As we draw the curtain on season one of AB Alpha Females, Karen reflects on the key themes that have shaped the discussions. From the transformative power of technology to the importance of chemistry, contacts and clients, we’ve explored the dynamic landscape of multi-asset investing. We’ve delved into the growing importance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations and the critical role of diversity of thought when building investment strategies. And we’ve celebrated the inspiring journeys of women in asset management who are breaking barriers and shaping the industry’s future. This final episode brings together these threads, offering a comprehensive perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P.

© 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

Given the sophistication of multi-asset portfolios, what challenges do operations teams face in managing them effectively? Karen is joined by Jennifer Santangelo, Head of Business Operations—Global Investment Shared Services at AB, who unpacks the complex interplay of portfolio management, operations and technology. Karen and Jen discuss the intricacies of building and managing multi-asset businesses, as well as the essential role of operations in transforming investment strategies into tangible results. Jen also reflects on her nearly two-decade career, noting the evolution of the investment landscape and importance of stakeholder management to ensure client experience is seamless from end to end. 

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P.

© 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

Can diversity be the cornerstone of a responsible future? Karen is joined by Jodie Tapscott, Director of Strategy - Responsible Investing at AB, who explains the practicalities of integrating material environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors within strategies. Investing in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), she explains, can make a big impact on workforce effectiveness, highlighting the correlation between diverse leadership and market opportunities. Jodie also discusses her transition from traditional investment roles to those focusing on sustainability, driven by her environmental concerns and passion for diving. 

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P.

© 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

Are bonds back? Karen is joined by Tiffanie Wong, Director of Fixed Income Responsible Investing Portfolio Management at AB, who delves into the resilience of the bond market, considering recent economic headwinds. Tiffanie explores how technology is reshaping investment strategies and the growing importance of environmental, social and governance factors in assessing creditworthiness. Through Tiffanie’s journey, we learn about the power of mentors—particularly women in leadership—for career development and for balancing professional and personal life in the asset management industry.

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P.

© 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

Cast a broad net or focus on a small number of stocks? Karen is joined by Arpita Bhabhera, a Senior Research Analyst at AB, who explains her disciplined approach of sifting through thousands of stocks to find a few hidden gems. The conversation explores the value of diverse perspectives in avoiding groupthink and making sound investment decisions. Arpita also shares her experience with the Diversity Project’s Pathway program, highlighting the importance of soft skills and continuous learning in her role. 

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P.

© 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

What separates fund managers from the pack? Karen is joined by Alla Harmsworth, Co-Head of Institutional Solutions at AB, who dives into the world of fund selection. Alla introduces Alphalytics, an innovative tool that isolates unique sources of outperformance which cannot be accessed via simple passive strategies to help identify top-performing managers. The conversation delves into the power of diverse and mixed-gender teams, highlighting the benefits of combining different perspectives. Alla's own journey from Russia to Oxford underscores the importance of resilience and a balanced approach that blends data-driven analysis with intuition.

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P.

© 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

Discerning market trends is often like appraising a work of art, so how can investors identify turning points across asset classes? Karen is joined by Caglasu Altunkopru, Head of Macro Strategy for AB’s Multi-Asset Solutions team, who explores how she uses analysis of long-term trends and market cycles to guide portfolio decisions. While acknowledging the challenge of precise market timing, she discusses the potential of AI in processing data and adapting investment strategies. Caglasu shares her fascination in solving real world problems by balancing art and science and discusses her experiences in attending an all-girls school, and the importance of women seeing other women in leadership roles.

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

Is the 60/40 portfolio still relevant? Karen is joined by Defne Ozaltun, Portfolio Manager for AB’s Multi-Asset Solutions team, who  says portfolio managers must find a precise mix of ingredients for multi-asset portfolios in evolving markets. Understanding how different income and return sources work together, she explains, is key to building a portfolio that's more than just the sum of its parts. Defne then outlines her three-layer approach to building multi-asset portfolios, emphasizing the power of diversification to meet client goals. She also shares insights into her career journey, highlighting the importance of intellectual curiosity, strategic collaboration and composure during market volatility.

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.

In our inaugural episode, Karen is joined by AB’s Honor Solomon, CEO EMEA & Head of EMEA Retail Sales, who discusses her multifaceted role, emphasizing the importance of chemistry, contacts, and culture in building effective sales teams and client relationships. She highlights the complex nature of multi-asset solutions and the need to simplify these strategies for clients while maintaining robust communication and trust. Honor also reflects on her career journey, advocating for authenticity and the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in professional growth.

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For Investment Professional use only.  Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public.

The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested.  Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time.  The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein.

Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF).

Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as “wholesale clients,” as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL.

The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2024 AllianceBernstein L.P.