36 (144A) | $ 89,478 | ||||
Total Serbia | $89,478 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
Turkey — 0.2% | ||||||
TRY2,426,800 | Turkiye Government Bond, 30.000%, 9/12/29 | $ 56,954 | ||||
Total Turkey | $56,954 | |||||
Uruguay — 0.1% | ||||||
UYU1,790,000 | Uruguay Government International Bond, 9.750%, 7/20/33 | $ 47,125 | ||||
Total Uruguay | $47,125 | |||||
Total Foreign Government Bonds (Cost $939,005) |
$901,419 | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — 36.1% of Net Assets | ||||||
156,822 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 1.500%, 3/1/42 | $ 129,298 | ||||
233,137 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 2.500%, 5/1/51 | 195,024 | ||||
4,822 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 10/1/29 | 4,727 | ||||
1,204 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.000%, 11/1/47 | 1,082 | ||||
20,320 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 7/1/46 | 18,806 | ||||
68,993 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 4/1/52 | 62,598 | ||||
44,010 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 3.500%, 4/1/52 | 40,138 | ||||
4,171 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 4.000%, 4/1/47 | 3,946 | ||||
6,394 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.000%, 11/1/39 | 6,482 | ||||
1,627 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.000%, 3/1/44 | 1,653 | ||||
3,265 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.500%, 6/1/41 | 3,363 | ||||
72,672 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 5.500%, 7/1/49 | 73,928 | ||||
94,174 | Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 6.000%, 8/1/54 | 95,838 | ||||
361,222 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 1.500%, 3/1/42 | 297,272 | ||||
100,825 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 12/1/41 | 86,791 | ||||
155,450 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 4/1/42 | 133,086 | ||||
52,897 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 11/1/51 | 42,740 | ||||
100,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 79,139 | ||||
206,488 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 5/1/51 | 174,490 | ||||
59,237 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 5/1/51 | 50,166 | ||||
140,468 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 11/1/51 | 118,775 | ||||
153,429 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 1/1/52 | 128,796 | ||||
74,236 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 2/1/52 | 62,597 | ||||
7,877 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 10/1/30 | 7,691 | ||||
637 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 10/1/46 | 567 | ||||
349 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 1/1/47 | 311 | ||||
107,511 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 1/1/52 | 94,680 | ||||
146,233 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 3/1/52 | 129,103 | ||||
300,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 259,542 | ||||
69,782 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 3/1/52 | 63,372 | ||||
78,506 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 4/1/52 | 71,174 | ||||
24,975 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 4/1/52 | 22,774 | ||||
67,026 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 5/1/52 | 60,816 | ||||
100,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 90,020 | ||||
21,289 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 10/1/40 | 20,573 | ||||
2,938 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 12/1/40 | 2,840 | ||||
15,334 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 11/1/43 | 14,688 | ||||
33,283 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 7/1/51 | 31,259 | ||||
8,577 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 9/1/51 | 8,055 | ||||
100,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 92,973 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
26,776 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, 9/1/43 | $ 26,715 | ||||
25,424 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, 1/1/44 | 25,359 | ||||
5,060 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 4/1/30 | 5,117 | ||||
7,537 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 1/1/39 | 7,614 | ||||
100,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 7/15/40 (TBA) | 100,718 | ||||
1,651 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 12/1/44 | 1,672 | ||||
100,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 97,990 | ||||
100,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 7/1/40 (TBA) | 101,812 | ||||
74,041 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/50 | 75,290 | ||||
73,052 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 4/1/53 | 73,590 | ||||
31,877 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 9/1/53 | 31,908 | ||||
43 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 3/1/32 | 44 | ||||
79,069 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 5/1/53 | 81,787 | ||||
58,893 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/53 | 60,109 | ||||
82,610 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 9/1/53 | 84,067 | ||||
98,090 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 3/1/54 | 100,041 | ||||
500,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 508,061 | ||||
39,408 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/53 | 41,081 | ||||
73,363 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 9/1/53 | 76,571 | ||||
30,971 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 8/1/54 | 32,072 | ||||
30,658 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 9/1/54 | 31,684 | ||||
28,401 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 9/1/54 | 29,462 | ||||
700,000 | Federal National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/1/55 (TBA) | 722,734 | ||||
200,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 2.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 162,840 | ||||
200,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 2.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 169,888 | ||||
100,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 3.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 88,436 | ||||
100,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 5.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 98,215 | ||||
100,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 5.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 100,131 | ||||
100,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 6.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 101,461 | ||||
100,000 | Government National Mortgage Association, 6.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | 102,653 | ||||
2,737 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 3.500%, 10/15/42 | 2,551 | ||||
26,551 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 4/15/42 | 25,304 | ||||
41,537 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 8/15/43 | 40,045 | ||||
3,076 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 3/15/44 | 2,931 | ||||
6,065 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 9/15/44 | 5,777 | ||||
5,953 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 4/15/45 | 5,671 | ||||
10,060 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.000%, 6/15/45 | 9,579 | ||||
1,092 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 9/15/33 | 1,083 | ||||
2,088 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 4/15/35 | 2,067 | ||||
6,829 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 1/15/40 | 6,665 | ||||
29,431 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 3/15/40 | 28,733 | ||||
4,765 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 9/15/40 | 4,683 | ||||
6,102 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 4.500%, 7/15/41 | 5,951 | ||||
1,410 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.000%, 4/15/35 | 1,415 | ||||
1,159 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 1/15/34 | 1,194 | ||||
1,925 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 4/15/34 | 1,987 | ||||
518 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 7/15/34 | 528 | ||||
3,107 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 5.500%, 6/15/35 | 3,198 | ||||
203 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 2/15/33 | 209 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
Value | |||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (continued) | ||||||
337 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 3/15/33 | $ 352 | ||||
289 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 3/15/33 | 289 | ||||
419 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 6/15/33 | 441 | ||||
342 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 7/15/33 | 358 | ||||
230 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 7/15/33 | 231 | ||||
278 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 9/15/33 | 281 | ||||
388 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.000%, 10/15/33 | 406 | ||||
540 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 1/15/30 | 547 | ||||
72 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 2/15/32 | 75 | ||||
59 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 3/15/32 | 60 | ||||
156 | Government National Mortgage Association I, 6.500%, 11/15/32 | 161 | ||||
3,160 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 4/20/45 | 2,902 | ||||
5,860 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 4/20/45 | 5,360 | ||||
6,231 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 3/20/46 | 5,745 | ||||
791,354 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 3.500%, 12/20/54 | 720,767 | ||||
10,096 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 9/20/44 | 9,596 | ||||
13,089 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 10/20/46 | 12,390 | ||||
11,742 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 1/20/47 | 11,083 | ||||
7,844 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 2/20/48 | 7,335 | ||||
10,573 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.000%, 4/20/48 | 9,888 | ||||
3,514 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 9/20/41 | 3,487 | ||||
9,881 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 9/20/44 | 9,601 | ||||
4,085 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 10/20/44 | 3,995 | ||||
8,252 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 4.500%, 11/20/44 | 8,069 | ||||
912 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 5.500%, 3/20/34 | 933 | ||||
1,515 | Government National Mortgage Association II, 6.000%, 11/20/33 | 1,564 | ||||
1,500,000(i) | U.S. Treasury Bills, 7/17/25 | 1,497,240 | ||||
324,200 | U.S. Treasury Bonds, 2.250%, 2/15/52 | 198,028 | ||||
215,700 | U.S. Treasury Bonds, 4.375%, 8/15/43 | 205,597 | ||||
600,000 | U.S. Treasury Notes, 4.000%, 2/28/30 | 605,836 | ||||
1,000,000 | U.S. Treasury Notes, 4.250%, 1/31/30 | 1,019,726 | ||||
260,000 | U.S. Treasury Notes, 4.625%, 2/15/35 | 268,247 | ||||
Total U.S. Government and Agency Obligations (Cost $10,808,673) |
$10,680,456 | |||||
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS — 7.7% of Net Assets | ||||||
Foreign Treasury Obligations — 0.3% | ||||||
EGP3,875,000(i)(l) | Egypt Treasury Bills, 28.200%, 9/16/25 | $ 73,542 | ||||
$73,542 |
Shares | ||||||
Open-End Fund — 7.4% | ||||||
2,200,185(m) | Dreyfus Government Cash Management, Institutional Shares, 4.21% |
$ 2,200,185 | ||||
$2,200,185 | ||||||
TOTAL SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $2,273,000) |
$2,273,727 | |||||
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN UNAFFILIATED ISSUERS — 102.5% (Cost $31,047,347) |
$30,370,604 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Shares | Net Realized Gain (Loss) for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Capital Gain Distributions for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Dividend Income for the period ended 6/30/25 |
Value | |
Affiliated Issuer — 4.1% | ||||||
Closed-End Fund — 4.1% of Net Assets | ||||||
130,385(n) | Pioneer ILS Interval Fund | $— | $43,027 | $— | $— | $ 1,207,368 |
Total Investments in Affiliated Issuer — 4.1% (Cost $1,281,387) |
$1,207,368 |
Principal Amount USD ($) |
||||||
TBA Sales Commitments — (2.5)% of Net Assets | ||||||
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations — (2.5)% | ||||||
(700,000) | Government National Mortgage Association, 3.500%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | $ (636,323) | ||||
(100,000) | Government National Mortgage Association, 4.000%, 7/15/55 (TBA) | (92,962) | ||||
TOTAL TBA SALES COMMITMENTS (Proceeds $716,875) |
$(729,285) | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (4.1)% | $(1,221,435) | |||||
net assets — 100.0% | $29,627,252 | |||||
(TBA) | “To Be Announced” Securities. |
bps | Basis Points. |
CMT | Constant Maturity Treasury. |
FREMF | Freddie Mac Multifamily Fixed-Rate Mortgage Loans. |
LIBOR | London Interbank Offered Rate. |
REIT | Real Estate Investment Trust. |
REMICs | Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits. |
SOFR | Secured Overnight Financing Rate. |
SOFR30A | Secured Overnight Financing Rate 30 Day Average. |
(144A) | The resale of such security is exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Such securities may be resold normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2025, the value of these securities amounted to $11,860,848, or 40.0% of net assets. |
(a) | Floating rate note. Coupon rate, reference index and spread shown at June 30, 2025. |
(b) | All or a portion of this senior loan position has not settled. Rates do not take effect until settlement date. Rates shown, if any, are for the settled portion. |
(c) | Non-income producing security. |
(d) | Debt obligation initially issued at one coupon which converts to a higher coupon at a specific date. The rate shown is the rate at June 30, 2025. |
(e) | The interest rate is subject to change periodically. The interest rate and/or reference index and spread shown at June 30, 2025. |
(f) | Security represents the interest-only portion payments on a pool of underlying mortgages or mortgage-backed securities. |
(g) | Payment-in-kind (PIK) security which may pay interest in the form of additional principal amount. |
(h) | Security is perpetual in nature and has no stated maturity date. |
(i) | Security issued with a zero coupon. Income is recognized through accretion of discount. |
(j) | Securities purchased on a when-issued basis. Rates do not take effect until settlement date. |
(k) | Issued as preference shares. |
(l) | Rate shown represents yield-to-maturity. |
(m) | Rate periodically changes. Rate disclosed is the 7-day yield at June 30, 2025. |
(n) | Pioneer ILS Interval Fund is an affiliated closed-end fund managed by Victory Capital Management Inc., (the “Adviser”). |
* | Senior secured floating rate loan interests in which the Portfolio invests generally pay interest at rates that are periodically re-determined by reference to a base lending rate plus a premium. These base lending rates are generally (i) the lending rate offered by one or more major European banks, such as SOFR, (ii) the prime rate offered by one or more major United States banks, (iii) the rate of a certificate of deposit or (iv) other base lending rates used by commercial lenders. The interest rate shown is the rate accruing at June 30, 2025. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
+ | Security is valued using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). |
† | Amount rounds to less than 0.1%. |
# | Securities are restricted as to resale (see Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1G). |
Restricted Securities | Acquisition date | Cost | Value |
Lorenz Re 2019 | 7/10/2019 | $ 2,886 | $ 148 |
% of Net assets | 0.0%† |
† | Amount rounds to less than 0.1%. |
Currency Purchased |
In Exchange for |
Currency Sold |
Deliver | Counterparty | Settlement Date |
Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) |
AUD | 574,350 | USD | 368,147 | Citibank NA | 7/24/25 | $10,040 |
CLP | 150,000,000 | USD | 160,578 | Citibank NA | 9/25/25 | 396 |
EUR | 364,000 | USD | 415,702 | Citibank NA | 7/24/25 | 13,791 |
EUR | 125,000 | USD | 140,664 | Citibank NA | 8/28/25 | 7,158 |
IDR | 1,794,500,000 | USD | 109,022 | Citibank NA | 9/25/25 | 1,754 |
NGN | 227,050,000 | USD | 142,642 | Citibank NA | 9/25/25 | 386 |
TRY | 3,355,000 | USD | 70,381 | Citibank NA | 1/9/26 | 1,109 |
USD | 70,985 | CAD | 100,000 | Citibank NA | 7/10/25 | (2,487) |
USD | 115,437 | KZT | 61,700,000 | Citibank NA | 7/25/25 | (2,466) |
USD | 120,075 | EUR | 106,000 | Citibank NA | 8/28/25 | (5,279) |
USD | 109,729 | IDR | 1,794,500,000 | Citibank NA | 9/25/25 | (1,047) |
USD | 167,704 | INR | 14,530,000 | Citibank NA | 9/25/25 | (1,144) |
ZAR | 2,750,000 | USD | 143,413 | Citibank NA | 7/7/25 | 11,834 |
TRY | 4,600,000 | USD | 96,985 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 1/9/26 | 1,034 |
TRY | 630,000 | USD | 13,263 | JPMorgan Chase Bank NA | 1/9/26 | 161 |
BRL | 1,120,000 | USD | 192,837 | State Street Bank and Trust Co. | 8/1/25 | 11,665 |
USD | 199,898 | EUR | 171,000 | State Street Bank and Trust Co. | 9/25/25 | (2,687) |
TOTAL FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS | $44,218 |
Number of Contracts Long |
Description | Expiration Date |
Notional Amount |
Market Value |
Unrealized Appreciation |
6 | U.S. 2 Year Note (CBT) | 9/30/25 | $1,246,306 | $1,248,141 | $1,835 |
53 | U.S. 5 Year Note (CBT) | 9/30/25 | 5,722,573 | 5,777,000 | 54,427 |
19 | U.S. 10 Year Note (CBT) | 9/19/25 | 2,095,838 | 2,130,375 | 34,537 |
11 | U.S. 10 Year Ultra Bond (CBT) | 9/19/25 | 1,235,060 | 1,256,922 | 21,862 |
3 | U.S. Ultra Bond (CBT) | 9/19/25 | 351,383 | 357,375 | 5,992 |
$10,651,160 | $10,769,813 | $118,653 |
Number of Contracts Short |
Description | Expiration Date |
Notional Amount |
Market Value |
Unrealized Appreciation |
6 | Euro-Bund | 9/8/25 | $(926,633) | $(919,861) | $6,772 |
TOTAL FUTURES CONTRACTS | $9,724,527 | $9,849,952 | $125,425 | ||
CBT | Chicago Board of Trade. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – BUY PROTECTION | ||||||||
Notional Amount ($)(1) |
Reference Obligation/Index | Pay/ Receive(2) |
Annual Fixed Rate |
Expiration Date |
Premiums (Received) |
Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) |
Market Value | |
110,000 | Markit CDX North America High Yield Index Series 44 | Pay | 5.00% | 6/20/30 | $(5,285) | $(3,145) | $(8,430) | |
TOTAL CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – BUY PROTECTION |
$(5,285) | $(3,145) | $(8,430) |
CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – SELL PROTECTION | ||||||||
Notional Amount ($)(1) |
Reference Obligation/Index | Pay/ Receive(3) |
Annual Fixed Rate |
Expiration Date |
Premiums (Received) |
Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) |
Market Value | |
75,000 | American Airlines Group Inc., 6.50%, due 7/1/25 | Receive | 5.00% | 6/20/30 | $(6,221) | $4,344 | $(1,877) | |
TOTAL CENTRALLY CLEARED CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP CONTRACTS – SELL PROTECTION |
$(6,221) | $4,344 | $(1,877) |
(1) | The notional amount is the maximum amount that a seller of credit protection would be obligated to pay upon occurrence of a credit event. |
(2) | Pays quarterly. |
(3) | Receives quarterly. |
AUD — Australia Dollar |
BRL — Brazil Real |
CAD — Canada Dollar |
CLP — Chile Peso |
EGP — Egypt Pound |
EUR — Euro |
IDR — Indonesian Rupiah |
INR — Indian Rupee |
KZT — Kazakhstan Tenge |
NGN — Nigeria Naira |
TRY — Turkish Lira |
USD — United States Dollar |
UYU — Uruguay Peso |
ZAR — South Africa Rand |
Purchases | Sales | |
Long-Term U.S. Government Securities | $1,972,711 | $97,688 |
Other Long-Term Securities | $5,805,302 | $11,177,188 |
Aggregate gross unrealized appreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of value over tax cost | $632,845 |
Aggregate gross unrealized depreciation for all investments in which there is an excess of tax cost over value | (2,716,431) |
Net unrealized depreciation | $(2,083,586) |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Level 1 | – | unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
Level 2 | – | other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 3 | – | significant unobservable inputs (including the Adviser’s own assumptions in determining fair value of investments). See Notes to Financial Statements — Note 1A. |
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |
Senior Secured Floating Rate Loan Interests | $— | $379,929 | $— | $379,929 |
Common Stocks | ||||
Household Durables | 1 | — | — | 1 |
Paper & Forest Products | — | — | —* | —* |
Passenger Airlines | — | 26,143 | — | 26,143 |
Asset Backed Securities | — | 1,119,989 | — | 1,119,989 |
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | — | 2,349,690 | — | 2,349,690 |
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | — | 1,872,505 | — | 1,872,505 |
Convertible Corporate Bonds | — | 5,438 | — | 5,438 |
Corporate Bonds | ||||
Pharmaceuticals | — | 239,660 | —* | 239,660 |
All Other Corporate Bonds | — | 10,521,499 | — | 10,521,499 |
Insurance-Linked Securities | ||||
Reinsurance Sidecars | — | — | 148 | 148 |
Foreign Government Bonds | — | 901,419 | — | 901,419 |
U.S. Government and Agency Obligations | — | 10,680,456 | — | 10,680,456 |
Foreign Treasury Obligations | — | 73,542 | — | 73,542 |
Open-End Fund | 2,200,185 | — | — | 2,200,185 |
Affiliated Closed-End Fund | — | 1,207,368 | — | 1,207,368 |
Total Investments in Securities | $2,200,186 | $29,377,638 | $148 | $31,577,972 |
Liabilities | ||||
TBA Sales Commitments | $— | $(729,285) | $— | $(729,285) |
Total Liabilities | $— | $(729,285) | $— | $(729,285) |
Other Financial Instruments | ||||
Net unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $— | $44,218 | $— | $44,218 |
Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts | 125,425 | — | — | 125,425 |
Centrally cleared swap contracts^ | — | 1,199 | — | 1,199 |
Total Other Financial Instruments | $125,425 | $45,417 | $— | $170,842 |
* | Securities valued at $0. |
^ | Reflects the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of the instruments. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ASSETS: | |
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $31,047,347) | $30,370,604 |
Investments in affiliated issuers, at value (cost $1,281,387) | 1,207,368 |
Cash | 185,359 |
Foreign currencies, at value (cost $236,021) | 223,875 |
Futures collateral | 415,701 |
Swaps collateral | 69,226 |
Variation margin for futures contracts | 21,105 |
Variation margin for centrally cleared swap contracts | 93 |
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 59,328 |
Receivables — | |
Investment securities sold | 851,819 |
Portfolio shares sold | 2,607 |
Dividends | 5,092 |
Interest | 261,766 |
Due from the Adviser | 17,246 |
Other assets | 172 |
Total assets | $33,691,361 |
LIABILITIES: | |
Due to broker for futures | $21,105 |
Payables — | |
Investment securities purchased | 3,043,087 |
Portfolio shares repurchased | 118,643 |
Trustees’ fees | 38 |
Interest expense | 1,583 |
TBA sales commitments, at value | 729,285 |
Swap contracts, at value (net premiums received $11,506) | 10,307 |
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 15,110 |
Reserve for repatriation taxes | 53,379 |
Management fees | 12,513 |
Administrative expenses | 1,413 |
Distribution fees | 2,964 |
Accrued expenses | 54,682 |
Total liabilities | $4,064,109 |
NET ASSETS: | |
Paid-in capital | $33,417,677 |
Distributable earnings (loss) | (3,790,425) |
Net assets | $29,627,252 |
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE: | |
No par value (unlimited number of shares authorized) | |
Class I* (based on $3,896,490/425,238 shares) | $9.16 |
Class II* (based on $25,730,762/2,813,180 shares) | $9.15 |
* | Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
INVESTMENT INCOME: | |||
Interest from unaffiliated issuers (net of foreign taxes withheld $12,183) | $764,987 | ||
Dividends from unaffiliated issuers | 28,057 | ||
Total Investment Income | $793,044 | ||
EXPENSES: | |||
Management fees | $93,869 | ||
Administrative expenses | 14,888 | ||
Distribution fees | |||
Class II* | 31,239 | ||
Custodian fees | 724 | ||
Professional fees | 35,604 | ||
Printing expense | 7,440 | ||
Officers’ and Trustees’ fees | 3,647 | ||
Insurance expense | 295 | ||
Miscellaneous | 294 | ||
Total expenses | $188,000 | ||
Less fees waived and expenses reimbursed by the Adviser | (48,450) | ||
Net expenses | $139,550 | ||
Net investment income | $653,494 | ||
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS: | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers | $(248,501) | ||
TBA sales commitments | 41,453 | ||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (20,906) | ||
Futures contracts | 111,431 | ||
Swap contracts | 17,795 | ||
Written options | 28,988 | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | 16,796 | $(52,944) | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments in unaffiliated issuers (net of foreign capital gains tax of $52,318) | $786,883 | ||
Investments in affiliated issuers | 43,027 | ||
TBA sales commitments | (40,547) | ||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 59,495 | ||
Futures contracts | 170,232 | ||
Swap contracts | 17,247 | ||
Written options | (28,988) | ||
Other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies | 35,433 | $1,042,782 | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | $989,838 | ||
