Matthews International Funds

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM N-Q

 

QUARTERLY SCHEDULE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS OF REGISTERED

MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY

 

Investment Company Act file number 811-08510

 

 

 

 

Matthews International Funds

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

Four Embarcadero Center, Suite 550

San Francisco, CA

  94111
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip code)

 

 

Mark W. Headley, President

Four Embarcadero Center, Suite 550

San Francisco, CA 94111

(Name and address of agent for service)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 415-788-6036

 

Date of fiscal year end: December 31

 

Date of reporting period: March 31, 2007

 

Form N-Q is to be used by management investment companies, other than small business investment companies registered on Form N-5 (§§ 239.24 and 274.5 of this chapter), to file reports with the Commission, not later than 60 days after the close of the first and third fiscal quarters, pursuant to rule 30b1-5 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30b1-5). The Commission may use the information provided on Form N-Q in its regulatory, disclosure review, inspection, and policymaking roles.

A registrant is required to disclose the information specified by Form N-Q, and the Commission will make this information public. A registrant is not required to respond to the collection of information contained in Form N-Q unless the Form displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (“OMB”) control number. Please direct comments concerning the accuracy of the information collection burden estimate and any suggestions for reducing the burden to the Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507.


Item 1. Schedule of Investments.

The Schedule(s) of Investments is attached herewith.


LOGO


LOGO

 

  

Investing in the future

of Asia since 1994

 

 

E-mail communications on Asia and the Funds

are available at www.matthewsfunds.com

 

 

Asia Weekly

 

 

Asia Insight (monthly)

 

 

AsiaNow Special Reports

 

 

Occasional Fund Updates


The views and opinions in this report were current as of March 31, 2007. They are not guarantees of performance or investment results and should not be taken as investment advice. Investment decisions reflect a variety of factors, and the managers reserve the right to change their views about individual stocks, sectors, and the markets at any time. As a result, the views expressed should not be relied upon as a forecast of the Funds’ future investment intent.

Statements of fact are from sources considered reliable, but neither the Funds nor the Investment Advisor makes any representation or guarantee as to their completeness or accuracy.

CONTENTS

 

Message to Shareholders

   2

Redemption Fee Policy and Investor Disclosure

   5

Manager Commentaries, Funds At A Glance and Schedules of Investments:

  

Matthews Asia Pacific Fund

   6

Matthews Asia Pacific Equity Income Fund

   12

Matthews Pacific Tiger Fund

   18

Matthews Asian Growth and Income Fund

   24

Matthews Asian Technology Fund

   32

Matthews China Fund

   38

Matthews India Fund

   46

Matthews Japan Fund

   54

Matthews Korea Fund

   60

Notes to Schedules of Investments

   66


MESSAGE TO SHAREHOLDERS

FROM THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR

Dear Shareholder,

The first quarter of 2007 saw a marked increase in the volatility of almost all financial markets in Asia. Following a relatively benign January, sharp sell-offs occurred throughout the region in late February. This increase in volatility follows four consecutive years of generally positive returns for Asian investors and particularly strong equity markets in India and China. While investors remain optimistic about the long-term prospects for both countries, concern has been raised that in the short term, further measures may be necessary to slow the recent pace of economic growth. In addition to growth concerns in China and India, the region was faced with the prospect of rising interest rates in Japan, which in turn led to speculation that the so called “carry trade” was likely to be unwound, leading to increased volatility in the Japanese yen and Japanese securities. The quarter as a whole ended with mixed results across the region, with the primary Japanese indices showing modest gains.

For the nine funds that comprise the Matthews Asian Funds, five fell during the quarter, while the other four showed gains. Relative performance was also mixed, with only two of the funds outperforming their benchmarks during the quarter. The Funds continue to focus on their long-term objectives. As advisors we believe that while there are always short-term challenges, the long-term prospects for continued economic development across the region remain quite positive.

The initial catalyst for the market corrections that occurred in February was widely ascribed to a sharp, one-day sell-off on the Shanghai stock exchange that occurred in late February. While a small number of international institutional investors are licensed to invest directly in domestic Chinese stock markets, for the most part they remain “walled off “ from the outside world by a combination of capital controls and strict regulatory limits on ownership. For this reason,

 

2        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


the idea that a movement on a domestic exchange in China could create a ripple effect around the globe is a relatively recent one, one that we believe reflects the rapid evolution of China’s financial system and its emergence as a global economic power. The number of ways in which capital can flow across the Chinese border is growing exponentially and adding to the pressure on the mainland authorities to allow the Chinese currency to float. The experience of other Asian countries that have gone through this process would suggest that as China gets closer to full currency convertibility, the short-term challenges of managing the transition will increase, adding to market volatility. Some of the same issues are facing other Asian countries, including India, which are a sign of enormous progress in recent years but continue to present many challenges.

The first quarter of 2007 saw interest rates increased in Japan, China and India, as well as a number of the region’s smaller countries, reflecting concerns that the pace of growth in those countries was likely to lead to further inflationary pressures. For the most part, forecasters are reducing their expectations for the pace of economic growth over the next several quarters, partly in response to recent policy actions in Asia and partly out of concern for the recent slowdown in the U.S. housing market and its potential impact on Asian exports. Within the region, the continued impact of rising raw material prices was of concern to many companies that were visited by the Funds’ portfolio managers during the quarter; but for the most part, corporate management in Asia remains optimistic about the region and its prospects. The recent relative performance of the South Korean domestic economy has presented a more challenging environment for domestic companies, and the political uncertainties in Thailand have continued to weigh on sentiment there. We continue to believe that valuations, in general,

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         3


MESSAGE TO SHAREHOLDERS

around the region are reasonable relative to growth prospects, and we have made no major shifts in investment strategy or policy.

We are pleased to announce that effective April 30, 2007, Taizo Ishida and David Ishibashi became Co–Lead Managers of the Matthews Japan Fund.

Thank you for your investment in the Matthews Asian Funds.

 

LOGO

G. Paul Matthews

Chairman and Chief Investment Officer

Matthews International Capital Management, LLC

LOGO

Mark W. Headley

Chief Executive Officer and Portfolio Manager Matthews International Capital Management, LLC

 

4        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

REDEMPTION FEE POLICY

The Funds assess a redemption fee of 2.00% of the total redemption proceeds if you sell or exchange your shares within 90 calendar days after purchasing them. The redemption fee is paid directly to the Funds and is designed to discourage frequent short-term trading and to offset transaction costs associated with such trading of Fund shares. For purposes of determining whether the redemption fee applies, the shares that have been held longest will be redeemed first. The redemption fee does not apply to redemptions of shares held in certain omnibus accounts and retirement plans that cannot currently implement the redemption fee. While these exceptions exist, the Funds are not accepting any new accounts that cannot implement the redemption fee or provide adequate alternative controls. For more information on this policy, please see the Funds’ prospectus.

INVESTOR DISCLOSURE

Past Performance: All performance quoted in this report is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that when redeemed, shares may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. If certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived, returns would have been lower. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance, please call 1-800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

Investment Risk: Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by, any depositary institution. Shares are not insured by the FDIC, Federal Reserve Board or any government agency and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal amount invested. Investing in international markets may involve additional risks, such as social and political instability, market illiquidity, exchange-rate fluctuations, a high level of volatility and limited regulation. In addition, single-country and sector funds may be subject to a higher degree of market risk than diversified funds because of concentration in a specific industry, sector or geographic location. Please see the Funds’ prospectus and Statement of Additional Information for more risk disclosure.

Fund Holdings: The Fund holdings shown in this report are as of March 31, 2007. Holdings are subject to change at any time, so holdings shown in this report may not reflect current Fund holdings. The Funds file complete schedules of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Funds’ Form N-Q is filed with the SEC within 60 days of the end the quarter to which it relates, and is available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. It may also be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 800-SEC-0330.

Proxy Voting Record: The Funds’ Statement of Additional Information containing a description of the policies and procedures that the Matthews Asian Funds use to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities, along with each Fund’s proxy voting record relating to portfolio securities held during the 12-month period ended June 30, 2006, is available upon request, at no charge, at the Funds’ website at www.matthewsfunds.com or by calling 1-800-789-ASIA [2742], or on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

This report has been prepared for Matthews Asian Funds shareholders. It is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless accompanied or preceded by a current Matthews Asian Funds prospectus, which contains more complete information about the Funds’ investment objectives, risks and expenses. You should read the prospectus carefully before investing. Additional copies of the prospectus may be obtained by calling 800-789-ASIA [2742] or by visiting www.matthewsfunds.com. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest or send money, as it explains the risks associated with investing in international markets. These include risks related to social and political instability, market illiquidity and currency volatility.

The Matthews Asian Funds are distributed by PFPC Distributors, Inc., 760 Moore Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         5


MATTHEWS ASIA PACIFIC FUND

 

FUND DESCRIPTION    SYMBOL: MPACX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews Asia Pacific Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in the common and preferred stocks of companies located in the Asia Pacific region. The Asia Pacific region includes Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and (as of April 30, 2007) Vietnam. The Fund may also invest in the convertible securities, of any duration or quality, of Asia Pacific companies.

PORTFOLIO MANAGES

Lead Manager: Mark W. Headley

Co-Managers: Richard H. Gao, Taizo Ishida and Sharat Shroff, CFA

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

For the three months ended March 31, 2007, the Matthews Asia Pacific Fund declined 1.12%, underperforming its benchmark, the MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index, which gained 3.59%. The Lipper Pacific Region Funds Category Average returned 4.22% for the same period. Following strong appreciation late last year, some of the Chinese financials in the portfolio have been relatively weaker year-to-date.

The performance of the equity markets across the region was quite mixed: On one hand, markets in Singapore and Malaysia recorded handsome gains, while the benchmark indices in China, India and Taiwan edged lower by about 3%. India was the worst-performing market in the region, dragged lower by the prospect of rising inflation and firming interest rates. The continued strength in credit growth is forcing the Reserve Bank of India to accelerate rate hikes. Similar trends were seen in China, although the government’s efforts to restrain investment and lending growth have not proven to be particularly successful. The tightening monetary policies being pursued in both these economies led to a volatile period, particularly for stocks in the financials and real estate sectors.

The Fund’s Korean holdings in the pharmaceuticals and consumer sectors were lackluster during the quarter. Consumer spending is slow to recover, but sentiment may receive a boost given the prospect of moderating interest rates. In the long term, the signing of the Free Trade Accord (FTA) with the United States should help Korean industry become more competitive, although the short-term impact on sectors like media and pharmaceuticals is uncertain.

continued on page 9

 

6        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

Fund Inception: 10/31/03

  

3 MO

   

1 YR

    Average Annual Total Returns  
       3 YRS     SINCE
INCEPTION
 

Matthews Asia Pacific Fund

   –1.12 %   8.22 %   15.27 %   17.63 %

MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index1

   3.59 %   12.71 %   16.60 %   19.90 %

Lipper Pacific Region Funds Category Average2

   4.22 %   13.98 %   18.60 %   21.16 %

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT SINCE FUND INCEPTION

LOGO

 

OPERATING EXPENSES3   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)4,5

   1.17 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20065

   1.24 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.26 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER6   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)4

   70.36 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   40.45 %

 

1

The MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index is a free float-adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of the stock markets of Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper Pacific Region Funds Category Average consisted of 33 funds for the three-month period, 27 funds for the one-year period, and 25 funds for the three-year period and since 10/31/03. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, for the stated periods.

 

3

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

4

Unaudited.

 

5

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

6

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         7


MATTHEWS ASIA PACIFIC FUND

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

    

COUNTRY

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   South Korea    2.1 %

AXA Asia Pacific Holdings, Ltd.

   Australia    2.1 %

China Vanke Co., Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    2.1 %

The Sumitomo Trust & Banking Co., Ltd.

   Japan    2.0 %

Sony Corp.

   Japan    2.0 %

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

   Japan    1.9 %

Dah Sing Financial Holdings, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    1.8 %

China Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    1.8 %

Benesse Corp.

   Japan    1.8 %

Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd.

   Japan    1.7 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

      19.3 %

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

Japan

   45.5 %

China/Hong Kong

   21.1 %

South Korea

   12.3 %

India

   5.6 %

Thailand

   4.6 %

Singapore

   3.6 %

Australia

   2.8 %

Taiwan

   2.4 %

Indonesia

   1.6 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other

   0.5 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Financials

   38.0 %

Consumer Discretionary

   20.5 %

Information Technology

   17.2 %

Consumer Staples

   8.2 %

Health Care

   5.9 %

Industrials

   4.1 %

Telecommunication Services

   2.8 %

Materials

   2.8 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other

   0.5 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   56.4 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   30.5 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   12.6 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other

   0.5 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE    12B-1 FEES
79    $ 16.73    $464.4 million    2.00% within
90 calendar days
   None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

8        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 6

Meanwhile, the recovery in Japan was underway as the Bank of Japan (BOJ) raised interest rates in February by 0.25%, following a previous rate hike in July 2006. The yen temporarily appreciated by 4% to 115 yen to the dollar, but it quickly returned to the level where it ended last quarter. Toward the end of the first quarter, more important data came out: Japan’s 2007 land prices showed their first year-over-year gain—0.4%—after 15 years of consecutive declines. The Fund’s holdings in the real estate sector positively contributed to performance in Japan, but its holdings in technology and retail hurt Fund performance.

In terms of changes to the portfolio, Daibiru was added to the Fund during the quarter. One of the largest real estate companies in Osaka—Japan’s second-largest city—Daibiru is one of the most conservative real estate companies in Japan, but it has been actively investing in large-scale projects in the area. While we are seeing a rapid pace of rising rents in some select spots in Tokyo, the market has overlooked their prospects in the rest of the country. We believe that the stock will be one of the largest beneficiaries of potential rising rents in Osaka, which have been lagging those in Tokyo, and the stock is attractively priced.

We continue to steer the portfolio toward domestically oriented companies benefiting from private consumption. In that context, it is notable that the Chinese government recently passed new laws aimed at bolstering private-property rights. If properly enforced, the derivative impact of land ownership may be a boost to private consumption spending. In the long term, this may offset the economy’s dependence on exports and investment. The coming months may test Asia’s ability to decouple from a global slowdown, particularly in the U.S., although the slack may be at least partly offset by growing intra-regional trade. We continue to look for opportunities that will arise from greater engagement between some of the leading economies in the Asia Pacific region.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         9


MATTHEWS ASIA PACIFIC FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: 99.5%*

 

      SHARES    VALUE

JAPAN: 45.5%

     

The Sumitomo Trust & Banking Co., Ltd.

   907,000    $ 9,459,462

Sony Corp. ADR

   184,100      9,295,209

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

   30,400      8,835,709

Benesse Corp.

   221,300      8,225,509

Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd.

   213,000      8,079,684

Daibiru Corp.

   551,700      7,879,422

Sekisui House, Ltd.

   497,000      7,735,048

Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.

   226,000      7,422,098

Nitto Denko Corp.

   157,200      7,377,088

Sysmex Corp.

   198,500      7,209,606

Toyota Motor Corp. ADR

   55,600      7,125,696

Point, Inc.

   111,470      7,085,118

Ichiyoshi Securities Co., Ltd.

   437,700      7,027,566

Hoya Corp.

   209,400      6,948,014

Ito En, Ltd.

   211,000      6,875,764

T&D Holdings, Inc.

   94,030      6,487,304

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   95,600      6,271,113

Canon, Inc. ADR

   109,050      5,853,804

Funai Zaisan Consultants Co., Ltd.

   1,039      5,783,978

Pigeon Corp.

   334,300      5,744,717

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

   866      5,577,851

Nitori Co., Ltd.

   111,900      5,564,613

Keyence Corp.

   24,100      5,438,043

Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.

   500,000      5,397,149

Nomura Holdings, Inc.

   259,000      5,395,833

Monex Beans Holdings, Inc.

