pioneer investments is a leading global asset management company dedicated to growing and preserving client assets. we are present in 28 countries and employ an experienced team of over 2,090 employees worldwide, including nearly 360 investment professionals. our global investment centers in boston, dublin and london, along with an extensive network of local investment and marketing offices, afford us a global perspective as well as in-depth knowledge of local markets. our diverse range of investment products spans both traditional and non-traditional asset classes, including mutual funds, separately managed accounts, institutional strategies and retirement plans. the history of pioneer investments began in 1928, when legendary investor, philip l. carret, founded the pioneer fund, now the third-oldest mutual fund in the united states. over the years pioneer investments has played its part in defining the worldwide mutual fund industry. today, as in the past, we are dedicated to mee