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $1,643,332 |
* | Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 | ||
FROM OPERATIONS: | |||
Net investment income (loss) | $653,494 | $1,552,359 | |
Net realized gain (loss) on investments | (52,944) | (562,554) | |
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 1,042,782 | 166,141 | |
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations | $1,643,332 | $1,155,946 | |
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS: | |||
Class I* ($0.21 and $0.38 per share, respectively) | $(91,948) | $(181,410) | |
Class II* ($0.20 and $0.36 per share, respectively) | (559,406) | (1,074,242) | |
Total distributions to shareholders | $(651,354) | $(1,255,652) | |
FROM PORTFOLIO SHARE TRANSACTIONS: | |||
Net proceeds from sales of shares | $3,751,331 | $6,635,013 | |
Reinvestment of distributions | 651,354 | 1,255,652 | |
Cost of shares repurchased | (5,748,641) | (8,421,982) | |
Net decrease in net assets resulting from Portfolio share transactions | $(1,345,956) | $(531,317) | |
Net decrease in net assets | $(353,978) | $(631,023) | |
NET ASSETS: | |||
Beginning of period | $29,981,230 | $30,612,253 | |
End of period | $29,627,252 | $29,981,230 |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Shares (unaudited) |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 Amount (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Shares |
Year Ended 12/31/24 Amount | ||||
Class I* | |||||||
Shares sold | 596 | $5,333 | 46,435 | $416,007 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 10,183 | 91,948 | 20,557 | 181,410 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (36,568) | (5,418,693) | (98,482) | (882,473) | |||
Net decrease | (25,789) | $(5,321,412) | (31,490) | $(285,056) | |||
Class II* | |||||||
Shares sold | 416,561 | $3,745,998 | 696,584 | $6,219,006 | |||
Reinvestment of distributions | 62,051 | 559,406 | 121,852 | 1,074,242 | |||
Less shares repurchased | (607,303) | (329,948) | (852,570) | (7,539,509) | |||
Net increase (decrease) |
(128,691) | $3,975,456 | (34,134) | $(246,261) |
* | Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class l* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $8.85 | $8.87 | $8.50 | $10.44 | $10.69 | $10.32 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.21 | 0.46 | 0.42 | 0.33 | 0.28 | 0.34 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.31 | (0.10) | 0.28 | (1.63) | (0.08) | 0.42 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.52 | $0.36 | $0.70 | $(1.30) | $0.20 | $0.76 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.21) | (0.38) | (0.33) | (0.12) | (0.35) | (0.36) | |||||
Net realized gain | — | — | — | (0.35) | (0.10) | (0.03) | |||||
Tax return of capital | — | — | — | (0.17) | — | — | |||||
Total distributions | $(0.21) | $(0.38) | $(0.33) | $(0.64) | $(0.45) | $(0.39) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $0.31 | $(0.02) | $0.37 | $(1.94) | $(0.25) | $0.37 | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $9.16 | $8.85 | $8.87 | $8.50 | $10.44 | $10.69 | |||||
Total return(b) | 5.93%(c) | 4.13% | 8.46%(d) | (12.60)% | 1.89% | 7.63% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 0.75%(e) | 0.75% | 0.75% | 0.75% | 0.75% | 0.75% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.74%(e) | 5.22% | 4.94% | 3.58% | 2.66% | 3.38% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 30%(c) | 57% | 53% | 71% | 65% | 62% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $3,896 | $3,992 | $4,278 | $4,326 | $5,913 | $6,552 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 1.09%(e) | 1.08% | 1.25% | 1.07% | 1.21% | 1.31% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.40%(e) | 4.89% | 4.44% | 3.26% | 2.20% | 2.82% |
* | Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Portfolio’s total return includes a reimbursement by the Adviser. If the Portfolio had not been reimbursed by the Adviser, the total return would have been 8.34%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Six Months Ended 6/30/25 (unaudited) |
Year Ended 12/31/24 |
Year Ended 12/31/23 |
Year Ended 12/31/22 |
Year Ended 12/31/21 |
Year Ended 12/31/20 | ||||||
Class ll* | |||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of period | $8.83 | $8.85 | $8.49 | $10.43 | $10.67 | $10.30 | |||||
Increase (decrease) from investment operations: | |||||||||||
Net investment income (loss)(a) | 0.20 | 0.44 | 0.40 | 0.31 | 0.25 | 0.32 | |||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | 0.32 | (0.10) | 0.27 | (1.63) | (0.07) | 0.41 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations | $0.52 | $0.34 | $0.67 | $(1.32) | $0.18 | $0.73 | |||||
Distributions to shareholders: | |||||||||||
Net investment income | (0.20) | (0.36) | (0.31) | (0.10) | (0.32) | (0.33) | |||||
Net realized gain | — | — | — | (0.35) | (0.10) | (0.03) | |||||
Tax return of capital | — | — | — | (0.17) | — | — | |||||
Total distributions | $(0.20) | $(0.36) | $(0.31) | $(0.62) | $(0.42) | $(0.36) | |||||
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value | $0.32 | $(0.02) | $0.36 | $(1.94) | $(0.24) | $0.37 | |||||
Net asset value, end of period | $9.15 | $8.83 | $8.85 | $8.49 | $10.43 | $10.67 | |||||
Total return(b) | 5.93%(c) | 3.87% | 8.07%(d) | (12.83)% | 1.73% | 7.37% | |||||
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets | 1.00%(e) | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 0.99% | |||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.49%(e) | 4.99% | 4.68% | 3.32% | 2.40% | 3.11% | |||||
Portfolio turnover rate | 30%(c) | 57% | 53% | 71% | 65% | 62% | |||||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) | $25,731 | $25,989 | $26,335 | $28,151 | $38,767 | $38,258 | |||||
Ratios with no waiver of fees and assumption of expenses by the Adviser and no reduction for fees paid indirectly: | |||||||||||
Total expenses to average net assets | 1.34%(e) | 1.33% | 1.50% | 1.32% | 1.46% | 1.55% | |||||
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets | 4.15%(e) | 4.66% | 4.18% | 3.00% | 1.94% | 2.55% |
* | Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) reorganized with the Portfolio effective April 1, 2025 (the “Reorganization”), during the semi-annual reporting period. The Predecessor Portfolio is the accounting survivor of the Reorganization. In the Reorganization, shareholders holding Class I and Class II shares of the Predecessor Portfolio received Class I and Class II shares of the Portfolio, respectively. |
(a) | The per-share data presented above is based on the average shares outstanding for the period presented. |
(b) | Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each period, reinvestment of all distributions and the complete redemption of the investment at net asset value at the end of each period. |
(c) | Not annualized. |
(d) | For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Portfolio’s total return includes a reimbursement by the Adviser. The impact on Class II’s total return was less than 0.005%. |
(e) | Annualized. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
A. | Security Valuation |
The net asset value of the Portfolio is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. | |
Fixed income securities are valued by using prices supplied by independent pricing services, which consider such factors as market prices, market events, quotations from one or more brokers, Treasury spreads, yields, maturities and ratings, or may use a pricing matrix or other fair value methods or techniques to provide an estimated value of the security or instrument. A pricing matrix is a means of valuing a debt security on the basis of current market prices for other debt securities, historical trading patterns in the market for fixed income securities and/or other factors. Non-U.S. debt securities that are listed on an exchange will be valued at the bid price obtained from an independent third party pricing service. When independent third party pricing services are unable to supply prices, or when prices or market quotations are considered to be unreliable, the value of that security may be determined using quotations from one or more broker-dealers. | |
Loan interests are valued at the mean between the last available bid and asked prices from one or more brokers or dealers as obtained from Loan Pricing Corporation, an independent third party pricing service. If price information is not available from Loan Pricing Corporation, or if the price information is deemed to be unreliable, price information will be obtained from an alternative loan interest pricing service. If no reliable price quotes are available from either the primary or alternative pricing service, broker quotes will be solicited. | |
Event-linked bonds are valued at the bid price obtained from an independent third party pricing service. Other insurance-linked securities (including reinsurance sidecars, collateralized reinsurance and industry loss warranties) may be valued at the bid price obtained from an independent pricing service, or through a third party using a pricing matrix, insurance valuation models, or other fair value methods or techniques to provide an estimated value of the instrument. | |
Equity securities that have traded on an exchange are valued by using the last sale price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Equity securities that have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale prices are not available, generally are valued using the mean between the last bid and asked prices or, if both last bid and asked prices are not available, at the last quoted bid price. Last sale and bid and asked prices are provided by independent third party pricing services. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, prices are typically determined by independent third party pricing services using a variety of techniques and methods. | |
The value of foreign securities is translated into U.S. dollars based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by a third party pricing source. Trading in non-U.S. equity securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the NYSE. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of the Portfolio’s shares are determined as of such times. The Adviser may use a fair value model developed by an independent pricing service to value non-U.S. equity securities. | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued daily using the foreign exchange rate or, for longer term forward contract positions, the spot currency rate and the forward points on a daily basis, in each case provided by a third party pricing service. Contracts whose forward settlement date falls between two quoted days are valued by interpolation. | |
Futures contracts are generally valued at the closing settlement price established by the exchange on which they are traded. | |
Swap contracts, including interest rate swaps, caps and floors (other than centrally cleared swap contracts), are valued at the dealer quotations obtained from reputable International Swap Dealers Association members. Centrally cleared swaps are valued at the daily settlement price provided by the central clearing counterparty. | |
Shares of open-end registered investment companies (including money market mutual funds) are valued at such funds’ net asset value. Shares of closed-end interval funds that offer their shares at net asset value are valued at such funds’ net asset value. | |
Securities or loan interests for which independent pricing services or broker-dealers are unable to supply prices or for which market prices and/or quotations are not readily available or are considered to be unreliable are valued by a fair valuation team comprised of certain personnel of the Adviser. The Adviser is designated as the valuation designee for the |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Portfolio pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser’s fair valuation team is responsible for monitoring developments that may impact fair valued securities. | |
Inputs used when applying fair value methods to value a security may include credit ratings, financial condition, current market conditions and comparable securities. The Adviser may use fair value methods if it is determined that a significant event has occurred after the close of the exchange or market on which the security trades and prior to the determination of the Portfolio’s net asset value. Examples of a significant event might include political or economic news, corporate restructurings, natural disasters, terrorist activity, tariffs, or trading halts. Thus, the valuation of the Portfolio’s securities may differ significantly from exchange prices, and such differences could be material. | |
B. | Investment Income and Transactions |
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain dividends from foreign securities for which the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon as the Portfolio becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of reasonable diligence. | |
Interest income, including interest on income-bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividend and interest income are reported net of unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates and net of income accrued on defaulted securities. | |
Interest and dividend income payable by delivery of additional shares is reclassified as PIK (payment-in-kind) income upon receipt and is included in interest and dividend income, respectively. | |
Principal amounts of mortgage-backed securities are adjusted for monthly paydowns. Premiums and discounts related to certain mortgage-backed securities are amortized or accreted in proportion to the monthly paydowns. All discounts/premiums on purchase prices of debt securities are accreted/amortized for financial reporting purposes over the life of the respective securities, and such accretion/amortization is included in interest income. | |
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes. | |
C. | Foreign Currency Translation |
The books and records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. | |
Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any, represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on foreign currency exchange contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on investments are not segregated from the effects of changes in the market prices of those securities on the Statement of Operations, but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on investments. | |
D. | Federal Income Taxes |
It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its net taxable income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision for federal income taxes is required. As of June 30, 2025, the Portfolio did not accrue any interest or penalties with respect to uncertain tax positions, which, if applicable, would be recorded as an income tax expense on the Statement of Operations. Tax returns filed within the prior three years remain subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. | |
In addition to meeting the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code, the Portfolio may be required to pay local taxes on the recognition of capital gains and/or the repatriation of foreign currencies in certain countries. During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Portfolio paid no such taxes. | |
The amount and character of income and capital gain distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax rules, which may differ from U.S. GAAP. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary over distributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes. Capital accounts within the financial statements are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character, but are not adjusted for temporary differences. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
The tax character of current year distributions payable will be determined at the end of the current taxable year. The tax character of distributions paid during the year ended December 31, 2024 was as follows: |
2024 | |
Distributions paid from: | |
Ordinary income | $1,255,652 |
Total | $1,255,652 |
2024 | |
Distributable earnings/(losses): | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $61,141 |
Capital loss carryforward | (3,273,872) |
Net unrealized depreciation | (1,569,672) |
Total | $(4,782,403) |
E. | Portfolio Shares and Class Allocations |
The Portfolio records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date. Distribution fees for Class II shares are calculated based on the average daily net asset value attributable to Class II shares of the Portfolio (see Note 5). Class I shares do not pay distribution fees. | |
Income, common expenses (excluding transfer agent and distribution fees) and realized and unrealized gains and losses are calculated at the Portfolio level and allocated daily to each class of shares based on its respective percentage of the adjusted net assets at the beginning of the day. | |
All expenses and fees paid to the Portfolio’s transfer agent for its services are allocated between the classes of shares based on the number of accounts in each class and the ratable allocation of related out-of-pocket expenses (see Note 4). | |
The Portfolio declares as daily dividends substantially all of its net investment income. All dividends are paid on a monthly basis. Short-term capital gain distributions, if any, may be declared with the daily dividends. Distributions paid by the Portfolio with respect to each class of shares are calculated in the same manner and at the same time, except that net investment income dividends to Class I and Class II shares can reflect different transfer agent and distribution expense rates. Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. | |
F. | Risks |
The value of securities held by the Portfolio may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic, political or regulatory conditions, recessions, the spread of infectious illness or other public health issues, inflation, changes in interest rates, armed conflict such as between Russia and Ukraine or in the Middle East, sanctions against Russia, other nations or individuals or companies and possible countermeasures, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In the past several years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility, depressed valuations, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These conditions may continue, recur, worsen or spread. Inflation and interest rates may increase. These circumstances could adversely affect the value and liquidity of the Portfolio’s investments and negatively impact the Portfolio’s performance. | |
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers have experienced or may experience particularly large losses. Periods of extreme volatility in the financial markets, reduced liquidity of many instruments, increased government debt, inflation, and disruptions to supply chains, consumer demand and employee availability may continue for some time. Other securities or markets could be similarly affected by past or future political, geopolitical or other events or conditions. | |
Governments and central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve, have taken extraordinary and unprecedented actions to support local and global economies and the financial markets. These actions have resulted in significant expansion of |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
public debt, including in the U.S. The consequences of high public debt, including its future impact on the economy and securities markets, may not be known for some time. | |
The U.S. and other countries are periodically involved in disputes over trade and other matters, which may result in tariffs, investment restrictions and adverse impacts on affected companies and securities. For example, the U.S. has imposed tariffs and other trade barriers on Chinese exports, has restricted sales of certain categories of goods to China, and has established barriers to investments in China. Trade disputes may adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and its trading partners, as well as companies directly or indirectly affected and financial markets generally. If the political climate between the U.S. and China does not improve or continues to deteriorate, if China enters into military conflict with Taiwan, the Philippines or another neighbor, or if other geopolitical conflicts develop or get worse, economies, markets and individual securities may be severely affected both regionally and globally, and the value of the Portfolio’s assets may go down. | |
At times, the Portfolio’s investments may represent industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks, making the Portfolio more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in foreign markets, including developing markets, may subject the Portfolio to a greater degree of risk than investments in developed markets. These risks include disruptive political or economic conditions, military conflicts and sanctions, terrorism, sustained economic downturns, financial instability, less liquid trading markets, extreme price volatility, currency risks, reduction of government or central bank support, inadequate accounting standards, tariffs, tax disputes or other tax burdens, nationalization or expropriation of assets and the imposition of adverse governmental laws, arbitrary application of laws and regulations or lack of rule of law and investment and repatriation restrictions. Lack of information and less market regulation also may affect the value of these securities. Withholding and other non-U.S. taxes may decrease the Portfolio’s return. Non-U.S. issuers may be located in parts of the world that have historically been prone to natural disasters. Investing in depositary receipts is subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in non-U.S. issuers. Depositary receipts may involve higher expenses and may trade at a discount (or premium) to the underlying security. | |
In response to the military action by Russia against Ukraine commencing in 2022, the United States and other countries issued broad-ranging economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus and certain companies and individuals. Since then, Russian securities lost all, or nearly all, their market value, and many other issuers, securities and markets have been adversely affected. The United States and other countries may impose sanctions on other countries, companies and individuals in light of Russia’s military invasion. The extent and duration of the military action or future escalation of such hostilities, the extent and impact of existing and future sanctions, market disruptions and volatility, and the result of any diplomatic negotiations cannot be predicted. These and any related events could have a significant impact on the value and liquidity of certain Portfolio investments, on Portfolio performance and the value of an investment in the Portfolio. In particular, securities and commodities, such as oil, natural gas and food commodities, with exposure to Russian issuers or issuers in other countries affected by the invasion are likely to have collateral impacts on market sectors globally. | |
Normally, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in below-investment-grade (high-yield) debt securities. The Portfolio has the flexibility to invest in a broad range of issuers and segments of the debt securities market. The Portfolio may invest in investment grade securities of U.S. and non-U.S. issuers. The Portfolio may invest in below-investment-grade (high-yield) debt securities of U.S. and non-U.S. issuers. Some of these high-yield securities may be convertible into equity securities of the issuer. Debt securities rated below-investment-grade are commonly referred to as “junk bonds” and are considered speculative with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal. These securities involve greater risk of loss, are subject to greater price volatility, and may be less liquid and more difficult to value, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or change, than higher rated debt securities. | |
The market prices of the Portfolio’s fixed income securities may fluctuate significantly when interest rates change. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. A rise in interest rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities. For example, if interest rates increase by 1%, the value of a Portfolio’s holdings with a portfolio duration of ten years would be expected to decrease by 10%, all other things being equal. A general rise in interest rates could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed income securities. The maturity of a security may be significantly longer than its effective duration. A security’s maturity and other features may be more relevant than its effective duration in determining the security’s sensitivity to other factors affecting the issuer or markets generally, such as changes in credit quality or in the yield premium that the market may establish for |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
certain types of securities (sometimes called “credit spread”). In general, the longer its maturity, the more a security may be susceptible to these factors. When the credit spread for a fixed income security goes up, or “widens”, the value of the security will generally go down. | |