   5,700      5,272,403

Unicharm Petcare Corp.

   149,000      5,184,148

Nidec Corp.

   79,500      5,127,291

Nomura Research Institute, Ltd.

   164,500      4,843,983

The Chiba Bank, Ltd.

   519,000      4,580,448

Yahoo! Japan Corp.

   10,417      3,593,441

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ADR

   90,100      3,141,787

ORIX Corp.

   8,390      2,185,786

Yamada Denki Co., Ltd.

   21,420      1,995,855

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

   34,000      1,185,845
         

Total Japan

        211,206,385
         

CHINA/HONG KONG: 21.1%

     

China Vanke Co., Ltd. B Shares

   4,597,543      9,520,477

Dah Sing Financial Holdings, Ltd.

   969,200      8,459,645

China Life Insurance Co., Ltd. H Shares

   2,922,000      8,395,585

Lenovo Group, Ltd.

   21,662,000      7,929,010

Swire Pacific, Ltd. A Shares

   644,000      7,228,361

Pico Far East Holdings, Ltd.

   29,774,000      6,935,263

Shangri-La Asia, Ltd.

   2,516,000      6,227,611

China Mobile, Ltd. ADR

   135,300      6,068,205

Hang Lung Group, Ltd.

   1,702,000      6,022,947

NetEase.com, Inc. ADR **

   301,000      5,339,740

Ports Design, Ltd.

   1,983,500      5,280,195

Television Broadcasts, Ltd.

   788,000      4,926,576

Dairy Farm International Holdings, Ltd.

   1,256,400      4,899,960

Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. H Shares

   4,082,000      4,195,106

China Merchants Bank Co., Ltd. H Shares **

   1,774,000      3,578,197

The9, Ltd. ADR **

   91,200      3,077,088
         

Total China/Hong Kong

        98,083,966
         

SOUTH KOREA: 12.3%

     

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   186,340      9,645,789

AMOREPACIFIC Corp.

   14,262      7,852,591

Hanmi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   53,760      6,942,857

CDNetworks Co., Ltd. **

   187,221      5,313,351

NHN Corp. **

   35,372      5,188,495

Kiwoom.com Securities Co., Ltd.

   107,475      4,221,090

S1 Corp.

   103,390      4,154,062

Hyundai Department Store Co., Ltd.

   45,970      3,860,151

Kookmin Bank

   39,274      3,523,305

Kookmin Bank ADR

   35,540      3,203,931

ON*Media Corp. **

   370,710      3,010,443
         

Total South Korea

        56,916,065
         

 

10        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE

INDIA: 5.6%

     

Dabur India, Ltd. ***

   3,524,835    $ 7,273,495

Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Ltd. ***

   298,907      6,872,351

HDFC Bank, Ltd. ***

   279,283      5,957,245

Infosys Technologies, Ltd. ***

   125,678      5,651,650
         

Total India

        25,754,741
         

THAILAND: 4.6%

     

Bangkok Bank Public Co., Ltd.

   2,246,300      7,250,268

Advanced Info Service Public Co., Ltd.

   3,611,600      6,911,660

Land & Houses Public Co., Ltd.

   22,417,300      4,738,304

Major Cineplex Group Public Co., Ltd.

   5,150,000      2,294,773
         

Total Thailand

        21,195,005
         

SINGAPORE: 3.6%

     

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

   442,700      6,244,458

Hyflux, Ltd.

   3,219,812      5,624,033

Fraser and Neave, Ltd.

   1,462,000      4,914,610
         

Total Singapore

        16,783,101
         

AUSTRALIA: 2.8%

     

AXA Asia Pacific Holdings, Ltd.

   1,647,685      9,625,297

Rural Press, Ltd.

   324,794      3,573,960
         

Total Australia

        13,199,257
         

TAIWAN: 2.4%

     

Taiwan Semiconductor

     

Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   3,376,152      6,927,376

Taiwan Secom Co., Ltd.

   2,708,160      4,329,193
         

Total Taiwan

        11,256,569
         

INDONESIA: 1.6%

     

Bank Rakyat Indonesia

   7,889,500      4,366,244

PT Astra International

   2,205,500      3,190,422
         

Total Indonesia

        7,556,666
         
           VALUE

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 99.5%

(Cost $389,236,935****)

      $  461,951,755

CASH AND OTHER ASSETS, LESS LIABILITIES: 0.5%

        2,413,481
         

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 464,365,236
         

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Non–income producing security

 

*** Fair valued under direction of the Board of Trustees

 

**** Cost of investments is $389,236,935 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation    $86,787,264  
Gross unrealized depreciation    (14,072,444 )
      
Net unrealized appreciation    $72,714,820  
      

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         11


MATTHEWS ASIA PACIFIC EQUITY INCOME FUND

 

FUND DESCRIPTION    SYMBOL: MAPIX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews Asia Pacific Equity Income Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in income-paying publicly traded common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible preferred stocks, and other equity-related instruments (including, for example, investment trusts and other financial instruments) of companies located in the Asia Pacific region, which includes Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

 

Lead Manager: Andrew T. Foster    Co-Manager: Jesper Madsen, CFA

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

The Matthews Asia Pacific Equity Income Fund returned 2.42% for the first quarter of 2007; its benchmark, the MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index, gained 3.59%. Volatility returned to markets across the Asia Pacific region during the quarter, with equity markets not only in Asia, but globally, experiencing a short but sharp sell-off at the end of February. During times of sharp market declines, the correlation across markets—and often across asset classes— tends to increase. The Fund experienced this firsthand as the value of the portfolio fell broadly in line with the MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index during the sell-off.

The Fund’s relative underperformance vis-à-vis its benchmark during the quarter was predominantly a result of the portfolio’s underweight to Australia, one of the region’s better-performing markets, and its overweight to Hong Kong and Taiwan, two relative laggards. The Fund is not bound by the benchmark, and its distinct focus on dividend-paying companies leads to substantial over- or underweights as compared to the benchmark, often resulting in divergent performance.

The portfolio continues to have a substantial 18% allocation to Japanese companies. This allocation is considerably less than the benchmark’s weight of 55%, but given the low dividend yields prevalent there, it may seem counterintuitive to have any exposure to Japan. However, we continue to find Japanese companies attractive for investors seeking growing dividends. The Fund’s Japanese holdings, most of which paid their final dividends during the quarter, on average grew their annual dividends by a healthy 30% year-on-year. Many Japanese companies are growing dividends from a low base, having paid little attention to dividend policies in years past, but the mixture of earnings growth and increasing payout ratios offers the potential for continued

continued on page 15

 

12        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

Fund Inception: 10/31/06

   3 MO     SINCE
INCEPTION1
 

Matthews Asia Pacific Equity Income Fund

   2.42 %   10.51 %

MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index2

   3.59 %   10.30 %

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES3   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)4,5

   1.49 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20065

   1.50 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 20067

   2.93 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER6   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)4

   17.02 %

Fiscal Year 2006 (annualized)7

   0.00 %

TOP TEN HOLDINGS8

 

     

COUNTRY

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   Taiwan    4.6 %

HSBC Holdings PLC

   United Kingdom    4.6 %

Lawson, Inc.

   Japan    3.3 %

Singapore Press Holdings, Ltd.

   Singapore    3.1 %

BOC Hong Kong Holdings, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    3.0 %

Public Bank BHD

   Malaysia    3.0 %

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   South Korea    3.0 %

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

   South Korea    2.9 %

Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd.

   Taiwan    2.9 %

Eisai Co., Ltd.

   Japan    2.9 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

      33.3 %

 

1

Actual returns, not annualized.

 

2

The MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index is a free float-adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of the stock markets of Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. The Matthews Asia Pacific Equity Income Fund invests in countries that are not included in the MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

3

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

4

Unaudited.

 

5

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture or expenses by Advisor. The Advisor has agreed to waive fees and reimburse expenses to the extent needed to limit Total Annual Operating Expenses until October 31, 2009. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

6

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

7

The Matthews Asia Pacific Equity Income Fund commenced operations on 10/31/06.

 

8

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         13


MATTHEWS ASIA PACIFIC EQUITY INCOME FUND

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

China/Hong Kong

   19.0 %

Japan

   18.1 %

Taiwan

   11.7 %

Singapore

   11.6 %

Malaysia

   8.9 %

Australia

   7.0 %

South Korea

   5.9 %

United Kingdom1

   4.6 %

New Zealand

   3.1 %

Thailand

   3.0 %

Philippines

   2.3 %

Indonesia

   2.1 %

India

   1.9 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.8 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Financials

   26.1 %

Telecommunication Services

   17.1 %

Information Technology

   15.4 %

Consumer Discretionary

   14.1 %

Consumer Staples

   7.4 %

Health Care

   7.1 %

Industrials

   6.8 %

Energy

   2.7 %

Utilities

   2.5 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.8 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   55.2 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   32.1 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   11.9 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.8 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS2
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE    12B-1 FEES
52    $ 11.03    $45.2 million    2.00% within
90 calendar days
   None

 

1

The United Kingdom is not included in the MSCI All Country Asia Pacific Index.

 

2

Includes BNY Hamilton Money Fund.

 

14        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 12

dividend growth. So, while the absolute level of dividend payments in Japan remains low, especially in relation to earnings, it is the pace of change in dividends that continues to impress us.

The Fund’s dual focus on dividend growth and current yield often leads us to invest in companies that are perceived by the market to face either unattractive growth prospects or challenging business conditions. While this perception may at times be correct, especially in the short term, we believe that companies are often discounted in excess of their true growth potential. The former Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, known today as HSBC, illustrates this point. While the extent and pace of HSBC’s losses in its U.S. sub-prime mortgage lending business are a cause of concern, the market seems to have latched on to one facet of what is otherwise a global business with a considerable footprint in fast-growing emerging economies across the world. In 2006, HSBC derived almost 40% of its pre-tax profits from Asia, and these profits were 23% higher than in 2005. Furthermore, HSBC has a history of paying growing dividends, even during periods of slower earnings growth, and its balance sheet remains healthy. In 2006, while earnings per share grew by just 3%—due in large part to the provisioning related to its sub-prime mortgage lending—the company still raised its dividend payment by a healthy 11%. With an estimated yield of 5% and an attractive global footprint, which we believe offers great potential for future growth, we continue to view HSBC as a core holding for the Fund.

Our aim is to strike the right balance between constructing a portfolio that provides current yield while being invested in companies that will deliver consistent dividend growth. This becomes especially challenging when equity values rise, as we experienced in some markets in the region during this quarter—such as Singapore, Malaysia and Australia. That said, we believe that companies in the Asia Pacific region continue to offer good potential for both current income and healthy dividend growth.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         15


MATTHEWS ASIA PACIFIC EQUITY INCOME FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: 99.2%*

 

      SHARES    VALUE

CHINA/HONG KONG: 19.0%

     

BOC Hong Kong Holdings, Ltd.

   567,000    $ 1,374,414

Hang Seng Bank, Ltd.

   81,300      1,154,963

VTech Holdings, Ltd.

   121,000      872,637

Café de Coral Holdings, Ltd.

   474,000      856,579

ASM Pacific Technology, Ltd.

   142,000      837,806

PetroChina Co., Ltd. H Shares

   614,000      728,455

Huaneng Power International, Inc. H Shares

   836,000      727,561

China Mobile, Ltd.

   65,500      595,607

SA SA International Holdings, Ltd.

   1,846,000      541,030

PetroChina Co., Ltd. ADR

   4,200      491,778

CLP Holdings, Ltd.

   58,000      423,485
         

Total China/Hong Kong

        8,604,315
         

JAPAN: 18.1%

     

Lawson, Inc.

   38,600      1,483,859

Eisai Co., Ltd.

   26,900      1,289,757

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   17,200      1,128,276

Monex Beans Holdings, Inc.

   1,191      1,101,655

Tokyu REIT, Inc.

   100      1,086,219

Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc.

   26,500      782,586

Benesse Corp.

   19,300      717,362

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

   2,000      581,297
         

Total Japan

        8,171,011
         

TAIWAN: 11.7%

     

Taiwan Semiconductor

     

Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   919,000      1,885,655

Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd.

   680,000      1,317,176

Taiwan Secom Co., Ltd.

   622,000      994,313

President Chain Store Corp.

   372,000      910,552

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. ADR

   17,500      188,125
         

Total Taiwan

        5,295,821
         

SINGAPORE: 11.6%

     

Singapore Press Holdings, Ltd.

   479,000      1,389,184

Venture Corp., Ltd.

   124,000      1,193,290

Singapore Post, Ltd.

   1,301,000      951,857

SMRT Corp., Ltd.

   675,000      662,920

Yellow Pages (Singapore), Ltd.

   779,000      662,367

StarHub, Ltd.

   203,000      381,340
         

Total Singapore

        5,240,958
         

MALAYSIA: 8.9%

     

Public Bank BHD

   527,800      1,350,985

Maxis Communications BHD

   367,000      1,263,138

Malayan Banking BHD

   217,300      804,466

Berjaya Sports Toto BHD

   451,200      608,125
         

Total Malaysia

        4,026,714
         

AUSTRALIA: 7.0%

     

Coca-Cola Amatil, Ltd.

   134,498      957,638

Insurance Australia Group, Ltd.

   176,554      837,101

TABCORP Holdings, Ltd.

   52,393      699,031

St. George Bank, Ltd.

   23,464      665,036
         

Total Australia

        3,158,806
         

SOUTH KOREA: 5.9%

     

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   25,790      1,335,005

SK Telecom Co., Ltd. ADR

   31,300      733,046

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

   2,940      598,438
         

Total South Korea

        2,666,489
         

UNITED KINGDOM: 4.6%

     

HSBC Holdings PLC

   67,600      1,174,900

HSBC Holdings PLC ADR

   10,100      886,881
         

Total United Kingdom

        2,061,781
         

 

16        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE  

NEW ZEALAND: 3.1%

     

Fisher & Paykel Appliances Holdings, Ltd.

   345,798    $ 906,569  

Auckland International Airport, Ltd.

   278,710      479,824  
           

Total New Zealand

        1,386,393  
           

THAILAND: 3.0%

     

Advanced Info Service Public Co., Ltd.

   425,600      814,487  

Hana Microelectronics Public Co., Ltd.

   705,600      534,087  
           

Total Thailand

        1,348,574  
           

PHILIPPINES: 2.3%

     

Globe Telecom, Inc.

   40,950      1,043,907  
           

Total Philippines

        1,043,907  
           

INDONESIA: 2.1%

     

PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia

   559,000      603,414  

PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia ADR

   8,200      353,748  
           

Total Indonesia

        957,162  
           

INDIA: 1.9%

     

HCL-Infosystems, Ltd.**

   299,167      884,045  
             

Total India

        884,045  
           

TOTAL EQUITIES

(Cost $43,373,613)

        44,845,976  
           

MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND: 2.2%*

     

BNY Hamilton Money Fund

(Cost $988,909)

   988,909      988,909  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 101.4%

(Cost $44,362,522***)

        45,834,885  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF CASH AND OTHER ASSETS: –1.4%

        (646,716 )
           

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 45,188,169  
           

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Fair valued under direction of the Board of Trustees

 

*** Cost of investments is $44,362,522 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 2,484,149  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (1,011,786 )
        

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 1,472,363  
        

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

 

REIT Real Estate Investment Trust

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         17


MATTHEWS PACIFIC TIGER FUND (CLOSED TO MOST NEW INVESTORS)

 

FUND DESCRIPTION

   SYMBOL: MAPTX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews Pacific Tiger Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in the common and preferred stocks of companies located in the Pacific Tiger countries of China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and (as of April 30, 2007) Vietnam.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

 

Lead Manager: Mark W. Headley

   Co-Manager: Richard H. Gao

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

The Matthews Pacific Tiger Fund had a lack-luster return of –0.72% in the first quarter of 2007, versus the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index’s return of 1.46% and the MSCI All Country Asia ex-Japan Index’s return of 1.04%. The first index is the Fund’s historical benchmark; the second was added several years ago, given its inclusion of the increasingly important Indian market. The Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average returned 3.40% for the quarter, which was notable for its volatility.

