M&A - John Hancock Funds III

Form Type: 497

Filing Date: 2025-06-20

Corporate Action: Merger

Type: New

Accession Number: 000119312525143354

Filing Summary: John Hancock Investment Management is proposing a merger of the John Hancock Capital Appreciation Fund (the Target Fund) into the John Hancock U.S. Growth Fund (the Acquiring Fund). This merger is anticipated to create economies of scale and reduce expenses for shareholders, with operating expense ratios expected to be lower for the Acquiring Fund post-merger. Both funds share similar investment objectives focusing on long-term capital appreciation. The Board of Trustees has recommended that shareholders vote in favor of the merger, which will be discussed at a special shareholder meeting scheduled for July 9, 2025. Shareholders must approve this Reorganization for it to proceed, and mechanisms for voting via online, phone, or mail have been provided. If the merger does not receive approval, the Board may consider other actions, including possible liquidation of the Target Fund.

Form Type: N-14

Filing Date: 2025-05-20

Corporate Action: Merger

Type: New

Accession Number: 000119312525123189

Filing Summary: John Hancock Funds III filed a registration statement for a proposed merger of the John Hancock Capital Appreciation Fund (Target Fund) with the John Hancock U.S. Growth Fund (Acquiring Fund). The merger, referred to as the Reorganization, is aimed at achieving economies of scale, reducing overall expenses for shareholders, and providing continuity of management. Shareholders are required to vote on the proposal at a special meeting scheduled for July 9, 2025. Advantages of the merger include expected lower operating expense ratios, substantially similar investment objectives, and the continued management by John Hancock Investment Management LLC. Additionally, the proposal outlines that the Target Fund will transfer all its assets to the Acquiring Fund in exchange for shares of the Acquiring Fund which will be proportionately distributed to shareholders. The costs associated with the Reorganization will be borne by both funds. The proxy statement and prospectus containing detailed information about the merger will be sent to shareholders for review prior to the vote.