If an issuer or guarantor of a security held by the Portfolio, or a counterparty to a financial contract with the Portfolio, defaults on its obligation to pay principal and/or interest, has its credit rating downgraded, is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines, the value of your investment will typically decline. Changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness may occur quickly. The Portfolio could be delayed or hindered in its enforcement of rights against an issuer, guarantor or counterparty. | |
The Portfolio may invest in mortgage-related and asset-backed securities. The value of mortgage-related and asset-backed securities will be influenced by factors affecting the assets underlying such securities. As a result, during periods of declining asset value, difficult or frozen credit markets, swings in interest rates, or deteriorating economic conditions, mortgage-related and asset-backed securities may decline in value, face valuation difficulties, become more volatile and/or become illiquid. Mortgage-backed securities tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than other types of debt securities. These securities are also subject to prepayment and extension risks. Some of these securities may receive little or no collateral protection from the underlying assets and are thus subject to the risk of default. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage-backed investments offered by non-governmental issuers and those that include so-called “sub-prime” mortgages. The structure of some of these securities may be complex and there may be less available information than for other types of debt securities. Upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or defaults, the Portfolio may become the holder of underlying assets at a time when those assets may be difficult to sell or may be sold only at a loss. | |
The Portfolio may invest in credit risk transfer securities. Credit risk transfer securities are unguaranteed and unsecured debt securities issued by government sponsored enterprises and therefore are not directly linked to or backed by the underlying mortgage loans. As a result, in the event that a government sponsored enterprise fails to pay principal or interest on its credit risk transfer securities or goes through a bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding, holders of such credit risk transfer securities have no direct recourse to the underlying mortgage loans and will generally receive recovery on par with other unsecured note holders in such a scenario. The risks associated with an investment in credit risk transfer securities are different than the risks associated with an investment in mortgage-backed securities issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, or other government sponsored enterprise or issued by a private issuer, because some or all of the mortgage default or credit risk associated with the underlying mortgage loans is transferred to investors. As a result, investors in these securities could lose some or all of their investment in these securities if the underlying mortgage loans default. | |
The Portfolio’s investments, payment obligations and financing terms may be based on floating rates, such as LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) or SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate). ICE Benchmark Administration, the administrator of LIBOR, has ceased publication of most LIBOR settings on a representative basis. Actions by regulators have resulted in the establishment of alternative reference rates to LIBOR in most major currencies. In the U.S., a common benchmark replacement is based on the SOFR published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, including certain spread adjustments and benchmark replacement conforming changes, although other benchmark replacements (with or without spread adjustments) may be used in certain transactions. The impact of the transition from LIBOR on the Portfolio’s transactions and financial markets generally cannot yet be determined. The transition away from LIBOR may lead to increased volatility and illiquidity in markets for instruments that have relied on LIBOR and may adversely affect the Portfolio’s performance. | |
The Portfolio may invest in REIT securities, the value of which can fall for a variety of reasons, such as declines in rental income, fluctuating interest rates, poor property management, environmental liabilities, uninsured damage, increased competition, or changes in real estate tax laws. | |
With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet to conduct business, the Portfolio is susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, limit or mitigate, such cyber-attacks, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified. Furthermore, the Portfolio cannot control the cybersecurity plans and systems put in place by service providers to the Portfolio such as the Portfolio’s custodian and accounting agent, and the Portfolio’s transfer agent. In addition, many beneficial owners of Portfolio shares hold them through accounts at broker-dealers, retirement platforms and other financial market participants over which neither the Portfolio nor the Adviser exercises control. Each of these intermediaries may in turn rely on their service providers, which are also subject to the risk of cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity failures or breaches at |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
the Adviser, service providers or intermediaries may cause disruptions and impact business operations. This may cause financial losses; interference with the Portfolio’s ability to calculate its net asset value; impediments to trading; the inability of Portfolio shareholders to effect share purchases; redemptions or exchanges or receive distributions; loss of or unauthorized access to private shareholder information; and violations of applicable privacy and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, or additional compliance costs. Such costs and losses may not be covered under any insurance. In addition, maintaining vigilance against cyber-attacks may involve substantial costs over time, and system enhancements may themselves be subject to cyber-attacks. | |
The Portfolio’s prospectus contains unaudited information regarding the Portfolio’s principal risks. Please refer to that document when considering the Portfolio’s principal risks. | |
G. | Restricted Securities |
Restricted Securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale. Restricted securities generally are resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. Private placement securities are generally considered to be restricted except for those securities traded between qualified institutional investors under the provisions of Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. | |
Disposal of restricted investments may involve negotiations and expenses, and prompt sale at an acceptable price may be difficult to achieve. Restricted investments held by the Portfolio at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
H. | Insurance-Linked Securities (“ILS”) |
The Portfolio invests in ILS. The Portfolio could lose a portion or all of the principal it has invested in an ILS, and the right to additional interest or dividend payments with respect to the security, upon the occurrence of one or more trigger events, as defined within the terms of an insurance-linked security. Trigger events, generally, are hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural events of a specific size or magnitude that occur in a designated geographic region during a specified time period, and/or that involve losses or other metrics that exceed a specific amount. There is no way to accurately predict whether a trigger event will occur, and accordingly, ILS carry significant risk. The Portfolio is entitled to receive principal, and interest and/or dividend payments so long as no trigger event occurs of the description and magnitude specified by the instrument. In addition to the specified trigger events, ILS may expose the Portfolio to other risks, including but not limited to issuer (credit) default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations and adverse tax consequences. | |
The Portfolio’s investments in ILS may include event-linked bonds. ILS also may include special purpose vehicles (“SPVs”) or similar instruments structured to comprise a portion of a reinsurer’s catastrophe-oriented business, known as quota share instruments (sometimes referred to as reinsurance sidecars), or to provide reinsurance relating to specific risks to insurance or reinsurance companies through a collateralized instrument, known as collateralized reinsurance. Structured reinsurance investments also may include industry loss warranties (“ILWs”). A traditional ILW takes the form of a bilateral reinsurance contract, but there are also products that take the form of derivatives, collateralized structures, or exchange-traded instruments. | |
Where the ILS are based on the performance of underlying reinsurance contracts, the Portfolio has limited transparency into the individual underlying contracts, and therefore must rely upon the risk assessment and sound underwriting practices of the issuer. Accordingly, it may be more difficult for the Portfolio’s investment adviser to fully evaluate the underlying risk profile of the Portfolio’s structured reinsurance investments, and therefore the Portfolio’s assets are placed at greater risk of loss than if the Portfolio’s investment adviser had more complete information. Structured reinsurance instruments generally will be considered illiquid securities by the Portfolio. These securities may be difficult to purchase, sell or unwind. Illiquid securities also may be difficult to value. If the Portfolio is forced to sell an illiquid asset, the Portfolio may be forced to sell at a loss. | |
Additionally, the Portfolio may gain exposure to ILS by investing in a closed-end interval fund, Pioneer ILS Interval Fund, an affiliate of the Adviser. The Portfolio’s investment in Pioneer ILS Interval Fund at June 30, 2025 is listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
I. | TBA Purchases and Sales Commitments |
The Portfolio may enter into to-be-announced (TBA) purchases or sales commitments (collectively, “TBA transactions”), pursuant to which it agrees to purchase or sell, respectively, mortgage-backed securities for a fixed unit price, with payment and delivery at a scheduled future date beyond the customary settlement period for such securities. With TBA |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
transactions, the particular securities to be received or delivered by the Portfolio are not identified at the trade date; however, the securities must meet specified terms, including issuer, rate, and mortgage term, and be within industry-accepted “good delivery” standards. The Portfolio may enter into TBA transactions with the intention of taking possession of or relinquishing the underlying securities, may elect to extend the settlement by “rolling” the transaction, and/or may use TBA transactions to gain or reduce interim exposure to underlying securities. Until settlement, the Portfolio maintains liquid assets sufficient to settle its commitment to purchase a TBA or, in the case of a sale commitment, the Portfolio maintains an entitlement to the security to be sold. | |
To mitigate counterparty risk, the Portfolio has entered into agreements with TBA counterparties that provide for collateral and the right to offset amounts due to or from those counterparties under specified conditions. Subject to minimum transfer amounts, collateral requirements are determined and transfers are made based on the net aggregate unrealized gain or loss on all TBA commitments with a particular counterparty. At any time, the Portfolio’s risk of loss from a particular counterparty related to its TBA commitments is the aggregate unrealized gain on appreciated TBAs in excess of unrealized loss on depreciated TBAs and collateral received, if any, from such counterparty. As of June 30, 2025, no collateral was pledged by the Portfolio. | |
J. | Purchased Options |
The Portfolio may purchase put and call options to seek to increase total return. Purchased call and put options entitle the Portfolio to buy and sell a specified number of shares or units of a particular security, currency or index at a specified price at a specific date or within a specific period of time. Upon the purchase of a call or put option, the premium paid by the Portfolio is included on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment. All premiums are marked-to-market daily, and any unrealized appreciation or depreciation is recorded on the Portfolio’s Statement of Operations. As the purchaser of an index option, the Portfolio has the right to receive a cash payment equal to any depreciation in the value of the index below the strike price of the option (in the case of a put) or equal to any appreciation in the value of the index over the strike price of the option (in the case of a call) as of the valuation date of the option. Premiums paid for purchased call and put options which have expired are treated as realized losses on investments on the Statement of Operations. Upon the exercise or closing of a purchased put option, the premium is offset against the proceeds on the sale of the underlying security or financial instrument in order to determine the realized gain or loss on investments. Upon the exercise or closing of a purchased call option, the premium is added to the cost of the security or financial instrument. The risk associated with purchasing options is limited to the premium originally paid. | |
There were no open purchased options contracts at June 30, 2025. | |
K. | Option Writing |
The Portfolio may write put and covered call options to seek to increase total return. When an option is written, the Portfolio receives a premium and becomes obligated to purchase or sell the underlying security at a fixed price, upon the exercise of the option. When the Portfolio writes an option, an amount equal to the premium received by the Portfolio is recorded as “Written options outstanding” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently adjusted to the current value of the option written. Premiums received from writing options that expire unexercised are treated by the Portfolio on the expiration date as realized gains from investments on the Statement of Operations. The difference between the premium and the amount paid on effecting a closing purchase transaction, including brokerage commissions, is also treated as a realized gain on the Statement of Operations, or, if the premium is less than the amount paid for the closing purchase transaction, as a realized loss on the Statement of Operations. If a call option is exercised, the premium is added to the proceeds from the sale of the underlying security in determining whether the Portfolio has realized a gain or loss. The Portfolio as writer of an option bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security underlying the written option. | |
There were no open written options contracts at June 30, 2025. | |
L. | Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts |
The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts (“contracts”) for the purchase or sale of a specific foreign currency at a fixed price on a future date. All contracts are marked-to-market daily at the applicable exchange rates, and any resulting unrealized appreciation or depreciation is recorded in the Portfolio’s financial statements. The Portfolio records realized gains and losses at the time a contract is offset by entry into a closing transaction or extinguished by delivery of the currency. Risks may arise upon entering into these contracts from the potential inability of counterparties to meet the terms of the contract and from unanticipated movements in the value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar (see Note 7). |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
During the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Portfolio had entered into various forward foreign currency exchange contracts that obligated the Portfolio to deliver or take delivery of currencies at specified future maturity dates. Alternatively, prior to the settlement date of a forward foreign currency exchange contract, the Portfolio may close out such contract by entering into an offsetting contract. | |
The average market value of forward foreign currency exchange contracts open during the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $1,708,352 and $1,172,156 for buys and sells, respectively. Open forward foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
M. | Futures Contracts |
The Portfolio may enter into futures transactions in order to attempt to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices and currency exchange rates or to seek to increase total return. Futures contracts are types of derivatives. | |
All futures contracts entered into by the Portfolio are traded on a futures exchange. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Portfolio is required to deposit with a broker an amount of cash or securities equal to the minimum “initial margin” requirements of the associated futures exchange. The amount of cash deposited with the broker as collateral at June 30, 2025 is recorded as “Futures collateral” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. | |
Subsequent payments for futures contracts (“variation margin”) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuation in the value of the contracts, and are recorded by the Portfolio as unrealized appreciation or depreciation. Cash received from or paid to the broker related to previous margin movement is held in a segregated account at the broker and is recorded as either “Due from broker for futures” or “Due to broker for futures” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contract is closed, the Portfolio realizes a gain or loss equal to the difference between the opening and closing value of the contract as well as any fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates where applicable. Futures contracts are subject to market risk, interest rate risk and currency exchange rate risk. Changes in value of the contracts may not directly correlate to the changes in value of the underlying securities. With futures, there is reduced counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. | |
The average notional values of long position and short position futures contracts during the six months ended June 30, 2025 were $10,671,163 and $877,412, respectively. Open futures contracts outstanding at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. | |
N. | Credit Default Swap Contracts |
A credit default swap is a contract between a buyer of protection and a seller of protection against a pre-defined credit event or an underlying reference obligation, which may be a single security or a basket or index of securities. The Portfolio may buy or sell credit default swap contracts to seek to increase the Portfolio’s income, or to attempt to hedge the risk of default on portfolio securities. A credit default swap index is used to hedge risk or take a position on a basket of credit entities or indices. | |
As a seller of protection, the Portfolio would be required to pay the notional (or other agreed-upon) value of the referenced debt obligation to the counterparty in the event of a default by a U.S. or foreign corporate issuer of a debt obligation, which would likely result in a loss to the Portfolio. In return, the Portfolio would receive from the counterparty a periodic stream of payments during the term of the contract, provided that no event of default occurred. The maximum exposure of loss to the seller would be the notional value of the credit default swaps outstanding. If no default occurs, the Portfolio would keep the stream of payments and would have no payment obligation. The Portfolio may also buy credit default swap contracts in order to hedge against the risk of default of debt securities, in which case the Portfolio would function as the counterparty referenced above. | |
As a buyer of protection, the Portfolio makes an upfront or periodic payment to the protection seller in exchange for the right to receive a contingent payment. An upfront payment made by the Portfolio, as the protection buyer, is recorded within the “Swap contracts, at value” line item on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are recorded as realized gains or losses on the Statement of Operations. | |
Credit default swap contracts are marked-to-market daily using valuations supplied by independent sources, and the change in value, if any, is recorded within the “Swap contracts, at value” line item on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Payments received or made as a result of a credit event or upon termination of the contract are recognized, net of the appropriate amount of the upfront payment, as realized gains or losses on the Statement of Operations. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Credit default swap contracts involving the sale of protection may involve greater risks than if the Portfolio had invested in the referenced debt instrument directly. Credit default swap contracts are subject to general market risk, liquidity risk, counterparty risk and credit risk. If the Portfolio is a protection buyer and no credit event occurs, it will lose its investment. If the Portfolio is a protection seller and a credit event occurs, the value of the referenced debt instrument received by the Portfolio, together with the periodic payments received, may be less than the amount the Portfolio pays to the protection buyer, resulting in a loss to the Portfolio. In addition, obligations under sell protection credit default swaps may be partially offset by net amounts received from settlement of buy protection credit default swaps entered into by the Portfolio for the same reference obligation with the same counterparty. | |
The Portfolio may invest in credit default swap index products (“CDX”). A CDX is a swap on an index of credit default swaps. CDXs allow an investor to manage credit risk or take a position on a basket of credit entities (such as credit default swaps or commercial mortgage-backed securities) in a more efficient manner than transacting in a single-name credit default swap. If a credit event occurs in one of the underlying companies, the protection is paid out via the delivery of the defaulted bond by the buyer of protection in return for a payment of notional value of the defaulted bond by the seller of protection or it may be settled through a cash settlement between the two parties. The underlying company is then removed from the index. If the Portfolio holds a long position in a CDX, the Portfolio would indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by a CDX. A fund holding a long position in CDXs typically receives income from principal or interest paid on the underlying securities. By investing in CDXs, the Portfolio could be exposed to liquidity risk, counterparty risk, credit risk of the issuers of the underlying loan obligations and of the CDX markets, and operational risks. If there is a default by the CDX counterparty, the Portfolio will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. CDXs also bear the risk that the Portfolio will not be able to meet its obligation to the counterparty. | |
Certain swap contracts that are cleared through a central clearinghouse are referred to as centrally cleared swaps. All payments made or received by the Portfolio are pursuant to a centrally cleared swap contract with the central clearing party rather than the original counterparty. Upon entering into a centrally cleared swap contract, the Portfolio is required to make an initial margin deposit, either in cash or in securities. The daily change in value on open centrally cleared contracts is recorded as “Variation margin for centrally cleared swap contracts” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Cash received from or paid to the broker related to previous margin movement is held in a segregated account at the broker and is recorded as either “Due from broker for swaps” or “Due to broker for swaps” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The amount of cash deposited with a broker as collateral at June 30, 2025 is recorded as “Swaps collateral” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. | |
The average notional values of credit default swap contracts buy protection and credit default swap contracts sell protection open during the six months ended June 30, 2025 were $1,117,571 and $25,000, respectively. Open credit default swap contracts at June 30, 2025 are listed in the Schedule of Investments. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Counterparty | Derivative Assets Subject to Master Netting Agreement |
Derivatives Available for Offset |
Non-Cash Collateral Received(a) |
Cash Collateral Received(a) |
Net Amount of Derivative Assets(b) |
Citibank NA | $46,468 | $(12,423) | $— | $— | $34,045 |
Goldman Sachs & Co. | 1,034 | — | — | — | 1,034 |