The portfolio saw strong returns from a number of consistent performers from the past few years of positive returns. Hang Lung Group has grown to be one of the largest positions in the Fund. As a long- established Hong Kong property holding company, the group has gone aggressively into China, with impressive results so far. NHN Corporation continues to define itself as one of Asia’s most unique Internet companies, maintaining its position within its home market in Korea and expanding to neighboring markets competently. The industrial sector of the portfolio performed well, with a recovery in the Singaporean water filtra-tion company Hyflux and continued strong performance of Fraser and Neave, largely due to its property exposure in Singapore. Singapore was a notable area of strength for the portfolio as a whole.

On a country basis, the portfolio was hurt by negative returns from Korea and India. Indonesia also saw a pullback across most holdings. Most other markets showed little direction for the quarter as a whole but generally recovered from the sharp fall in late February. The new positions in Malaysia have so far been a modest positive addition. On a sector basis, consumer and health care–related companies were a significant negative for the portfolio: both are areas in which the portfolio is significantly overweight relative to the regional benchmarks. The Fund has always been willing to build major positions

continued on page 21

 

18        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

Fund Inception: 9/12/94

  

3 MO

   

1 YR

    Average Annual Total Returns  
       3 YRS     5 YRS     10 YRS     SINCE
INCEPTION
 

Matthews Pacific Tiger Fund

   –0.72 %   17.13 %   22.18 %   21.02 %   9.81 %   9.13 %

MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index1

   1.46 %   23.96 %   20.96 %   17.68 %   3.40 %   2.94 %2

MSCI All Country Asia ex-Japan Index3

   1.04 %   23.54 %   22.02 %   18.75 %   4.38 %   3.31 %2

Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average4

   3.40 %   23.79 %   22.41 %   18.58 %   6.76 %   6.33 %2

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT FOR THE 10-YEAR PERIOD ENDED 3/31/07

LOGO

 

OPERATING EXPENSES5   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)6,7

   1.11 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20067

   1.16 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.18 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER8   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)6

   49.75 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   18.80 %

 

1

The MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index is a free float–adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of the stock markets of China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. The Matthews Pacific Tiger Fund invests in countries that are not included in the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

Calculated from 8/31/94.

 

3

The MSCI All Country Asia ex-Japan Index is a free float–adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of the stock of markets of China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

4

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average consisted of 50 funds for the three-month period, 48 funds for the one-year period, 47 funds for the three-year period, 43 funds for the five-year period, 23 funds for the 10-year period, and 12 funds since 8/31/94. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, for the stated periods.

 

5

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

6

Unaudited.

 

7

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

8

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         19


MATTHEWS PACIFIC TIGER FUND (CLOSED TO MOST NEW INVESTORS)

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

    

COUNTRY

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

Hang Lung Group, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    3.3 %

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   South Korea    3.1 %

Lenovo Group, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    3.1 %

Advanced Info Service Public Co., Ltd.

   Thailand    2.8 %

Swire Pacific, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    2.8 %

NHN Corp.

   South Korea    2.8 %

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

   Singapore    2.7 %

Dah Sing Financial Holdings, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    2.7 %

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   Taiwan    2.6 %

AMOREPACIFIC Corp.

   South Korea    2.6 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

      28.5 %

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

China/Hong Kong

   33.7 %

South Korea

   20.7 %

Singapore

   11.6 %

India2

   9.7 %

Thailand

   9.1 %

Indonesia

   5.1 %

Taiwan

   4.9 %

Malaysia

   4.2 %

Philippines

   0.4 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   0.6 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Financials

   33.1 %

Information Technology

   15.1 %

Consumer Discretionary

   15.1 %

Consumer Staples

   12.2 %

Health Care

   9.6 %

Industrials

   8.6 %

Telecommunication Services

   5.7 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   0.6 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   41.2 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   47.2 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   11.0 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   0.6 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS3
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE   12B-1 FEES
71    $ 23.54    $3.22 billion    2.00% within
90 calendar days
  None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

2

India is not included in the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index.

 

3

Includes BNY Hamilton Money Fund.

 

20        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 18

in market areas where benchmarks may have very little weighting. When these areas underperform, we have historically continued to increase their positions. This can lead to significant volatility and periods of very off-benchmark performance.

Looking across the region at the end of a challenging quarter, it is something of a relief that the markets appear to be taking risk more seriously—or at least talking a great deal about it. With rising interest rates in China and India, where in some cases valuations are quite stretched, the Fund continues to have a diversi-fied portfolio and is only building new positions with some caution. New holdings have been added in Korea, Indonesia and China, all of smaller- and medium-sized companies. While the world continues to express concern over the uncertainty in both the Middle East and the U.S. economy, overall conditions in Asia appear reasonably healthy. The obvious threat within the region would be a major problem of some sort in China. Japan’s economy is still hardly appreciated despite its continued strength, and India is still too isolated to cause broad problems, in our opinion. Overall, the Fund is continuing its long search for exceptional Asian companies that define the future of the world’s most-important region.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         21


MATTHEWS PACIFIC TIGER FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: 99.4%*

 

     SHARES    VALUE

CHINA/HONG KONG: 33.7%

     

Hang Lung Group, Ltd.

   30,303,000    $ 107,234,652

Lenovo Group, Ltd.

   270,292,000      98,935,832

Swire Pacific, Ltd. A Shares

   7,990,500      89,686,677

Dah Sing Financial Holdings, Ltd.

   10,032,400      87,567,630

NWS Holdings, Ltd.

   24,775,636      66,588,386

Television Broadcasts, Ltd.

   10,362,700      64,787,598

Agile Property Holdings, Ltd.

   63,112,000      62,195,226

Shangri-La Asia, Ltd.

   22,824,000      56,494,037

Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. H Shares

   49,491,000      50,862,319

Ping An Insurance (Group) Co. of China, Ltd. H Shares

   10,077,500      49,397,613

Dairy Farm International Holdings, Ltd.

   11,984,900      46,741,110

NetEase.com, Inc. ADR **

   2,581,300      45,792,262

China Mobile, Ltd. ADR

   914,650      41,022,053

Travelsky Technology, Ltd. H Shares

   20,406,000      35,936,080

Integrated Distribution Services Group, Ltd.

   13,783,000      33,480,686

Dynasty Fine Wines Group, Ltd.

   77,862,000      33,084,001

Dickson Concepts International, Ltd.

   28,334,900      32,637,627

China Merchants Bank Co., Ltd. H Shares **

   9,278,000      18,713,928

Li Ning Co., Ltd.

   8,248,000      16,340,825

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.

   4,516,000      14,738,337

SCMP Group, Ltd.

   32,396,000      11,692,164

China Vanke Co., Ltd. B Shares

   5,092,300      10,545,007

Glorious Sun Enterprises, Ltd.

   21,625,000      10,517,054
         

Total China/Hong Kong

        1,084,991,104
         

SOUTH KOREA: 20.7%

     

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   1,924,363      99,613,603

NHN Corp. **

   608,212      89,214,770

AMOREPACIFIC Corp.

   152,635      84,040,109

Hanmi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   386,069      49,859,039

Samsung Securities Co., Ltd.

   888,160      48,335,238

Hite Brewery Co., Ltd.

   382,037      45,683,634

Nong Shim Co., Ltd.

   161,478      42,051,562

S1 Corp.

   973,120      39,098,571

Yuhan Corp.

   200,284      31,400,820

ON*Media Corp. **

   3,669,480      29,798,923

Hyundai Development Co.

   449,213      24,781,202

Kookmin Bank

   253,151      22,710,400

MegaStudy Co., Ltd.

   117,168      20,549,235

GS Home Shopping, Inc.

   234,698      17,063,503

SK Telecom Co., Ltd. ADR

   680,300      15,932,626

Kookmin Bank ADR

   68,000      6,130,200

Pacific Corp.

   13,652      2,002,526
         

Total South Korea

        668,265,961
         

SINGAPORE: 11.6%

     

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

   6,242,750      88,056,455

Fraser and Neave, Ltd.

   23,832,750      80,115,364

Hyflux, Ltd.

   37,706,187      65,861,250

Venture Corp., Ltd.

   6,524,800      62,790,153

Parkway Holdings, Ltd.

   20,287,050      43,859,555

Keppel Land, Ltd.

   5,424,000      33,963,682
         

Total Singapore

        374,646,459
         

INDIA: 9.7%

     

Cipla, Ltd.***

   12,196,873      65,551,352

Infosys Technologies, Ltd.***

   1,246,624      56,059,791

Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Ltd.***

   2,196,352      50,497,652

Titan Industries, Ltd. ***

   2,229,554      41,771,373

HDFC Bank, Ltd.***

   1,952,568      41,649,244

Dabur India, Ltd.***

   17,572,258      36,260,343

Bank of Baroda ***

   4,547,022      21,956,263
         

Total India

        313,746,018
         

 

22        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE

THAILAND: 9.1%

     

Advanced Info Service Public Co., Ltd.

   47,888,300    $ 91,645,704

Bangkok Bank Public Co., Ltd.

   24,921,800      80,438,829

Land & Houses Public Co., Ltd.

   173,222,300      36,613,682

Bank of Ayudhya Public Co., Ltd. NVDR

   58,539,600      35,782,560

Thai Beverage Public Co., Ltd.

   189,105,000      30,537,999

Amata Corp. Public Co., Ltd.

   59,894,900      18,818,735
         

Total Thailand

        293,837,509
         

INDONESIA: 5.1%

     

PT Bank Central Asia

   69,945,500      39,092,827

PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia

   34,940,500      37,716,595

PT Kalbe Farma **

   249,644,000      33,103,478

PT Astra International

   20,030,230      28,975,237

PT Ramayana Lestari Sentosa

   277,326,000      24,617,431
         

Total Indonesia

        163,505,568
         

TAIWAN: 4.9%

     

Taiwan Semiconductor

     

Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   41,185,159      84,505,992

President Chain Store Corp.

   29,591,000      72,430,527
         

Total Taiwan

        156,936,519
         

MALAYSIA: 4.2%

     

Resorts World BHD

   12,096,500      60,176,370

Public Bank BHD

   16,107,900      41,230,633

Top Glove Corp. BHD

   13,027,480      33,911,011
         

Total Malaysia

        135,318,014
         

PHILIPPINES: 0.4%

     

SM Prime Holdings, Inc.

   56,072,000      13,364,311
         

Total Philippines

        13,364,311
         

TOTAL EQUITIES

(Cost $2,393,574,957)

        3,204,611,463
         

MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND: 0.1%*

     

BNY Hamilton Money Fund

(Cost $3,052,731)

   3,052,731      3,052,731
         

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 99.5%

(Cost $2,396,627,688****)

        3,207,664,194

CASH AND OTHER ASSETS, LESS LIABILITIES: 0.5%

        17,222,483
         

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 3,224,886,677
         

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Non–income producing security

 

*** Fair valued under direction of the Board of Trustees

 

**** Cost of investments is $2,396,627,688 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 859,430,264

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (48,393,758)
      

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 811,036,506
      

 

Affiliated Issuer, as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (ownership of 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities of this issuer)

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

 

NVDR Non-voting Depositary Receipt

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         23


MATTHEWS ASIAN GROWTH AND INCOME FUND

(CLOSED TO MOST NEW INVESTORS)

 

FUND DESCRIPTION

SYMBOL: MACSX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews Asian Growth and Income Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in dividend-paying equity securities and the convertible securities, of any duration or quality, of companies located in Asia. Asia includes China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and (as of April 30, 2007) Vietnam.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

 

Lead Manager: G. Paul Matthews

   Co-Manager: Andrew T. Foster

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

For the first quarter of 2007, the Matthews Asian Growth and Income Fund returned 2.46% while its benchmark, the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index, rose 1.46%. The Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average gained 3.40% over the same period.

Asian markets began the quarter much as they finished the prior one: Most were characterized by relative stability, and many continued to steadily appreciate in value. However, these conditions were reversed by the end of February, when a sharp sell-off in domestic Chinese equities appeared to trigger a global correction. Whether events in China or other factors were the root cause behind the decline in global equities is debatable. What is clear in either case is that many market participants were poised to sell after a period of prolonged stability. Despite

continued on page 27

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT FOR THE 10-YEAR PERIOD ENDED 3/31/07

LOGO

 

24        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

                 Average Annual Total Returns  

Fund Inception: 9/12/94

   3 MO     1 YR     3 YRS     5 YRS     10 YRS     SINCE
INCEPTION
 

Matthews Asian Growth and Income Fund

   2.46 %   18.99 %   18.74 %   19.64 %   14.06 %   12.61 %

MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index1

   1.46 %   23.96 %   20.96 %   17.68 %   3.40 %   2.94 %2

Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average3

   3.40 %   23.79 %   22.41 %   18.58 %   6.76 %   6.33 %2

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

 

30 -DAY SEC YIELD4

– 0.61%

 

INCOME DISTRIBUTION YIELD5

3.23%

 

OPERATING EXPENSES6   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)7,8

   1.14 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20068

   1.19 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.20 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER9   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)6

   22.63 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   28.37 %

 

1

The MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index is a free float–adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of the stock markets of China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. The Matthews Asian Growth and Income Fund invests in countries that are not included in the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

Calculated from 8/31/94.

 

3

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average consisted of 50 funds for the three-month period, 48 funds for the one-year period, 47 funds for the three-year period, 43 funds for the five-year period, 23 funds for the 10-year period, and 12 funds since 8/31/94. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, for the stated periods.

 

4

The 30-day SEC Yield represents net investment income earned by the Fund over the 30-day period ended 3/31/07, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on the Fund’s share price at the end of the 30-day period. The SEC Yield should be regarded as an estimate of the Fund’s rate of investment income, and it may not equal the Fund’s actual income distribution rate, the income paid to a shareholder’s account, or the income reported in the Fund’s financial statements. Past yields are no guarantee of future yields.

 

5

The Income Distribution Yield represents the past two dividends (does not include capital gains) paid by the Fund for the period ended 3/31/07, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on the Fund’s share price on 3/31/07. Generally, the Fund has made distributions of net investment income twice each year and of capital gains, if any, annually. Past Income Distribution Yields are no guarantee of future yields or that any distributions will continue to be paid twice each year.

 

6

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

7

Unaudited.

 

8

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

9

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         25


MATTHEWS ASIAN GROWTH AND INCOME FUND

(CLOSED TO MOST NEW INVESTORS)

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

HOLDING

  

COUNTRY

  

SECURITY TYPE

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

Hong Kong Land Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    Convertible Bond    3.1 %

HSBC Holdings PLC

   United Kingdom    Equity    2.8 %

Hang Lung Group, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    Equity    2.7 %

Fraser and Neave, Ltd.

   Singapore    Equity    2.6 %

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

   South Korea    Equity    2.5 %

CLP Holdings, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    Equity    2.4 %

Cathay Financial Holding Co., Ltd.

   Taiwan    Convertible Bond    2.2 %

Nippon Building Fund, Inc.

   Japan    Equity    2.0 %

Rafflesia Capital, Ltd.

   Malaysia    Convertible Bond    2.0 %

Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd.

