What do Class B shares usually entail?

Class B shares are typically characterized by back-end costs, which means that investors pay fees when they sell their shares rather than when they initially purchase them. This structure is designed to encourage investors to hold their investments over a longer period, as the back-end loads often decrease over time, eventually becoming zero if the shares are held long enough.

Investors in Class B shares do not encounter upfront charges, making them accessible without immediate costs. However, should they choose to sell their shares, the back-end load will apply, which can potentially deter short-term trading. This setup often appeals to investors looking for a more long-term investment strategy.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of Class B shares. For instance, an upfront cost structure or a front-end load would be associated with other share classes, not Class B. Level loads pertain to a consistent fee structure over time rather than the back-end cost characteristics particular to Class B shares. Thus, the defining characteristic of Class B shares is indeed the back-end costs coupled with associated fees.