JPMorgan Chase Bank NA | 161 | — | — | — | 161 |
State Street Bank & Trust Co. | 11,665 | (2,687) | — | — | 8,978 |
Total | $59,328 | $(15,110) | $— | $— | $44,218 |
Counterparty | Derivative Liabilities Subject to Master Netting Agreement |
Derivatives Available for Offset |
Non-Cash Collateral Pledged(a) |
Cash Collateral Pledged(a) |
Net Amount of Derivative Liabilities(c) |
Citibank NA | $12,423 | $(12,423) | $— | $— | $— |
Goldman Sachs & Co. | — | — | — | — | — |
JPMorgan Chase Bank NA | — | — | — | — | — |
State Street Bank & Trust Co. | 2,687 | (2,687) | — | — | — |
Total | $15,110 | $(15,110) | $— | $— | $— |
(a) | The amount presented here may be less than the total amount of collateral received/pledged, as the net amount of derivative assets and liabilities cannot be less than $0. |
(b) | Represents the net amount due from the counterparty in the event of default. |
(c) | Represents the net amount payable to the counterparty in the event of default. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
Interest Rate Risk |
Credit Risk |
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk |
Equity Risk |
Commodity Risk |
Assets | |||||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $— | $— | $59,328 | $— | $— |
Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts^ | 125,425 | — | — | — | — |
Centrally cleared swap contracts† | — | 4,344 | — | — | — |
Total Value | $125,425 | $4,344 | $59,328 | $— | $— |
Liabilities | |||||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $— | $— | $15,110 | $— | $— |
Centrally cleared swap contracts† | — | 3,145 | — | — | — |
Total Value | $— | $3,145 | $15,110 | $— | $— |
^ | Includes cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only net variation margin is reported within the assets and/or liabilities on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. |
† | Includes cumulative unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of centrally cleared swap contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only net variation margin is reported within the receivables and/or payables on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Statement of Operations | Interest Rate Risk |
Credit Risk |
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk |
Equity Risk |
Commodity Risk |
Net Realized Gain (Loss) on | |||||
Futures contracts | $111,431 | $— | $— | $— | $— |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | — | — | (20,906) | — | — |
Options purchased* | — | — | (59,336) | — | — |
Options written | — | — | 28,988 | — | — |
Swap contracts | — | 17,795 | — | — | — |
Total Value | $111,431 | $17,795 | $(51,254) | $— | $— |
Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on | |||||
Futures contracts | $170,232 | $— | $— | $— | $— |
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | — | — | 59,495 | — | — |
Options purchased** | — | — | 59,336 | — | — |
Options written | — | — | (28,988) | — | — |
Swap contracts | — | 17,247 | — | — | — |
Total Value | $170,232 | $17,247 | $89,843 | $— | $— |
* | Reflects the net realized gain (loss) on purchased option contracts (see Note 1J). These amounts are included in net realized gain (loss) on investments in unaffiliated issuers, on the Statement of Operations. |
** | Reflects the change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on purchased option contracts (see Note 1J). These amounts are included in change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments in unaffiliated issuers, on the Statement of Operations. |
Name of the Affiliated Issuer |
Value at December 31, 2024 |
Purchases Costs |
Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) |
Net Realized Gain/(Loss) |
Dividends Received and Reinvested |
Sales Proceeds |
Shares held at June 30, 2025 |
Value at June 30, 2025 |
Pioneer ILS Interval Fund | $1,164,341 | $— | $43,027 | $— | $— | $— | 130,385 | $1,207,368 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Fund | Total Voted | Votes For | Votes Against | Votes Abstained |
Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | 2,513,381 | 2,300,037 | 171,336 | 42,008 |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio | Victory Variable Insurance Funds II |
ITEM 8. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS FOR OPEN-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
N/A
ITEM 9. PROXY DISCLOSURE FOR OPEN-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES. (Unaudited)
Proxy disclosures, if any, are included as part of the Financial Statements filed under Item 7 of this Form
Item 10. REMUNERATION PAID TO DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, AND OTHERS OF OPEN-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES. (Unaudited)
Each Board Member also serves as a Board Member of other Funds in the Pioneer Family of Funds complex. Annual retainer fees and attendance fees are allocated to each Fund based on net assets. Trustees’ fees paid by the Fund are within Item 7. Statement of Operations as Trustees’ fees and expenses.
Item 11. STATEMENT REGARDING BASIS FOR APPROVAL OF INVESMENT ADVISORY CONTRACT. (Unaudited)
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement with Victory Capital Management Inc.
Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory Capital”) serves as the investment adviser to Victory Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio (the “Portfolio”) pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between Victory Capital and the Portfolio (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”).
The Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the reorganization of Pioneer Bond VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) into the Portfolio (the “Reorganization”). The Predecessor Portfolio and the Portfolio entered into the Reorganization in connection with the contribution of Amundi Asset Management US, Inc. (“Amundi US”), the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment adviser, to Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. (“Victory Capital Holdings”), the parent company of Victory Capital (the “Transaction”). The Reorganization was approved by shareholders of the Predecessor Portfolio at a meeting held on March 27, 2025 and was consummated on April 1, 2025.
The Trustees of the Portfolio, including all of the Independent Trustees, met to consider the Investment Advisory Agreement at an in-person meeting held on December 16, 2024. The Independent Trustees also served on the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio.
To assist the Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Victory Capital provided extensive information to the Trustees regarding the Reorganization, the Transaction and the investment advisory services to be provided by Victory Capital under the Investment Advisory Agreement. It was noted that the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio had meetings on May 14-15, 2024, July 22-23, 2024, September 16-17, 2024 and November 12-13, 2024 to consider the Reorganization and that substantially all of the information provided in connection with those meetings was relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement. These meetings included meetings of the full Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio and separate meetings of the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolios. In addition, the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio met separately on May 23, 2024, June 24, 2024, August 19, 2024, and October 29, 2024, to consider the Reorganization.
Before and during the December 16, 2024 meeting, the Trustees sought additional information as they deemed necessary and appropriate. In connection with their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees worked with their independent legal counsel to prepare requests for additional information that were submitted to Victory Capital and Amundi US. The Trustees’ requests for information sought information relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement and anticipated impacts of the Reorganization and the Transaction on the Portfolio and its shareholders. The Independent Trustees met with senior management representatives of Victory Capital and Amundi US on numerous occasions to discuss various aspects of the Reorganization and the Transaction, to review information provided to assist the Independent Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction, and to make supplemental due diligence requests for additional information from Victory Capital and Amundi US with respect to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction. Victory Capital and Amundi US provided documents and information in response to the requests from the Independent Trustees, as well as made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Independent Trustees.
Prior to voting on the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with representatives of Amundi US and Victory Capital, counsel to the Portfolio and counsel to the Independent Trustees. The Independent Trustees also reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with their independent legal counsel in private sessions at which no representatives of Amundi US, Victory Capital or counsel to the Portfolio were present.
The Trustees’ evaluation of the Investment Advisory Agreement reflected information provided specifically in connection with their review of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously furnished to the Independent Trustees in connection with the renewal of the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment advisory agreement with Amundi US (the “Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement”) at an in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024 and at other meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s
Board of Trustees throughout the prior year.
Among other things, the Trustees considered:
(i) that, in the Transaction, Amundi US would be combined into Victory Capital Holdings in exchange for shares of Victory Capital Holdings issued to Amundi Asset Management S.A.S. (“Amundi”), the parent company of Amundi US, without Amundi becoming a controlling stockholder of Victory Capital Holdings, and that Victory Capital Holdings and Amundi would establish a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership;
(ii) representations by Victory Capital regarding the reputation, experience, financial strength and resources of Victory Capital and its investment franchises;
(iii) that Victory Capital informed the Trustees that the portfolio managers of the Predecessor Portfolio were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a planned Victory Capital investment franchise, managing the Portfolio using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed, and the Trustees considered the historical investment performance record of the Predecessor Portfolio under such investment approach;
(iv) the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s legal and operational structure, risk management, administrative, legal, compliance and cybersecurity functions;
(v) Victory Capital’s distribution capabilities, including its significant network of intermediary relationships, which may provide additional opportunities for the Portfolio to grow assets and lower fees and expenses through increased economies of scale;
(vi) Victory Capital’s broad distribution network and a large fund family of Victory Funds may also provide opportunities for asset growth for the Portfolio and economies of scale through the potential to negotiate lower fee rates from service providers and to determine based on the assets of the entire Victory Fund complex;
(vii) the fact that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio;
(viii) the fact that the Independent Trustees received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024;
(ix) that Victory Capital agreed with the Trustees that, for at least three years after the closing of the Reorganization, Victory Capital would waive fees and/or reimburse expenses so that the Portfolio’s total net annual operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year at the time of the closing of the Reorganization, and that the contractual expense limitation agreement permits Victory Capital to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to two years after the fiscal year in which the waiver or reimbursement took place, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limitation in effect at the time of: (1) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (2) recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount;
(x) that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio, except that the Portfolio is required to invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in bonds, which include all fixed income investments other than preferred stock (e.g., debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities and debt securities (including convertible debt) of corporate or other issuers), while the Predecessor Portfolio was required to invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities, investment grade debt securities (including convertible debt) of corporate or other issuers and cash, cash equivalents and other short-term holdings.
(xi) that Victory Capital had acquired and integrated several investment management companies;
(xii) that Victory Capital had agreed to conduct, and use reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates to conduct, its business in compliance with Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act so as not to impose an “unfair burden” on the Portfolio; and
(xiii) the potential benefits to the shareholders of the Portfolio, including continuity of portfolio management and operating efficiencies due to the greater scale of Victory Capital that may be achieved from the Reorganization. Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
The Trustees also requested, obtained and considered the following information in connection with their evaluation of the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Portfolio: (i) memoranda provided by fund counsel that summarized the legal standards and other considerations that are relevant to the Trustees in their deliberations regarding the Investment Advisory Agreement; and (ii) the financial statements of Victory Capital, a profitability analysis provided by Victory Capital, and an analysis from Victory Capital as to possible economies of scale. The Independent Trustees further considered materials provided in connection with their review of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement, including information regarding the qualifications of the investment management team for the Portfolio, as well as the level of investment by the Portfolio’s portfolio managers in the Portfolio. In addition, the
Independent Trustees considered the information provided at and in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio throughout the year regarding the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance and risk attributes, including through meetings with investment management personnel, and took into account other information related to the Predecessor Portfolio provided to the Independent Trustees at regularly scheduled meetings.
At the December 16, 2024 meeting, based on their evaluation of the information provided, the Trustees including the Independent Trustees voting separately, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant, including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single factor as the controlling factor in their determinations.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered that the Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the Reorganization. The Trustees considered that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio, except that the Portfolio is required to invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in bonds, which include all fixed income investments other than preferred stock (e.g., debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities and debt securities (including convertible debt) of corporate or other issuers), while the Predecessor Portfolio was required to invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities, investment grade debt securities (including convertible debt) of corporate or other issuers and cash, cash equivalents and other short-term holdings. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s representation that, under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Portfolio would be managed using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed.
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services that had been provided by Amundi US to the Predecessor Portfolio and that were expected to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization, taking into account the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio.
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operations, leadership and reputation. The Trustees also considered the capabilities, resources, and personnel of Victory Capital, in order to determine whether Victory Capital is capable of providing at least the same level of investment management services provided to the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees received information regarding Victory Capital’s plans to integrate Amundi US investment personnel into Victory Capital as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Independent Trustees noted that they had considered the qualifications of the portfolio managers at Amundi US at meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held prior to September 17, 2024.
The Trustees considered the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s compliance, risk management, cybersecurity and legal resources and personnel. The Trustees also reviewed information provided by Victory Capital related to its business, legal, and regulatory affairs, including information regarding the resources available to Victory Capital to provide the services specified under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s financial condition, and noted that Victory Capital was expected to be able to provide a high level of service to the Portfolio and continuously invest and re-invest in its investment management business.
The Trustees considered that Amundi US supervised and monitored the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s service providers and provided the Predecessor Portfolio with personnel (including Portfolio officers) and other resources that were necessary for the Predecessor Portfolio’s business management and operations, and considered the personnel and resources that Victory Capital proposed to provide with respect to such services for the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered that, as administrator, Amundi US was responsible for the administration of the Predecessor Portfolio’s business and other affairs and that, following the Reorganization, Victory Capital would be responsible for the administration of the Portfolio’s business and other affairs. The Trustees considered that the fees Victory Capital would charge for administration services were higher than the fees that Amundi US received as reimbursement for services rendered, and considered Victory Capital’s explanation of the reasons for the differences in administration fees charged by Victory Capital and Amundi US as well as the expense limitation arrangement proposed to be implemented for the Portfolio for at least three years following the completion of the Reorganization.
Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services that Victory Capital would provide to the Portfolio would be satisfactory and consistent with the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Performance of the Portfolio
The Portfolio is newly-organized and does not have a performance history. The Trustees considered that the Portfolio succeeded to the performance history of the Predecessor Portfolio in the Reorganization. In considering the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance, the Independent Trustees regularly reviewed and discussed throughout the year data and information comparing the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the performance of its peer group of funds, as classified by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar), and with the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s benchmark index. They also discussed the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers on a regular basis. The Independent Trustees’ regular reviews and discussions with respect to the Predecessor Portfolio were factored into the Trustees’ deliberations concerning the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
In addition, the Trustees considered that the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Trustees also considered that the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio, except that the Portfolio is required to invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in bonds, which include all fixed income investments other than preferred stock (e.g., debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities and debt securities (including convertible debt) of corporate or other issuers), while the Predecessor Portfolio was required to invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of borrowings, if any, for investment purposes) in debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities, investment grade debt securities (including convertible debt) of corporate or other issuers and cash, cash equivalents and other short-term holdings.
Advisory Fee and Expenses
The Independent Trustees considered that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio. The Independent Trustees also considered that, for at least three years after the close of the Reorganization, Victory Capital had agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Portfolio so that its total net operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year, at the time of the closing of the Reorganization. The Independent Trustees also considered that they had received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024. The Trustees concluded that the proposed advisory fee payable by the Portfolio to Victory Capital was reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services to be provided by Victory Capital.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding the estimated profitability of Victory Capital with respect to the advisory services proposed to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio, including the methodology used by Victory Capital in allocating certain of its costs to the management of the Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s estimated profit margins in connection with the overall operation of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the investments Victory Capital expected to make to support and grow the Pioneer funds brand and the costs to integrate the Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business into Victory Capital. The Trustees also considered information regarding Victory Capital’s profit margins with respect to the funds it currently manages. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s representation that the fully integrated Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business, including investments to support ongoing growth, was expected to have a positive impact on Victory Capital’s overall financial profitability. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s current profit margins in comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees concluded that Victory Capital’s estimated profitability with respect to the management of the Portfolio was not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the extent to which Victory Capital may realize economies of scale or other efficiencies in managing and supporting the Portfolio. The Trustees noted the breakpoints in the management fee schedule. The Trustees recognize that economies of scale are difficult to identify and quantify, and that, among other factors that may be relevant, are the following: fee levels, expense subsidization, investment by Victory Capital in research and analytical capabilities and Victory Capital’s commitment and resource allocation to the Portfolio. The Trustees noted that profitability also may be an indicator of the availability of any economies of scale, although profitability may vary for other reasons including due to reductions in expenses. The Trustees concluded that economies of scale, if any, would be appropriately shared with the Portfolio.
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits that Victory Capital may enjoy from its relationship with the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the character and amount of fees to be paid by the Portfolio, other than under the Investment Advisory Agreement, for services to be provided by Victory Capital and its affiliates. The Trustees further considered the revenues and profitability of Victory Capital’s businesses other than the Portfolio business. To the extent applicable, the Trustees also considered the potential benefits to the Portfolio and to Victory Capital and its affiliates from the use of “soft” commission dollars generated by the Portfolio to pay for research and brokerage services.