   Taiwan    Equity    1.9 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

         24.2 %

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

China/Hong Kong

   30.7 %

South Korea

   14.1 %

Taiwan

   11.2 %

Singapore

   10.7 %

India2

   7.5 %

Japan2

   7.0 %

Thailand

   4.2 %

Australia2

   3.9 %

Malaysia

   3.5 %

United Kingdom2

   2.8 %

Indonesia

   2.2 %

Philippines

   1.0 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   1.2 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Financials

   29.9 %

Telecommunication Services

   20.2 %

Consumer Discretionary

   16.6 %

Utilities

   9.1 %

Industrials

   7.5 %

Information Technology

   4.2 %

Consumer Staples

   4.2 %

Health Care

   4.0 %

Energy

   2.8 %

Materials

   0.3 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   1.2 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   57.5 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   32.6 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   8.7 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   1.2 %

 

BREAKDOWN BY SECURITY4   

Common Equities

   74.7 %

Convertible Bonds

   21.3 %

Preferred Equities

   2.8 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   1.2 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS3
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE    12B-1 FEES
86    $19.14    $2.06 billion    2.00% within
90 calendar days
   None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

2

Australia, India, Japan and the United Kingdom are not included in the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index.

 

3

Includes BNY Hamilton Money Fund.

 

4

As of 3/31/07, convertible bonds, which are not reflected in the Fund’s benchmark, the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index, accounted for 21.3% of the Matthews Asian Growth and Income Fund.

 

26        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 24

this renewed volatility, however, most major Asian markets finished the quarter with positive returns; only India (down 3.6%), Hong Kong and Taiwan (each down less than 1%) posted negative returns.

Amidst this environment, we were relatively pleased with the Fund’s performance. The Fund outpaced its benchmark index, yet it did so with a lower degree of volatility: Daily price variations in the Fund were only about three-quarters of those of the MSCI All Country Far East ex-Japan Index.

An examination of the quarter’s top-contributing positions yields interesting results. Nine of the top 10 contributors derive the bulk of their economic value from property or real estate. From a fundamental perspective, that sector’s health has been mixed. Interest rates in the region’s largest markets have generally risen in the past few quarters. This has raised borrowing costs, and it may crimp some companies’ ability to borrow easily. Meanwhile, evidence of landlords’ ability to increase rents to offset such costs has been uneven. Rents in Singapore have fared well, though from a depressed base; the going has been tougher in other markets.

Nevertheless, investors’ appetite for real estate in the region continued unabated. This was particularly evident in the performance of Japanese REITs (real estate investment trusts). The Fund has held stakes in Japanese REITs since 2003 and continues to hold four REITs today. By country, Japan was the top contributor to Fund performance as a result of the combined performance of its REIT positions. This was somewhat out of keeping with the Fund’s composition: It has historically carried a relatively small weighting in Japan (roughly 7% as of March 31, 2007). Japanese REITs were also notable in that they have recently become some of the Fund’s most volatile positions. This, in part, is because the market has begun to hope for improved rents, on the back of a much-improved commercial real estate market in Tokyo and other major metropolitan areas. However, the REITs’ volatility may also be symptomatic of the uncertainty that hangs over the forward path of interest rates in Japan.

The Fund’s composition was largely unchanged during the quarter. It exited some of its holdings in corporate bonds to take advantage of lower valuations in dividend-paying common stocks amidst the sell-off that occurred during the quarter. The Fund also lowered its weighting in convertible bonds, having converted three larger bonds that were nearing maturity. The growth of the Asian convertible bond universe has remained lackluster; however, we hold out hope that new issuers—including the recently arrived private-equity investors in the region—will open up this market once again.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         27


MATTHEWS ASIAN GROWTH AND INCOME FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

COMMON EQUITIES: 74.7%*

 

     SHARES    VALUE

CHINA/HONG KONG: 25.0%

     

Hang Lung Group, Ltd.

   15,449,000    $ 54,670,103

CLP Holdings, Ltd.

   6,846,200      49,987,292

Hang Seng Bank, Ltd.

   2,812,700      39,957,727

China Travel International Investment HK, Ltd.

   71,714,000      33,500,493

CITIC Pacific, Ltd.

   8,970,000      33,177,577

Television Broadcasts, Ltd.

   5,262,000      32,898,023

HongKong Electric Holdings, Ltd.

   5,914,500      30,354,060

Shangri-La Asia, Ltd.

   12,043,740      29,810,703

Café de Coral Holdings, Ltd.

   16,415,100      29,664,198

I-CABLE Communications, Ltd.

   129,144,000      27,767,572

Giordano International, Ltd.

   54,735,000      26,619,697

PCCW, Ltd.

   37,047,000      22,237,209

ASM Pacific Technology, Ltd.

   3,559,500      21,001,209

Hong Kong & China Gas Co., Ltd.

   7,989,000      17,852,171

Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd.

   4,475,500      15,579,907

Hang Lung Properties, Ltd.

   5,216,920      14,588,814

Vitasoy International Holdings, Ltd.

   33,359,000      14,003,650

PetroChina Co., Ltd. H Shares

   9,756,000      11,574,598

PetroChina Co., Ltd. ADR

   64,650      7,569,868

China-Hong Kong Photo Products Holdings, Ltd.

   14,998,003      1,573,989

CITIC 1616 Holdings, Ltd.**,***

   448,500      148,094
         

Total China/Hong Kong

        514,536,954
         
SINGAPORE: 10.7%      

Fraser and Neave, Ltd.

   16,069,100      54,017,342

Singapore Press Holdings, Ltd.

   12,952,500      37,564,512

CapitaMall Trust REIT

   13,841,900      34,304,811

StarHub, Ltd.

   17,275,714      32,452,813

Parkway Holdings, Ltd.

   14,242,200      30,790,901

Singapore Post, Ltd.

   33,312,000      24,372,224

Yellow Pages (Singapore), Ltd.

   5,559,000      4,726,698

Cerebos Pacific, Ltd.

   766,000      1,676,248
         

Total Singapore

        219,905,549
         

TAIWAN: 9.0%

     

Far EasTone Telecommunications Co., Ltd.

   35,067,000      39,844,047

Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. ADR

   1,717,150      34,205,628

President Chain Store Corp.

   13,430,000      32,872,900

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   15,073,000      30,927,617

Taiwan Secom Co., Ltd.

   13,195,779      21,094,425

SinoPac Financial Holdings Co., Ltd.

   44,775,047      20,566,321

Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd.

   3,073,960      5,954,334
         

Total Taiwan

        185,465,272
         

SOUTH KOREA: 7.8%

     

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

   205,630      41,856,021

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   685,369      35,477,753

KT Corp.

   505,730      22,684,743

Korea Electric Power Corp.

   480,590      19,181,712

KT Corp. ADR

   718,800      16,093,932

SK Telecom Co., Ltd. ADR

   395,300      9,257,926

Daehan City Gas Co., Ltd.

   280,300      7,388,861

Korea Electric Power Corp. ADR

   259,750      5,195,000

G11R, Inc.

   309,540      4,408,839
         

Total South Korea

        161,544,787
         

JAPAN: 7.0%

     

Nippon Building Fund, Inc. REIT

   2,538      41,998,473

Japan Retail Fund Investment Corp. REIT

   2,860      28,153,428

Tokyu REIT, Inc.

   2,543      27,622,539

Japan Real Estate Investment Corp. REIT

   2,039      26,992,872

Kao Corp.

   682,000      19,966,904
         

Total Japan

        144,734,216
         

 

28        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE

THAILAND: 4.2%

     

Advanced Info Service Public Co., Ltd.

   18,935,000    $ 36,236,647

BEC World Public Co., Ltd.

   47,386,400      29,506,527

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Co., Ltd.

   46,820,800      6,232,074

Aeon Thana Sinsap Public Co., Ltd.

   2,995,600      3,935,950

Thai Reinsurance Public Co., Ltd.

   25,672,800      3,886,485

MCOT Public Co., Ltd.

   5,364,700      3,815,511

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Co., Ltd. Foreign shares

   28,587,300      3,805,108
         

Total Thailand

        87,418,302
         

AUSTRALIA: 3.9%

     

Insurance Australia Group, Ltd.

   7,864,808      37,289,665

AXA Asia Pacific Holdings, Ltd.

   5,391,885      31,497,824

Rural Press, Ltd.

   1,131,130      12,446,698
         

Total Australia

        81,234,187
         

UNITED KINGDOM: 2.8%

     

HSBC Holdings PLC ADR

   616,200      54,108,522

HSBC Holdings PLC

   196,800      3,420,419
         

Total United Kingdom

        57,528,941
         

INDONESIA: 2.2%

     

PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia ADR

   745,500    $ 32,160,870

PT Tempo Scan Pacific

   139,445,000      12,836,581
         

Total Indonesia

        44,997,451
         

INDIA: 1.1%

     

GAIL India, Ltd. ****

   3,597,158      21,629,294
         

Total India

        21,629,294
         

PHILIPPINES: 1.0%

     

Globe Telecom, Inc.

   781,160      19,913,509
         

Total Philippines

        19,913,509
         

TOTAL COMMON EQUITIES

(Cost $1,094,290,872)

        1,538,908,462
         

See footnotes on page 31.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         29


MATTHEWS ASIAN GROWTH AND INCOME FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED) (continued)

PREFERRED EQUITIES: 2.8%*

 

     SHARES    VALUE

SOUTH KOREA: 2.8%

     

Hyundai Motor Co., Ltd., Pfd.

     566,280    $ 21,247,538

Hyundai Motor Co., Ltd., 2nd Pfd.

     305,760      11,992,500

Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Co., Ltd., Pfd.

     119,550      9,746,476

LG Household & Health Care, Ltd., Pfd.

     177,830      8,534,252

LG Chem, Ltd., Pfd.

     242,450      6,262,261
         

Total South Korea

        57,783,027
         

TOTAL PREFERRED EQUITIES

(Cost $25,013,795)

        57,783,027
         
INTERNATIONAL DOLLAR BONDS: 21.3%*      
     FACE AMOUNT    VALUE

INDIA: 6.4%

     

Housing Development Finance Corp., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 09/27/10

   $ 31,800,000    $ 39,034,500

Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Ltd., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 11/26/09

     26,269,000      37,958,705

Reliance Communications, Ltd., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 05/10/11

     22,290,000      25,494,188

Tata Motors, Ltd., Cnv.

     

1.000%, 04/27/11

     17,949,000      21,000,330

Tata Power Co., Ltd. Cnv.

     

1.000%, 02/25/10

     8,564,000      9,463,220
         

Total India

        132,950,943
         

CHINA/HONG KONG: 5.7%

     

Hong Kong Land CB 2005, Ltd., Cnv.

     

2.750%, 12/21/12

     48,400,000      64,202,600

CNOOC Finance 2004, Ltd., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 12/15/09

     31,603,000      37,923,600

Brilliance China Finance, Ltd. Cnv.

     

0.000%, 06/07/11

     13,150,000      15,740,550
         

Total China/Hong Kong

        117,866,750
         

MALAYSIA: 3.5%

     

Rafflesia Capital, Ltd. Cnv.

     

1.250%, 10/04/11

     37,700,000      41,988,375

Prime Venture Labuan, Ltd., Cnv.

     

1.000%, 12/12/08

     14,740,000      19,788,450

YTL Power Finance Cayman, Ltd. Cnv.

     

0.000%, 05/09/10

     9,400,000      10,868,280
         

Total Malaysia

        72,645,105
         

SOUTH KOREA: 3.5%

     

SK Telecom Co., Ltd., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 05/27/09

     29,430,000      35,757,450

LG.Philips LCD Co., Ltd., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 04/19/10

     33,550,000      35,396,928
         

Total South Korea

        71,154,378
         

 

30        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     FACE AMOUNT    VALUE

TAIWAN: 2.2%

     

Cathay Financial Holding Co., Ltd., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 05/20/07

   $ 30,706,000    $ 44,830,760
         

Total Taiwan

        44,830,760
         

TOTAL INTERNATIONAL DOLLAR BONDS

(Cost $389,606,835)

        439,447,936
         
     SHARES    VALUE

MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND: 0.9%*

     

BNY Hamilton Money Fund

(Cost $18,718,633)

     18,718,633    $ 18,718,633
         

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 99.7%

(Cost $1,527,630,135*****)

        2,054,858,058

CASH AND OTHER ASSETS, LESS LIABILITIES: 0.3%

        5,966,948
         

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 2,060,825,006
         

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Non–income producing security

 

*** Illiquid security

 

**** Fair valued under direction of the Board of Trustees

 

***** Cost of investments is $1,527,630,135 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 547,131,612  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (19,903,689 )
        

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 527,227,923  
        

 

Affiliated Issuer, as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (ownership of 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities of this issuer)

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

 

Cnv. Convertible

 

Pfd. Preferred

 

REIT Real Estate Investment Trust

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         31


MATTHEWS ASIAN TECHNOLOGY FUND

 

FUND DESCRIPTION

SYMBOL: MATFX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews Asian Technology Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in the common and preferred stocks of companies located in Asia that derive greater than 50% of their revenues from the sale of products or services in technology-related industries and services. Asia includes China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and (as of April 30, 2007) Vietnam.

Matthews considers technology-related industries and businesses to include, but not be limited to, the following: telecommunications, telecommunications equipment, computers, semiconductors, semiconductor capital equipment, networking, Internet and online service companies, media, office automation, server hardware producers, software companies (e.g., design, consumer and industrial), biotechnology and medical device technology companies, pharmaceuticals and companies involved in the distribution and servicing of these products.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

 

Lead Manager: J. Michael Oh

   Co-Manager: Mark W. Headley

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

For the three-month period ended March 31, 2007, the Matthews Asian Technology Fund declined 0.88%, slightly underperforming the MSCI/Matthews Asian Technology Index, which lost 0.27%, and the Lipper Science and Technology Funds Category Average, which gained 1.22%.

The Asian technology sector had a relatively weak start in the first quarter of the year as prices of key products declined and demand for consumer electronics was generally weak during the quarter.

The Fund gained most from its positions in the telecommunications sector, which continued to outperform the information technology sector following its strong outperformance last year. The expectation of increasing yield in the Japanese telecommunication sector and fast-growing subscriber numbers in emerging markets such as India and China contributed to the sector’s strong performance. The overall valuation of the telecommunication services sector in the developed countries of the region remains attractive.

The technology hardware and equipment industry was the worst performer during the quarter due to concerns over declining prices and weak demand for key consumer electronics. The first quarter of the year is typically a slow season for consumer electronics sales, as consumers do most of their spending in the last quarter of the year. The semiconductor industry was the second-worst performer in the Fund, mainly due to falling DRAM (dynamic random access memory) prices. DRAM product prices decreased in part due to capacity expansion, as some DRAM manufacturers have

continued on page 35

 

32        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

                  Average Annual Total Returns  

Fund Inception: 12/27/99

   3 MO     1 YR     3 YRS     5 YRS     SINCE
INCEPTION
 

Matthews Asian Technology Fund

   –0.88 %   11.03 %   14.35 %   13.50 %   –2.55 %

MSCI/Matthews Asian Technology Index1

   –0.27 %   9.86 %   8.41 %   8.24 %   –7.84 %2

Lipper Science and Technology Funds Category Average3

   1.22 %   0.65 %   5.51 %   2.90 %   –9.80 %2

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to the reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT SINCE FUND INCEPTION

LOGO

 

OPERATING EXPENSES4   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5,6

   1.23 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20066

   1.39 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.41 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER7   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5

   73.40 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   34.77 %

 

1

The MSCI/Matthews Asian Technology Index is a free float–adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of Asian equities tracking a broad range of technology stocks including semiconductor equipment and products, communications equipment, computers and peripherals, electronic equipment and instruments, office electronics, software, IT consulting and services, Internet software and services, diversified telecommunications services, and wireless telecommunications services. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

Calculated from 12/31/99.

 

3

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper Science and Technology Funds Category Average consisted of 295 funds for the three-month period, 288 funds for the one-year period, 262 funds for the three-year period, 242 funds for the five-year period, and 112 funds since 12/31/99. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, for the stated periods.

 

4

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

5

Unaudited.

