A category of mutual fund shares which carries a front-end sales charge and usually impose an annual distribution fee (i.e., the 12b-1 fee) which is typically lower than the distribution fee for class “B” and class “C” shares. This class doesn’t charge redemption fees. Conventionally, for each class of mutual fund shares, there is one portfolio of securities and one investment advisor. Each class is entitled to the same claim on the portfolio. However, classes differ in how the mutual fund collect fees and expenses from investors. For example, class “A” shares may charge investors a distribution fee of 0.30% and a 5.5% load fee.