The Trustees noted that the completion of the Transaction would result in a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership between Amundi and Victory Capital, and that Victory Capital may benefit from Amundi’s ability to market the services of Victory Capital globally, including in an increase of the overall scale of Victory Capital. The Trustees considered that the Transaction would significantly increase Victory Capital’s assets under management and expand Victory Capital’s investment
capabilities. The Trustees considered that this increased size and diversification could facilitate Victory Capital’s continued investment in its business and products, which Victory Capital would be able to leverage across a broader base of assets. The Trustees considered that Victory Capital and the Portfolio are expected to receive reciprocal intangible benefits from the relationship, including mutual brand recognition. The Trustees concluded that any such benefits received by Victory Capital as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio were reasonable.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the Investment Advisory Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and voted to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement with Victory Capital Management Inc.
Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory Capital”) serves as the investment adviser to Victory Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio (the “Portfolio”) pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between Victory Capital and the Portfolio (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”).
The Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the reorganization of Pioneer Mid Cap Value VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) into the Portfolio (the “Reorganization”). The Predecessor Portfolio and the Portfolio entered into the Reorganization in connection with the contribution of Amundi Asset Management US, Inc. (“Amundi US”), the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment adviser, to Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. (“Victory Capital Holdings”), the parent company of Victory Capital (the “Transaction”). The Reorganization was approved by shareholders of the Predecessor Portfolio at a meeting held on March 27, 2025 and was consummated on April 1, 2025.
The Trustees of the Portfolio, including all of the Independent Trustees, met to consider the Investment Advisory Agreement at an in-person meeting held on December 16, 2024. The Independent Trustees also served on the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio.
To assist the Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Victory Capital provided extensive information to the Trustees regarding the Reorganization, the Transaction and the investment advisory services to be provided by Victory Capital under the Investment Advisory Agreement. It was noted that the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio had meetings on May 14-15, 2024, July 22-23, 2024, September 16-17, 2024 and November 12-13, 2024 to consider the Reorganization and that substantially all of the information provided in connection with those meetings was relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement. These meetings included meetings of the full Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio and separate meetings of the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolios. In addition, the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio met separately on May 23, 2024, June 24, 2024, August 19, 2024, and October 29, 2024, to consider the Reorganization.
Before and during the December 16, 2024 meeting, the Trustees sought additional information as they deemed necessary and appropriate. In connection with their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees worked with their independent legal counsel to prepare requests for additional information that were submitted to Victory Capital and Amundi US. The Trustees’ requests for information sought information relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement and anticipated impacts of the Reorganization and the Transaction on the Portfolio and its shareholders. The Independent Trustees met with senior management representatives of Victory Capital and Amundi US on numerous occasions to discuss various aspects of the Reorganization and the Transaction, to review information provided to assist the Independent Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction, and to make supplemental due diligence requests for additional information from Victory Capital and Amundi US with respect to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction. Victory Capital and Amundi US provided documents and information in response to the requests from the Independent Trustees, as well as made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Independent Trustees.
Prior to voting on the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with representatives of Amundi US and Victory Capital, counsel to the Portfolio and counsel to the Independent Trustees. The Independent Trustees also reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with their independent legal counsel in private sessions at which no representatives of Amundi US, Victory Capital or counsel to the Portfolio were present.
The Trustees’ evaluation of the Investment Advisory Agreement reflected information provided specifically in connection with their review of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously furnished to the Independent Trustees in connection with the renewal of the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment advisory agreement with Amundi US (the “Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement”) at an in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024 and at other meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees throughout the prior year.
Among other things, the Trustees considered:
(i) that, in the Transaction, Amundi US would be combined into Victory Capital Holdings in exchange for shares of Victory
Capital Holdings issued to Amundi Asset Management S.A.S. (“Amundi”), the parent company of Amundi US, without Amundi becoming a controlling stockholder of Victory Capital Holdings, and that Victory Capital Holdings and Amundi would establish a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership;
(ii) representations by Victory Capital regarding the reputation, experience, financial strength and resources of Victory Capital and its investment franchises; continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a planned Victory Capital investment franchise, managing the Portfolio using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed, and the Trustees considered the historical investment performance record of the Predecessor Portfolio under such investment approach;
(iv) the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s legal and operational structure, risk management, administrative, legal, compliance and cybersecurity functions;
(v) Victory Capital’s distribution capabilities, including its significant network of intermediary relationships, which may provide additional opportunities for the Portfolio to grow assets and lower fees and expenses through increased economies of scale;
(vi) Victory Capital’s broad distribution network and a large fund family of Victory Funds may also provide opportunities for asset growth for the Portfolio and economies of scale through the potential to negotiate lower fee rates from service providers and to determine based on the assets of the entire Victory Fund complex;
(vii) the fact that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio;
(viii) the fact that the Independent Trustees received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024;
(ix) that Victory Capital agreed with the Trustees that, for at least three years after the closing of the Reorganization, Victory Capital would waive fees and/or reimburse expenses so that the Portfolio’s total net annual operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year at the time of the closing of the Reorganization, and that the contractual expense limitation agreement permits Victory Capital to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to two years after the fiscal year in which the waiver or reimbursement took place, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limitation in effect at the time of: (1) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (2) recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount; (x) that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio;
(xi) that Victory Capital had acquired and integrated several investment management companies;
(xii) that Victory Capital had agreed to conduct, and use reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates to conduct, its business in compliance with Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act so as not to impose an “unfair burden” on the Portfolio; and
(xiii) the potential benefits to the shareholders of the Portfolio, including continuity of portfolio management and operating efficiencies due to the greater scale of Victory Capital that may be achieved from the Reorganization. Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
The Trustees also requested, obtained and considered the following information in connection with their evaluation of the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Portfolio: (i) memoranda provided by fund counsel that summarized the legal standards and other considerations that are relevant to the Trustees in their deliberations regarding the Investment Advisory Agreement; and (ii) the financial statements of Victory Capital, a profitability analysis provided by Victory Capital, and an analysis from Victory Capital as to possible economies of scale. The Independent Trustees further considered materials provided in connection with their review of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement, including information regarding the qualifications of the investment management team for the Portfolio, as well as the level of investment by the Portfolio’s portfolio managers in the Portfolio. In addition, the Independent Trustees considered the information provided at and in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio throughout the year regarding the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance and risk attributes, including through meetings with investment management personnel, and took into account other information related to the Predecessor Portfolio provided to the Independent Trustees at regularly scheduled meetings.
At the December 16, 2024 meeting, based on their evaluation of the information provided, the Trustees including the Independent Trustees voting separately, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant, including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single factor as the controlling factor in their determinations.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered that the Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the Reorganization. The Trustees considered that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s representation that, under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Portfolio would be managed using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed.
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services that had been provided by Amundi US to the Predecessor Portfolio and that were expected to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization, taking into account the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio.
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operations, leadership and reputation. The Trustees also considered the capabilities, resources, and personnel of Victory Capital, in order to determine whether Victory Capital is capable of providing at least the same level of investment management services provided to the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees received information regarding Victory Capital’s plans to integrate Amundi US investment personnel into Victory Capital as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Independent Trustees noted that they had considered the qualifications of the portfolio managers at Amundi US at meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held prior to September 17, 2024.
The Trustees considered the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s compliance, risk management, cybersecurity and legal resources and personnel. The Trustees also reviewed information provided by Victory Capital related to its business, legal, and regulatory affairs, including information regarding the resources available to Victory Capital to provide the services specified under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s financial condition, and noted that Victory Capital was expected to be able to provide a high level of service to the Portfolio and continuously invest and re-invest in its investment management business.
The Trustees considered that Amundi US supervised and monitored the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s service providers and provided the Predecessor Portfolio with personnel (including Portfolio officers) and other resources that were necessary for the Predecessor Portfolio’s business management and operations, and considered the personnel and resources that Victory Capital proposed to provide with respect to such services for the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered that, as administrator, Amundi US was responsible for the administration of the Predecessor Portfolio’s business and other affairs and that, following the Reorganization, Victory Capital would be responsible for the administration of the Portfolio’s business and other affairs. The Trustees considered that the fees Victory Capital would charge for administration services were higher than the fees that Amundi US received as reimbursement for services rendered, and considered Victory Capital’s explanation of the reasons for the differences in administration fees charged by Victory Capital and Amundi US as well as the expense limitation arrangement proposed to be implemented for the Portfolio for at least three years following the completion of the Reorganization.
Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services that Victory Capital would provide to the Portfolio would be satisfactory and consistent with the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Performance of the Portfolio
The Portfolio is newly-organized and does not have a performance history. The Trustees considered that the Portfolio succeeded to the performance history of the Predecessor Portfolio in the Reorganization. In considering the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance, the Independent Trustees regularly reviewed and discussed throughout the year data and information comparing the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the performance of its peer group of funds, as classified by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar), and with the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s benchmark index. They also discussed the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers on a regular basis. The Independent Trustees’ regular reviews and discussions with respect to the Predecessor Portfolio were factored into the Trustees’ deliberations concerning the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
In addition, the Trustees considered that the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Trustees also considered that the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio.
Advisory Fee and Expenses
The Independent Trustees considered that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio. The Independent Trustees also considered that, for at least three years after the close of the Reorganization, Victory Capital had agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Portfolio so that its total net operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year, at the time of the closing of the Reorganization. The Independent Trustees also considered that they had received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024. The Trustees concluded that the proposed advisory fee payable by the Portfolio to Victory Capital was reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services to be provided by Victory Capital.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding the estimated profitability of Victory Capital with respect to the advisory services proposed to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio, including the methodology used by Victory Capital in allocating certain of its costs to the management of the Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s estimated profit margins in connection with the overall operation of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the investments Victory Capital expected to make to support and grow the Pioneer funds brand and the costs to integrate the Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business into Victory Capital. The Trustees also considered information regarding Victory Capital’s profit margins with respect to the funds it currently manages. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s representation that the fully integrated Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business, including investments to support ongoing growth, was expected to have a positive impact on Victory Capital’s overall financial profitability. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s current profit margins in comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees concluded that Victory Capital’s estimated profitability with respect to the management of the Portfolio was not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the extent to which Victory Capital may realize economies of scale or other efficiencies in managing and supporting the Portfolio. The Trustees noted the breakpoints in the management fee schedule. The Trustees recognize that economies of scale are difficult to identify and quantify, and that, among other factors that may be relevant, are the following: fee levels, expense subsidization, investment by Victory Capital in research and analytical capabilities and Victory Capital’s commitment and resource allocation to the Portfolio. The Trustees noted that profitability also may be an indicator of the availability of any economies of scale, although profitability may vary for other reasons including due to reductions in expenses. The Trustees concluded that economies of scale, if any, would be appropriately shared with the Portfolio.
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits that Victory Capital may enjoy from its relationship with the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the character and amount of fees to be paid by the Portfolio, other than under the Investment Advisory Agreement, for services to be provided by Victory Capital and its affiliates. The Trustees further considered the revenues and profitability of Victory Capital’s businesses other than the Portfolio business. To the extent applicable, the Trustees also considered the potential benefits to the Portfolio and to Victory Capital and its affiliates from the use of “soft” commission dollars generated by the Portfolio to pay for research and brokerage services.
The Trustees noted that the completion of the Transaction would result in a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership between Amundi and Victory Capital, and that Victory Capital may benefit from Amundi’s ability to market the services of Victory Capital globally, including in an increase of the overall scale of Victory Capital. The Trustees considered that the Transaction would significantly increase Victory Capital’s assets under management and expand Victory Capital’s investment capabilities. The Trustees considered that this increased size and diversification could facilitate Victory Capital’s continued investment in its business and products, which Victory Capital would be able to leverage across a broader base of assets. The Trustees considered that Victory Capital and the Portfolio are expected to receive reciprocal intangible benefits from the relationship, including mutual brand recognition. The Trustees concluded that any such benefits received by Victory Capital as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio were reasonable.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the Investment Advisory Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and voted to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement with Victory Capital Management Inc.
Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory Capital”) serves as the investment adviser to Victory Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio (the “Portfolio”) pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between Victory Capital and the Portfolio (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”).
The Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the reorganization of Pioneer Equity Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) into the Portfolio (the “Reorganization”). The Predecessor Portfolio and the Portfolio entered into the Reorganization in connection with the contribution of Amundi Asset Management US, Inc. (“Amundi US”), the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment adviser, to Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. (“Victory Capital Holdings”), the parent company of Victory Capital (the “Transaction”). The Reorganization was approved by shareholders of the Predecessor Portfolio at a meeting held on March 27, 2025 and was consummated on April 1, 2025.
The Trustees of the Portfolio, including all of the Independent Trustees, met to consider the Investment Advisory Agreement at an in-person meeting held on December 16, 2024. The Independent Trustees also served on the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio.
To assist the Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Victory Capital provided extensive information to the Trustees regarding the Reorganization, the Transaction and the investment advisory services to be provided by Victory Capital under the Investment Advisory Agreement. It was noted that the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio had meetings on May 14-15, 2024, July 22-23, 2024, September 16-17, 2024 and November 12-13, 2024 to consider the Reorganization and that substantially all of the information provided in connection with those meetings was relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement. These meetings included meetings of the full Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio and separate meetings of the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolios. In addition, the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio met separately on May 23, 2024, June 24, 2024, August 19, 2024, and October 29, 2024, to consider the Reorganization.
Before and during the December 16, 2024 meeting, the Trustees sought additional information as they deemed necessary and appropriate. In connection with their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees worked with their independent legal counsel to prepare requests for additional information that were submitted to Victory Capital and Amundi US. The Trustees’ requests for information sought information relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement and anticipated impacts of the Reorganization and the Transaction on the Portfolio and its shareholders. The Independent Trustees met with senior management representatives of Victory Capital and Amundi US on numerous occasions to discuss various aspects of the Reorganization and the Transaction, to review information provided to assist the Independent Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction, and to make supplemental due diligence requests for additional information from Victory Capital and Amundi US with respect to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction. Victory Capital and Amundi US provided documents and information in response to the requests from the Independent Trustees, as well as made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Independent Trustees.
Prior to voting on the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with representatives of Amundi US and Victory Capital, counsel to the Portfolio and counsel to the Independent Trustees. The Independent Trustees also reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with their independent legal counsel in private sessions at which no representatives of Amundi US, Victory Capital or counsel to the Portfolio were present.
The Trustees’ evaluation of the Investment Advisory Agreement reflected information provided specifically in connection with their review of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously furnished to the Independent Trustees in connection with the renewal of the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment advisory agreement with Amundi US (the “Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement”) at an in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024 and at other meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s
Board of Trustees throughout the prior year.
Among other things, the Trustees considered :
(i) that, in the Transaction, Amundi US would be combined into Victory Capital Holdings in exchange for shares of Victory Capital Holdings issued to Amundi Asset Management S.A.S. (“Amundi”), the parent company of Amundi US, without Amundi becoming a controlling stockholder of Victory Capital Holdings, and that Victory Capital Holdings and Amundi would establish a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership;
(ii) representations by Victory Capital regarding the reputation, experience, financial strength and resources of Victory
Capital and its investment franchises; continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a planned Victory Capital investment franchise, managing the Portfolio using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed, and the Trustees considered the historical investment performance record of the Predecessor Portfolio under such investment approach;
(iv) the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s
services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s legal and operational structure, risk management, administrative, legal, compliance and cybersecurity functions;
(v) Victory Capital’s distribution capabilities, including its significant network of intermediary relationships, which may provide additional opportunities for the Portfolio to grow assets and lower fees and expenses through increased economies of scale;
(vi) Victory Capital’s broad distribution network and a large fund family of Victory Funds may also provide opportunities for asset growth for the Portfolio and economies of scale through the potential to negotiate lower fee rates from service providers and to determine based on the assets of the entire Victory Fund complex;
(vii) the fact that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio;
(viii) the fact that the Independent Trustees received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024;
(ix) that Victory Capital agreed with the Trustees that, for at least three years after the closing of the Reorganization, Victory Capital would waive fees and/or reimburse expenses so that the Portfolio’s total net annual operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year at the time of the closing of the Reorganization, and that the contractual expense limitation agreement permits Victory Capital to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to two years after the fiscal year in which the waiver or reimbursement took place, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limitation in effect at the time of: (1) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (2) recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount; (x) that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio;
(xi) that Victory Capital had acquired and integrated several investment management companies;
(xii) that Victory Capital had agreed to conduct, and use reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates to conduct, its business in compliance with Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act so as not to impose an “unfair burden” on the Portfolio; and (xiii) the potential benefits to the shareholders of the Portfolio, including continuity of portfolio management and operating efficiencies due to the greater scale of Victory Capital that may be achieved from the Reorganization. Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
The Trustees also requested, obtained and considered the following information in connection with their evaluation of the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Portfolio: (i) memoranda provided by fund counsel that summarized the legal standards and other considerations that are relevant to the Trustees in their deliberations regarding the Investment Advisory Agreement; and (ii) the financial statements of Victory Capital, a profitability analysis provided by Victory Capital, and an analysis from Victory Capital as to possible economies of scale. The Independent Trustees further considered materials provided in connection with their review of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement, including information regarding the qualifications of the investment management team for the Portfolio, as well as the level of investment by the Portfolio’s portfolio managers in the Portfolio. In addition, the Independent Trustees considered the information provided at and in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio throughout the year regarding the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance and risk attributes, including through meetings with investment management personnel, and took into account other information related to the Predecessor Portfolio provided to the Independent Trustees at regularly scheduled meetings.
At the December 16, 2024 meeting, based on their evaluation of the information provided, the Trustees including the Independent Trustees voting separately, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant, including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single factor as the controlling factor in their determinations.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered that the Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the Reorganization. The Trustees considered that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s representation that, under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Portfolio would be managed using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed.
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services that had been provided by Amundi US to the Predecessor Portfolio and that were expected to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization, taking into account the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operations, leadership and reputation. The Trustees also considered the capabilities, resources, and personnel of Victory Capital, in order to determine whether Victory Capital is capable of providing at least the same level of investment management services provided to the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees received information regarding Victory Capital’s plans to integrate Amundi US investment personnel into Victory Capital as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Independent Trustees noted that they had considered the qualifications of the portfolio managers at Amundi US at meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held prior to September 17, 2024.
The Trustees considered the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s compliance, risk management, cybersecurity and legal resources and personnel. The Trustees also reviewed information provided by Victory Capital related to its business, legal, and regulatory affairs, including information regarding the resources available to Victory Capital to provide the services specified under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s financial condition, and noted that Victory Capital was expected to be able to provide a high level of service to the Portfolio and continuously invest and re-invest in its investment management business.