 

6

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

7

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         33


MATTHEWS ASIAN TECHNOLOGY FUND

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

     

COUNTRY

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

   South Korea    7.1 %

NHN Corp.

   South Korea    4.4 %

Sony Corp.

   Japan    3.5 %

The9, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    3.4 %

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

   Japan    3.3 %

HON HAI Precision Industry Co., Ltd.

   Taiwan    3.2 %

China Mobile, Ltd.

   China/Hong Kong    3.2 %

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   Taiwan    3.1 %

Canon, Inc.

   Japan    2.9 %

Infosys Technologies, Ltd.

   India    2.8 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

      36.9 %

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

Japan

   35.6 %

South Korea

   19.0 %

China/Hong Kong

   18.2 %

Taiwan

   13.7 %

India

   9.2 %

Indonesia

   1.7 %

Singapore

   1.4 %

Thailand

   1.0 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.2 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Information Technology

   69.2 %

Telecommunication Services

   13.2 %

Consumer Discretionary

   9.8 %

Health Care

   3.3 %

Materials

   3.1 %

Industrials

   1.2 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.2 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   74.5 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   10.9 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   14.4 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.2 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS2
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE    12B-1 FEES
51    $7.85    $144.2 million    2.00% within
90 calendar days
   None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

2

Includes BNY Hamilton Money Fund.

 

34        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 32

converted their production lines from flash memory products back to DRAM production.

On a company basis, the largest contributor during the quarter was NHN, South Korea’s dominant Internet search, casual game and portal. NHN recorded strong growth last year, and a positive growth outlook for the current year contributed to its strong performance. Sony was the second-largest contributor to Fund performance. The company has been restructuring its consumer electronics business and benefited from improved profitability. Sony is expected to continue its restructuring efforts in various areas, and the outlook for the current fiscal year’s earnings remains positive.

Samsung Electronics was the worst performer in the Fund; the company has been mainly hurt by declining prices of DRAM products and increasing competition in the handset business.

By country, overall returns were strongest in India and Singapore, while the Fund’s positions in Taiwan and Korea were the largest drag on Fund performance. Taiwanese and Korean technology companies lagged other countries due to their broad exposure to the hardware and memory industries. Taiwanese technology companies have large exposure to the PC, notebook and other consumer electronic hardware manufacturing services industries, and Korea is home to the world’s largest and second-largest

DRAM manufacturers. Despite the Indian market’s overall weak performance during the quarter, the Fund’s holdings performed well, making India the largest contributor to Fund performance during the period.

The Fund made a few changes in the Internet, information technology services and health care sectors during the quarter. The Fund continues to overweight China, India and Korea and underweight Japan; it is underweight in the diversified telecommunication services sector while taking a selective overweight position in the wireless telecommunication services industry in emerging countries in the region compared to the benchmark. The Fund continues to look for long-term opportunities in a broad range of technology industries that we believe are poised to benefit from increasing demand from Asian consumers and overall growth in the Asia Pacific region.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         35


MATTHEWS ASIAN TECHNOLOGY FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: 99.8%*

 

     SHARES    VALUE

JAPAN: 35.6%

     

Sony Corp.

   100,300    $ 5,098,413

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

   16,585      4,820,403

Canon, Inc. ADR

   79,200      4,251,456

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   49,000      3,576,035

KDDI Corp.

   399      3,186,176

Sumco Corp.

   76,400      3,176,850

Yahoo! Japan Corp.

   9,132      3,150,168

Keyence Corp.

   13,250      2,989,795

Hoya Corp.

   83,000      2,753,988

Sharp Corp.

   131,000      2,523,506

SoftBank Corp.

   85,300      2,193,304

Hirose Electric Co., Ltd.

   17,200      2,068,262

Nidec Corp.

   31,400      2,025,119

Ibiden Co., Ltd.

   38,400      1,991,039

Nitto Denko Corp.

   42,200      1,980,363

NTT Data Corp.

   372      1,890,937

Nomura Research Institute, Ltd.

   64,100      1,887,534

Eisai Co., Ltd.

   36,900      1,769,221
         

Total Japan

        51,332,569
         

SOUTH KOREA: 19.0%

     

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

   17,008      10,178,044

NHN Corp. **

   43,324      6,354,923

ON*Media Corp. **

   356,210      2,892,692

CDNetworks Co., Ltd. **

   96,223      2,730,819

Techno Semichem Co., Ltd.

   92,655      2,437,515

JVM Co., Ltd.

   33,940      1,706,380

Osstem Implant Co., Ltd. **

   21,901      1,047,561
         

Total South Korea

        27,347,934
         

CHINA/HONG KONG: 18.2%

     

The9, Ltd. ADR **

   145,008      4,892,570

China Mobile, Ltd. ADR

   103,200      4,628,520

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.

   1,129,000      3,684,584

Baidu.com ADR **

   25,700      2,481,335

Sina Corp. **

   61,000      2,050,210

Ctrip.com International, Ltd. ADR

   30,300      2,029,646

China Communications Services Corp., Ltd. H Shares **

   2,964,000      2,006,727

Focus Media Holding, Ltd. ADR **

   20,600      1,616,276

ZTE Corp. H Shares

   323,800      1,520,888

Sohu.com, Inc. **

   61,300      1,313,659
         

Total China/Hong Kong

        26,224,415
         

TAIWAN: 13.7%

     

HON HAI Precision Industry Co., Ltd.

   692,218      4,643,793

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   2,163,470      4,439,128

MediaTek, Inc.

   251,400      2,886,861

Foxconn International Holdings, Ltd. **

   801,000      2,444,980

Foxconn Technology Co., Ltd.

   204,950      2,325,599

Lite-On Technology Corp.

   1,261,000      1,629,027

InnoLux Display Corp. **

   578,000      1,365,877
         

Total Taiwan

        19,735,265
         

INDIA: 9.2%

     

Infosys Technologies, Ltd. ***

   89,591      4,028,843

Bharti Airtel, Ltd. **, ***

   183,049      3,178,184

Tata Consultancy Services, Ltd. ***

   90,156      2,552,370

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. ***

   135,218      1,887,857

Info Edge India, Ltd. **, ***

   106,030      1,632,640
         

Total India

        13,279,894
         

INDONESIA: 1.7%

     

PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia ADR

   55,400      2,389,956
         

Total Indonesia

        2,389,956
         

 

36        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE  

SINGAPORE: 1.4%

     

Unisteel Technology, Ltd.

   1,056,000    $ 2,046,363  
           

Total Singapore

        2,046,363  
           

THAILAND: 1.0%

     

Advanced Info Service Public Co., Ltd.

   787,500      1,507,069  
           

Total Thailand

        1,507,069  
           

TOTAL EQUITIES

(Cost $119,743,997)

        143,863,465  
           

MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND: 0.3%*

     

BNY Hamilton Money Fund

(Cost $433,753)

   433,753    $ 433,753  
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 100.1%

(Cost $120,177,750****)

        144,297,218  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF CASH AND OTHER ASSETS: -0.1%

        (83,224 )
           

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 144,213,994  
           

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Non–income producing security

 

*** Fair valued under direction of the Board of Trustees

 

**** Cost of investments is $120,177,750 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 28,320,973  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (4,201,505 )
        

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 24,119,468  
        

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         37


MATTHEWS CHINA FUND

 

FUND DESCRIPTION

SYMBOL: MCHFX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews China Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in the common and preferred stocks of companies located in China. China includes its political, administrative and other districts, such as Hong Kong.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

Lead Manager: Richard H. Gao

Co-Managers: Mark W. Headley and G. Paul Matthews

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

The Matthews China Fund gained 3.44% for the first quarter of 2007, outperforming its benchmark MSCI China Index, which was down 2.30%. The Fund also outperformed the Lipper China Region Funds Category Average, which gained 3.00% for the same period.

After a huge rally in 2006, Chinese equities became extremely volatile during the first quarter of 2007. While China’s economic fundamentals remained generally solid and corporate earnings growth was strong, investors were more concerned about stock market valuations and the tightening measures taken by the Chinese central bank to prevent the economy from overheating. Meanwhile, with more H shares listed in the domestic A-share market, the relationship among the domestic A shares and the Hong Kong–listed H shares and Red Chips is increasing. Any major movements in the domestic stock market are having a bigger impact on Chinese equities listed in Hong Kong than in the past. During the quarter, the A-share market experienced extreme volatility after reaching historical high levels. As a result, Hong Kong–listed Chinese shares were affected, also experiencing high volatility. The MSCI China Index fell sharply in the first two months of the quarter but recovered most of its losses in March.

The Fund saw most of its gains in the industrials, consumer discretionary and materials sectors. Industrial and materials companies have become the key beneficiaries of China’s strong overall economy, driven in large part by investment growth. Some of the industrial companies that provided strong positive returns for the portfolio included transportation companies, port operators, airlines, airports, and builders of roads and bridges. China’s huge demand for and capacity constraints of container board and cement also drove up performance of the two materials companies in the portfolio. On the negative side, the Fund’s positions in the financials

continued on page 41

 

38        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

 

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007           
                 Average Annual Total Returns  

Fund Inception: 2/19/98

   3 MO     1 YR     3 YRS     5 YRS     SINCE
INCEPTION
 

Matthews China Fund

   3.44 %   41.99 %   22.36 %   22.56 %   12.86 %

MSCI China Index1

   –2.30 %   47.15 %   31.15 %   29.50 %   1.92 %2

Lipper China Region Funds Category Average3

   3.00 %   38.24 %   22.39 %   20.64 %   10.95 %2

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT SINCE FUND INCEPTION

LOGO

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES4   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5,6

   1.12 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20066

   1.26 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.27 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER7   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5

   32.37 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   11.65 %

 

1

The MSCI China Index is a free float–adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of Chinese equities that includes China-affiliated corporations and H shares listed on the Hong Kong exchange, and B shares listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

Calculated from 2/28/98.

 

3

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper China Region Funds Category Average consisted of 52 funds for the three-month period, 51 funds for the one-year period, 26 funds for the three-year period, 22 funds for the five-year period, and 16 funds since 2/28/98. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, for the stated periods.

 

4

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

5

Unaudited.

 

6

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

7

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         39


MATTHEWS CHINA FUND

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

     

SECTOR

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

China Vanke Co., Ltd.

  

Financials

   5.2 %

China Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

  

Financials

   4.1 %

China Mobile, Ltd.

  

Telecommunication Services

   3.7 %

Shanghai Zhenhua Port Machinery Co., Ltd.

  

Industrials

   3.6 %

Swire Pacific, Ltd.

  

Financials

   3.4 %

China Shenhua Energy Co., Ltd.

  

Energy

   3.1 %

Li & Fung, Ltd.

  

Consumer Discretionary

   2.5 %

Huaneng Power International, Inc.

  

Utilities

   2.5 %

Dongfeng Motor Group Co., Ltd.

  

Consumer Discretionary

   2.4 %

China Communications Construction Co., Ltd.

  

Industrials

   2.3 %

% OF NET ASSETS IN TOP 10

      32.8 %

 

CHINA EXPOSURE2   

H Share

   42.4 %

SAR (Hong Kong)

   31.2 %

China-affiliated corporations

   11.9 %

B Share

   8.8 %

Overseas Limited

   4.4 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   1.3 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Financials

   23.8 %

Consumer Discretionary

   17.9 %

Industrials

   15.6 %

Energy

   9.8 %

Information Technology

   9.5 %

Utilities

   7.1 %

Telecommunication Services

   6.3 %

Materials

   4.6 %

Consumer Staples

   4.1 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   1.3 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   63.8 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   27.3 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   7.6 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other3

   1.3 %

 

NUMBER OF

POSITIONS3

   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE   12B-1 FEES
57    $24.99    $1.11 billion    2.00% within
90 calendar days
  None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

2

H Shares are mainland China companies listed on the Hong Kong exchange but incorporated in mainland China. SAR (Hong Kong) companies are companies that conduct business in Hong Kong and/or mainland China. China-affiliated corporations, also known as “Red Chips,” are mainland China companies with partial state ownership listed and incorporated in Hong Kong. B Shares are mainland Chinese companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges, available to both Chinese and non-Chinese investors. Overseas Listed companies are companies that conduct business in mainland China but are listed in overseas markets such as Japan, Singapore, Taiwan and the United States.

 

3

Includes BNY Hamilton Money Fund.

 

40        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 38

and energy sectors provided most of its losses. Financial stocks were under severe selling pressure during the quarter, after accumulating enormous gains last year.

The Fund’s relative underweighting in the financials and energy sectors helped it outperform its benchmark index. The Fund’s holdings in small- and mid-cap companies also outperformed the benchmark’s holdings during the quarter.

The Chinese central bank raised its reserve ratio for the fifth time in the past eight months and also raised interest rates for the third time in the past year. It is expected that the central bank will continue its tightening policy to prevent the economy from overheating. While controlling investment growth, the government has been encouraging domestic consumption growth to achieve a more balanced and sustainable growth pattern and to rely less on investments and exports. This is in line with our belief that domestic consumption will become the driving force of China’s economic growth.

The Fund made few changes to its portfolio and remains diversified, with overweight positions in the consumer, financials and industrials sectors. We did slightly trim the Fund’s holdings in the financials sector, as we believe that valuations there are still relatively high. We also increased our position in the utilities sector as costs appear to be stabilizing.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         41


MATTHEWS CHINA FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: CHINA/HONG KONG: 98.7%*

 

     SHARES    VALUE

FINANCIALS: 23.8%

     

Real Estate Management & Development: 10.7%

     

China Vanke Co., Ltd. B Shares

   27,941,087    $ 57,859,703

Swire Pacific, Ltd. A Shares

   3,355,000      37,657,068

Agile Property Holdings, Ltd.

   23,546,000      23,203,967
         
        118,720,738
         

Commercial Banks: 6.9%

     

China Merchants Bank Co.,

     

Ltd. H Shares **

   12,376,000      24,962,662

Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. H Shares

   19,331,000      19,866,632

BOC Hong Kong Holdings, Ltd.

   8,118,000      19,678,111

China Construction Bank Corp. H Shares

   21,695,000      12,411,423
         
        76,918,828
         

Insurance: 6.2%

     

China Life Insurance Co., Ltd. H Shares

   15,785,000      45,353,971

Ping An Insurance (Group) Co. of China, Ltd. H Shares

   4,753,500      23,300,576
         
        68,654,547
         

Total Financials

        264,294,113
         

CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY: 17.9%

     

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure: 5.6%

     

Shangri-La Asia, Ltd.

   10,167,600      25,166,876

China Travel International Investment HK, Ltd.

   42,956,000      20,066,475

Café de Coral Holdings, Ltd.

   9,596,100      17,341,388
         
        62,574,739
         

Media: 3.0%

     

Television Broadcasts, Ltd.

   2,542,000      15,892,583

Pico Far East Holdings, Ltd.

   43,110,000      10,041,620

Clear Media, Ltd. **

   6,200,000      6,736,802
         
        32,671,005
         

Distributors: 2.5%

     

Li & Fung, Ltd.

   8,803,200      27,659,635
         

Automobiles: 2.4%

     

Dongfeng Motor Group Co., Ltd. H Shares **

   48,968,000      26,697,854
         

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods: 1.8%

     

Ports Design, Ltd.

   6,200,000      16,504,767

Glorious Sun Enterprises, Ltd.

   7,696,000      3,742,855
         
        20,247,622
         

Leisure Equipment & Products: 1.5%

     

Li Ning Co., Ltd.

   8,062,000      15,972,325
         

Diversified Consumer Services: 1.1%

     

New Oriental Education & Technology Group, Ltd. ADR **

   305,700      12,390,021
         

Total Consumer Discretionary

        198,213,201
         

 

42        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE

INDUSTRIALS: 15.6%

     

Transportation Infrastructure: 5.4%

     

Beijing Capital International Airport Co., Ltd. H Shares

   21,354,000    $ 21,207,787

China Merchants Holdings International Co., Ltd.

