The investment seeks a stable real return in excess of the rate of inflation with a minimum of risk. The fund invests in a universe of high quality fixed income securities that mature in one year or less from the date of settlement. It invests in certificates of deposit, commercial paper, bankers' acceptances, notes and bonds. It is authorized to invest more than 25% of its total assets in U.S. Treasury bonds, bills and notes, and obligations of federal agencies and instrumentalities. It may purchase or sell futures contracts and options on futures contracts, to hedge its interest rate exposure or for non-hedging purposes.