The Trustees considered that Amundi US supervised and monitored the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s service providers and provided the Predecessor Portfolio with personnel (including Portfolio officers) and other resources that were necessary for the Predecessor Portfolio’s business management and operations, and considered the personnel and resources
that Victory Capital proposed to provide with respect to such services for the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered that, as administrator, Amundi US was responsible for the administration of the Predecessor Portfolio’s business and other affairs and that, following the Reorganization, Victory Capital would be responsible for the administration of the Portfolio’s business and other affairs. The Trustees considered that the fees Victory Capital would charge for administration services were higher than the fees that Amundi US received as reimbursement for services rendered, and considered Victory Capital’s explanation of the reasons for the differences in administration fees charged by Victory Capital and Amundi US as well as the expense limitation arrangement proposed to be implemented for the Portfolio for at least three years following the completion of the Reorganization.
Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services that Victory Capital would provide to the Portfolio would be satisfactory and consistent with the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Performance of the Portfolio
The Portfolio is newly-organized and does not have a performance history. The Trustees considered that the Portfolio succeeded to the performance history of the Predecessor Portfolio in the Reorganization. In considering the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance, the Independent Trustees regularly reviewed and discussed throughout the year data and information comparing the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the performance of its peer group of funds, as classified by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar), and with the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s benchmark index. They also discussed the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers on a regular basis. The Independent Trustees’ regular reviews and discussions with respect to the Predecessor Portfolio were factored into the Trustees’ deliberations concerning the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
In addition, the Trustees considered that the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Trustees also considered that the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio.
Advisory Fee and Expenses
The Independent Trustees considered that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio. The Independent Trustees also considered that, for at least three years after the close of the Reorganization, Victory Capital had agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Portfolio so that its total net operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year, at the time of the closing of the Reorganization. The Independent Trustees also considered that they had received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024. The Trustees concluded that the proposed advisory fee payable by the Portfolio to Victory Capital was reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services to be provided by Victory Capital.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding the estimated profitability of Victory Capital with respect to the advisory services proposed to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio, including the methodology used by Victory Capital in allocating certain of its costs to the management of the Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s estimated profit margins in connection with the overall operation of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the investments Victory Capital expected to make to support and grow the Pioneer funds brand and the costs to integrate the Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business into Victory Capital. The Trustees also considered information regarding Victory Capital’s profit margins with respect to the funds it currently manages. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s representation that the fully integrated Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business, including investments to support ongoing growth, was expected to have a positive impact on Victory Capital’s overall financial profitability. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s current profit margins in comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees concluded that Victory Capital’s estimated profitability with respect to the management of the Portfolio was
not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the extent to which Victory Capital may realize economies of scale or other efficiencies in managing and supporting the Portfolio. The Trustees noted the breakpoints in the management fee schedule. The Trustees recognize that economies of scale are difficult to identify and quantify, and that, among other factors that may be relevant, are the following: fee levels, expense subsidization, investment by Victory Capital in research and analytical capabilities and Victory Capital’s commitment and resource allocation to the Portfolio. The Trustees noted that profitability also may be an indicator of the availability of any economies of scale, although profitability may vary for other reasons including due to reductions in expenses. The Trustees concluded that economies of scale, if any, would be appropriately shared with the Portfolio.
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits that Victory Capital may enjoy from its relationship with the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the character and amount of fees to be paid by the Portfolio, other than under the Investment Advisory Agreement, for services to be provided by Victory Capital and its affiliates. The Trustees further considered the revenues and profitability of Victory Capital’s businesses other than the Portfolio business. To the extent applicable, the Trustees also considered the potential benefits to the Portfolio and to Victory Capital and its affiliates from the use of “soft” commission dollars generated by the Portfolio to pay for research and brokerage services.
The Trustees noted that the completion of the Transaction would result in a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership between Amundi and Victory Capital, and that Victory Capital may benefit from Amundi’s ability to market the services of Victory Capital globally, including in an increase of the overall scale of Victory Capital. The Trustees considered that the Transaction would significantly increase Victory Capital’s assets under management and expand Victory Capital’s investment capabilities. The Trustees considered that this increased size and diversification could facilitate Victory Capital’s continued investment in its business and products, which Victory Capital would be able to leverage across a broader base of assets. The Trustees considered that Victory Capital and the Portfolio are expected to receive reciprocal intangible benefits from the relationship, including mutual brand recognition. The Trustees concluded that any such benefits received by Victory Capital as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio were reasonable.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the Investment Advisory Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and voted to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement with Victory Capital Management Inc.
Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory Capital”) serves as the investment adviser to Victory Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio (the “Portfolio”) pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between Victory Capital and the Portfolio (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”).
The Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the reorganization of Pioneer Fund VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) into the Portfolio (the “Reorganization”). The Predecessor Portfolio and the Portfolio entered into the Reorganization in connection with the contribution of Amundi Asset Management US, Inc. (“Amundi US”), the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment adviser, to Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. (“Victory Capital Holdings”), the parent company of Victory Capital (the “Transaction”). The Reorganization was approved by shareholders of the Predecessor Portfolio at a meeting held on March 27, 2025 and was consummated on April 1, 2025.
The Trustees of the Portfolio, including all of the Independent Trustees, met to consider the Investment Advisory Agreement at an in-person meeting held on December 16, 2024. The Independent Trustees also served on the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio.
To assist the Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Victory Capital provided extensive information to the Trustees regarding the Reorganization, the Transaction and the investment advisory services to be provided by Victory Capital under the Investment Advisory Agreement. It was noted that the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio had meetings on May 14-15, 2024, July 22-23, 2024, September 16-17, 2024 and November 12-13, 2024 to consider the Reorganization and that substantially all of the information provided in connection with those meetings was relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement. These meetings included meetings of the full Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio and separate meetings of the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolios. In addition, the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio met separately on May 23, 2024, June 24, 2024, August 19, 2024, and October 29, 2024, to consider the Reorganization.
Before and during the December 16, 2024 meeting, the Trustees sought additional information as they deemed necessary and appropriate. In connection with their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees worked with their independent legal counsel to prepare requests for additional information that were submitted to Victory Capital and Amundi US. The Trustees’ requests for information sought information relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement and anticipated impacts of the Reorganization and the Transaction on the Portfolio and its shareholders. The Independent Trustees met with senior management representatives of Victory Capital and Amundi US on numerous occasions to discuss various aspects of the Reorganization and the Transaction, to review information provided to assist the Independent Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction, and to make supplemental due diligence requests for additional information from Victory Capital and Amundi US with respect to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction. Victory Capital and Amundi US provided documents and information in response to the requests from the Independent Trustees, as well as made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Independent Trustees.
Prior to voting on the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with representatives of Amundi US and Victory Capital, counsel to the Portfolio and counsel to the Independent Trustees. The Independent Trustees also reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with their independent legal counsel in private sessions at which no representatives of Amundi US, Victory Capital or counsel to the Portfolio were present.
The Trustees’ evaluation of the Investment Advisory Agreement reflected information provided specifically in connection with their review of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously furnished to the Independent Trustees in connection with the renewal of the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment advisory agreement with Amundi US (the “Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement”) at an in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024 and at other meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s
Board of Trustees throughout the prior year.
Among other things, the Trustees considered:
(i) that, in the Transaction, Amundi US would be combined into Victory Capital Holdings in exchange for shares of Victory Capital Holdings issued to Amundi Asset Management S.A.S. (“Amundi”), the parent company of Amundi US, without Amundi becoming a controlling stockholder of Victory Capital Holdings, and that Victory Capital Holdings and Amundi would establish a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership;
(ii) representations by Victory Capital regarding the reputation, experience, financial strength and resources of Victory Capital and its investment franchises; (iii) that Victory Capital informed the Trustees that the portfolio managers of the Predecessor Portfolio were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a planned Victory Capital investment franchise, managing the Portfolio using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed, and the Trustees considered the historical investment
performance record of the Predecessor Portfolio under such investment approach;
(iv) the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s legal and operational structure, risk management, administrative, legal, compliance and cybersecurity functions;
(v) Victory Capital’s distribution capabilities, including its significant network of intermediary relationships, which may provide additional opportunities for the Portfolio to grow assets and lower fees and expenses through increased economies of scale;
(vi) Victory Capital’s broad distribution network and a large fund family of Victory Funds may also provide opportunities for asset growth for the Portfolio and economies of scale through the potential to negotiate lower fee rates from service providers and to determine based on the assets of the entire Victory Fund complex;
(vii) the fact that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio would be the same as the contractual advisory
fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio;
(viii) the fact that the Independent Trustees received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024;
(ix) that Victory Capital agreed with the Trustees that, for at least three years after the closing of the Reorganization, Victory Capital would waive fees and/or reimburse expenses so that the Portfolio’s total net annual operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year at the time of the closing of the Reorganization, and that the contractual expense limitation agreement permits Victory Capital to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to two years after the fiscal year in which the waiver or reimbursement took place, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limitation in effect at the time of: (1) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (2) recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount; (x) that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio, except that the Victory Capital is not required to adhere to Amundi US’s explicit restrictions from investing Portfolio assets in companies meeting certain criteria;
(xi) that Victory Capital had acquired and integrated several investment management companies;
(xii) that Victory Capital had agreed to conduct, and use reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates to conduct, its business in compliance with Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act so as not to impose an “unfair burden” on the Portfolio; and (xiii) the potential benefits to the shareholders of the Portfolio, including continuity of portfolio management and operating efficiencies due to the greater scale of Victory Capital that may be achieved from the Reorganization. Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
The Trustees also requested, obtained and considered the following information in connection with their evaluation of the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Portfolio: (i) memoranda provided by fund counsel that summarized the legal standards and other considerations that are relevant to the Trustees in their deliberations regarding the Investment Advisory Agreement; and (ii) the financial statements of Victory Capital, a profitability analysis provided by Victory Capital, and an analysis from Victory Capital as to possible economies of scale. The Independent
Trustees further considered materials provided in connection with their review of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement, including information regarding the qualifications of the investment management team for the Portfolio, as well as the level of investment by the Portfolio’s portfolio managers in the Portfolio. In addition, the Independent Trustees considered the information provided at and in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio throughout the year regarding the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance and risk attributes, including through meetings with investment management personnel, and took into account other information related to the Predecessor Portfolio provided to the Independent Trustees at regularly scheduled meetings.
At the December 16, 2024 meeting, based on their evaluation of the information provided, the Trustees including the Independent Trustees voting separately, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant, including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single factor as the controlling factor in their determinations.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered that the Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the Reorganization. The Trustees considered that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio, except that the Victory Capital is not required to adhere to Amundi US’s explicit restrictions from investing Portfolio assets in companies meeting certain criteria. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s representation that, under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Portfolio would be managed using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed.
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services that had been provided by Amundi US to the Predecessor Portfolio and that were expected to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization, taking into account the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio.
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operations, leadership and reputation. The Trustees also considered the capabilities, resources, and personnel of Victory Capital, in order to determine whether Victory Capital is capable of providing at least the same level of investment management services provided to the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees received information regarding Victory Capital’s plans to integrate Amundi US investment personnel into Victory Capital as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Independent Trustees noted that they had considered the qualifications of the portfolio managers at Amundi US at meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held prior to September 17, 2024.
The Trustees considered the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s compliance, risk management, cybersecurity and legal resources and personnel. The Trustees also reviewed information provided by Victory Capital related to its business, legal, and regulatory affairs, including information regarding the resources available to Victory Capital to provide the services specified under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s financial condition, and noted that Victory Capital was expected to be able to provide a high level of service to the Portfolio and continuously invest and re-invest in its investment management business.
The Trustees considered that Amundi US supervised and monitored the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s service providers and provided the Predecessor Portfolio with personnel (including Portfolio officers) and other resources that were necessary for the Predecessor Portfolio’s business management and operations, and considered the personnel and resources that Victory Capital proposed to provide with respect to such services for the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered that, as administrator, Amundi US was responsible for the administration of the Predecessor Portfolio’s business and other affairs and that, following the Reorganization, Victory Capital would be responsible for the administration of the Portfolio’s business and other affairs. The Trustees considered that the fees Victory Capital would charge for administration services were higher than the fees that Amundi US received as reimbursement for services rendered, and considered Victory Capital’s explanation of the reasons for the differences in administration fees charged by Victory Capital and Amundi US as well as the expense limitation arrangement proposed to be implemented for the Portfolio for at least three years following the completion of the Reorganization.
Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services that Victory Capital would provide to the Portfolio would be satisfactory and consistent with the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Performance of the Portfolio
The Portfolio is newly-organized and does not have a performance history. The Trustees considered that the Portfolio succeeded to the performance history of the Predecessor Portfolio in the Reorganization. In considering the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance, the Independent Trustees regularly reviewed and discussed throughout the year data and information comparing the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the performance of its peer group of funds, as classified by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar), and with the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s benchmark index. They also discussed the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers on a regular basis. The Independent Trustees’ regular reviews and discussions with respect to the Predecessor Portfolio were factored into the Trustees’ deliberations concerning the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
In addition, the Trustees considered that the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Trustees also considered that the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio, except that the Victory Capital is not required to adhere to Amundi US’s explicit restrictions from investing Portfolio assets in companies meeting certain criteria.
Advisory Fee and Expenses
The Independent Trustees considered that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio. The Independent Trustees also considered that, for at least three years after the close of the Reorganization, Victory Capital had agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Portfolio so that its total net operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year, at the time of the closing of the Reorganization. The Independent Trustees also considered that they had received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024. The Trustees concluded that the proposed advisory fee payable by the Portfolio to Victory Capital was reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services to be provided by Victory Capital.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding the estimated profitability of Victory Capital with respect to the advisory services proposed to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio, including the methodology used by Victory Capital in allocating certain of its costs to the management of the Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s estimated profit margins in connection with the overall operation of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the investments Victory Capital expected to make to support and grow the Pioneer funds brand and the costs to integrate the Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business into Victory Capital. The Trustees also considered information regarding Victory Capital’s profit margins with respect to the funds it currently manages. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s representation that the fully integrated Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business, including investments to support ongoing growth, was expected to have a positive impact on Victory Capital’s overall financial profitability. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s current profit margins in comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees concluded that Victory Capital’s estimated profitability with respect to the management of the Portfolio was not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the extent to which Victory Capital may realize economies of scale or other efficiencies in managing and supporting the Portfolio. The Trustees noted the breakpoints in the management fee schedule. The Trustees recognize that economies of scale are difficult to identify and quantify, and that, among other factors that may be relevant, are the following: fee levels, expense subsidization, investment by Victory Capital in research and analytical capabilities and Victory Capital’s commitment and resource allocation to the Portfolio. The Trustees noted that profitability also may be an indicator of the availability of any economies of scale, although profitability may vary for other reasons including due to reductions in expenses. The Trustees concluded that economies of scale, if any, would be appropriately shared with the Portfolio.
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits that Victory Capital may enjoy from its relationship with the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the character and amount of fees to be paid by the Portfolio, other than under the Investment Advisory Agreement, for services to be provided by Victory Capital and its affiliates. The Trustees further considered the revenues and profitability of Victory Capital’s businesses other than the Portfolio business. To the extent applicable, the Trustees also considered the potential benefits to the Portfolio and to Victory Capital and its affiliates from the use of “soft” commission dollars generated by the Portfolio to pay for research and brokerage services.
The Trustees noted that the completion of the Transaction would result in a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership between Amundi and Victory Capital, and that Victory Capital may benefit from Amundi’s ability to market the services of Victory Capital globally, including in an increase of the overall scale of Victory Capital. The Trustees considered that the Transaction would significantly increase Victory Capital’s assets under management and expand Victory Capital’s investment
capabilities. The Trustees considered that this increased size and diversification could facilitate Victory Capital’s continued investment in its business and products, which Victory Capital would be able to leverage across a broader base of assets. The Trustees considered that Victory Capital and the Portfolio are expected to receive reciprocal intangible benefits from the relationship, including mutual brand recognition. The Trustees concluded that any such benefits received by Victory Capital as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio were reasonable.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the Investment Advisory Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and voted to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement with Victory Capital Management Inc.
Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory Capital”) serves as the investment adviser to Victory Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio (the “Portfolio”) pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between Victory Capital and the Portfolio (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”).
The Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the reorganization of Pioneer High Yield VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) into the Portfolio (the “Reorganization”). The Predecessor Portfolio and the Portfolio entered into the Reorganization in connection with the contribution of Amundi Asset Management US, Inc. (“Amundi US”), the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment adviser, to Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. (“Victory Capital Holdings”), the parent company of Victory Capital (the “Transaction”). The Reorganization was approved by shareholders of the Predecessor Portfolio at a meeting held on March 27, 2025 and was consummated on April 1, 2025.
The Trustees of the Portfolio, including all of the Independent Trustees, met to consider the Investment Advisory Agreement at an in-person meeting held on December 16, 2024. The Independent Trustees also served on the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio.
To assist the Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Victory Capital provided extensive information to the Trustees regarding the Reorganization, the Transaction and the investment advisory services to be provided by Victory Capital under the Investment Advisory Agreement. It was noted that the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio had meetings on May 14-15, 2024, July 22-23, 2024, September 16-17, 2024 and November 12-13, 2024 to consider the Reorganization and that substantially all of the information provided in connection with those meetings was relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement. These meetings included meetings of the full Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio and separate meetings of the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolios. In addition, the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio met separately on May 23, 2024, June 24, 2024, August 19, 2024, and October 29, 2024, to consider the Reorganization.
Before and during the December 16, 2024 meeting, the Trustees sought additional information as they deemed necessary and appropriate. In connection with their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees worked with their independent legal counsel to prepare requests for additional information that were submitted to Victory Capital and Amundi US. The Trustees’ requests for information sought information relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement and anticipated impacts of the Reorganization and the Transaction on the Portfolio and its shareholders. The Independent Trustees met with senior management representatives of Victory Capital and Amundi US on numerous occasions to discuss various aspects of the Reorganization and the Transaction, to review information provided to assist the Independent Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction, and to make supplemental due diligence requests for additional information from Victory Capital and Amundi US with respect to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction. Victory Capital and Amundi US provided documents and information in response to the requests from the Independent Trustees, as well as made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Independent Trustees.
Prior to voting on the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with representatives of Amundi US and Victory Capital, counsel to the Portfolio and counsel to the Independent Trustees. The Independent Trustees also reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with their independent legal counsel in private sessions at which no representatives of Amundi US, Victory Capital or counsel to the Portfolio were present.
The Trustees’ evaluation of the Investment Advisory Agreement reflected information provided specifically in connection with their review of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously furnished to the Independent Trustees in connection with the renewal of the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment advisory agreement with Amundi US (the “Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement”) at an in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024 and at other meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees throughout the prior year.
Among other things, the Trustees considered:
(i) that, in the Transaction, Amundi US would be combined into Victory Capital Holdings in exchange for shares of Victory Capital Holdings issued to Amundi Asset Management S.A.S. (“Amundi”), the parent company of Amundi US, without Amundi becoming a controlling stockholder of Victory Capital Holdings, and that Victory Capital Holdings and Amundi would establish a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership;
(ii) representations by Victory Capital regarding the reputation, experience, financial strength and resources of Victory Capital and its investment franchises; (iii) that Victory Capital informed the Trustees that the portfolio managers of the Predecessor Portfolio were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a planned Victory Capital investment franchise, managing the Portfolio using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed, and the Trustees considered the historical investment performance record of the Predecessor Portfolio under such investment approach;
(iv) the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s legal and operational structure, risk management, administrative, legal, compliance and cybersecurity functions;
(v) Victory Capital’s distribution capabilities, including its significant network of intermediary relationships, which may provide additional opportunities for the Portfolio to grow assets and lower fees and expenses through increased economies of scale;
(vi) Victory Capital’s broad distribution network and a large fund family of Victory Funds may also provide opportunities for asset growth for the Portfolio and economies of scale through the potential to negotiate lower fee rates from service providers and to determine based on the assets of the entire Victory Fund complex;
(vii) the fact that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio;
(viii) the fact that the Independent Trustees received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024;
(ix) that Victory Capital agreed with the Trustees that, for at least three years after the closing of the Reorganization, Victory Capital would waive fees and/or reimburse expenses so that the Portfolio’s total net annual operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year at the time of the closing of the Reorganization, and that the contractual expense limitation agreement permits Victory Capital to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to two years after the fiscal year in which the waiver or reimbursement took place, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limitation in effect at the time of: (1) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (2) recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount;
(x) that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio;
(xi) that Victory Capital had acquired and integrated several investment management companies;
(xii) that Victory Capital had agreed to conduct, and use reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates to conduct, its business in compliance with Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act so as not to impose an “unfair burden” on the Portfolio; and
(xiii) the potential benefits to the shareholders of the Portfolio, including continuity of portfolio management and operating efficiencies due to the greater scale of Victory Capital that may be achieved from the Reorganization. Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
The Trustees also requested, obtained and considered the following information in connection with their evaluation of the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Portfolio: (i) memoranda provided by fund counsel that summarized the legal standards and other considerations that are relevant to the Trustees in their deliberations regarding the Investment Advisory Agreement; and (ii) the financial statements of Victory Capital, a profitability analysis provided by Victory Capital, and an analysis from Victory Capital as to possible economies of scale. The Independent Trustees further considered materials provided in connection with their review of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement, including information regarding the qualifications of the investment management team for the Portfolio, as well as the level of investment by the Portfolio’s portfolio managers in the Portfolio. In addition, the Independent Trustees considered the information provided at and in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio throughout the year regarding the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance and risk attributes, including through meetings with investment management personnel, and took into account other information related to the Predecessor Portfolio provided to the Independent Trustees at regularly scheduled meetings. At the December 16, 2024 meeting, based on their evaluation of the information provided, the Trustees including the Independent Trustees voting separately, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant, including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single factor as the controlling factor in their determinations.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered that the Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the Reorganization. The Trustees considered that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s representation that, under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Portfolio would be managed using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed.
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services that had been provided by Amundi US to the Predecessor Portfolio and that were expected to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization, taking into account the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operations, leadership and reputation. The Trustees also considered the capabilities, resources, and personnel of Victory Capital, in order to determine whether Victory Capital is capable of providing at least the same level of investment management services provided to the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees received information regarding Victory Capital’s plans to integrate Amundi US investment personnel into Victory Capital as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Independent Trustees noted that they had considered the qualifications of the portfolio managers at Amundi US at meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held prior to September 17, 2024.
The Trustees considered the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s compliance, risk management, cybersecurity and legal resources and personnel. The Trustees also reviewed information provided by Victory Capital related to its business, legal, and regulatory affairs, including information regarding the resources available to Victory Capital to provide the services specified under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s financial condition, and noted that Victory Capital was expected to be able to provide a high level of service to the Portfolio and continuously invest and re-invest in its investment management business.
The Trustees considered that Amundi US supervised and monitored the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s service providers and provided the Predecessor Portfolio with personnel (including Portfolio officers) and other resources that were necessary for the Predecessor Portfolio’s business management and operations, and considered the personnel and resources that Victory Capital proposed to provide with respect to such services for the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered that, as administrator, Amundi US was responsible for the administration of the Predecessor Portfolio’s business and other affairs and that, following the Reorganization, Victory Capital would be responsible for the administration of the Portfolio’s business and other affairs. The Trustees considered that the fees Victory Capital would charge for administration services were higher than the fees that Amundi US received as reimbursement for services rendered, and considered Victory Capital’s explanation of the reasons for the differences in administration fees charged by Victory Capital and Amundi US as well as the expense limitation arrangement proposed to be implemented for the Portfolio for at least three years following the completion of the Reorganization.
Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services that Victory Capital would provide to the Portfolio would be satisfactory and consistent with the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Performance of the Portfolio
The Portfolio is newly-organized and does not have a performance history. The Trustees considered that the Portfolio succeeded to the performance history of the Predecessor Portfolio in the Reorganization. In considering the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance, the Independent Trustees regularly reviewed and discussed throughout the year data and information comparing the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the performance of its peer group of funds, as classified by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar), and with the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s benchmark index. They also discussed the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers on a regular basis. The Independent Trustees’ regular reviews and discussions with respect to the Predecessor Portfolio were factored into the Trustees’ deliberations concerning the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
In addition, the Trustees considered that the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Trustees also considered that the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio.
Advisory Fee and Expenses
The Independent Trustees considered that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio. The Independent Trustees also considered that, for at least three years after the close of the Reorganization, Victory Capital had agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Portfolio so that its total net operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year, at the time of the closing of the Reorganization. The Independent Trustees also considered that they had received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024. The Trustees concluded that the proposed advisory fee payable by the Portfolio to Victory Capital was reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services to be provided by Victory Capital.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding the estimated profitability of Victory Capital with respect to the advisory services proposed to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio, including the methodology used by Victory Capital in allocating certain of its costs to the management of the Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s estimated profit margins in connection with the overall operation of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the investments Victory Capital expected to make to support and grow the Pioneer funds brand and the costs to integrate the Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business into Victory Capital. The Trustees also considered information regarding Victory Capital’s profit margins with respect to the funds it currently manages. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s representation that the fully integrated Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business, including investments to support ongoing growth, was expected to have a positive impact on Victory Capital’s overall financial profitability. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s current profit margins in comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees concluded that Victory Capital’s estimated profitability with respect to the management of the Portfolio was not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the extent to which Victory Capital may realize economies of scale or other efficiencies in managing and supporting the Portfolio. The Trustees noted the breakpoints in the management fee schedule. The Trustees recognize that economies of scale are difficult to identify and quantify, and that, among other factors that may be relevant, are the following: fee levels, expense subsidization, investment by Victory Capital in research and analytical capabilities and Victory Capital’s commitment and resource allocation to the Portfolio. The Trustees noted that profitability also may be an indicator of the availability of any economies of scale, although profitability may vary for other reasons including due to reductions in expenses. The Trustees concluded that economies of scale, if any, would be appropriately shared with the Portfolio.
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits that Victory Capital may enjoy from its relationship with the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the character and amount of fees to be paid by the Portfolio, other than under the Investment Advisory Agreement, for services to be provided by Victory Capital and its affiliates. The Trustees further considered the revenues and profitability of Victory Capital’s businesses other than the Portfolio business. To the extent applicable, the Trustees also considered the potential benefits to the Portfolio and to Victory Capital and its affiliates from the use of “soft” commission dollars generated by the Portfolio to pay for research and brokerage services. The Trustees noted that the completion of the Transaction would result in a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership between Amundi and Victory Capital, and that Victory Capital may benefit from Amundi’s ability to market the services of Victory Capital globally, including in an increase of the overall scale of Victory Capital. The Trustees considered that the Transaction would significantly increase Victory Capital’s assets under management and expand Victory Capital’s investment capabilities. The Trustees considered that this increased size and diversification could facilitate Victory Capital’s continued investment in its business and products, which Victory Capital would be able to leverage across a broader base of assets. The Trustees considered that Victory Capital and the Portfolio are expected to receive reciprocal intangible benefits from the relationship, including mutual brand recognition. The Trustees concluded that any such benefits received by Victory Capital as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio were reasonable.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the Investment Advisory Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and voted to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement with Victory Capital Management Inc.
Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory Capital”) serves as the investment adviser to Victory Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio (the “Portfolio”) pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between Victory Capital and the Portfolio (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”).
The Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the reorganization of Pioneer Select Mid Cap Growth VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) into the Portfolio (the “Reorganization”). The Predecessor Portfolio and the Portfolio entered into the Reorganization in connection with the contribution of Amundi Asset Management US, Inc. (“Amundi US”), the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment adviser, to Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. (“Victory Capital Holdings”), the parent company of Victory Capital (the “Transaction”). The Reorganization was approved by shareholders of the Predecessor Portfolio at a meeting held on March 27, 2025 and was consummated on April 1, 2025.
The Trustees of the Portfolio, including all of the Independent Trustees, met to consider the Investment Advisory Agreement at an in-person meeting held on December 16, 2024. The Independent Trustees also served on the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio.
To assist the Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Victory Capital provided extensive information to the Trustees regarding the Reorganization, the Transaction and the investment advisory services to be provided by Victory Capital under the Investment Advisory Agreement. It was noted that the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio had meetings on May 14-15, 2024, July 22-23, 2024, September 16-17, 2024 and November 12-13, 2024 to consider the Reorganization and that substantially all of the information provided in connection with those meetings was relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement. These meetings included meetings of the full Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio and separate meetings of the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolios. In addition, the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio met separately on May 23, 2024, June 24, 2024, August 19, 2024, and October 29, 2024, to consider the Reorganization.
Before and during the December 16, 2024 meeting, the Trustees sought additional information as they deemed necessary and appropriate. In connection with their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees worked with their independent legal counsel to prepare requests for additional information that were submitted to Victory Capital and Amundi US. The Trustees’ requests for information sought information relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement and anticipated impacts of the Reorganization and the Transaction on the Portfolio and its shareholders. The Independent Trustees met with senior management representatives of Victory Capital and Amundi US on numerous occasions to discuss various aspects of the Reorganization and the Transaction, to review information provided to assist the Independent Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction, and to make supplemental due diligence requests for additional information from Victory Capital and Amundi US with respect to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction. Victory Capital and Amundi US provided documents and information in response to the requests from the Independent Trustees, as well as made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Independent Trustees.
Prior to voting on the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with representatives of Amundi US and Victory Capital, counsel to the Portfolio and counsel to the Independent Trustees. The Independent Trustees also reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with their independent legal counsel in private sessions at which no representatives of Amundi US, Victory Capital or counsel to the Portfolio were present.
The Trustees’ evaluation of the Investment Advisory Agreement reflected information provided specifically in connection with their review of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously furnished to the Independent Trustees in connection with the renewal of the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment advisory agreement with Amundi US (the “Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement”) at an in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024 and at other meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees throughout the prior year.
Among other things, the Trustees considered:
(i) that, in the Transaction, Amundi US would be combined into Victory Capital Holdings in exchange for shares of Victory Capital Holdings issued to Amundi Asset Management S.A.S. (“Amundi”), the parent company of Amundi US, without Amundi becoming a controlling stockholder of Victory Capital Holdings, and that Victory Capital Holdings and Amundi would establish a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership;
(ii) representations by Victory Capital regarding the reputation, experience, financial strength and resources of Victory Capital and its investment franchises;
(iii) that Victory Capital informed the Trustees that the portfolio managers of the Predecessor Portfolio were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a planned Victory Capital investment franchise, managing the Portfolio using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed, and the Trustees considered the historical investment performance record of the Predecessor Portfolio under such investment approach;
(iv) the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s legal and operational structure, risk management, administrative, legal, compliance and cybersecurity functions;
(v) Victory Capital’s distribution capabilities, including its significant network of intermediary relationships, which may
provide additional opportunities for the Portfolio to grow assets and lower fees and expenses through increased economies of scale;
(vi) Victory Capital’s broad distribution network and a large fund family of Victory Funds may also provide opportunities for asset growth for the Portfolio and economies of scale through the potential to negotiate lower fee rates from service providers and to determine based on the assets of the entire Victory Fund complex;
(vii) the fact that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio;
(viii) the fact that the Independent Trustees received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024;
(ix) that Victory Capital agreed with the Trustees that, for at least three years after the closing of the Reorganization, Victory Capital would waive fees and/or reimburse expenses so that the Portfolio’s total net annual operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year at the time of the closing of the Reorganization, and that the contractual expense limitation agreement
permits Victory Capital to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to two years after the fiscal year in which the waiver or reimbursement took place, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limitation in effect at the time of: (1) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (2) recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount;
(x) that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio;
(xi) that Victory Capital had acquired and integrated several investment management companies;
(xii) that Victory Capital had agreed to conduct, and use reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates to conduct, its business in compliance with Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act so as not to impose an “unfair burden” on the Portfolio; and
(xiii) the potential benefits to the shareholders of the Portfolio, including continuity of portfolio management and operating efficiencies due to the greater scale of Victory Capital that may be achieved from the Reorganization.
Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
The Trustees also requested, obtained and considered the following information in connection with their evaluation of the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Portfolio:
(i) memoranda provided by fund counsel that summarized the legal standards and other considerations that are relevant to the Trustees in their deliberations regarding the Investment Advisory Agreement; and
(ii) the financial statements of Victory Capital, a profitability analysis provided by Victory Capital, and an analysis from Victory Capital as to possible economies of scale. The Independent Trustees further considered materials provided in connection with their review of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement, including information regarding the qualifications of the investment management team for the Portfolio, as well as the level of investment by the Portfolio’s portfolio managers in the Portfolio. In addition, the Independent Trustees considered the information provided at and in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio throughout the year regarding the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance and risk attributes, including through meetings with investment management personnel, and took into account other information related to the Predecessor Portfolio provided to the Independent Trustees at regularly scheduled meetings.
At the December 16, 2024 meeting, based on their evaluation of the information provided, the Trustees including the Independent Trustees voting separately, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant, including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single factor as the controlling factor in their determinations.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered that the Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the Reorganization. The Trustees considered that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s representation that, under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Portfolio would be managed using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed.
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services that had been provided by Amundi US to the Predecessor Portfolio and that were expected to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization, taking into account the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operations, leadership and reputation.
The Trustees also considered the capabilities, resources, and personnel of Victory Capital, in order to determine whether Victory Capital is capable of providing at least the same level of investment management services provided to the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees received information regarding Victory Capital’s plans to integrate Amundi US investment personnel into Victory Capital as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Independent Trustees noted that they had considered the qualifications of the portfolio managers at Amundi US at meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held prior to September 17, 2024.
The Trustees considered the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s compliance, risk management, cybersecurity and legal resources and personnel. The Trustees also reviewed information provided by Victory Capital related to its business, legal, and regulatory affairs, including information regarding the resources available to Victory Capital to provide the services specified under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s financial condition, and noted that Victory Capital was expected to be able to provide a high level of service to the Portfolio and continuously invest and re-invest in its investment management business. The Trustees considered that Amundi US supervised and monitored the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s service providers and provided the Predecessor Portfolio with personnel (including Portfolio officers) and other resources that were necessary for the Predecessor Portfolio’s business management and operations, and considered the personnel and resources that Victory Capital proposed to provide with respect to such services for the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered that, as administrator, Amundi US was responsible for the administration of the Predecessor Portfolio’s business and other affairs and that, following the Reorganization, Victory Capital would be responsible for the administration of the Portfolio’s business and other affairs. The Trustees considered that the fees Victory Capital would charge for administration services were higher than the fees that Amundi US received as reimbursement for
services rendered, and considered Victory Capital’s explanation of the reasons for the differences in administration fees charged by Victory Capital and Amundi US as well as the expense limitation arrangement proposed to be implemented for the Portfolio for at least three years following the completion of the Reorganization.
Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services that Victory Capital would provide to the Portfolio would be satisfactory and consistent with the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Performance of the Portfolio
The Portfolio is newly-organized and does not have a performance history. The Trustees considered that the Portfolio succeeded to the performance history of the Predecessor Portfolio in the Reorganization. In considering the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance, the Independent Trustees regularly reviewed and discussed throughout the year data and information comparing the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the performance of its peer group of funds, as classified by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar), and with the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s benchmark index. They also discussed the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers on a regular basis. The Independent Trustees’ regular reviews and discussions with respect to the Predecessor Portfolio were factored into the Trustees’ deliberations concerning the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
In addition, the Trustees considered that the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Trustees also considered that the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio.
Advisory Fee and Expenses
The Independent Trustees considered that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio. The Independent Trustees also considered that, for at least three years after the close of the Reorganization, Victory Capital had agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Portfolio so that its total net operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year, at the time of the closing of the Reorganization. The Independent Trustees also considered that they had received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024. The Trustees concluded that the proposed advisory fee payable by the Portfolio to Victory Capital was reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services to be provided by Victory Capital.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding the estimated profitability of Victory Capital with respect to the advisory services proposed to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio, including the methodology used by Victory Capital in allocating certain of its costs to the management of the Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s estimated profit margins in connection with the overall operation of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the investments Victory Capital expected to make to support and grow the Pioneer funds brand and the costs to integrate the Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business into Victory Capital. The Trustees also considered information regarding Victory Capital’s profit margins with respect to the funds it currently manages. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s representation that the fully integrated Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business, including investments to support ongoing growth, was expected to have a positive impact on Victory Capital’s overall financial profitability. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s current profit margins in comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees concluded that Victory Capital’s estimated profitability with respect to the management of the Portfolio was not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the extent to which Victory Capital may realize economies of scale or other efficiencies in managing and supporting the Portfolio. The Trustees noted the breakpoints in the management fee schedule. The Trustees recognize that economies of scale are difficult to identify and quantify, and that, among other factors that may be relevant, are the following: fee levels, expense subsidization, investment by Victory Capital in research and analytical capabilities and Victory Capital’s commitment and resource allocation to the Portfolio. The Trustees noted that profitability also may be an indicator of the availability of any economies of scale, although profitability may vary for other reasons including due to reductions in expenses. The Trustees concluded that economies of scale, if any, would be appropriately shared with the Portfolio.
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits that Victory Capital may enjoy from its relationship with the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the character and amount of fees to be paid by the Portfolio, other than under the Investment Advisory Agreement, for services to be provided by Victory Capital and its affiliates. The Trustees further considered the revenues and profitability of Victory Capital’s businesses other than the Portfolio business. To the extent applicable, the Trustees also
considered the potential benefits to the Portfolio and to Victory Capital and its affiliates from the use of “soft” commission dollars generated by the Portfolio to pay for research and brokerage services. The Trustees noted that the completion of the Transaction would result in a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership between Amundi and Victory Capital, and that Victory Capital may benefit from Amundi’s ability to market the services of Victory Capital globally, including in an increase of the overall scale of Victory Capital. The Trustees considered that the Transaction would significantly increase Victory Capital’s assets under management and expand Victory Capital’s investment capabilities. The Trustees considered that this increased size and diversification could facilitate Victory Capital’s continued investment in its business and products, which Victory Capital would be able to leverage across a broader base of assets. The Trustees considered that Victory Capital and the Portfolio are expected to receive reciprocal intangible benefits from the relationship, including mutual brand recognition. The Trustees concluded that any such benefits received by Victory Capital as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio were reasonable.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the Investment Advisory Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and voted to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement with Victory Capital Management Inc.
Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory Capital”) serves as the investment adviser to Victory Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio (the “Portfolio”) pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between Victory Capital and the Portfolio (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”). The Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the reorganization of Pioneer Strategic Income VCT Portfolio (the “Predecessor Portfolio”) into the Portfolio (the “Reorganization”). The Predecessor Portfolio and the Portfolio entered into the Reorganization in connection with the contribution of Amundi Asset Management US, Inc. (“Amundi US”), the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment adviser, to Victory Capital Holdings, Inc. (“Victory Capital Holdings”), the parent company of Victory Capital (the “Transaction”). The Reorganization was approved by shareholders of the Predecessor Portfolio at a meeting held on March 27, 2025 and was consummated on April 1, 2025.
The Trustees of the Portfolio, including all of the Independent Trustees, met to consider the Investment Advisory Agreement at an in-person meeting held on December 16, 2024. The Independent Trustees also served on the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio.
To assist the Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, Victory Capital provided extensive information to the Trustees regarding the Reorganization, the Transaction and the investment advisory services to be provided by Victory Capital under the Investment Advisory Agreement. It was noted that the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio had meetings on May 14-15, 2024, July 22-23, 2024, September 16-17, 2024 and November 12-13, 2024 to consider the Reorganization and that substantially all of the information provided in connection with those meetings was relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement. These meetings included meetings of the full Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio and separate meetings of the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolios. In addition, the independent trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio met separately on May 23, 2024, June 24, 2024, August 19, 2024, and October 29, 2024, to consider the Reorganization. Before and during the December 16, 2024 meeting, the Trustees sought additional information as they deemed necessary and appropriate. In connection with their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees worked with their independent legal counsel to prepare requests for additional information that were submitted to Victory Capital and Amundi US. The Trustees’ requests for information sought information relevant to the Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement and anticipated impacts of the Reorganization and the Transaction on the Portfolio and its shareholders. The Independent Trustees met with senior management representatives of Victory Capital and Amundi US on numerous occasions to discuss various aspects of the Reorganization and the Transaction, to review information provided to assist the Independent Trustees in their consideration of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction, and to make supplemental due diligence requests for additional information from Victory Capital and Amundi US with respect to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Reorganization and the Transaction. Victory Capital and Amundi US provided documents and information in response to the requests from the Independent Trustees, as well as made presentations to, and responded to questions from, the Independent Trustees.
Prior to voting on the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Independent Trustees reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with representatives of Amundi US and Victory Capital, counsel to the Portfolio and counsel to the Independent Trustees. The Independent Trustees also reviewed the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement with their independent legal counsel in private sessions at which no representatives of Amundi US, Victory Capital or counsel to the Portfolio were present. The Trustees’ evaluation of the Investment Advisory Agreement reflected information provided specifically in connection with their review of the Investment Advisory Agreement, as well as, where relevant, information that was previously
furnished to the Independent Trustees in connection with the renewal of the Predecessor Portfolio’s investment advisory agreement with Amundi US (the “Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement”) at an in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024 and at other meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees throughout the prior year.
Among other things, the Trustees considered:
(i) that, in the Transaction, Amundi US would be combined into Victory Capital Holdings in exchange for shares of Victory Capital Holdings issued to Amundi Asset Management S.A.S. (“Amundi”), the parent company of Amundi US, without Amundi becoming a controlling stockholder of Victory Capital Holdings, and that Victory Capital Holdings and Amundi would establish a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership;
(ii) representations by Victory Capital regarding the reputation, experience, financial strength and resources of Victory Capital and its investment franchises;
(iii) that Victory Capital informed the Trustees that the portfolio managers of the Predecessor Portfolio were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a planned Victory Capital investment franchise, managing the Portfolio using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed, and the Trustees considered the historical investment performance record of the Predecessor Portfolio under such investment approach;
(iv) the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s legal and operational structure, risk management, administrative, legal, compliance and cybersecurity functions;
(v) Victory Capital’s distribution capabilities, including its significant network of intermediary relationships, which may provide additional opportunities for the Portfolio to grow assets and lower fees and expenses through increased economies of scale;
(vi) Victory Capital’s broad distribution network and a large fund family of Victory Funds may also provide opportunities for asset growth for the Portfolio and economies of scale through the potential to negotiate lower fee rates from service providers and to determine based on the assets of the entire Victory Fund complex;
(vii) the fact that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio;
(viii) the fact that the Independent Trustees received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024;
(ix) that Victory Capital agreed with the Trustees that, for at least three years after the closing of the Reorganization, Victory Capital would waive fees and/or reimburse expenses so that the Portfolio’s total net annual operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year at the time of the closing of the Reorganization, and that the contractual expense limitation agreement permits Victory Capital to recoup advisory fees waived and expenses reimbursed for up to two years after the fiscal year in which the waiver or reimbursement took place, subject to the lesser of any operating expense limitation in effect at the time of: (1) the original waiver or expense reimbursement; or (2) recoupment, after giving effect to the recoupment amount;
(x) that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of
the Predecessor Portfolio;
(xi) that Victory Capital had acquired and integrated several investment management companies;
(xii) that Victory Capital had agreed to conduct, and use reasonable best efforts to cause its affiliates to conduct, its business in compliance with Section 15(f) of the 1940 Act so as not to impose an “unfair burden” on the Portfolio; and
(xiii) the potential benefits to the shareholders of the Portfolio, including continuity of portfolio management and operating efficiencies due to the greater scale of Victory Capital that may be achieved from the Reorganization.
Certain of these considerations are discussed in more detail below.
The Trustees also requested, obtained and considered the following information in connection with their evaluation of the Reorganization, the Transaction and the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Portfolio:
(i) memoranda provided by fund counsel that summarized the legal standards and other considerations that are relevant to the Trustees in their deliberations regarding the Investment Advisory Agreement; and
(ii) the financial statements of Victory Capital, a profitability analysis provided by Victory Capital, and an analysis from Victory Capital as to possible economies of scale. The Independent Trustees further considered materials provided in connection with their review of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement, including information regarding the qualifications of the investment management team for the Portfolio, as well as the level of investment by the Portfolio’s portfolio managers in the Portfolio. In addition, the Independent Trustees considered the information provided at and in connection with regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Predecessor Portfolio throughout the year regarding the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance and risk attributes, including through meetings with investment management personnel, and took into account other information related to the Predecessor Portfolio provided to the Independent Trustees at regularly scheduled meetings.
At the December 16, 2024 meeting, based on their evaluation of the information provided, the Trustees including the Independent Trustees voting separately, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant, including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single factor as the controlling factor in their determinations.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered that the Portfolio is newly-organized and was established in connection with the Reorganization. The Trustees considered that the investment objective, principal investment strategies and principal risks of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s representation that, under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Portfolio would be managed using the same investment approach under which the Predecessor Portfolio was managed.
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services that had been provided by Amundi US to the Predecessor Portfolio and that were expected to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization, taking into account the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding its business and operating structure, scale of operations, leadership and reputation.
The Trustees also considered the capabilities, resources, and personnel of Victory Capital, in order to determine whether Victory Capital is capable of providing at least the same level of investment management services provided to the Predecessor Portfolio. The Trustees received information regarding Victory Capital’s plans to integrate Amundi US investment personnel into Victory Capital as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Independent Trustees noted that they had considered the qualifications of the portfolio managers at Amundi US at meetings of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held prior to September 17, 2024.
The Trustees considered the non-investment resources, infrastructure and personnel of Victory Capital that would be involved in Victory Capital’s services to the Portfolio, including Victory Capital’s compliance, risk management, cybersecurity and legal resources and personnel. The Trustees also reviewed information provided by Victory Capital related to its business, legal, and regulatory affairs, including information regarding the resources available to Victory Capital to provide the services specified under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s financial condition, and noted that Victory Capital was expected to be able to provide a high level of service to the Portfolio and continuously invest and re-invest in its investment management business. The Trustees considered that Amundi US supervised and monitored the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s service providers and provided the Predecessor Portfolio with personnel (including Portfolio officers) and other resources that were necessary for the Predecessor Portfolio’s business management and operations, and considered the personnel and resources that Victory Capital proposed to provide with respect to such services for the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement. The Trustees also considered that, as administrator, Amundi US was responsible for the administration of the Predecessor Portfolio’s business and other affairs and that, following the Reorganization, Victory Capital would be responsible for the administration of the Portfolio’s business and other affairs. The Trustees considered that the fees Victory Capital would charge for administration services were higher than the fees that Amundi US received as reimbursement for services rendered, and considered Victory Capital’s explanation of the reasons for the differences in administration fees charged by Victory Capital and Amundi US as well as the expense limitation arrangement proposed to be implemented for the Portfolio for at least three years following the completion of the Reorganization. Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent and quality of services that Victory Capital would provide to the Portfolio would be satisfactory and consistent with the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
Performance of the Portfolio
The Portfolio is newly-organized and does not have a performance history. The Trustees considered that the Portfolio succeeded to the performance history of the Predecessor Portfolio in the Reorganization. In considering the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance, the Independent Trustees regularly reviewed and discussed throughout the year data and information comparing the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the performance of its peer group of funds, as classified by Morningstar, Inc. (Morningstar), and with the performance of the Predecessor Portfolio’s benchmark index. They also discussed the Predecessor Portfolio’s performance with the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers on a regular basis. The Independent Trustees’ regular reviews and discussions with respect to the Predecessor Portfolio were factored into the Trustees’ deliberations concerning the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement.
In addition, the Trustees considered that the Predecessor Portfolio’s portfolio managers were expected to continue to act as portfolio managers of the Portfolio following the consummation of the Reorganization as members of Pioneer Investments, a Victory Capital investment franchise. The Trustees also considered that the investment objective and principal investment strategies of the Portfolio are the same as those of the Predecessor Portfolio.
Advisory Fee and Expenses
The Independent Trustees considered that the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Portfolio under the Investment Advisory Agreement would be the same as the contractual advisory fee rate payable by the Predecessor Portfolio. The Independent Trustees also considered that, for at least three years after the close of the Reorganization, Victory Capital had
agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Portfolio so that its total net operating expenses (excluding certain customary items) does not exceed the lower of (i) the total net annual operating expenses associated with investing in the Predecessor Portfolio after application of expense limitation arrangements in effect for the Predecessor Portfolio, if any, or (ii) the total net annual operating expenses of the Predecessor Portfolio as of the end of the Predecessor Portfolio’s most recent fiscal year, at the time of the closing of the Reorganization. The Independent Trustees also considered that they had received full comparative fee and expense data in connection with their approval of the continuance of the Predecessor Portfolio Investment Advisory Agreement at the in-person meeting of the Predecessor Portfolio’s Board of Trustees held on September 17, 2024. The Trustees concluded that the proposed advisory fee payable by the Portfolio to Victory Capital was reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services to be provided by Victory Capital.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by Victory Capital regarding the estimated profitability of Victory Capital with respect to the advisory services proposed to be provided by Victory Capital to the Portfolio, including the methodology used by Victory Capital in allocating certain of its costs to the management of the Portfolio. The Trustees also considered Victory Capital’s estimated profit margins in connection with the overall operation of the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the investments Victory Capital expected to make to support and grow the Pioneer funds brand and the costs to integrate the Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business into Victory Capital. The Trustees also considered information regarding Victory Capital’s profit margins with respect to the funds it currently manages. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s representation that the fully integrated Amundi US/Pioneer Funds business, including investments to support ongoing growth, was expected to have a positive impact on Victory Capital’s overall financial profitability. The Trustees considered Victory Capital’s current profit margins in comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees concluded that Victory Capital’s estimated profitability with respect to the management of the Portfolio was not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the extent to which Victory Capital may realize economies of scale or other efficiencies in managing and supporting the Portfolio. The Trustees noted the breakpoints in the management fee schedule. The Trustees recognize that economies of scale are difficult to identify and quantify, and that, among other factors that may be relevant, are the following: fee levels, expense subsidization, investment by Victory Capital in research and analytical capabilities and Victory Capital’s commitment and resource allocation to the Portfolio. The Trustees noted that profitability also may be an indicator of the availability of any economies of scale, although profitability may vary for other reasons including due to reductions in expenses. The Trustees concluded that economies of scale, if any, would be appropriately shared with the Portfolio.
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits that Victory Capital may enjoy from its relationship with the Portfolio. The Trustees considered the character and amount of fees to be paid by the Portfolio, other than under the Investment Advisory Agreement, for services to be provided by Victory Capital and its affiliates. The Trustees further considered the revenues and profitability of Victory Capital’s businesses other than the Portfolio business. To the extent applicable, the Trustees also considered the potential benefits to the Portfolio and to Victory Capital and its affiliates from the use of “soft” commission dollars generated by the Portfolio to pay for research and brokerage services.
The Trustees noted that the completion of the Transaction would result in a long-term reciprocal distribution partnership between Amundi and Victory Capital, and that Victory Capital may benefit from Amundi’s ability to market the services of Victory Capital globally, including in an increase of the overall scale of Victory Capital. The Trustees considered that the Transaction would significantly increase Victory Capital’s assets under management and expand Victory Capital’s investment capabilities. The Trustees considered that this increased size and diversification could facilitate Victory Capital’s continued investment in its business and products, which Victory Capital would be able to leverage across a broader base of assets. The Trustees considered that Victory Capital and the Portfolio are expected to receive reciprocal intangible benefits from the relationship, including mutual brand recognition. The Trustees concluded that any such benefits received by Victory Capital as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio were reasonable.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the Investment Advisory Agreement, including the fees payable thereunder, was fair and reasonable and voted to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement.
ITEM 12. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES. (Unaudited)
A closed-end management investment company that is filing an annual report on this Form N-CSR must, unless it invests exclusively in non-voting securities, describe the policies and procedures that it uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities, including the procedures that the company
uses when a vote presents a conflict between the interests of its shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the company’s investment adviser; principal underwriter; or any affiliated person (as defined in Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. 80a-2(a)(3)) and the rules thereunder) of the company, its investment adviser, or its principal underwriter, on the other. Include any policies and procedures of the company’s investment adviser, or any other third party, that the company uses, or that are used on the company’s behalf, to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities.
N/A
ITEM 13. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
(a) If the registrant is a closed-end management investment company that is filing an annual report on this Form N-CSR, provide the following information:
(1) State the name, title, and length of service of the person or persons employed by or associated with the registrant or an investment adviser of the registrant who are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the registrant’s portfolio (“Portfolio Manager”). Also state each Portfolio Manager’s business experience during the past 5 years.
N/A
ITEM 14. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.
(a) If the registrant is a closed-end management investment company, in the following tabular format, provide the information specified in paragraph (b) of this Item with respect to any purchase made by or on behalf of the registrant or any affiliated purchaser, as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.10b-18(a)(3)), of shares or other units of any class of the registrant’s equity securities that is registered by the registrant pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 781).
N/A
ITEM 15. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.
Describe any material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s board of directors, where those changes were implemented after the registrant last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 407(c)(2)(iv) of Regulation S-R(17 CFR 229.407)(as required by Item 22(b)(15)) of Schedule 14A (17 CFR 240.14a-101), or this Item.
There have been no material changes to the procedures by which the shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s board of directors since the registrant last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 407(c)(2)(iv) of Regulation S-R of Schedule 14(A) in its definitive proxy statement, or this item.
ITEM 16. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
(a) Disclose the conclusions of the registrant’s principal executive and principal financials officers, or persons performing similar functions, regarding the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(c))) as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of the report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on the evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the Act (17 CFR 270.30(a)-3(b) and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13a-15(b) or 240.15d-15(b)).
The registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective based on the evaluation of these controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this report.
(b) Disclose any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Act (17CFR 270.30a-3(d)) that occurred during 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.
There were no significant changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Item 17. DISCLOSURE OF SECURITIES LENDING ACTIVITIES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
(a) If the registrant is a closed-end management investment company, provide the following dollar amounts of income and compensation related to the securities lending activities of the registrant during its most recent fiscal year:
N/A
(1) Gross income from securities lending activities;
N/A
(2) All fees and/or compensation for each of the following securities lending activities and related services: any share of revenue generated by the securities lending program paid to the securities lending agent(s) (revenue split); fees paid for cash collateral management services (including fees deducted from a pooled cash collateral reinvestment vehicle) that are not included in the revenue split; administrative fees that are not included in the revenue split; fees for indemnification that are not included in the revenue split; rebates paid to borrowers; and any other fees relating to the securities lending program that are not included in the revenue split, including a description of those other fees;
N/A
(3) The aggregate fees/compensation disclosed pursuant to paragraph (2); and
N/A
(4) Net income from securities lending activities (i.e., the dollar amount in paragraph (1) minus the dollar amount in paragraph (3)).
If a fee for a service is included in the revenue split, state that the fee is included in the revenue split.
N/A
(b) If the registrant is a closed-end management investment company, describe the services provided to the registrant by the securities lending agent in the registrants most recent fiscal year.
N/A
Item 18. RECOVERY OF ERRONEOUSLY AWARDED COMPENSATION.
N/A
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS.
(a) File the exhibits listed below as part of this Form. Letter or number the exhibits in the sequence indicated.
Filed herewith.
(3) Not applicable.
SIGNATURES
[See General Instruction F]
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) Victory Variable Insurance Funds II
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ Thomas Dusenberry | ||
Thomas Dusenberry, President and Principal Executive Officer | ||
Date September 5, 2025 |
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/ Thomas Dusenberry | ||||
Thomas Dusenberry, President and Principal Executive Officer | ||||
Date September 5, 2025 | ||||
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ Carol D. Trevino | ||||
Carol D. Trevino, Treasurer Principal Financial Officer | ||||
Date September 5, 2025 |
* | Print the name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature. |