   3,940,581      16,592,451

GZI Transport, Ltd.

   22,926,000      13,409,077

COSCO Pacific, Ltd.

   3,678,000      9,113,212
         
        60,322,527
         

Machinery: 3.6%

     

Shanghai Zhenhua Port Machinery Co., Ltd. B Shares

   26,128,606      39,245,166
         

Construction & Engineering: 2.3%

     

China Communications Construction Co., Ltd. H Shares **

   21,574,000      26,009,737
         

Industrial Conglomerates: 2.0%

     

NWS Holdings, Ltd.

   8,033,276      21,590,682
         

Airlines: 1.3%

     

Air China, Ltd. H Shares

   20,807,900      14,407,210
         

Air Freight & Logistics: 1.0%

     

Sinotrans, Ltd. H Shares

   27,295,000      10,934,069
         

Total Industrials

        172,509,391
         

ENERGY: 9.8%

     

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 8.3%

     

China Shenhua Energy Co., Ltd. H Shares

   14,426,500      34,896,122

PetroChina Co., Ltd. H Shares

   19,094,000      22,653,277

China Petroleum & Chemical Corp. (Sinopec) H Shares

   20,640,000      17,460,856

CNOOC, Ltd.

   19,616,000      17,197,108
         
        92,207,363
         

Energy Equipment & Services: 1.5%

     

China Oilfield Services, Ltd. H Shares

   19,782,000      15,899,528
         

Total Energy

        108,106,891
         

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: 9.5%

     

Internet Software & Services: 3.2%

     

Sina Corp. **

   773,400      25,993,974

NetEase.com, Inc. ADR **

   565,200      10,026,648
         
        36,020,622
         

Computers & Peripherals: 2.2%

     

Lenovo Group, Ltd.

   37,842,000      13,851,426

TPV Technology, Ltd.

   16,998,000      10,855,573
         
        24,706,999
         

Software: 1.6%

     

Kingdee International Software Group Co., Ltd.

   23,378,000      17,592,966
         

Communications Equipment: 1.5%

     

ZTE Corp. H Shares

   3,564,800      16,743,861
         

IT Services: 1.0%

     

Travelsky Technology, Ltd. H Shares

   6,089,000      10,723,061
         

Total Information Technology

        105,787,509
         

See footnotes on page 45.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         43


MATTHEWS CHINA FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED) (continued)

EQUITIES: CHINA/HONG KONG (continued)

 

      SHARES    VALUE

UTILITIES: 7.1%

     

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders: 4.4%

     

Huaneng Power International, Inc. H Shares

   26,174,000    $ 22,778,934

Datang International Power Generation Co., Ltd. H Shares

   22,910,000      21,697,575

Huaneng Power International, Inc. ADR

   140,400      4,878,900
         
        49,355,409
         

Electric Utilities: 1.8%

     

Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd.

   5,698,500      19,837,358

Gas Utilities: 0.9%

     

Hong Kong & China Gas Co., Ltd.

   4,501,400      10,058,801
         

Total Utilities

        79,251,568
         

TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES: 6.3%

     

Wireless Telecommunication Services: 3.7%

     

China Mobile, Ltd.

   4,279,583      38,915,258

China Mobile, Ltd. ADR

   50,500      2,264,925
         
        41,180,183
         

Diversified Telecommunication Services: 2.6%

     

China Communications Services Corp., Ltd. H Shares **

   23,736,000      16,070,063

China Telecom Corp., Ltd. H Shares

   25,028,000      12,300,188
         
        28,370,251
         

Total Telecommunication Services

        69,550,434
         

MATERIALS: 4.6%

     

Paper & Forest Products: 2.3%

     

Nine Dragons Paper Holdings, Ltd.

   12,383,000      25,832,585
         

Construction Materials: 2.3%

     

China National Building Material Co., Ltd. H Shares

   28,532,000      25,123,205
         

Total Materials

        50,955,790
         

CONSUMER STAPLES: 4.1%

     

Food Products: 1.8%

     

Tingyi (Cayman Islands) Holding Corp.

   20,685,000      19,934,479
         

Food & Staples Retailing: 1.3%

     

Lianhua Supermarket Holdings Co., Ltd. H Shares

   10,981,000      15,009,545
         

Beverages: 1.0%

     

Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd. H Shares

   6,351,000      10,680,507
         

Total Consumer Staples

        45,624,531
         

TOTAL EQUITIES: CHINA/HONG KONG

(Cost $733,364,527)

        1,094,293,428
         

 

44        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE  

MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND: 1.5%*

     

BNY Hamilton Money Fund

(Cost $16,740,894)

   16,740,894    $ 16,740,894  
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 100.2%

(Cost $750,105,421***)

        1,111,034,322  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF CASH AND OTHER ASSETS: -0.2%

        (2,398,707 )
           

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 1,108,635,615  
           

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Non–income producing security

 

*** Cost of investments is $750,105,421 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 367,603,370  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (6,674,469 )
        

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 360,928,901  
        

 

Affiliated Issuer, as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (ownership of 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities of this issuer)

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         45


MATTHEWS INDIA FUND

 

FUND DESCRIPTION

SYMBOL: MINDX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews India Fund, a non-diversified fund, seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in publicly traded common stocks, preferred stocks and convertible securities of companies located in India.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

Lead Manager: Andrew T. Foster    Co-Manager: Sharat Shroff, CFA

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

For the first quarter of 2007, the Matthews India Fund declined 4.27%, while its benchmark, the Bombay Sensex Exchange 100 Index fell 3.62%. The Lipper Emerging Markets Funds Category Average gained 2.33% over the same period.

Changes in expectations for inflation and interest rates dominated the market’s action during the quarter. As we have noted for more than a year now, inflationary pressures have been building across the country, most notably for raw materials, agricultural products and wages. However, productivity gains in the economy had generally kept these price pressures in check. Yet early in the first quarter, the most broadly followed measure of inflation—the wholesale price index, or “WPI”—showed an annual increase of about 6.5%. This figure is well above the central bank’s espoused “comfort zone,” which lies between 5% and 5.5%. (On a side note: India does not have a well-established nationwide measure of consumer price inflation; thus, many market participants look to WPI as a substitute—albeit a flawed one.)

After ignoring the gathering inflation for the better part of 2006, the country’s authorities exhibited a newfound resolve to stomp out perceived excess. An upcoming election in one of India’s most populous states has focused attention on the issue: The poorest segments of society have struggled to keep pace with rising costs, especially for basic staples. The ruling government fears that the dissatisfaction will spill over to the polls and is keen to bring the situation under control—which could have unpredictable consequences.

The market got its first surprise when the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) enacted two rate increases during the quarter. The second of these increases caught the market largely off guard, having been announced at the close of trading on the last day of the quarter. The government has also utilized more-blunt means to reign in price speculation in selected industries: Explicit regulation

continued on page 49

 

46        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

Fund Inception: 10/31/05

   3 MO     1 YR    

SINCE

INCEPTION

 

Matthews India Fund

   –4.27 %   9.15 %   31.90 %

Bombay Stock Exchange 100 Index1

   –3.62 %   16.46 %   43.95 %

Lipper Emerging Markets Funds Category Average2

   2.33 %   20.09 %   35.63 %

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT SINCE FUND INCEPTION

LOGO

 

OPERATING EXPENSES3   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)4,5

   1.25 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20065

   1.41 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.41 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER6   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)4

   59.71 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   21.57 %

 

1

The Bombay Stock Exchange 100 Index (BSE 100) is a free float–adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of the 100 stocks listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Bloomberg; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper Emerging Markets Funds Category Average consisted of 249 funds for the three-month period, 225 funds for the one-year period, and 213 funds since 10/31/05. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains for the stated periods.

 

3

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

4

Unaudited.

 

5

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

6

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         47


MATTHEWS INDIA FUND

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

     

SECTOR

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

Dabur India, Ltd.

  

Consumer Staples

   4.9 %

CESC, Ltd.

  

Utilities

   4.3 %

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.

  

Health Care

   4.1 %

Bharti Airtel, Ltd.

  

Telecommunication Services

   3.7 %

Infosys Technologies, Ltd.

  

Information Technology

   3.7 %

GAIL India, Ltd.

  

Utilities

   3.6 %

Cipla, Ltd.

  

Health Care

   3.5 %

Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Ltd.

  

Health Care

   3.5 %

UTI Bank, Ltd.

  

Financials

   3.4 %

HDFC Bank, Ltd.

  

Financials

   3.3 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

      38.0 %

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

India

   99.5 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other

   0.5 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Industrials

   17.0 %

Information Technology

   15.2 %

Financials

   13.5 %

Consumer Discretionary

   12.7 %

Consumer Staples

   11.5 %

Health Care

   11.1 %

Utilities

   7.9 %

Telecommunication Services

   6.7 %

Energy

   3.9 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other

   0.5 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   34.2 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   32.9 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   32.4 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other

   0.5 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE    12B-1 FEES
50    $14.79    $629.7 million    2.00% within
90 calendar days
   None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

48        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 46

and implicit moral suasion have sought to curtail price hikes in energy, sugar, wheat, cement, steel and mortgages rates. The government’s efforts are certainly well-intended—meant to keep living costs affordable—yet in the end they may produce unpredictable and possibly opposite results.

Amid this environment, corporate earnings still appear healthy, though their growth will likely moderate from the extremely high rates seen during the prior two quarters. Capital expenditures are beginning to rise again—a healthy sign given that excess capacities in many industries are nearly exhausted. Meanwhile, some consumer industries are facing headwinds, given that consumer credit growth is moderating as banks shift their focus to finance corporate growth. Borrowing rates for consumers have risen sharply in the past few months, and this may crimp spending for certain large-ticket consumer durable products; motorcycle sales, for instance, have lagged as of late. However, despite these shorter-term constraints, we believe that the economic outlook for the country remains quite positive, particularly as households continue to experience substantial income gains and material improvements in their quality of life. We continue to look for stocks that can participate in this sort of growth—tapping into the strength of rising wealth and growth across the breadth of India’s populace.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         49


MATTHEWS INDIA FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: INDIA*: 96.0%**

 

     SHARES    VALUE

INDUSTRIALS: 17.0%

     

Machinery: 6.9%

     

Ashok Leyland, Ltd.

   23,336,277    $ 19,725,637

Jain Irrigation Systems, Ltd.

   1,752,536      16,797,169

Tata Motors, Ltd.

   443,538      7,209,674
         
        43,732,480
         

Construction & Engineering: 4.5%

     

Larsen & Toubro, Ltd.

   448,830      16,466,325

Unitech, Ltd.

   810,000      7,220,768

Hindustan Construction Co.

   2,266,950      4,609,526
         
        28,296,619
         

Industrial Conglomerates: 3.3%

     

Siemens India, Ltd.

   548,707      13,383,199

MAX India, Ltd. ***

   1,528,880      7,050,471
         
        20,433,670
         

Building Products: 1.3%

     

Sintex Industries, Ltd.

   1,796,834      8,338,649
         

Air Freight & Logistics: 1.0%

     

Gati, Ltd.

   3,046,428      6,263,173
         

Total Industrials

        107,064,591
         

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: 15.2%

     

IT Services: 9.3%

     

Infosys Technologies, Ltd.

   515,091      23,163,274

Wipro, Ltd.

   1,422,435      18,215,284

HCL-Infosystems, Ltd.

   3,833,185      11,327,143

Rolta India, Ltd.

   785,000      6,032,752
         
        58,738,453
         

Internet Software & Services: 3.5%

     

Sify, Ltd. ADR ***

   1,659,300      14,319,759

Info Edge India, Ltd. ***

   476,727      7,340,598
         
        21,660,357
         

Software: 2.4%

     

Financial Technologies (India), Ltd.

   357,355      15,235,993
         

Total Information Technology

        95,634,803
         

 

50        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE

CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY: 12.7%

     

Media: 6.0%

     

Zee Entertainment Enterprises, Ltd.

   1,763,908    $ 10,027,471

Sun TV, Ltd.

   211,954      7,262,564

Wire and Wireless India, Ltd. ***

   3,020,454      6,090,247

Television Eighteen India, Ltd.

   384,860      5,378,211

Inox Leisure, Ltd. ***

   1,076,527      2,668,469

Dish TV India, Ltd. ***,****

   1,157,997      2,434,072

PVR, Ltd.

   627,251      2,332,799

Balaji Telefilms, Ltd.

   438,115      1,269,843
         
        37,463,676
         

Household Durables: 1.9%

     

Voltas, Ltd.

   6,211,750      12,071,932
         

Automobiles: 1.9%

     

Hero Honda Motors, Ltd.

   766,007      11,797,900
         

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods: 1.6%

     

Titan Industries, Ltd.

   324,589      6,081,274

Bata India, Ltd. ***

   1,343,500      4,178,713
         
        10,259,987
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure: 1.3%

     

Indian Hotels Co., Ltd.

   2,508,200      8,247,947
         

Total Consumer Discretionary

        79,841,442
         

HEALTH CARE: 11.1%

     

Pharmaceuticals: 11.1%

     

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.

   1,849,285      25,818,937

Cipla, Ltd.

   4,114,657      22,113,974

Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Ltd.

   953,325      21,918,469
         

Total Health Care

        69,851,380
         

FINANCIALS: 10.9%

     

Commercial Banks: 9.8%

     

UTI Bank, Ltd.

   1,934,200      21,162,947

HDFC Bank, Ltd.

   983,033      20,968,581

Corporation Bank

   2,954,331      19,444,956
         
        61,576,484
         

Capital Markets: 1.1%

     

IL&FS Investsmart, Ltd.

   1,903,682      7,298,506
         

Total Financials

        68,874,990
         

CONSUMER STAPLES: 10.6%

     

Personal Products: 6.9%

     

Dabur India, Ltd.

   14,903,857      30,754,098

Marico, Ltd.

   8,824,720      12,415,314
         
        43,169,412
         

Household Products: 3.1%

     

Hindustan Lever, Ltd.

   4,212,269      19,626,567
         

Beverages: 0.6%

     

Radico Khaitan, Ltd.

   1,267,000      3,777,243
         

Total Consumer Staples

        66,573,222
         

See footnotes on page 53.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         51


MATTHEWS INDIA FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED) (continued)

EQUITIES: INDIA (continued)

 

     SHARES    VALUE

UTILITIES: 7.9%

     

Electric Utilities: 4.3%

     

CESC, Ltd.

     3,211,120    $ 26,689,272
         

Gas Utilities: 3.6%

     

GAIL India, Ltd.

     3,816,501      22,948,178
         

Total Utilities

        49,637,450
         

TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES: 6.7%

     

Wireless Telecommunication Services: 6.7%

     

Bharti Airtel, Ltd. ***

     1,334,191      23,164,859

Reliance Communications, Ltd. ***

     2,024,755      19,193,830

Idea Cellular, Ltd. ***

     49,675      108,081
         

Total Telecommunication Services

        42,466,770
         

ENERGY: 3.9%

     

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 3.9%

     

Reliance Industries, Ltd.

     478,371      14,719,387

Chennai Petroleum Corp., Ltd.

     2,467,744      10,084,452
         

Total Energy

        24,803,839
         

TOTAL EQUITIES: INDIA

(Cost $543,150,309)

        604,748,487
         
INTERNATIONAL DOLLAR BONDS: 3.5%**      
     FACE AMOUNT    VALUE

FINANCIALS: 2.6%

     

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance: 2.6%

     

Housing Development Finance Corp., Cnv.

     

0.000%, 09/27/10

   $ 13,600,000    $ 16,694,000
         

Total Financials

        16,694,000
         

CONSUMER STAPLES: 0.9%

     

Beverages: 0.9%

     

Radico Khaitan, Ltd., Cnv. 3.500%, 07/27/11

     5,000,000      5,475,000
         

Total Consumer Staples

        5,475,000
         

TOTAL INTERNATIONAL DOLLAR BONDS

(Cost $21,481,407)

        22,169,000
         

 

52        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

      VALUE

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 99.5%

(Cost $564,631,716*****)

   $ 626,917,487

CASH AND OTHER ASSETS, LESS LIABILITIES: 0.5%

     2,832,385
      

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

   $ 629,749,872
      

 

* All equity securities, except for Sify, Ltd. ADR, were fair valued under direction of the Board of Trustees

 

** As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

*** Non–income producing security

 

**** Illiquid security

 

***** Cost of investments is $564,631,716 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 95,613,360  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (33,327,589 )
        

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 62,285,771  
        

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

 

Cnv. Convertible

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         53


MATTHEWS JAPAN FUND

 

FUND DESCRIPTION

SYMBOL: MJFOX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews Japan Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in the common and preferred stocks of companies located in Japan.

 

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS    Note: Managers shown reflect changes effective April 30, 2007.

Lead Managers: David Ishibashi and Taizo Ishida

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

For the quarter ended March 31, 2007, the Matthews Japan Fund gained 0.93%, underperforming its benchmarks, the MSCI Developed Markets Japan Index and the TOPIX Index, which gained 3.56% and 3.76%, respectively. The Lipper Japanese Funds Category Average returned 1.16% for the same period.

The Japanese market began the quarter strongly but hit a bump when global equities corrected in late February. Although most other Asian markets quickly recovered and have since exceeded their previous highs, the Japanese market lagged for the quarter. Over the period, indices of new markets, such as Mothers and Hercules, were down more than the TOPIX as a result of a prolonged concern over last year’s questionable financial accounting practices and related scandals.

During the quarter, the market was very keen to find out whether the Bank of Japan (BOJ) would raise interest rates. The BOJ disappointed the market in January by keeping its rate unchanged, but it finally raised it a much-anticipated 0.25% in February. The yen appreciated by 4% to 115 yen to the dollar, but it quickly fell back to the level it held at the end of last quarter. For this quarter, the exchange rate was unchanged and had little impact on exporters.

Japan’s 2007 land prices, the other closely watched macro statistic, was a delight to the market: It showed the first year-over-year positive gain—0.4%—after 15 years of consecutive declines. More importantly, land prices in many areas of major metropolitan cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya) jumped anywhere from 40% to 50%. The Fund’s holdings in the real estate sector were a beneficiary of this rising trend in Japan’s land prices.

Looking at sector performance, the best performer was telecom, followed by energy, industrials and utilities. The Fund participated in the telecom sector through its position in KDDI, Japan’s second-largest wireless operator, with a growing market

continued on page 57

 

54        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

                  Average Annual Total Returns  

Fund Inception: 12/31/98

   3 MO     1 YR     3 YRS     5 YRS    

SINCE

INCEPTION

 

Matthews Japan Fund

   0.93 %   –10.05 %   3.88 %   12.94 %   8.86 %

MSCI Developed Markets Japan Index1

   3.56 %   3.09 %   11.67 %   14.08 %   5.98 %

TOPIX2

   3.76 %   0.04 %   9.80 %   13.86 %   6.35 %

Lipper Japanese Funds Category Average3

   1.16 %   –6.01 %   9.07 %   10.81 %   5.86 %

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT SINCE FUND INCEPTION

LOGO

 

OPERATING EXPENSES4   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5,6

   1.20 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20066

   1.24 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.25 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER7   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5

   42.21 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   59.95 %

 

1

The MSCI Developed Markets Japan Index is a free float–adjusted market capitalization–weighted index of Japanese equities listed in Japan. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Morgan Stanley Capital International; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

The Tokyo Price Index (TOPIX) is a capitalization-weighted index of all companies listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Bloomberg; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

3

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper Japanese Funds Category Average consisted of 55 funds for the three-month period, 49 funds for the one-year period, 41 funds for the three-year period, 36 funds for the five-year period, and 28 funds since 12/31/98. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, for the stated periods.

 

4

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

5

Unaudited.

 

6

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

7

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         55


MATTHEWS JAPAN FUND

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

     

SECTOR

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

The Sumitomo Trust & Banking Co., Ltd.

  

Financials

   3.6 %

Sysmex Corp.

  

Health Care

   3.2 %

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

  

Information Technology

   2.9 %

Sony Corp.

  

Consumer Discretionary

   2.8 %

Toyota Motor Corp.

  

Consumer Discretionary

   2.8 %

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

  

Financials

   2.7 %

Keyence Corp.

  

Information Technology

   2.6 %

Sharp Corp.

  

Consumer Discretionary

   2.5 %

Benesse Corp.

  

Consumer Discretionary

   2.5 %

The Joyo Bank, Ltd.

  

Financials

   2.4 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

      28.0 %

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

Japan

   99.1 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.9 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Financials

   34.9 %

Consumer Discretionary

   23.9 %

Information Technology

   18.5 %

Health Care

   7.7 %

Consumer Staples

   5.5 %

Materials

   4.2 %

Industrials

   3.8 %

Telecommunication Services

   0.6 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.9 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   54.1 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   29.6 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   15.4 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   0.9 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS2
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE    12B-1 FEES
60    $17.45    $299.6 million    2.00% within
90 calendar days
   None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

2

Includes BNY Hamilton Money Fund.

 

56        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 54

share. Because of its focus on the domestic economy and services, the Fund typically invests in the consumer discretionary and financial sectors, but we are taking advantage of attractive valuations and good fundamentals in other parts of the market.

Two new additions to the portfolio during the quarter were Park24, which focuses on the utilization of idle land in productive ways, and Funai Zaisan, a consulting firm specializing in financial solutions.

Park24 is Japan’s largest developer and operator of time-rental parking spaces and parking lots nationwide. The company has expanded throughout Japan as a result of its strong development capabilities and a steady supply of idle land amid 15 years of depressed property prices. The company has been able to secure prime locations in major city centers as well as outlying regional areas. In addition, the company has begun to manage parking lots on behalf of land owners such as banks, shopping centers and large-scale retail outlets.

As the first major wave of the post-war baby boomers begins to retire, the need for financial advisory services is growing sharply, much like in the United States in the early 1980s. Funai Zaisan is engaged in developing solutions for some of the most onerous areas of taxation for both high-net-worth individuals and corporations (in which the owner/founder is the largest shareholder), and in the areas of inheritance, corporate revitalization, and the effective utilization of land holdings. The company is able to procure its clients through a network of 46 offices nationwide, as well as its relationships with the largest CPA firms in Japan.

Overall, we believe that the portfolio is well positioned to benefit from the continued recovery of the Japanese economy and its increasing integration with its Asia Pacific neighbors.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         57


MATTHEWS JAPAN FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: JAPAN: 99.1%*

 

      SHARES    VALUE

FINANCIALS: 34.9%

     

Commercial Banks: 12.7%

     

The Sumitomo Trust & Banking Co., Ltd.

   1,020,000    $ 10,637,984

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

   1,258      8,102,698

The Joyo Bank, Ltd.

   1,149,000      7,176,375

The Chiba Bank, Ltd.

   665,000      5,868,975

The Toyko Star Bank, Ltd.

   1,529      4,826,782

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

   129      1,455,957
         
        38,068,771
         

Real Estate Management & Development: 10.4%

     

Daibiru Corp.

   352,700      5,037,289

Creed Corp.

   1,407      4,561,049

JOINT Corp.

   115,100      4,375,832

Kenedix, Inc.

   787      4,020,485

Funai Zaisan Consultants Co., Ltd.

   636      3,540,529

Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd.

   91,000      3,451,884

Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.

   97,000      3,185,591

Shoei Co., Ltd.

   104,800      3,014,868
         
        31,187,527
         

Capital Markets: 4.9%

     

Monex Beans Holdings, Inc.

   6,355      5,878,267

Ichiyoshi Securities Co., Ltd.

   266,300      4,275,625

Nomura Holdings, Inc.

   148,000      3,083,333

GCA Co., Ltd.

   222      1,557,994
         
        14,795,219
         

Insurance: 4.7%

     

T&D Holdings, Inc.

   103,245      7,123,064

The Fuji Fire & Marine Insurance Co., Ltd.

   1,686,000      6,939,155
         
        14,062,219
         

Real Estate Investment Trusts: 1.6%

     

Japan Logistics Fund, Inc. REIT

   511      4,683,299
         

Consumer Finance: 0.6%

     

ORIX Corp.

   6,650      1,732,476
         

Total Financials

        104,529,511
         

CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY: 23.9%

     

Household Durables: 9.2%

     

Sony Corp. ADR

   166,800      8,421,732

Sharp Corp.

   392,000      7,551,256

Sekisui House, Ltd.

   446,000      6,941,310

Makita Corp.

   123,900      4,594,730
         
        27,509,028
         

Specialty Retail: 5.2%

     

Point, Inc.

   104,250      6,626,209

Nitori Co., Ltd.

   118,400      5,887,848

Yamada Denki Co., Ltd.

   34,460      3,210,886
         
        15,724,943
         

Automobiles: 4.7%

     

Toyota Motor Corp. ADR

   64,300      8,240,688

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ADR

   167,900      5,854,673
         
        14,095,361
         

Diversified Consumer Services: 2.5%

     

Benesse Corp.

   199,000      7,396,640
         

Internet & Catalog Retail: 1.2%

     

Nissen Co., Ltd.

   520,100      3,641,230
         

Auto Components: 1.1%

     

Takata Corp.

   80,800      3,208,961
         

Total Consumer Discretionary

        71,576,163
         

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: 18.5%

     

Electronic Equipment & Instruments: 9.4%

     

Keyence Corp.

   34,370      7,755,417

Nidec Corp.

   92,900      5,991,514

Hoya Corp.

   166,800      5,534,521

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

   69,800      5,094,026

Horiba, Ltd.

   114,300      3,870,137
         
        28,245,615
         

Software: 2.9%

     

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

   29,315      8,520,356
         

IT Services: 2.3%

     

Otsuka Corp.

   48,000      4,594,705

Nomura Research Institute, Ltd.

   80,000      2,355,737
         
        6,950,442
         

 

58    MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

      SHARES    VALUE

Office Electronics: 2.0%

     

Canon, Inc. ADR

   109,550    $ 5,880,644
         

Computers & Peripherals: 1.2%

     

Melco Holdings, Inc.

   144,300      3,710,362
         

Internet Software & Services: 0.7%

     

Yahoo! Japan Corp.

   6,155      2,123,224
         

Total Information Technology

        55,430,643
         

HEALTH CARE: 7.7%

     

Health Care Equipment & Supplies: 6.5%

     

Sysmex Corp.

   264,600      9,610,387

Nakanishi, Inc.

   56,100      6,545,952

Terumo Corp.

   83,500      3,252,419
         
        19,408,758
         

Pharmaceuticals: 1.2%

     

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   57,900      3,798,091
         

Total Health Care

        23,206,849
         

CONSUMER STAPLES: 5.5%

     

Beverages: 2.1%

     

Ito En, Ltd.

   192,700      6,279,430
         

Food Products: 1.8%

     

Unicharm Petcare Corp.

   151,200      5,260,692
         

Household Products: 1.6%

     

Pigeon Corp.

   277,900      4,775,522
         

Total Consumer Staples

        16,315,644
         

MATERIALS: 4.2%

     

Chemicals: 4.2%

     

Nitto Denko Corp.

   143,700      6,743,559

Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.

   308,000      3,324,643

Teijin, Ltd.

   444,000      2,505,601
         

Total Materials

        12,573,803
         

INDUSTRIALS: 3.8%

     

Commercial Services & Supplies: 3.8%

     

PRONEXUS, Inc.

   516,400      5,127,189

Secom Co., Ltd.

   90,100      4,182,340

Park24 Co., Ltd.

   163,300      2,196,457
         

Total Industrials

        11,505,986
         

TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES: 0.6%

     

Wireless Telecommunication Services: 0.6%

     

KDDI Corp.

   233      1,860,599
         

Total Telecommunication Services

        1,860,599
         

TOTAL EQUITIES: JAPAN

(Cost $271,931,784)

        296,999,198
         

MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND: 0.3%*

     

BNY Hamilton Money Fund

(Cost $786,145)

   786,145      786,145
         

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 99.4%

(Cost $272,717,929**)

        297,785,343

CASH AND OTHER ASSETS, LESS LIABILITIES: 0.6%

        1,833,692
         

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 299,619,035
         

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Cost of investments is $272,717,929 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 39,416,788  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (14,349,374 )
        

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 25,067,414  
        

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

 

REIT Real Estate Investment Trust

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         59


MATTHEWS KOREA FUND

 

FUND DESCRIPTION

SYMBOL: MAKOX

Under normal market conditions, the Matthews Korea Fund, a non-diversified fund, seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its total net assets, which include borrowings for investment purposes, in the common and preferred stocks of companies located in South Korea.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS

Lead Managers: G. Paul Matthews and Mark W. Headley

Co-Manager: J. Michael Oh

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY

For the three-month period ended March 31, 2007, the Matthews Korea Fund declined 4.66%, underperforming its benchmark index, which gained 0.23%, and the Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average, which gained 3.40%.

After a market dip in January, the South Korean market began to recover its losses as a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States was finalized and its relationship with North Korea improved. Foreign selling pressure also eased during the quarter as the overall valuation of the Korean market became attractive. Exports continued to show stronger-than-expected growth during the first quarter despite the won’s continuing strength. The government’s approval rating rose as a result of the adoption of the FTA. We believe that the FTA will have a positive long-term impact on the Korean economy, although the short-term impact could be mixed. Domestic sentiment remained weak during the quarter due to weak corporate spending in the market. Korean corporations continue to invest more overseas due to investment restrictions around the Seoul metropolitan area.

The Fund’s underperformance of its benchmark for the period was primarily due to its underweight position in the industrials sector, particularly in shipbuilding and construction. The shipbuilding industry had a strong first quarter as ship prices rose and overseas orders increased. The construction industry performed well on the back of expectations that restrictions on new developments could be eased. The Fund’s performance was also hurt by its health care exposure; the sector was under pressure from the expectation that the FTA would have a negative impact on Korean pharmaceutical companies. The FTA is expected to increase foreign competition in the Korean pharmaceutical industry and may delay Korean generic drug makers from releasing new drugs.

continued on page 63

 

60        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PERFORMANCE AS OF MARCH 31, 2007

 

                  Average Annual Total Returns  

Fund Inception: 1/3/95

   3 MO     1 YR     3 YRS     5 YRS     10 YRS    

SINCE

INCEPTION

 

Matthews Korea Fund

   –4.66 %   3.04 %   24.21 %   18.73 %   13.95 %   6.26 %

KOSPI1

   0.23 %   10.63 %   26.38 %   18.22 %   7.76 %   1.91 %

Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average2

   3.40 %   23.79 %   22.41 %   18.58 %   6.76 %   7.24 %3

All performance quoted is past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Assumes reinvestment of all dividends and/or distributions. Unusually high returns may not be sustainable. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate with changing market conditions so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance of foreign indices may be based on different exchange rates than those used by the Fund and, unlike the Fund’s NAV, is not adjusted to reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE. Current performance may be lower or higher than the return figures quoted. Returns are net of the Funds’ management fee and other operating expenses. Returns would have been lower if certain of the Funds’ fees and expenses had not been waived. For the Funds’ most recent month-end performance please call 800-789-ASIA [2742] or visit www.matthewsfunds.com.

GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT FOR THE 10-YEAR PERIOD ENDED 3/31/07

LOGO

 

OPERATING EXPENSES4   

Net Ratio: 3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5,6

   1.25 %

Net Ratio: Fiscal Year 20066

   1.28 %

Gross Ratio: Fiscal Year 2006

   1.30 %

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER7   

3 months ended 3/31/07 (annualized)5

   33.85 %

Fiscal Year 2006

   25.82 %

 

1

The Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) is a capitalization-weighted index of all common stocks listed on the Korea Stock Exchange. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Source: Index data from Bloomberg; total return calculations performed by PFPC Inc.

 

2

As of 3/31/07, the Lipper Pacific ex-Japan Funds Category Average consisted of 50 funds for the three-month period, 48 funds for the one-year period, 47 funds for the three-year period, 43 funds for the five-year period, 23 funds for the 10-year period, and 14 funds since 12/31/94. Lipper, Inc. fund performance does not reflect sales charges and is based on total return, including reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, for the stated periods.

 

3

Calculated from 12/31/94.

 

4

Matthews Asian Funds do not charge 12b-1 fees.

 

5

Unaudited.

 

6

Includes management fee, administration and shareholder services fees after reimbursement, waiver or recapture of expenses by Advisor. Voluntary fee waivers by the Advisor may be discontinued at any time.

 

7

The lesser of fiscal year-to-date purchase costs or sales proceeds divided by the average monthly market value of long-term securities.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         61


MATTHEWS KOREA FUND

TOP TEN HOLDINGS1

 

     

SECTOR

   % OF NET
ASSETS
 

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

  

Information Technology

   9.6 %

Kookmin Bank

  

Financials

   6.6 %

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

  

Financials

   5.5 %

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

  

Telecommunication Services

   5.4 %

NHN Corp.

  

Information Technology

   4.5 %

Shinhan Financial Group Co., Ltd.

  

Financials

   4.0 %

AMOREPACIFIC Corp.

  

Consumer Staples

   3.8 %

Samsung Securities Co., Ltd.

  

Financials

   3.6 %

Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Co., Ltd.

  

Financials

   3.3 %

Hanmi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

  

Health Care

   3.2 %

% OF ASSETS IN TOP 10

      49.5 %

 

COUNTRY ALLOCATION   

South Korea

   99.0 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   1.0 %

 

SECTOR ALLOCATION   

Financials

   24.9 %

Information Technology

   16.5 %

Consumer Discretionary

   14.4 %

Health Care

   11.6 %

Consumer Staples

   10.9 %

Industrials

   9.9 %

Telecommunication Services

   7.7 %

Energy

   2.3 %

Materials

   0.8 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   1.0 %

 

MARKET CAP EXPOSURE   

Large cap (over $5 billion)

   46.1 %

Mid cap ($1–$5 billion)

   35.0 %

Small cap (under $1 billion)

   17.9 %

Cash, cash equivalents and other2

   1.0 %

 

NUMBER OF
POSITIONS2
   NAV    FUND ASSETS    REDEMPTION FEE    12B-1 FEES
44    $5.94    $206.5 million    2.00% within
90 calendar days
   None

 

1

Holdings may include more than one security from same issuer.

 

2

Includes BNY Hamilton Money Fund.

 

62        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


ALL DATA IS AS OF MARCH 31, 2007, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

PORTFOLIO MANAGER COMMENTARY continued from page 60

The largest contribution to Fund performance came from the financials sector, which performed strongly on attractive valuations and improved profitability. The energy and materials sectors also made positive contributions to Fund performance.

On a company basis, Kookmin Bank was the largest contributor to Fund performance. The largest retail bank in Korea, Kookmin Bank’s profitability improved over the past year, primarily due to an increase in fee-related revenue. The second-largest contribution came from NHN, the dominant player in the Internet search, casual games and portal industry in Korea. NHN recorded strong growth during the last fiscal year, and a positive outlook for the current fiscal year contributed to its strong performance.

Samsung Electronics was the worst performer during the period. Prices of DRAM (dynamic random access memory) products declined, and increased competition in the handset business contributed to its poor performance. SK Telecom, Korea’s largest wireless telecommunications operator, was the second worst performer for the quarter; competition among local wireless operators is increasing as companies roll out new 3G services. The sector’s valuation remains among the lowest in the region.

Tensions between North Korea and its neighbors improved during the quarter as North Korea agreed to remove its nuclear facilities in exchange for economic subsidies from its neighbors. However, North Korea still remains one of the key risks to investing in South Korea, and any deteriorating relationship with North Korea could result in increased volatility in the South Korean market and throughout the region. Exports remain a key growth driver in the South Korean economy, and further strengthening of its currency could negatively impact exports and, hence, the overall Korean economy.

During the quarter, the Fund made a few changes in the industrials, consumer and health care sectors. The Fund remains primarily focused on three sectors: consumer, financials and information technology. It remains underweight in cyclical industries such as shipbuilding.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         63


MATTHEWS KOREA FUND

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (UNAUDITED)

EQUITIES: SOUTH KOREA: 99.0%*

 

     SHARES    VALUE

FINANCIALS: 24.9%

     

Commercial Banks: 16.1%

     

Kookmin Bank

   135,861    $ 12,188,210

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

   218,720      11,321,922

Shinhan Financial Group Co., Ltd.

   144,242      8,279,196

Kookmin Bank ADR

   16,339      1,472,961
         
        33,262,289
         

Capital Markets: 5.5%

     

Samsung Securities Co., Ltd.

   135,415      7,369,524

Kiwoom.com Securities Co., Ltd.

   100,353      3,941,372
         
        11,310,896
         

Insurance: 3.3%

     

Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Co., Ltd.

   40,374      6,759,040
         

Total Financials

        51,332,225
         

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: 16.5%

     

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment: 9.6%

     

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

   30,561      18,288,524

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Pfd.

   3,303      1,553,547
         
        19,842,071
         

Internet Software & Services: 5.6%

     

NHN Corp. **

   64,044      9,394,209

CDNetworks Co., Ltd. **

   80,638      2,288,515
         
        11,682,724
         

Office Electronics: 1.3%

     

Sindo Ricoh Co., Ltd.

   47,126      2,604,753
         

Total Information Technology

        34,129,548
         

CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY: 14.4%

     

Media: 4.7%

     

Cheil Communications, Inc.

   21,311      5,323,219

ON*Media Corp. **

   396,220      3,217,603

Mediaplex, Inc. **

   68,586      1,133,623
         
        9,674,445
         

Multiline Retail: 2.8%

     

Hyundai Department Store Co., Ltd.

   51,820      4,351,382

Taegu Department Store Co., Ltd.

   82,000      1,372,768
         
        5,724,150
         

Automobiles: 3.7%

     

Hyundai Motor Co.

   76,301      5,360,859

Hyundai Motor Co., Pfd.

   61,710      2,315,437
         
        7,676,296
         

Internet & Catalog Retail: 1.8%

     

GS Home Shopping, Inc.

   52,539      3,819,800
         

Auto Components: 1.4%

     

Hankook Tire Co., Ltd.

   173,460      2,876,250
         

Total Consumer Discretionary

        29,770,941
         

HEALTH CARE: 11.6%

     

Pharmaceuticals: 10.9%

     

Hanmi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   50,992      6,585,379

Daewoong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   88,326      5,961,629

Yuhan Corp.

   33,397      5,236,031

Dong-A Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

   60,805      4,718,071
         
        22,501,110
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies: 0.7%

     

Osstem Implant Co., Ltd. **

   31,343      1,499,187
         

Total Health Care

        24,000,297
         

CONSUMER STAPLES: 10.9%

     

Personal Products: 3.8%

     

AMOREPACIFIC Corp.

   14,181      7,807,991
         

Food & Staples Retailing: 3.3%

     

Shinsegae Food Co., Ltd.

   66,098      4,285,691

Shinsegae Co., Ltd.

   4,400      2,525,510
         
        6,811,201
         

Beverages: 2.0%

     

Hite Brewery Co., Ltd.

   34,015      4,067,482
         

Food Products: 1.8%

     

Nong Shim Co., Ltd.

   14,670      3,820,312
         

Total Consumer Staples

        22,506,986
         

 

64        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

     SHARES    VALUE

INDUSTRIALS: 9.9%

     

Industrial Conglomerates: 3.9%

     

Orion Corp.

   21,139    $ 5,235,318

Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd.

   71,910      2,740,193
         
        7,975,511
         

Construction & Engineering: 2.3%

     

Samsung Engineering Co., Ltd.

   41,210      2,566,864

GS Engineering & Construction Corp.

   24,870      2,225,823
         
        4,792,687
         

Commercial Services & Supplies: 2.7%

     

S1 Corp.

   136,845      5,498,237
         

Machinery: 1.0%

     

JVM Co., Ltd.

   43,421      2,183,050
         

Total Industrials

        20,449,485
         

TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES: 7.7%

     

Wireless Telecommunication Services: 5.4%

     

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

   41,385      8,423,924

SK Telecom Co., Ltd. ADR

   114,200      2,674,564
         
        11,098,488
         

Diversified Telecommunication Services: 2.3%

     

KT Corp.

   65,740      2,948,797

KT Corp. ADR

   81,300      1,820,307
         
        4,769,104
         

Total Telecommunication Services

        15,867,592
         

ENERGY: 2.3%

     

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels: 2.3%

     

GS Holdings Corp.

   122,890      4,819,984
         

Total Energy

        4,819,984
         

MATERIALS: 0.8%

     

Chemicals: 0.8%

     

LG Chem, Ltd.

   33,680      1,695,098
         

Total Materials

        1,695,098
         

TOTAL EQUITIES: SOUTH KOREA

(Cost $131,141,918)

      $ 204,572,156
         

MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND: 0.1%*

     

BNY Hamilton Money Fund

(Cost $135,085)

   135,085      135,085
         

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: 99.1%

(Cost $131,277,003***)

        204,707,241

CASH AND OTHER ASSETS, LESS LIABILITIES: 0.9%

        1,800,890
         

NET ASSETS: 100.0%

      $ 206,508,131
         

 

* As a percentage of net assets as of March 31, 2007

 

** Non–income producing security

 

*** Cost of investments is $131,277,003 and net unrealized appreciation consists of:

 

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 74,957,320  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (1,527,082 )
        

Net unrealized appreciation

   $ 73,430,238  
        

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt

 

Pfd. Preferred

See accompanying notes to schedules of investments.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         65


NOTES TO SCHEDULES OF INVESTMENTS

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (UNAUDITED)

 

A. SECURITY VALUATION: The Funds’ equity securities are valued based on market quotations or at fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) when no market quotations are available or when market quotations have become unreliable. The Board has delegated the responsibility of making fair value determinations to the Pricing Committee of Matthews International Capital Management, LLC, subject to the Funds’ Pricing Policies. The Board has retained a third-party pricing service which may be utilized by the Pricing Committee under circumstances described in the Pricing Policies to provide fair value prices for certain securities held by the Funds. When fair value pricing is employed, the prices of securities used by a Fund to calculate its NAV differ from quoted or published prices for the same securities for that day. All fair value determinations are made subject to the Board’s oversight.

The books and records of the Funds are maintained in U.S. dollars. Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are recorded at the current prevailing exchange rates. All assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the current exchange rate. Translation gains or losses resulting from changes in the exchange rate during the reporting period and realized gains and losses on the settlement of foreign currency transactions are reported in the results of operations for the current period. The Funds do not isolate that portion of gains and losses on investment in equity securities which is due to changes in the foreign exchange rate from that which is due to changes in market prices of equity securities. International dollar bonds are issued offshore, pay interest and principal in U.S. dollars, and are denominated in U.S. dollars.

Market values for equity securities are determined based on the last sale price on the principal exchange or over-the-counter market on which the security is traded. If a reliable last sale price is not available, market values for equity securities are determined using the mean between the last available bid and asked price. Securities are valued through valuations obtained from a commercial pricing service or at the most recent mean of the bid and asked prices provided by investment dealers in accordance with procedures established by the Board.

Foreign securities are valued as of the close of trading on the primary exchange on which they trade. The value is then converted to U.S. dollars using current exchange rates and in accordance with the Pricing Policies.

Foreign currency exchange rates are determined at the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (“NYSE”). Occasionally, events affecting the value of foreign investments occur between the time at which they are determined and the close of trading on the NYSE. Such events would not normally be reflected in a calculation of a Funds’ NAV on that day. If events that materially affect the value of the Funds’ foreign investments occur during such period, the investments will be valued at their fair value as described above.

Foreign securities held by the Funds may be traded on days and at times when the NYSE is closed. Accordingly, the NAV of the Funds may be significantly affected on days when shareholders have no access to the Funds. For valuation purposes, quotations of foreign portfolio securities, other assets and liabilities, and forward contracts stated in foreign currency are translated into U.S. dollar equivalents at the prevailing market rates.

 

66        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


MARCH 31, 2007

 

B. TAX INFORMATION: Under the current tax law, capital and currency losses realized after October 31 and prior to the Fund’s fiscal year end may be deferred as occurring on the first day of the following fiscal year. Post October losses at fiscal year end December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 

     POST OCTOBER
CAPITAL LOSSES
    POST OCTOBER
CURRENCY LOSSES
 

Matthews Asia Pacific Equity Income Fund

   $ —       ($5,232 )

Matthews Pacific Tiger Fund

     —       (74,412 )

Matthews Asian Technology Fund

     (12,095 )   (79,224 )

Matthews China Fund

     —       (542 )

Matthews Korea Fund

     —       (31,864 )

For Federal income tax purposes, the Funds indicated below have capital loss carryforwards, which expire in the year indicated, as of December 31, 2006, which are available to offset future capital gains, if any:

 

LOSSES DEFERRED EXPIRING IN:

   2008     2009     2010     2011  

Matthews Asian Technology Fund

     ($3,293,471 )     ($5,967,059 )     ($3,461,198 )   $ —    

Matthews China Fund

     —         —         —         —    

Matthews India Fund

     —         —         —         —    

LOSSES DEFERRED EXPIRING IN:

   2012     2013     2014     Total  

Matthews Asian Technology Fund

   $ —       $ —       $ —         ($12,721,728 )

Matthews China Fund

     (78,979 )     (6,184,085 )     (9,072,204 )     (15,335,268 )

Matthews India Fund

     —         —         (2,320,226 )     (2,320,226 )

For additional information regarding the accounting policies of the Matthews Asian Funds, refer to the most recent financial statements in the N-CSR filing at www.sec.gov.

 

800.789.ASIA [2742]     www.matthewsfunds.com         67


MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS    MARCH 31, 2007

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Independent Trustees:

Geoffrey H. Bobroff, Chairman

Robert K. Connolly

Rhoda Rossman

Toshi Shibano

Interested Trustee:1

G. Paul Matthews

OFFICERS

Mark W. Headley

Andrew T. Foster

Shai Malka

John P. McGowan

Manoj K. Pombra

INVESTMENT ADVISOR

Matthews International Capital Management, LLC

Four Embarcadero Center, Suite 550

San Francisco, CA 94111

800-789-ASIA [2742]

ACCOUNT SERVICES

PFPC Inc.

P.O. Box 9791

Providence, RI 02940

800-789-ASIA [2742]

 

1

As defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

 

68        MATTHEWS ASIAN FUNDS


LOGO


Item 2. Controls and Procedures.

 

  (a) The registrant’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) (17 CFR 270.30a-3(c))) are effective, as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of the report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(b)) and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (17 CFR 240.13a-15(b) or 240.15d-15(b)).

 

  (b) There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(d)) that occurred during the registrant’s last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 3. Exhibits.

Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are attached hereto.


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

(Registrant)   Matthews International Funds
By (Signature and Title)*   /s/ Mark W. Headley
  Mark W. Headley, President
  (principal executive officer)

Date May 9, 2007

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/ Mark W. Headley
  Mark W. Headley, President
  (principal executive officer)

Date May 9, 2007

 

By (Signature and Title)*   /s/ Shai Malka
  Shai Malka, Treasurer
  (principal financial officer)

Date May 9, 2007

 

* Print the name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature.