PRUDENTIAL MID CAP VALUE FUND
N-1A/A, 1998-04-20
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<PAGE>
   
     AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON APRIL 20, 1998
    
 
   
                                                      REGISTRATION NO. 333-43095
    
   
                                                                       811-08571
    
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                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
                            ------------------------
 
                                   FORM N-1A
 
   
                             REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                           THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933                        / /
    
 
   
                         PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1                       /X/
    
 
                          POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO.                       / /
 
                                     AND/OR
 
                        REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE
   
                         INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940                      / /
    
   
                                AMENDMENT NO. 1                              /X/
    
                        (Check appropriate box or boxes)
 
                            ------------------------
 
                         PRUDENTIAL MID-CAP VALUE FUND
               (Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
 
                              GATEWAY CENTER THREE
                              100 MULBERRY STREET
                         NEWARK, NEW JERSEY 07102-4077
               (Address of Principal Executive Offices)(Zip Code)
 
                            ------------------------
 
       REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (973) 367-7530
 
                               S. JANE ROSE, ESQ.
                              GATEWAY CENTER THREE
                              100 MULBERRY STREET
                         NEWARK, NEW JERSEY 07102-4077
                    (Name and Address of Agent for Service)
                 Approximate date of proposed public offering:
                   As soon as practicable after the effective
                      date of the Registration Statement.
 
                            ------------------------
 
   
    Title of Securities Being Registered . . . . Shares of Beneficial Interest,
$.001 par value per share.
    
 
    Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates
as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file
a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement
shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the
Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become
effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a),
may determine.
 
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<PAGE>
                             CROSS REFERENCE SHEET
                           (AS REQUIRED BY RULE 495)
 
                              -------------------
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
N-1A ITEM NO.                                  LOCATION
- ---------------------------------------------  ----------------------------------
<S>        <C>                                 <C>
PART A
Item  1.   Cover Page........................  Cover Page
Item  2.   Synopsis..........................  Fund Expenses; Fund Highlights
Item  3.   Condensed Financial Information...  Fund Expenses; How the Fund
                                               Calculates Performance
Item  4.   General Description of              Cover Page; Fund Highlights; How
           Registrant........................  the Fund Invests; General
                                               Information
Item  5.   Management of the Fund............  How the Fund is Managed; General
                                               Information; Shareholder Guide
Item  5A.  Management's Discussion of Fund
           Performance.......................  Not Applicable
Item  6.   Capital Stock and Other             Taxes, Dividends, and
           Securities........................  Distributions; General
                                               Information; Shareholder Guide
Item  7.   Purchase of Securities Being        Shareholder Guide; How the Fund
           Offered...........................  Values its Shares; How the Fund is
                                               Managed
Item  8.   Redemption or Repurchase..........  Shareholder Guide; How the Fund
                                               Values its Shares; General
                                               Information
Item  9.   Pending Legal Proceedings.........  Not Applicable
 
PART B
Item 10.   Cover Page........................  Cover Page
Item 11.   Table of Contents.................  Table of Contents
Item 12.   General Information and History...  General Information
Item 13.   Investment Objectives and           Investment Objective and Policies;
           Policies..........................  Investment Restrictions
Item 14.   Management of the Fund............  Trustees and Officers; Manager;
                                               Distributor
Item 15.   Control Persons and Principal
           Holders of Securities.............  Trustees and Officers
Item 16.   Investment Advisory and Other       Manager; Distributor; Custodian,
           Services..........................  Transfer and Dividend Disbursing
                                               Agent and Independent Accountants
Item 17.   Brokerage Allocation and Other      Portfolio Transactions and
           Practices.........................  Brokerage
Item 18.   Capital Stock and Other
           Securities........................  Not Applicable
Item 19.   Purchase, Redemption and Pricing    Purchase and Redemption of Fund
           of Securities Being Offered.......  Shares; Shareholder Investment
                                               Account; Net Asset Value
Item 20.   Tax Status........................  Taxes, Dividends and Distributions
Item 21.   Underwriters......................  Distributor
Item 22.   Calculation of Performance Data...  Performance Information
Item 23.   Financial Statements..............  Statement of Assets and
                                               Liabilities
 
PART C
           Information required to be included in Part C is set forth under the
           appropriate item, so numbered, in Part C to this Pre-Effective
           Amendment to the Registration Statement.
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>
                         PRUDENTIAL MID-CAP VALUE FUND
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
PROSPECTUS DATED MAY 1, 1998
    
 
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Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund (the Fund) is a diversified, open-end, management
investment company with an investment objective of long term capital growth. The
Fund seeks to achieve its objective by investing primarily in a portfolio of
equity securities of mid-cap companies that the investment adviser believes are
undervalued and out of favor. There can be no assurance that the Fund's
investment objective will be achieved. See "How the Fund Invests-- Investment
Objective and Policies." The Fund's address is 100 Mulberry Street, Gateway
Center Three, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4077, and its telephone number is
(800) 225-1852.
    
 
   
This Prospectus sets forth concisely the information about the Fund that a
prospective investor should know before investing and is available at the Web
site of The Prudential Insurance Company of America (http://
www.prudential.com). Additional information about the Fund has been filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission) in a Statement of Additional
Information, dated May 1, 1998, which information is incorporated herein by
reference (is legally considered a part of this Prospectus) and is available
without charge upon request to the Fund at the address or telephone number noted
above. The Commission maintains a Web site (http:// www.sec.gov) that contains
the Statement of Additional Information, material incorporated by reference and
other information regarding the Fund.
    
 
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INVESTORS ARE ADVISED TO READ THIS PROSPECTUS AND RETAIN IT FOR FUTURE
REFERENCE.
    
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY
OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<PAGE>
                                FUND HIGHLIGHTS
 
  The following summary is intended to highlight certain information contained
in this Prospectus and is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed
information appearing elsewhere herein.
 
  WHAT IS PRUDENTIAL MID-CAP VALUE FUND?
 
    Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund is a mutual fund. A mutual fund pools the
  resources of investors by selling its shares to the public and investing the
  proceeds of such sale in a portfolio of securities designed to achieve its
  investment objective. Technically, the Fund is an open-end, diversified
  management investment company.
 
  WHAT IS THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE?
 
   
    The Fund's investment objective is long-term capital growth. It seeks to
  achieve its objective by investing primarily in a portfolio of equity
  securities of mid-cap companies that the investment adviser believes are
  undervalued and out of favor. See "How the Fund Invests--Investment
  Objective and Policies" at page 5.
    
 
  WHAT ARE THE FUND'S RISK FACTORS AND SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS?
 
   
    The mid-cap stocks purchased by the Fund will typically have valuations
  (measured by price/earnings ratios, price/cash flow, price/book value, asset
  values and private market values) that in the investment adviser's view are
  temporarily depressed, resulting in potential capital appreciation when or
  if the market realizes the full value of the underlying business. The Fund
  may also engage in various hedging and return enhancement strategies,
  including using derivatives. See "How the Fund Invests--Hedging and Return
  Enhancement Strategies--Risks of Hedging and Return Enhancement Strategies"
  at page 12. In addition, the Fund may invest up to 30% of its total assets
  in foreign securities. Investing in securities of foreign companies and
  countries involves certain considerations and risks not typically associated
  with investing in securities of domestic companies. See "How the Fund
  Invests--Investment Objectives and Policies--Foreign Investments" at page 5
  . The Fund may invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed-income
  obligations, including securities rated Baa2 or lower by Moody's Investors
  Service, Inc. or BBB or lower by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group or Duff &
  Phelps Credit Rating Co. or another nationally recognized statistical rating
  organization, which have special risks. See "How the Fund
  Invests--Investment Objective and Policies--Debt Securities" at page 6. An
  investment in the Fund should not be considered a complete investment
  program and may not be appropriate for all investors. As with an investment
  in any mutual fund, an investment in this Fund can decrease in value and you
  can lose money.
    
 
  WHO MANAGES THE FUND?
 
   
    Prudential Investments Fund Management LLC (PIFM or the Manager), is the
  manager of the Fund and is compensated for its services at an annual rate of
  .70 of 1% of average daily net assets of the Fund. As of March 31, 1998,
  PIFM served as manager or administrator to 66 investment companies,
  including 44 mutual funds, with aggregate assets of approximately $66.5
  billion. The Prudential Investment Corporation, doing business as Prudential
  Investments (PI, the investment adviser or the Subadviser), furnishes
  investment advisory services in connection with the management of the Fund
  under a Subadvisory Agreement with PIFM. See "How the Fund is
  Managed--Manager" at page 13.
    
 
  WHO DISTRIBUTES THE FUND'S SHARES?
 
   
    Prudential Securities Incorporated (Prudential Securities or the
  Distributor), a major securities underwriter and securities and commodities
  broker, acts as the Distributor of the Fund's Class A, Class B, Class C and
  Class Z shares. The Distributor is paid a distribution and/or service fee
  with respect to Class A shares which is currently being charged at the
  annual rate of .25 of 1% of the average daily net assets of the Class A
  shares and is paid a distribution and service fee with respect to Class B
  and Class C shares at the annual rate of 1% of the average daily net assets
  of each of the Class B and Class C shares. The Distributor incurs the
  expense of distributing the Fund's Class Z shares under a Distribution
  Agreement with the Fund, none of which is reimbursed by or paid for by the
  Fund. See "How the Fund is Managed--Distributor" at page 14.
    
 
                                       2
<PAGE>
   
  WHAT IS THE MINIMUM INVESTMENT?
    
 
   
    The minimum initial investment is $1,000 for Class A or Class B shares and
  $5,000 for Class C shares. The minimum subsequent investment is $100 for
  Class A, Class B and Class C shares. Class Z shares are not subject to any
  minimum investment requirements. There is no minimum investment requirement
  for certain employee savings plans or custodial accounts for the benefit of
  minors. For purchases made through the Automatic Savings Accumulation Plan,
  the minimum initial and subsequent investment is $50. See "Shareholder
  Guide--How to Buy Shares of the Fund" at page 19 and "Shareholder
  Guide--Shareholder Services" at page 30.
    
 
  HOW DO I PURCHASE SHARES?
 
   
    You may purchase shares of the Fund through Prudential Securities, Pruco
  Securities Corporation (Prusec) or directly from the Fund, through its
  transfer agent, Prudential Mutual Fund Services LLC (PMFS or the Transfer
  Agent), at the net asset value per share (NAV) next determined after receipt
  of your purchase order by the Transfer Agent or Prudential Securities plus a
  sales charge, which may be imposed either (i) at the time of purchase (Class
  A shares) or (ii) on a deferred basis (Class B or Class C shares). Class Z
  shares are offered to a limited group of investors at NAV without any sales
  charge. Participants in programs sponsored by Prudential Retirement Services
  should contact their client representative for more information about Class
  Z shares. See "How the Fund Values its Shares" at page 16 and "Shareholder
  Guide--How to Buy Shares of the Fund" at page 19.
    
 
  WHAT ARE MY PURCHASE ALTERNATIVES?
 
    The Fund offers four classes of shares:
 
     - Class A Shares:
                    Sold with an initial sales charge of up to 5% of the
                    offering price.
 
     - Class B Shares:
                    Sold without an initial sales charge but are subject to
                    a contingent deferred sales charge or CDSC (declining to
                    zero from 5% of the lower of the amount invested or the
                    redemption proceeds), which will be imposed on certain
                    redemptions made within six years of purchase. Although
                    Class B shares are subject to higher ongoing
                    distribution-related expenses than Class A shares, Class
                    B shares will automatically convert to Class A shares
                    approximately seven years after purchase.
 
     - Class C Shares:
                    Sold without an initial sales charge but, for one year
                    after purchase, are subject to a CDSC of 1% on
                    redemptions. Like Class B shares, Class C shares are
                    subject to higher ongoing distribution-related expenses
                    than Class A shares, but Class C shares do not convert
                    to another class.
 
     - Class Z Shares:
                    Sold without either an initial sales charge or CDSC to a
                    limited group of investors. Class Z shares are not
                    subject to any ongoing service or distribution-related
                    expenses.
 
   
    See "Shareholder Guide--Alternative Purchase Plan" at page 20.
    
 
  HOW DO I SELL MY SHARES?
 
   
    You may redeem your shares at any time at the NAV next determined after
  Prudential Securities or the Transfer Agent receives your sell order.
  However, the proceeds of redemptions of Class B and Class C shares may be
  subject to a CDSC. See "Shareholder Guide--How to Sell Your Shares" at page
  25.
    
 
  HOW ARE DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS PAID?
 
   
    The Fund expects to pay dividends of net investment income, if any,
  semi-annually and make distributions of any net capital gains at least
  annually. Dividends and distributions will be automatically reinvested in
  additional shares of the Fund at NAV without a sales charge unless you
  request that they be paid to you in cash. See "Taxes, Dividends and
  Distributions" at page 17.
    
 
                                       3
<PAGE>
                                 FUND EXPENSES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         CLASS A SHARES       CLASS B SHARES            CLASS C SHARES      CLASS Z SHARES
                                         --------------  -------------------------  ----------------------  --------------
<S>                                      <C>             <C>                        <C>                     <C>
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES+
    Maximum Sales Load Imposed on
     Purchases (as a percentage of
     offering price)...................        5%                  None                      None                None
    Maximum Deferred Sales Load (as a
     percentage of original purchase
     price or redemption proceeds,
     whichever is lower)...............       None       5% during the first year,  1% on redemptions made       None
                                                         decreasing by 1% annually    within one year of
                                                          to 1% in the fifth and           purchase
                                                         sixth years and 0% in the
                                                               seventh year*
    Maximum Sales Load Imposed on
     Reinvested Dividends..............       None                 None                      None                None
    Redemption Fees....................       None                 None                      None                None
    Exchange Fee.......................       None                 None                      None                None
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         CLASS A SHARES        CLASS B SHARES             CLASS C SHARES       CLASS Z SHARES
                                         --------------   -------------------------   ----------------------   --------------
<S>                                      <C>              <C>                         <C>                      <C>
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
(as a percentage of average net assets)
    Management Fees....................        .70%                  .70%                       .70%                 .70%
    12b-1 Fees (After Reduction).......        .25%++               1.00%                      1.00%                None
    Other Expenses.....................        .50%                  .50%                       .50%                 .50%
                                               ---                   ---                        ---                  ---
    Total Fund Operating Expenses
     (After Reduction).................       1.45%                 2.20%                      2.20%                1.20%
                                               ---                   ---                        ---                  ---
                                               ---                   ---                        ---                  ---
</TABLE>
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           1 YEAR       3 YEARS
                                         -----------  -----------
<S>                                      <C>          <C>
EXAMPLE
You would pay the following expenses on
  a $1,000 investment, assuming (1) 5%
  annual return and (2) redemption at
  the end of each time period:
    Class A............................   $      64    $      94
    Class B............................   $      72    $      99
    Class C............................   $      32    $      69
    Class Z............................   $      12    $      38
You would pay the following expenses on
the same investment, assuming no
redemption:
    Class A............................   $      64    $      94
    Class B............................   $      22    $      69
    Class C............................   $      22    $      69
    Class Z............................   $      12    $      38
</TABLE>
    
 
   THE EXAMPLE SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED A REPRESENTATION OF PAST OR FUTURE
   EXPENSES. ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE GREATER OR LESS THAN THOSE SHOWN.
 
   
   The purpose of this table is to assist an investor in understanding the
   various types of costs and expenses that an investor in the Fund will
   bear, whether directly or indirectly. For more complete descriptions of
   the various costs and expenses, see "How the Fund is Managed." "Other
   Expenses" are estimated for the fiscal period ending April 30, 1999, and
   include Trustees' and professional fees, registration fees, reports to
   shareholders and transfer agency and custodian (domestic and foreign)
   fees.
    
- ---------------
 
*  Class B shares will automatically convert to Class A shares approximately
       seven years after purchase. See "Shareholder Guide--Conversion Feature--
       Class B Shares."
 
+  Pursuant to rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.,
       the aggregate initial sales charges, deferred sales charges and
       asset-based sales charges (12b-1 fees) on shares of the Fund may not
       exceed 6.25% of total gross sales, subject to certain exclusions. This
       6.25% limitation is imposed on the Fund rather than on a per shareholder
       basis. Therefore, long-term Class B and Class C shareholders of the Fund
       may pay more in total sales charges than the economic equivalent of 6.25%
       of such shareholders' investment in such shares. See "How the Fund is
       Managed--Distributor."
 
   
++  Although the Class A Distribution and Service Plan provides that the Fund
       may pay up to .30 of 1% per annum of the average daily net assets of the
       Class A shares, the Distributor has agreed to limit its distribution fees
       with respect to Class A shares of the Fund to .25 of 1% per annum of the
       average daily net assets of the Class A shares for the fiscal period
       ending April 30, 1999. See "How the Fund is Managed--Distributor." Total
       Fund Operating Expenses without such limitation for Class A shares would
       be 1.50%.
    
 
                                       4
<PAGE>
                              HOW THE FUND INVESTS
 
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
 
   
  THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE IS LONG-TERM CAPITAL GROWTH. THE FUND WILL
ATTEMPT TO ACHIEVE THIS OBJECTIVE BY INVESTING AT LEAST 65% OF ITS TOTAL ASSETS
IN A PORTFOLIO OF EQUITY-RELATED SECURITIES OF MID-CAP COMPANIES THAT THE
INVESTMENT ADVISER BELIEVES ARE UNDERVALUED. THESE STOCKS TYPICALLY WILL HAVE
VALUATIONS (MEASURED BY PRICE/ EARNINGS RATIOS, PRICE/CASH FLOW, PRICE/BOOK
VALUE, ASSET VALUES AND PRIVATE MARKET VALUES) THAT, IN THE VIEW OF THE
INVESTMENT ADVISER, ARE TEMPORARILY DEPRESSED, RESULTING IN POTENTIAL CAPITAL
APPRECIATION WHEN OR IF THE MARKET REALIZES THE FULL VALUE OF THE UNDERLYING
BUSINESS. INVESTMENT INCOME IS OF INCIDENTAL IMPORTANCE, AND THE FUND MAY INVEST
IN SECURITIES WHICH DO NOT PRODUCE ANY INCOME. THE BALANCE OF THE PORTFOLIO MAY
BE INVESTED IN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN EQUITY-RELATED AND DEBT SECURITIES, CASH,
MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENTS, U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES AND DERIVATIVES AS
DISCUSSED IN DETAIL BELOW. THERE CAN BE NO ASSURANCE THAT THE FUND'S OBJECTIVE
WILL BE ACHIEVED. See "Investment Objective and Policies" in the Statement of
Additional Information. As with an investment in any mutual fund, an investment
in this Fund can decrease in value and you can lose money.
    
 
   
  The investment adviser currently considers mid-cap companies to be those with
market capitalizations between $1 billion and $5 billion. The market
capitalization range used by the Fund may change to reflect industry norms at
the discretion of the Subadviser under the supervision of the Board of Trustees.
Market capitalization is measured at the time of purchase. The Fund, may,
however, invest up to 35% of its total assets in the securities of any issuer
without regard to its size or the market capitalization of its common stock.
    
 
  THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE IS A FUNDAMENTAL POLICY AND, THEREFORE, MAY
NOT BE CHANGED WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE HOLDERS OF A MAJORITY OF THE FUND'S
OUTSTANDING VOTING SECURITIES AS DEFINED IN THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940,
AS AMENDED (THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT). FUND POLICIES THAT ARE NOT FUNDAMENTAL
MAY BE MODIFIED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES.
 
   
  EQUITY-RELATED SECURITIES
    
 
   
  The Fund may invest in equity-related securities. Equity-related securities
include common stocks, preferred stocks, securities convertible or exchangeable
for common stocks or preferred stocks, equity investments in partnerships, joint
ventures and other forms of non-corporate investments, American Depositary
Receipts (ADRs) and American Depositary Shares (ADSs), and warrants and rights
exercisable for equity securities. ADRs and ADSs are U.S. dollar-denominated
certificates or shares issued by a United States bank or trust company and
represent the right to receive securities of a foreign issuer deposited in a
domestic bank or foreign branch of a United States bank and are traded on a
United States exchange or over-the-counter market. A convertible security is
typically a bond, debenture, corporate note or preferred stock or other similar
security that may be converted at a stated price within a specified period of
time into a specified number of shares of common stock or other equity
securities of the same or a different issuer. A warrant or right entitles the
holder to purchase equity securities at a specific price for a specific period
of time.
    
 
  FOREIGN INVESTMENTS
 
   
  THE FUND MAY INVEST UP TO 30% OF ITS TOTAL ASSETS IN SECURITIES OF FOREIGN
ISSUERS (INCLUDING SECURITIES OF ISSUERS DOMICILED OUTSIDE OF THE U.S. WHICH
TRADE ON A NATIONAL SECURITIES EXCHANGE, AND OBLIGATIONS OF FOREIGN BRANCHES OF
DOMESTIC BANKS). For the purposes of this 30% limitation, ADRs and ADSs are not
deemed to be foreign securities.
    
 
  Investing in securities of foreign issuers and countries involves certain
considerations and risks which are not typically associated with investing in
securities of domestic companies. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to
uniform accounting, auditing and financial standards and requirements comparable
to those applicable to U.S. companies. There may also be less
 
                                       5
<PAGE>
government supervision and regulation of foreign securities exchanges, brokers
and public companies than exist in the United States. Dividends and interest
paid by foreign issuers may be subject to withholding and other foreign taxes
which may decrease the net return on such investments as compared to dividends
and interest paid to the Fund by domestic companies. There may be the
possibility of expropriations, confiscatory taxation, political, economic or
social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect assets of the
Fund held in foreign countries. There may be less publicly available information
about foreign issuers and governments compared to reports and ratings published
about U.S. companies. Foreign securities markets have substantially less volume
than, for example, the New York Stock Exchange and securities of some foreign
issuers are less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S.
companies. Brokerage commissions and other transaction costs of foreign
securities exchanges are generally higher than in the United States. In
addition, a portfolio containing foreign securities may be adversely affected by
fluctuations in the relative rates of exchange between the currencies of
different nations and by exchange control regulations.
 
   
  The financial condition and results of operations of many domestic issuers in
which the Fund is permitted to invest may be affected by some of the foregoing
factors to the extent that their sales are made and/or their operations are
conducted outside the U.S.
    
 
  DEBT SECURITIES
 
   
  THE FUND MAY INVEST UP TO 35% OF ITS TOTAL ASSETS IN FIXED-INCOME OBLIGATIONS.
The Fund anticipates that it will primarily invest in fixed-income securities
rated A or better by Standard & Poor's Rating Group (S&P), or comparably rated
by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. (Moody's), Duff & Phelps Credit Rating Co.
(Duff & Phelps) or by another nationally recognized statistical rating
organization (NRSRO). The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in
fixed-income securities rated Baa2 or lower by Moody's or BBB or lower by S&P or
Duff & Phelps or comparably rated by another NRSRO (these lower rated securities
are sometimes referred to as "junk bonds"). The Fund will not invest in
fixed-income securities rated lower than Ca, CC or CCC by Moody's, S&P or Duff &
Phelps or comparably rated by another NRSRO, respectively. Subsequent to its
purchase by the Fund, a fixed-income obligation may be assigned a lower rating
or cease to be rated. Such an event would not require the elimination of the
issue from the portfolio, but the investment adviser will consider such an event
in determining whether the Fund should continue to hold the security in its
portfolio. Securities rated Baa by Moody's have speculative characteristics and
changes in economic conditions or other circumstances could lead to a weakened
capacity to make principal and interest payments than higher grade securities.
Securities rated BB, Ba or BB+ or lower by S&P, Moody's or Duff & Phelps,
respectively, are generally considered to be predominantly speculative with
respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal. A
description of corporate bond ratings is contained in Appendix A. The Fund may
also invest in unrated fixed-income securities which, in the opinion of the
investment adviser, are of a quality comparable to rated securities in which the
Fund may invest.
    
 
  RISKS OF INVESTING IN HIGH YIELD SECURITIES
 
   
  FIXED-INCOME SECURITIES ARE SUBJECT TO THE RISK OF AN ISSUER'S INABILITY TO
MEET PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST PAYMENTS ON THE OBLIGATIONS (CREDIT RISK) AND MAY
ALSO BE SUBJECT TO PRICE VOLATILITY DUE TO SUCH FACTORS AS INTEREST RATE
SENSITIVITY AND THE MARKET PERCEPTION OF THE CREDITWORTHINESS OF THE ISSUER
(MARKET RISK). Lower rated or unrated (I.E., high yield) securities are more
likely to react to developments affecting market and credit risk than are more
highly rated securities, which react primarily to movements in the general level
of interest rates. The investment adviser considers both credit risk and market
risk in making investment decisions for the Fund. See "Investment Objective and
Policies--Risks of Investing in High Yield Securities" in the Statement of
Additional Information.
    
 
   
  MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENTS
    
 
   
  THE FUND MAY INVEST UP TO 35% OF ITS TOTAL ASSETS IN CASH OR HIGH QUALITY
MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENTS UNDER NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES. The Fund may also invest
without limit in high quality money market instruments (a) when conditions
dictate a temporary defensive strategy, (b) until the proceeds from new sales of
the Fund's shares have been invested, or (c) during
    
 
                                       6
<PAGE>
   
temporary periods of portfolio restructuring. These instruments include
commercial paper of a U.S. or non-U.S. issuer, foreign government securities,
certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances and time deposits of domestic and
foreign banks, and obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its
agencies and instrumentalities. These obligations may be U.S. dollar-denominated
or denominated in a foreign currency. Money market instruments typically have a
maturity of one year or less as measured from the date of purchase.
    
 
  U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES
 
  The Fund may invest in securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury or
by an agency or instrumentality of the U.S. Government. Not all U.S. Government
securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. Some
are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency.
 
  HEDGING AND RETURN ENHANCEMENT STRATEGIES
 
   
  The Fund may also purchase and sell put and call options on equity securities,
stock indices and foreign currencies, and may purchase and sell forward foreign
currency exchange contracts and futures contracts on foreign currencies and
stock indices and options thereon to hedge its portfolio and to attempt to
enhance return. See "Hedging and Return Enhancement Strategies" below.
    
 
OTHER INVESTMENTS AND POLICIES
 
  REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
 
   
  The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements whereby the seller of a security
agrees to repurchase that security from the Fund at a mutually agreed-upon time
and price. The period of maturity is usually quite short, possibly overnight or
a few days, although it may extend over a number of months. The resale price is
in excess of the purchase price, reflecting an agreed-upon rate of return
effective for the period of time the Fund's money is invested in the repurchase
agreement. The Fund's repurchase agreements will at all times be fully
collateralized in an amount at least equal to the resale price. The instruments
held as collateral are valued daily, and if the value of instruments declines,
the Fund will require additional collateral. If the seller defaults and the
value of the collateral securing the repurchase agreement declines, the Fund may
incur a loss. The Fund participates in a joint repurchase account with other
investment companies managed by PIFM pursuant to an order of the Commission. See
"Investment Objective and Policies--Repurchase Agreements" in the Statement of
Additional Information.
    
 
  WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY SECURITIES
 
   
  The Fund may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery
basis. When-issued or delayed delivery transactions arise when securities are
purchased or sold by the Fund with payment and delivery taking place in the
future in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and
yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. The Fund's
custodian will segregate cash or other liquid assets having a value equal to or
greater than the Fund's purchase commitments. The securities so purchased are
subject to market fluctuation and no interest accrues to the purchaser during
the period between purchase and settlement. At the time of delivery of the
securities, the value may be more or less than the purchase price and an
increase in the percentage of the Fund's assets committed to the purchase of
securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis may increase the
volatility of the Fund's net asset value.
    
 
  BORROWING
 
   
  The Fund may borrow up to 20% of the value of its total assets (calculated
when the loan is made) from banks for temporary, extraordinary or emergency
purposes or for the clearance of transactions. The Fund may pledge up to 20% of
its total assets to secure these borrowings. If the Fund's asset coverage for
borrowings falls below 300%, the Fund will take prompt action to reduce its
borrowings. The Fund will not purchase portfolio securities when borrowings
exceed 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets.
    
 
                                       7
<PAGE>
  REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS
 
   
  The Fund may invest in securities of real estate investment trusts or REITs.
Unlike corporations, REITs do not have to pay income taxes if they meet certain
requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Internal Revenue
Code). To qualify, a REIT must distribute at least 95% of its taxable income to
its shareholders and receive at least 75% of that income from rents, mortgages
and sales of property. REITs offer investors greater liquidity and
diversification than direct ownership of a handful of properties, as well as
greater income potential than an investment in common stock. Like any investment
in real estate, though, a REIT's performance depends on several factors, such as
its ability to find tenants for its properties, to renew leases and to finance
property purchases and renovations.
    
 
  SHORT SELLING
 
   
  The Fund may sell a security it does not own in anticipation of a decline in
the market value of that security (short sales). To complete such a transaction,
the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then
is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing it at market price
at the time of replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the
price at which the security was sold by the Fund. Until the security is
replaced, the Fund is required to pay to the lender any dividends or interest
which accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund
also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the
security sold. The proceeds of the short sale will be retained by the broker, to
the extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is
closed out. Until the Fund replaces a borrowed security, the Fund will segregate
with the Fund's custodian cash or other liquid assets, at such a level that (i)
the amount segregated plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral
will equal the current value of the security sold short and (ii) the amount
segregated plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will not be
less than the market value of the security at the time it was sold short. The
Fund will incur a loss as a result of the short sale if the price of the
security increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the
Fund replaces the borrowed security. The Fund will realize a gain if the
security declines in price between those dates. This result is the opposite of
what one would expect from a cash purchase of a long position in a security. The
amount of any gain will be decreased, and the amount of any loss increased, by
the amount of any premium, dividends or interest the Fund may be required to pay
in connection with a short sale. No more than 25% of the Fund's net assets will
be, when added together: (i) deposited as collateral for the obligation to
replace securities borrowed to effect short sales; and (ii) allocated to
segregated accounts in connection with short sales. Short sales
"against-the-box" are not subject to this 25% limit.
    
 
  The Fund also may make short sales "against-the-box," in which the Fund enters
into a short sale of a security which the Fund owns or has the right to obtain
at no added cost. No more than 25% of the Fund's net assets (determined at the
time of the short sale against-the-box) may be subject to such sales.
 
  ILLIQUID SECURITIES
 
  The Fund may hold up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities,
including repurchase agreements which have a maturity of longer than seven days,
securities with legal or contractual restrictions on resale (restricted
securities) and securities that are not readily marketable. Restricted
securities eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of
1933, as amended (the Securities Act) and privately placed commercial paper,
that have a readily available market are not considered illiquid for purposes of
this limitation. The investment adviser will monitor the liquidity of such
restricted securities under the supervision of the Board of Trustees. The Fund's
investment in Rule 144A securities could have the effect of increasing
illiquidity to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become, for a
limited time, uninterested in purchasing Rule 144A securities. Repurchase
agreements subject to demand are deemed to have a maturity equal to the
applicable notice period.
 
                                       8
<PAGE>
  SECURITIES LENDING
 
   
  The Fund may lend its portfolio securities to brokers or dealers, banks or
other recognized institutional borrowers of securities, provided that the
borrower at all times maintains cash or other liquid assets or secures an
irrevocable letter of credit in favor of the Fund in an amount equivalent to at
least 100%, determined daily, of the market value of the securities loaned which
are segregated pursuant to applicable regulations. During the time portfolio
securities are on loan, the borrower will pay the Fund an amount equivalent to
any dividend or interest paid on such securities and the Fund may invest the
cash collateral and earn additional income, or it may receive an agreed-upon
amount of interest income from the borrower. As with any extensions of credit,
there are risks of delay in recovery and in some cases loss of rights in the
collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially. As a matter
of fundamental policy, the Fund will not lend more than 33 1/3% of the value of
its total assets. The Fund may pay reasonable administration and custodial fees
in connection with a loan.
    
 
HEDGING AND RETURN ENHANCEMENT STRATEGIES
 
  THE FUND MAY ALSO ENGAGE IN VARIOUS PORTFOLIO STRATEGIES, INCLUDING USING
DERIVATIVES, TO REDUCE CERTAIN RISKS OF ITS INVESTMENTS AND TO ATTEMPT TO
ENHANCE RETURN, BUT NOT FOR SPECULATION. THE FUND, AND THUS INVESTORS, MAY LOSE
MONEY THROUGH ANY UNSUCCESSFUL USE OF THESE STRATEGIES. These strategies include
the use of derivatives, such as options, futures contracts and options thereon.
The investment adviser will use such techniques as market conditions warrant.
The Fund's ability to use these strategies may be limited by market conditions,
regulatory limits and tax considerations and there can be no assurance that any
of these strategies will succeed. See "Investment Objective and Policies" and
"Taxes, Dividends and Distributions" in the Statement of Additional Information.
New financial products and risk management techniques continue to be developed
and the Fund may use these new investments and techniques to the extent
consistent with its investment objective and policies.
 
  OPTIONS TRANSACTIONS
 
   
  THE FUND MAY PURCHASE AND WRITE (I.E., SELL) PUT AND CALL OPTIONS ON EQUITY
SECURITIES, STOCK INDICES (E.G., S&P 500) AND FOREIGN CURRENCIES THAT ARE TRADED
ON U.S. OR FOREIGN SECURITIES EXCHANGES OR IN THE OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC) MARKET
TO ATTEMPT TO ENHANCE RETURN OR TO HEDGE ITS PORTFOLIO. THE FUND MAY WRITE PUT
AND CALL OPTIONS TO GENERATE ADDITIONAL INCOME THROUGH THE RECEIPT OF PREMIUMS,
PURCHASE PUT OPTIONS IN AN EFFORT TO PROTECT THE VALUE OF SECURITIES THAT IT
OWNS AGAINST A DECLINE IN MARKET VALUE AND PURCHASE CALL OPTIONS IN AN EFFORT TO
PROTECT AGAINST AN INCREASE IN THE PRICE OF SECURITIES (OR CURRENCIES) IT
INTENDS TO PURCHASE. THE FUND MAY ALSO PURCHASE PUT AND CALL OPTIONS TO OFFSET
PREVIOUSLY WRITTEN PUT AND CALL OPTIONS OF THE SAME SERIES.
    
 
  A CALL OPTION ON EQUITY SECURITIES GIVES THE PURCHASER, IN EXCHANGE FOR A
PREMIUM PAID, THE RIGHT FOR A SPECIFIED PERIOD OF TIME TO PURCHASE THE
SECURITIES SUBJECT TO THE OPTION AT A SPECIFIED PRICE (THE "EXERCISE PRICE" OR
"STRIKE PRICE"). The writer of a call option, in return for the premium, has the
obligation, upon exercise of the option, to deliver, depending upon the terms of
the option contract, the underlying securities to the purchaser upon receipt of
the exercise price. When the Fund writes a call option, the Fund gives up the
potential for gain on the underlying securities in excess of the exercise price
of the option during the period that the option is open.
 
                                       9
<PAGE>
  A PUT OPTION ON EQUITY SECURITIES GIVES THE PURCHASER, IN RETURN FOR A
PREMIUM, THE RIGHT, FOR A SPECIFIED PERIOD OF TIME, TO SELL THE SECURITIES
SUBJECT TO THE OPTION TO THE WRITER OF THE PUT AT THE SPECIFIED EXERCISE PRICE.
The writer of the put option, in return for the premium, has the obligation,
upon exercise of the option, to acquire the securities underlying the option at
the exercise price. The Fund as the writer of a put option might, therefore, be
obligated to purchase underlying securities for more than their current market
price.
 
   
  THE FUND WILL WRITE ONLY "COVERED" OPTIONS AND OPTIONS FOR WHICH THE FUND
MAINTAINS IN A SEGREGATED ACCOUNT CASH OR OTHER LIQUID ASSETS WITH A VALUE
EQUIVALENT AT ALL TIMES TO ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE OPTION. An option is
covered if the Fund, so long as it is obligated under the option, (i) owns an
offsetting position in the underlying security or has an absolute and immediate
right to acquire the underlying security without additional consideration or
(ii) segregates cash or other liquid assets in an amount equal to or greater
than its obligation under the option. When the Fund writes a "covered" option,
its losses are limited to the current value of the offsetting position of the
underlying security. When the Fund otherwise writes an option, its losses are
potentially unlimited. See "Investment Objective and Policies--Limitations on
Purchase and Sale of Stock Options, Options on Stock Indices and Stock Index
Futures" in the Statement of Additional Information.
    
 
  PURCHASES AND SALES OF OTC OPTIONS SUBJECT THE FUND TO RISKS NOT PRESENT WITH
RESPECT TO EXCHANGE TRADED OPTIONS. Unlike exchange traded options, OTC options
are contracts between the Fund and its counterparty without the interposition of
any clearing organization. As a result, the Fund is subject to the risk that the
counterparty will default on, or be unable to complete, due to bankruptcy or
otherwise, its obligation on the option. Consequently, the value of an OTC
option to the Fund is dependent on the financial viability of the OTC
counterparty. See "Investment Objective and Policies--Limitations on Purchase
and Sale of Stock Options, Options on Stock Indices and Stock Index
Futures--Additional Risks of Purchasing OTC Options" in the Statement of
Additional Information.
 
  OPTIONS ON FOREIGN CURRENCIES
 
   
  The Fund may purchase and write put and call options on foreign currencies
traded on securities exchanges or boards of trade (foreign and domestic) for
hedging purposes in a manner similar to that in which forward foreign currency
exchange contracts and futures contracts on foreign currencies will be employed.
Options on foreign currencies are similar to options on equity securities,
except that the Fund has the right to take on or make delivery of a specified
amount of foreign currency, rather than equity securities.
    
 
  The Fund may purchase and write options to hedge the Fund's portfolio
securities denominated in foreign currencies. If there is a decline in the
dollar value of a foreign currency in which the Fund's portfolio securities are
denominated, the dollar value of such securities will decline even though the
foreign currency value remains the same. See "Risks of Hedging and Return
Enhancement Strategies" below. To hedge against the decline of the foreign
currency, the Fund may purchase put options on such foreign currency. If the
value of the foreign currency declines, the gain realized on the put option
would offset, in whole or in part, the adverse effect such decline would have on
the value of the portfolio securities. Alternatively, the Fund may write a call
option on the foreign currency. If the value of the foreign currency declines,
the option would not be exercised and the decline in the value of the portfolio
securities denominated in such foreign currency would be offset in part by the
premium the Fund received for the option.
 
  If, on the other hand, the investment adviser anticipates purchasing a foreign
security and also anticipates a rise in the value of such foreign currency
(thereby increasing the cost of such security), the Fund may purchase call
options on the foreign currency. The purchase of such options could offset, at
least partially, the effects of the adverse movements of the exchange rates.
Alternatively, the Fund could write a put option on the currency and, if the
exchange rates move as anticipated, the option would expire unexercised.
 
                                       10
<PAGE>
   
  FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
    
 
   
  The Fund may enter into foreign currency exchange contracts to protect the
value of its portfolio against changes in the level of currency exchange rates.
A foreign currency exchange contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell
a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from
the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time
of the contract. These contracts are traded in the interbank market conducted
directly between currency traders (typically large commercial banks) and their
customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirements and
commissions are charged for such trades.
    
 
   
  When the Fund invests in foreign securities, the Fund may enter into forward
contracts in several circumstances to protect the value of its portfolio. The
Fund may not use forward contracts to generate income, although the use of such
contracts may incidentally generate income. However, the Fund's dealings in
forward contracts will be limited to hedging involving either specific
transactions or portfolio positions. Transaction hedging is the purchase or sale
of a forward contract with respect to specific receivables or payables of the
Fund generally arising in connection with the purchase or sale of its portfolio
securities and accruals of interest or dividends receivable and Fund expenses.
Position hedging is the sale of a foreign currency with respect to portfolio
security positions denominated or quoted in that currency or in a different
foreign currency (cross-hedge). The Fund will not speculate in forward
contracts. The Fund may not position hedge (including cross-hedge) with respect
to a particular currency for an amount greater than the aggregate market value
(determined at the time of making any sale of a forward contract) of the
securities being hedged.
    
 
   
  When the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security
denominated in a foreign currency, or when the Fund anticipates the receipt in a
foreign currency of dividends or interest payments on a security which it holds,
the Fund may desire to "lock in" the U.S. dollar price of the security or the
U.S. dollar equivalent of such dividend or interest payment, as the case may be.
By entering into a forward contract for a fixed amount of dollars for the
purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in the underlying
transaction, the Fund will be able to protect itself against a possible loss
resulting from an adverse change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and
the subject foreign currency during the period between the date on which the
security is purchased or sold, or on which the dividend or interest payment is
declared, and the date on which such payments are made or received.
Additionally, when the investment adviser believes that the currency of a
particular foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S.
dollar, the Fund may enter into a forward contract, for a fixed amount of
dollars, to sell the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of some
or all of the portfolio securities of the Fund denominated in such foreign
currency. Requirements under the Internal Revenue Code for qualification as a
regulated investment company may limit the Fund's ability to engage in
transactions in forward contracts. See "Investment Objective and Policies--Risks
Related to Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts" and "Taxes, Dividends and
Distributions," in the Statement of Additional Information.
    
 
  FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS THEREON
 
  THE FUND MAY PURCHASE AND SELL FINANCIAL FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS THEREON
WHICH ARE TRADED ON A COMMODITIES EXCHANGE OR BOARD OF TRADE TO REDUCE CERTAIN
RISKS OF ITS INVESTMENTS AND TO ATTEMPT TO ENHANCE RETURN IN ACCORDANCE WITH
REGULATIONS OF THE COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING COMMISSION (CFTC). THE FUND, AND
THUS INVESTORS, MAY LOSE MONEY THROUGH ANY UNSUCCESSFUL USE OF THESE STRATEGIES.
These futures contracts and related options will be on stock indices and foreign
currencies. A futures contract is an agreement to purchase or sell an agreed
amount of securities or currencies at a set price for delivery in the future. A
stock index futures contract is an agreement to purchase or sell cash equal to a
specific dollar amount times the difference between the value of a specific
stock index at the close of the last trading day of the contract and the price
at which the agreement is made. No physical delivery of the underlying stocks in
the index is made. The Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts or related
options as a hedge against changes in market conditions.
 
   
  The Fund may not purchase or sell futures contracts and related options to
attempt to enhance return, or for risk management purposes, if immediately
thereafter the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits on the Fund's
existing futures and options on
    
 
                                       11
<PAGE>
   
futures and premiums paid for such related options would exceed 5% of the market
value of the Fund's total assets. The Fund may purchase and sell futures
contracts and related options without limitation, for BONA FIDE hedging purposes
in accordance with regulations of the CFTC (I.E., to reduce certain risks of its
investments). The total contract value of all futures contracts sold will not
exceed the total market value of the Fund's investments.
    
 
   
  Futures contracts and related options are generally subject to segregation
requirements of the Commission and the coverage requirements of the CFTC. If the
Fund does not hold the security or currency underlying the futures contract, the
Fund will be required to segregate on an ongoing basis with its custodian cash
or other liquid assets in an amount at least equal to the Fund's obligations
with respect to such futures contracts. The Fund may place and maintain cash,
securities and similar investments with a futures commissions merchant in
amounts necessary to effect the Fund's transactions in exchange-traded futures
contracts and options thereon, provided certain conditions are satisfied.
    
 
  THE FUND'S SUCCESSFUL USE OF FUTURES CONTRACTS AND RELATED OPTIONS DEPENDS
UPON THE INVESTMENT ADVISER'S ABILITY TO PREDICT THE DIRECTION OF THE MARKET AND
IS SUBJECT TO VARIOUS ADDITIONAL RISKS. The correlation between movements in the
price of a futures contract and the movements in the index or price of the
currencies underlying the futures contract is imperfect and there is a risk that
the value of the indices or currencies underlying the futures contract may
increase or decrease at a greater rate than the related futures contracts
resulting in losses to the Fund. Certain futures exchanges or boards of trade
have established daily limits on the amount that the price of futures contracts
or related options may vary, either up or down, from the previous day's
settlement price. These daily limits may restrict the Fund's ability to purchase
or sell certain futures contracts or related options on any particular day.
 
  The Fund's ability to enter into or close out futures contracts and options
thereon is limited by the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code for
qualification as a regulated investment company. See "Taxes, Dividends and
Distributions" and "Investment Objective and Policies" in the Statement of
Additional Information.
 
  RISKS OF HEDGING AND RETURN ENHANCEMENT STRATEGIES
 
   
  PARTICIPATION IN THE OPTIONS OR FUTURES MARKETS INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS AND
TRANSACTION COSTS TO WHICH THE FUND WOULD NOT BE SUBJECT ABSENT THE USE OF THESE
STRATEGIES. THE FUND, AND THUS INVESTORS, MAY LOSE MONEY THROUGH ANY
UNSUCCESSFUL USE OF THESE STRATEGIES. If the investment adviser's prediction of
movements in the direction of the securities, foreign currency or interest rate
markets is inaccurate, the adverse consequences to the Fund may leave the Fund
in a worse position than if such strategies were not used. Risks inherent in the
use of options and stock index futures include: (1) dependence on the investment
adviser's ability to predict correctly movements in the direction of interest
rates, securities prices and foreign currency markets; (2) imperfect correlation
between the price of options and futures contracts and options thereon and
movements in the prices of the securities being hedged; (3) the fact that skills
needed to use these strategies are different from those needed to select
portfolio securities; (4) the possible absence of a liquid secondary market for
any particular instrument at any time; (5) the possible need to defer closing
out certain hedged positions to avoid adverse tax consequences; and (6) the
possible inability of the Fund to purchase or sell a portfolio security at a
time that otherwise would be favorable for it to do so, or the possible need for
the Fund to sell a portfolio security at a disadvantageous time, due to the need
for the Fund to maintain "cover" or to segregate securities in connection with
hedging transactions. See "Investment Objective and Policies" and "Taxes,
Dividends and Distributions" in the Statement of Additional Information.
    
 
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
 
  The Fund is subject to certain investment restrictions which, like its
investment objective, constitute fundamental policies. Fundamental policies
cannot be changed without the approval of the holders of a majority of the
Fund's outstanding voting securities, as defined in the Investment Company Act.
See "Investment Restrictions" in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>
                            HOW THE FUND IS MANAGED
 
  THE FUND HAS A BOARD OF TRUSTEES WHICH, IN ADDITION TO OVERSEEING THE ACTIONS
OF THE FUND'S MANAGER, SUBADVISER AND DISTRIBUTOR, AS SET FORTH BELOW, DECIDES
UPON MATTERS OF GENERAL POLICY. THE FUND'S MANAGER CONDUCTS AND SUPERVISES THE
DAILY BUSINESS OPERATIONS OF THE FUND. THE FUND'S SUBADVISER FURNISHES DAILY
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES.
 
   
  The Fund is responsible for the payment of certain fees and expenses
including, among others, the following: (i) management and distribution fees;
(ii) the fees of unaffiliated Trustees; (iii) the fees of the Fund's Custodian
and Transfer and Dividend Disbursing Agent; (iv) the fees of the Fund's legal
counsel and independent accountants; (v) brokerage commissions incurred in
connection with portfolio transactions; (vi) all taxes and charges of
governmental agencies; (vii) the reimbursement of organization expenses; and
(viii) expenses related to shareholder communications including all expenses of
shareholders' and Board of Trustees' meetings and of preparing, printing and
mailing reports, proxy statements and prospectuses to shareholders.
    
 
MANAGER
 
   
  PRUDENTIAL INVESTMENTS FUND MANAGEMENT LLC (PIFM OR THE MANAGER), GATEWAY
CENTER THREE, 100 MULBERRY STREET, NEWARK, NEW JERSEY 07102-4077, IS THE MANAGER
OF THE FUND AND IS COMPENSATED FOR ITS SERVICES AT AN ANNUAL RATE OF .70 OF 1%
OF THE FUND'S AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS. PIFM is organized in New York as a
limited liability company. See "Manager" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
    
 
   
  As of March 31, 1998, PIFM served as the manager to 44 open-end investment
companies, constituting all of the Prudential Mutual Funds, and as manager or
administrator to 22 closed-end investment companies, with aggregate assets of
approximately $66.5 billion.
    
 
  UNDER THE MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE FUND, PIFM MANAGES THE INVESTMENT
OPERATIONS OF THE FUND AND ALSO ADMINISTERS THE FUND'S BUSINESS AFFAIRS. See
"Manager" in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
   
  UNDER THE SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT BETWEEN PIFM AND THE PRUDENTIAL INVESTMENT
CORPORATION (PIC), DOING BUSINESS AS PRUDENTIAL INVESTMENTS (PI, THE SUBADVISER
OR THE INVESTMENT ADVISER), THE SUBADVISER FURNISHES INVESTMENT ADVISORY
SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND AND IS REIMBURSED BY PIFM
FOR ITS REASONABLE COSTS AND EXPENSES INCURRED IN PROVIDING SUCH SERVICES. Under
the Management Agreement, PIFM continues to have responsibility for all
investment advisory services and supervises the Subadviser's performance of such
services.
    
 
   
  The Fund is managed by Roger E. Ford and Jay S. Kaplan, both Managing
Directors of PI. As a team, they have responsibility for the day-to-day
management of the Fund's portfolio. They share a value investment style,
focusing on strong companies selling at a discount from their perceived true
worth. Messrs. Ford and Kaplan select stocks for the Fund's portfolio at prices
which in their view are temporarily low relative to the company's earnings,
assets, cash flow and dividends. Mr. Ford has managed the Fund's portfolio since
its inception and manages a number of other portfolios advised by PI. Mr. Ford
has been employed by PI as a portfolio manager since 1972. Mr. Kaplan, who has
also managed the Fund's portfolio since its inception, has been involved in the
management of a number of value-oriented equity investment portfolios since
joining Prudential Mutual Funds in 1993. Prior to joining Prudential Mutual
Funds, Mr. Kaplan was employed by the Prudential Capital Management Group as a
high yield credit analyst. Messrs. Ford and Kaplan together also manage
Prudential Small Company Value Fund, Inc.
    
 
  PIFM and PI are wholly-owned subsidiaries of The Prudential Insurance Company
of America (Prudential), a major diversified insurance and financial services
company, and are part of Prudential Investments, a business group of Prudential.
 
                                       13
<PAGE>
DISTRIBUTOR
 
  PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES INCORPORATED (PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES OR THE DISTRIBUTOR),
ONE SEAPORT PLAZA, NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10292, IS A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER
THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE THAT SERVES AS THE DISTRIBUTOR OF THE CLASS A,
CLASS B, CLASS C AND CLASS Z SHARES OF THE FUND. IT IS AN INDIRECT, WHOLLY-OWNED
SUBSIDIARY OF PRUDENTIAL.
 
   
  UNDER SEPARATE DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLANS (THE CLASS A PLAN, THE CLASS B
PLAN AND THE CLASS C PLAN, COLLECTIVELY, THE PLANS) ADOPTED BY THE FUND UNDER
RULE 12B-1 UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT AND A DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT (THE
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT), THE DISTRIBUTOR INCURS THE EXPENSES OF DISTRIBUTING THE
FUND'S CLASS A, CLASS B AND CLASS C SHARES. The Distributor also incurs the
expenses of distributing the Fund's Class Z shares under the Distribution
Agreement, none of which is reimbursed by or paid for by the Fund. These
expenses include commissions and account servicing fees paid to, or on account
of, financial advisers of Prudential Securities and Pruco Securities Corporation
(Prusec), an affiliated broker-dealer, commissions and account servicing fees
paid to, or on account of, other broker-dealers or financial institutions which
have entered into agreements with the Distributor, advertising expenses, the
cost of printing and mailing prospectuses to potential investors and indirect
and overhead costs of Prudential Securities and Prusec associated with the sale
of Fund shares, including lease, utility, communications and sales promotion
expenses.
    
 
  Under the Plans, the Fund is obligated to pay distribution and/or service fees
to the Distributor as compensation for its distribution and service activities,
not as reimbursement for specific expenses incurred. If the Distributor's
expenses exceed its distribution and service fees, the Fund will not be
obligated to pay any additional expenses. If the Distributor's expenses are less
than such distribution and service fees, it will retain its full fees and
realize a profit.
 
   
  UNDER THE CLASS A PLAN, THE FUND MAY PAY THE DISTRIBUTOR FOR ITS
DISTRIBUTION-RELATED EXPENSES WITH RESPECT TO CLASS A SHARES AT AN ANNUAL RATE
OF UP TO .30 OF 1% OF THE AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS OF THE CLASS A SHARES. The
Class A Plan provides that (i) up to .25 of 1% of the average daily net assets
of the Class A shares may be used to pay for personal service and/or the
maintenance of shareholder accounts (service fee) and (ii) total distribution
fees (including the service fee of .25 of 1%) may not exceed .30 of 1% of the
average daily net assets of the Class A shares. The Distributor has agreed to
limit its distribution-related fees payable under the Class A Plan to .25 of 1%
of the average daily net assets of the Class A shares for the fiscal period
ending April 30, 1999.
    
 
   
  UNDER THE CLASS B AND CLASS C PLANS, THE FUND PAYS THE DISTRIBUTOR FOR ITS
DISTRIBUTION-RELATED EXPENSES WITH RESPECT TO CLASS B AND CLASS C SHARES AT AN
ANNUAL RATE OF 1% OF THE AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS OF EACH OF THE CLASS B AND
CLASS C SHARES. The Class B and Class C Plans provide for the payment to the
Distributor of (i) an asset-based sales charge of .75 of 1% of the average daily
net assets of each of the Class B and Class C shares, respectively, and (ii) a
service fee of .25 of 1% of the average daily net assets of each of the Class B
and Class C shares. The service fee is used to pay for personal service and/or
the maintenance of shareholder accounts. The Distributor also receives
contingent deferred sales charges from certain redeeming shareholders. See
"Shareholder Guide--How to Sell Your Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charges."
    
 
  The Fund records all payments made under the Plans as expenses in the
calculation of net investment income. See "Distributor" in the Statement of
Additional Information.
 
   
  Distribution expenses attributable to the sale of Class A, Class B and Class C
shares of the Fund will be allocated to each such class based upon the ratio of
sales of each such class to the sales of Class A, Class B or Class C shares of
the Fund other than expenses allocable to a particular class. The distribution
fee and sales charge of one class will not be used to subsidize the sale of
another class.
    
 
  Each Plan provides that it shall continue in effect from year to year provided
that a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of
the Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Fund (as defined in the
Investment Company Act) and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in
the operation of the Plan or any agreement related to the Plan (the Rule 12b-1
 
                                       14
<PAGE>
Trustees), vote annually to continue the Plan. Each Plan may be terminated at
any time by vote of a majority of the Rule 12b-1 Trustees or of a majority of
the outstanding shares of the applicable class of the Fund. The Fund will not be
obligated to pay expenses incurred under any Plan if it is terminated or not
continued.
 
  In addition to distribution and service fees paid by the Fund under the Class
A, Class B and Class C Plans, the Manager (or one of its affiliates) may make
payments out of its own resources to dealers (including Prudential Securities)
and other persons who distribute shares of the Fund (including Class Z shares).
Such payments may be calculated by reference to the net asset value of shares
sold by such persons or otherwise.
 
  The Distributor is subject to the rules of the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc. governing maximum sales charges. See "Distributor" in
the Statement of Additional Information.
 
FEE WAIVERS
 
   
  The Distributor has agreed to limit its distribution fee for the Class A
shares as described under "Distributor." Fee waivers will increase total return.
See "Performance Information" in the Statement of Additional Information and
"Fund Expenses" above.
    
 
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
 
  Prudential Securities may act as a broker or futures commission merchant for
the Fund provided that the commissions, fees or other remuneration it receives
are fair and reasonable. See "Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage" in the
Statement of Additional Information.
 
CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND DISBURSING AGENT
 
  State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Heritage Drive, North Quincy,
Massachusetts 02171, serves as Custodian for the Fund's portfolio securities and
cash and, in that capacity, maintains certain financial and accounting books and
records pursuant to an agreement with the Fund. Its mailing address is P. O. Box
1713, Boston, Massachusetts 02105.
 
  Prudential Mutual Fund Services LLC (PMFS), Raritan Plaza One, Edison, New
Jersey 08837, serves as Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent and in
those capacities maintains certain books and records for the Fund. PMFS is a
wholly-owned subsidiary of PIFM. Its mailing address is P.O. Box 15005, New
Brunswick, New Jersey 08906-5005.
 
   
YEAR 2000
    
 
   
  The services provided to the Fund and the shareholders by the Manager, the
Distributor, the Transfer Agent and the Custodian depend on the smooth
functioning of their computer systems and those of their outside service
providers. Many computer software systems in use today cannot distinguish the
year 2000 from the year 1900 because of the way dates are encoded and
calculated. Such event could have a negative impact on handling securities
trades, payments of interest and dividends, pricing and account services.
Although, at this time, there can be no assurance that there will be no adverse
impact on the Fund, the Manager, the Distributor, the Transfer Agent and the
Custodian have advised the Fund that they have been actively working on
necessary changes to their computer systems to prepare for the year 2000 and
expect that their systems, and those of their outside service providers, will be
adapted in time for that event.
    
 
                                       15
<PAGE>
                         HOW THE FUND VALUES ITS SHARES
 
  THE FUND'S NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE OR NAV IS DETERMINED BY SUBTRACTING ITS
LIABILITIES FROM THE VALUE OF ITS ASSETS AND DIVIDING THE REMAINDER BY THE
NUMBER OF OUTSTANDING SHARES. NAV IS CALCULATED SEPARATELY FOR EACH CLASS. THE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES HAS FIXED THE SPECIFIC TIME OF DAY FOR THE COMPUTATION OF THE
FUND'S NAV TO BE AS OF 4:15 P.M., NEW YORK TIME.
 
  Portfolio securities are valued based on market quotations or, if not readily
available, at fair value as determined in good faith under procedures
established by the Fund's Board of Trustees. For valuation purposes, quotations
of foreign securities in a foreign currency are converted to U.S. dollar
equivalents. See "Net Asset Value" in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
  The Fund will compute its NAV once daily on days that the New York Stock
Exchange is open for trading except on days on which no orders to purchase, sell
or redeem shares have been received by the Fund or days on which changes in the
value of the Fund's portfolio securities do not materially affect the NAV.
 
   
  Although the legal rights of each class of shares are substantially identical,
the different expenses borne by each class will result in different NAVs and
dividends. The NAV of Class B and Class C shares will generally be lower than
the NAV of Class A shares as a result of the larger distribution-related fee to
which Class B and Class C shares are subject. The NAV of Class Z shares will
generally be higher than the NAV of the other three classes because Class Z
shares are not subject to any distribution and/or service fees. It is expected,
however, that the NAV of the four classes will tend to converge immediately
after the recording of dividends, if any, which will differ by approximately the
amount of distribution and/or service fee expense accrual differential among the
classes.
    
 
                      HOW THE FUND CALCULATES PERFORMANCE
 
   
  FROM TIME TO TIME THE FUND MAY ADVERTISE AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN,
AGGREGATE TOTAL RETURN AND YIELD IN ADVERTISEMENTS OR SALES LITERATURE. TOTAL
RETURN AND YIELD ARE CALCULATED SEPARATELY FOR CLASS A, CLASS B, CLASS C AND
CLASS Z SHARES. THESE FIGURES ARE BASED ON HISTORICAL EARNINGS AND ARE NOT
INTENDED TO INDICATE FUTURE PERFORMANCE. The total return shows how much an
investment in the Fund would have increased (decreased) over a specified period
of time (I.E., one, five, or ten years or since inception of the Fund) assuming
that all distributions and dividends by the Fund were reinvested on the
reinvestment dates during the period and less all recurring fees. The aggregate
total return reflects actual performance over a stated period of time. Average
annual total return is a hypothetical rate of return that, if achieved annually,
would have produced the same aggregate total return if performance had been
constant over the entire period. Average annual total return smooths out
variations in performance and takes into account any applicable initial or
contingent deferred sales charges. Neither average annual total return nor
aggregate total return takes into account any federal or state income taxes
which may be payable upon redemption. The yield refers to the income generated
by an investment in the Fund over a one-month or 30-day period. This income is
then "annualized;" that is, the amount of income generated by the investment
during that 30-day period is assumed to be generated each 30-day period for
twelve periods and is shown as a percentage of the investment. The income earned
on the investment is also assumed to be reinvested at the end of the sixth
30-day period. The Fund also may include comparative performance information in
advertising or marketing the Fund's shares. Such performance information may
include data from Lipper Analytical Services, Inc., Morningstar Publications,
Inc., and other industry publications, business periodicals and market indices.
See "Performance Information" in the Statement of Additional Information.
Further performance information will be contained in the Fund's annual and
semi-annual reports to shareholders, which will be available without charge. See
"Shareholder Guide--Shareholder Services--Reports to Shareholders."
    
 
                                       16
<PAGE>
                       TAXES, DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
 
TAXATION OF THE FUND
 
  THE FUND INTENDS TO ELECT TO QUALIFY AND INTENDS TO REMAIN QUALIFIED AS A
REGULATED INVESTMENT COMPANY UNDER THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE. ACCORDINGLY, THE
FUND WILL NOT BE SUBJECT TO FEDERAL INCOME TAXES ON ITS NET INVESTMENT INCOME
AND NET CAPITAL GAINS, IF ANY, THAT IT DISTRIBUTES TO ITS SHAREHOLDERS.
 
  Under the Internal Revenue Code, special rules apply to the treatment of
certain options and futures contracts (Section 1256 contracts). At the end of
each year, such investments held by the Fund will be required to be
"marked-to-market" for federal income tax purposes; that is, treated as having
been sold at market value. Sixty percent of any gain or loss recognized on these
"deemed sales" and on actual dispositions may be treated as long-term capital
gain or loss, and the remainder will be treated as short-term capital gain or
loss. See "Taxes, Dividends and Distributions" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
 
  Gains or losses on disposition of debt securities denominated in a foreign
currency attributable to fluctuations in the value of foreign currency between
the date of acquisition of the security and the date of disposition may be
treated as ordinary gain or loss. These gains or losses increase or decrease the
amount of the Fund's investment company taxable income available to be
distributed to shareholders as ordinary income, rather than increasing or
decreasing the amount of the Fund's net capital gain. If currency fluctuation
losses exceed other investment company taxable income during a taxable year,
distributions made by the Fund during the year would be characterized as a
return of capital to shareholders, reducing the shareholder's basis in his or
her Fund shares.
 
TAXATION OF SHAREHOLDERS
 
   
  Any dividends out of net investment income, together with distributions of net
short-term gains (I.E., the excess of net short-term capital gains over net
long-term capital losses) distributed to shareholders will be taxable as
ordinary income to the shareholders whether or not reinvested. Any net capital
gains (I.E., the excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term
capital losses) distributed to shareholders will be taxable as long-term capital
gains to the shareholders, whether or not reinvested and regardless of the
length of time a shareholder has owned his or her shares. The maximum long-term
capital gains rate for individual shareholders for securities held between 12
and 18 months currently is 28% and for securities held more than 18 months is
20%. The maximum tax rate for ordinary income is 39.6%. The maximum long-term
capital gains rate for corporate shareholders currently is 35%.
    
 
   
  Both regular and capital gains dividends are taxable to shareholders in the
year in which received, whether they are received in cash or in additional
shares. In addition, certain dividends declared by the Fund will be treated as
received by shareholders on December 31 of the year the dividends are declared.
This rule applies to dividends declared by the Fund in October, November or
December of a calendar year, payable to shareholders of record on a date in any
such month, if such dividends are paid during January of the following calendar
year.
    
 
   
  Dividends received by corporate shareholders are eligible for a
dividends-received deduction of 70% to the extent the Fund's income is derived
from qualified dividends received by the Fund from domestic corporations.
Dividends attributable to interest income, capital and currency gain, gain or
loss from Section 1256 contracts, dividend income from foreign corporations and
income from some other sources will not be eligible for the corporate
dividends-received deduction. See "Taxes, Dividends and Distributions" in the
Statement of Additional Information. Corporate shareholders should consult their
tax advisers regarding other requirements applicable to the dividends-received
deduction.
    
 
   
  Any gain or loss realized upon a sale or redemption of shares by a shareholder
who is not a dealer in securities will be treated as long-term capital gain or
loss if the shares have been held more than one year and otherwise as short-term
capital gain or loss.
    
 
                                       17
<PAGE>
   
Any such loss with respect to shares that are held six months or less, however,
will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain
distributions received by the shareholder. With respect to non-corporate
shareholders, gain or loss on shares held more than 18 months will be considered
in determining a holder's adjusted net capital gain subject to a maximum
statutory tax rate of 20%.
    
 
   
  The Fund has obtained opinions of counsel to the effect that neither (i) the
conversion of Class B shares into Class A shares nor (ii) the exchange of any
class of the Fund's shares for any other class of its shares constitutes a
taxable event for federal income tax purposes. However, such opinions are not
binding on the Internal Revenue Service.
    
 
  WITHHOLDING TAXES. Under the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund is required to
withhold and remit to the U.S. Treasury 31% of dividends, capital gain income
and redemption proceeds, on the accounts of those shareholders who fail to
furnish their correct tax identification numbers on IRS Form W-9 (or IRS Form
W-8 in the case of certain foreign shareholders) with the required
certifications regarding the shareholder's status under the federal income tax
laws. Withholding at this rate is also required from dividends and capital gains
distributions (but not redemption proceeds) payable to shareholders who are
otherwise subject to backup withholding. Dividends of net investment income and
short-term capital gains paid to a foreign shareholder will generally be subject
to U.S. withholding tax at the rate of 30% (or lower treaty rate).
 
   
  Shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisers regarding specific
questions as to federal, state or local taxes. See "Taxes, Dividends and
Distributions" in the Statement of Additional Information.
    
 
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
 
   
  THE FUND EXPECTS TO PAY DIVIDENDS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME, IF ANY,
SEMI-ANNUALLY AND TO MAKE DISTRIBUTIONS OF ANY CAPITAL GAINS IN EXCESS OF NET
LONG-TERM CAPITAL LOSSES AT LEAST ANNUALLY. Dividends paid by the Fund with
respect to each class of shares, to the extent any dividends are paid, will be
calculated in the same manner, at the same time, on the same day and will be in
the same amount except that each class (other than Class Z) will bear its own
distribution and/or service fee charges, generally resulting in lower dividends
for Class B and Class C shares in relation to Class A and Class Z shares and
lower dividends for Class A shares in relation to Class Z shares. Distribution
of net capital gains, if any, will be paid in the same amount per share for each
class of shares. See "How the Fund Values its Shares."
    
 
  DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS WILL BE PAID IN ADDITIONAL FUND SHARES, BASED ON
THE NAV OF EACH CLASS ON THE RECORD DATE OR SUCH OTHER DATE AS THE BOARD OF
TRUSTEES MAY DETERMINE, UNLESS THE SHAREHOLDER ELECTS IN WRITING NOT LESS THAN
FIVE BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO THE RECORD DATE TO RECEIVE SUCH DIVIDENDS AND
DISTRIBUTIONS IN CASH. Such election should be submitted to Prudential Mutual
Fund Services LLC, Attn: Account Maintenance Unit, P.O. Box 15015, New
Brunswick, New Jersey 08906-5015. If you hold shares through Prudential
Securities, you should contact your financial adviser to elect to receive
dividends and distributions in cash. The Fund will notify each shareholder after
the close of the Fund's taxable year both of the dollar amount and the taxable
status of that year's dividends and distributions on a per share basis.
 
  IF YOU BUY SHARES ON OR IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THE RECORD DATE (THE DATE THAT
DETERMINES WHO RECEIVES THE DIVIDEND), YOU WILL RECEIVE A PORTION OF THE MONEY
YOU INVESTED AS A TAXABLE DIVIDEND. THEREFORE, YOU SHOULD CONSIDER THE TIMING OF
DIVIDENDS WHEN BUYING SHARES OF THE FUND.
 
                                       18
<PAGE>
                              GENERAL INFORMATION
 
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
 
   
  THE FUND WAS ORGANIZED IN DELAWARE ON OCTOBER 24, 1997 AS A BUSINESS TRUST.
THE FUND IS AUTHORIZED TO ISSUE AN UNLIMITED NUMBER OF SHARES OF BENEFICIAL
INTEREST, $.001 PAR VALUE PER SHARE, DIVIDED INTO FOUR CLASSES, DESIGNATED CLASS
A, CLASS B, CLASS C AND CLASS Z. Each class of shares of the Fund represents an
interest in the same assets of the Fund and is identical in all respects except
that (i) each class is subject to different sales charges and distribution
and/or service fees (except for Class Z shares which are not subject to any
sales charges and distribution and/or service fees), which may affect
performance, (ii) each class has exclusive voting rights on any matter submitted
to shareholders that relates solely to its arrangement and has separate voting
rights on any matter submitted to shareholders in which the interests of one
class differ from the interests of any other class, (iii) each class has a
different exchange privilege, (iv) only Class B shares have a conversion feature
and (v) Class Z shares are offered exclusively for sale to a limited group of
investors. In accordance with the Fund's Declaration of Trust, the Board of
Trustees may authorize the creation of additional series and classes within such
series, with such preferences, privileges, limitations and voting and dividend
rights as the Board may determine.
    
 
  Shares of the Fund, when issued, are fully paid, nonassessable, fully
transferable and redeemable at the option of the holder. Shares are also
redeemable at the option of the Fund under certain circumstances as described
under "Shareholder Guide--How to Sell Your Shares." Each share of each class of
beneficial interest is equal as to earnings, assets and voting privileges,
except as noted above, and each class (with the exception of Class Z shares,
which are not subject to any distribution or service fees) bears the expenses
related to the distribution of its shares. Except for the conversion feature
applicable to the Class B shares, there are no conversion, preemptive or other
subscription rights. In the event of liquidation, each share of beneficial
interest of the Fund is entitled to its portion of all of the Fund's assets
after all debts and expenses of the Fund have been paid. Since Class B and Class
C shares generally bear higher distribution expenses than Class A shares, the
liquidation proceeds to shareholders of those classes are likely to be lower
than to Class A shareholders and to Class Z shareholders, whose shares are not
subject to any distribution and/or service fees. The Fund's shares do not have
cumulative voting rights for the election of Trustees.
 
  THE FUND DOES NOT INTEND TO HOLD ANNUAL MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS UNLESS
OTHERWISE REQUIRED BY LAW. THE FUND WILL NOT BE REQUIRED TO HOLD MEETINGS OF
SHAREHOLDERS UNLESS, FOR EXAMPLE, THE ELECTION OF TRUSTEES IS REQUIRED TO BE
ACTED ON BY SHAREHOLDERS UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT. SHAREHOLDERS HAVE
CERTAIN RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO CALL A MEETING UPON A VOTE OF 10% OR MORE
OF THE FUND'S OUTSTANDING SHARES FOR THE PURPOSE OF VOTING ON THE REMOVAL OF ONE
OR MORE TRUSTEES OR TO TRANSACT ANY OTHER BUSINESS.
 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
   
  This Prospectus, including the Statement of Additional Information which has
been incorporated by reference herein, does not contain all the information set
forth in the Registration Statement filed by the Fund with the Commission under
the Securities Act. Copies of the Registration Statement may be obtained at a
reasonable charge from the Commission or may be examined, without charge, at the
office of the Commission in Washington, D.C.
    
 
                                       19
<PAGE>
                               SHAREHOLDER GUIDE
 
   
HOW TO BUY SHARES OF THE FUND
    
 
   
  YOU MAY PURCHASE SHARES OF THE FUND THROUGH PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES, PRUSEC OR
DIRECTLY FROM THE FUND, THROUGH ITS TRANSFER AGENT, PRUDENTIAL MUTUAL FUND
SERVICES LLC (PMFS OR THE TRANSFER AGENT), ATTENTION: INVESTMENT SERVICES, P.O.
BOX 15020, NEW BRUNSWICK, NEW JERSEY 08906-5020. Participants in programs
sponsored by Prudential Retirement Services should contact their client
representative for more information about Class Z shares. The purchase price is
the NAV next determined following receipt of an order in proper form by the
Transfer Agent or the Distributor plus a sales charge which, at your option, may
be imposed either (i) at the time of purchase (Class A shares) or (ii) on a
deferred basis (Class B or Class C shares). Class Z shares are offered to a
limited group of investors at net asset value without any sales charge. Payment
may be made by cash, wire, check or through your brokerage account. See
"Alternative Purchase Plan" and "How the Fund Values its Shares."
    
 
  The minimum initial investment is $1,000 for Class A and Class B shares and
$5,000 for Class C shares, except that the minimum initial investment for Class
C shares may be waived from time to time. There is no minimum initial investment
requirement for Class Z shares. The minimum subsequent investment is $100 for
all classes, except for Class Z shares, for which there is no such minimum. All
minimum investment requirements are waived for certain retirement and employee
savings plans or custodial accounts for the benefit of minors. For purchases
through the Automatic Savings Accumulation Plan, the minimum initial and
subsequent investment is $50. See "Shareholder Services" below.
 
  Application forms can be obtained from PMFS, Prudential Securities or Prusec.
If a share certificate is desired, it must be requested in writing for each
transaction. Certificates are issued only for full shares. Shareholders who hold
their shares through Prudential Securities will not receive share certificates.
 
  The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase order (including an
exchange into the Fund) or to suspend or modify the continuous offering of its
shares. See "How to Sell Your Shares."
 
  Your dealer is responsible for forwarding payment promptly to the Fund. The
Distributor reserves the right to cancel any purchase order for which payment
has not been received by the third business day following the investment.
 
  Transactions in Fund shares may be subject to postage and handling charges
imposed by your dealer.
 
  PURCHASE BY WIRE.  For an initial purchase of shares of the Fund by wire, you
must first telephone PMFS to receive an account number at (800) 225-1852
(toll-free). The following information will be requested: your name, address,
tax identification number, class election, dividend distribution election,
amount being wired and wiring bank. Instructions should then be given by you to
your bank to transfer funds by wire to State Street Bank and Trust Company
(State Street), Boston, Massachusetts, Custody and Shareholder Services
Division, Attention: Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund, specifying on the wire the
account number assigned by PFMS and your name and identifying the class in which
you are eligible to invest (Class A, Class B, Class C or Class Z shares).
 
  If you arrange for receipt by State Street of federal funds prior to the
calculation of NAV (4:15 P.M., New York time) on a business day, you may
purchase shares of the Fund as of that day. See "Net Asset Value" in the
Statement of Additional Information.
 
  In making a subsequent purchase order by wire, you should wire State Street
directly and should be sure that the wire specifies Prudential Mid-Cap Value
Fund, Class A, Class B, Class C or Class Z shares and your name and individual
account number. It is not necessary to call PMFS to make subsequent purchase
orders utilizing federal funds. The minimum amount which may be invested by wire
is $1,000.
 
                                       20
<PAGE>
ALTERNATIVE PURCHASE PLAN
 
  THE FUND OFFERS FOUR CLASSES OF SHARES (CLASS A, CLASS B, CLASS C AND CLASS Z
SHARES) WHICH ALLOWS YOU TO CHOOSE THE MOST BENEFICIAL SALES CHARGE STRUCTURE
FOR YOUR INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES GIVEN THE AMOUNT OF THE PURCHASE, THE LENGTH
OF TIME YOU EXPECT TO HOLD THE SHARES AND OTHER RELEVANT CIRCUMSTANCES
(ALTERNATIVE PURCHASE PLAN).
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          ANNUAL 12b-1 FEES
                                              (AS A % OF
                                          AVERAGE DAILY NET
                  SALES CHARGE                 ASSETS)               OTHER INFORMATION
         ------------------------------  --------------------  ------------------------------
<S>      <C>                             <C>                   <C>
CLASS A  Maximum initial sales charge    .30 of 1% (currently  Initial sales charge waived or
         of 5% of the public offering    being charged at a    reduced for certain purchases
         price                           rate of .25 of 1%)
CLASS B  Maximum CDSC of 5% of the                1%           Shares convert to Class A
         lesser of the amount invested                         shares approximately seven
         or the redemption proceeds;                           years after purchase
         declines to zero after six
         years
CLASS C  Maximum CDSC of 1% of the                1%           Shares do not convert to
         lesser of the amount invested                         another class
         or the redemption proceeds on
         redemptions made within one
         year of purchase
CLASS Z  None                                    None          Sold to a limited group of
                                                               investors
</TABLE>
    
 
   
  The four classes of shares represent an interest in the same portfolio of
investments of the Fund and have the same rights, except that (i) each class
(with the exception of Class Z shares, which are not subject to any distribution
and/or service fees) bears the separate expenses of its Rule 12b-1 distribution
and service plan, (ii) each class has exclusive voting rights on any matter
submitted to shareholders that relates solely to its arrangement and has
separate voting rights on any matter submitted to shareholders in which the
interests of one class differ from the interests of any other class, (iii) each
class has a different exchange privilege, (iv) only Class B shares have a
conversion feature and (v) Class Z shares are offered exclusively for sale to a
limited group of investors. See "How to Exchange Your Shares" below. The income
attributable to each class and the dividends payable on the shares of each class
will be reduced by the amount of the distribution fee (if any) of each class.
Class B and Class C shares bear the expenses of a higher distribution fee which
will generally cause them to have higher expense ratios and to pay lower
dividends than the Class A and Class Z shares.
    
 
  Financial advisers and other sales agents who sell shares of the Fund will
receive different compensation for selling Class A, Class B, Class C and Class Z
shares and will generally receive more compensation initially for selling Class
A and Class B shares than for selling Class C or Class Z shares.
 
  IN SELECTING A PURCHASE ALTERNATIVE, YOU SHOULD CONSIDER, AMONG OTHER THINGS,
(1) the length of time you expect to hold your investment, (2) the amount of any
applicable sales charge (whether imposed at the time of purchase or redemption)
and distribution-related fees, as noted above, (3) whether you qualify for any
reduction or waiver of any applicable sales charge, (4) the various exchange
privileges among the different classes of shares (see "How to Exchange Your
Shares" below) and (5) the fact that Class B shares automatically convert to
Class A shares approximately seven years after purchase (see "Conversion
Feature--Class B Shares" below).
 
  The following is provided to assist you in determining which method of
purchase best suits your individual circumstances and is based on current fees
and expenses being charged to the Fund.
 
  If you intend to hold your investment in the Fund for less than 7 years and do
not qualify for a reduced sales charge on Class A shares, since Class A shares
are subject to an initial sales charge of 5% and Class B shares are subject to a
CDSC of 5% which declines to zero over a 6-year period, you should consider
purchasing Class C shares over either Class A or Class B shares.
 
                                       21
<PAGE>
  If you intend to hold your investment for 7 years or more and do not qualify
for a reduced sales charge on Class A shares, since Class B shares convert to
Class A shares approximately 7 years after purchase and because all of your
money would be invested initially in the case of Class B shares, you should
consider purchasing Class A or Class B shares over Class C shares.
 
  If you qualify for a reduced sales charge on Class A shares, it may be more
advantageous for you to purchase Class A shares over either Class B or Class C
shares regardless of how long you intend to hold your investment. However,
unlike Class B and Class C shares, you would not have all of your money invested
initially because the sales charge on Class A shares is deducted at the time of
purchase.
 
   
  If you do not qualify for a reduced sales charge on Class A shares and you
purchase Class B or Class C shares, you would have to hold your investment for
more than 6 years in the case of Class B shares and Class C shares for the
higher cumulative annual distribution-related fee on those shares to exceed the
initial sales charge plus cumulative annual distribution-related fees on Class A
shares. This does not take into account the time value of money, which further
reduces the impact of the higher Class B or Class C distribution-related fee on
the investment, fluctuations in NAV, the effect of the return on the investment
over this period of time or redemptions when the CDSC is applicable.
    
 
   
  ALL PURCHASES OF $1 MILLION OR MORE, EITHER AS PART OF A SINGLE INVESTMENT OR
UNDER RIGHTS OF ACCUMULATION OR LETTERS OF INTENT, MUST BE FOR CLASS A SHARES
UNLESS THE PURCHASER IS ELIGIBLE TO PURCHASE CLASS Z SHARES. See "Reduction and
Waiver of Initial Sales Charges" and "Class Z Shares" below.
    
 
CLASS A SHARES
 
   
  The offering price of Class A shares for investors choosing the initial sales
charge alternative is the next determined NAV following receipt of an order by
the Transfer Agent or Prudential Securities plus a sales charge (expressed as a
percentage of the offering price and of the amount invested) as shown in the
following table:
    
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                SALES CHARGE AS   SALES CHARGE AS   DEALER CONCESSION AS
                                 PERCENTAGE OF     PERCENTAGE OF       PERCENTAGE OF
AMOUNT OF PURCHASE              OFFERING PRICE    AMOUNT INVESTED      OFFERING PRICE
- ------------------------------  ---------------   ---------------   --------------------
<S>                             <C>               <C>               <C>
Less than $25,000                    5.00%             5.26%               4.75%
$25,000 to $49,999                   4.50%             4.71%               4.25%
$50,000 to $99,999                   4.00%             4.17%               3.75%
$100,000 to $249,999                 3.25%             3.36%               3.00%
$250,000 to $499,999                 2.50%             2.56%               2.40%
$500,000 to $999,999                 2.00%             2.04%               1.90%
$1,000,000 and above                  None              None                None
</TABLE>
 
  The Distributor may reallow the entire initial sales charge to dealers.
Selling dealers may be deemed to be underwriters, as that term is defined in the
Securities Act.
 
   
  In connection with the sale of the Class A shares at NAV (without payment of
an initial sales charge), the Manager, the Distributor or one of their
affiliates will pay dealers, financial advisers and other persons who distribute
shares a finders' fee from its own resources based on a percentage of the NAV of
shares sold by such persons.
    
 
  REDUCTION AND WAIVER OF INITIAL SALES CHARGES. Reduced sales charges are
available through Rights of Accumulation and Letters of Intent. Shares of the
Fund and shares of other Prudential Mutual Funds (excluding money market funds
other than those acquired pursuant to the exchange privilege) may be aggregated
to determine the applicable reduction. See "Purchase and Redemption of Fund
Shares--Reduction and Waiver of Initial Sales Charges--Class A Shares" in the
Statement of Additional Information.
 
                                       22
<PAGE>
   
  BENEFIT PLANS. Class A shares may be purchased at NAV, without payment of an
initial sales charge, by pension, profit-sharing or other employee benefit plans
qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code and deferred
compensation and annuity plans under Sections 457 or 403(b)(7) of the Internal
Revenue Code (collectively, Benefit Plans), provided that the Benefit Plan has
existing assets of at least $1 million invested in shares of Prudential Mutual
Funds (excluding money market funds other than those acquired pursuant to the
exchange privilege) or 250 eligible employees or participants. In the case of
Benefit Plans whose accounts are held directly with the Transfer Agent or
Prudential Securities and for which the Transfer Agent or Prudential Securities
does individual account recordkeeping (Direct Account Benefit Plans) and Benefit
Plans sponsored by Prudential Securities or its subsidiaries (Prudential
Securities or Subsidiary Prototype Benefit Plans), Class A shares may be
purchased at NAV by participants who are repaying loans made from such plans to
the participant.
    
 
   
  PRUDENTIAL RETIREMENT PROGRAMS. Class A shares may be purchased at NAV by
certain savings, retirement and deferred compensation plans, qualified or
non-qualified under the Internal Revenue Code, for which Prudential serves as
the plan administrator or recordkeeper, provided that (i) the plan has at least
$1 million in existing assets or 250 eligible employees and (ii) the Fund is an
available investment option. These plans include pension, profit-sharing,
stock-bonus or other employee benefit plans under Section 401 of the Internal
Revenue Code, deferred compensation and annuity plans under Section 457 or
403(b)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code and plans that participate in the
PruArray and SmartPath Programs (benefit plan recordkeeping services) (hereafter
referred to as a PruArray or SmartPath Plan). All plans of a company for which
Prudential serves as plan administrator or recordkeeper are aggregated in
meeting the $1 million threshold. The term "existing assets" as used herein
includes stock issued by a plan sponsor, shares of Prudential Mutual Funds and
shares of certain unaffiliated mutual funds that participate in the PruArray or
SmartPath Programs (Participating Funds). "Existing assets" also include monies
invested in The Guaranteed Interest Account (GIA), a group annuity insurance
product issued by Prudential, and units of The Stable Value Fund (SVF), an
unaffiliated bank collective fund. Class A shares may also be purchased at NAV
by plans that have monies invested in GIA and SVF, provided (i) the purchase is
made with the proceeds of a redemption from either GIA or SVF and (ii) Class A
shares are an investment option of the plan.
    
 
   
  PRUARRAY ASSOCIATION BENEFIT PLANS. Class A shares are also offered at NAV to
Benefit Plans or non-qualified plans sponsored by employers which are members of
a common trade, professional or membership association (Association) that
participate in the PruArray Program provided that the Association enters into a
written agreement with Prudential. Such Benefit Plans or non-qualified plans may
purchase Class A shares at NAV without regard to the assets or number of
participants in the individual employer's qualified Plan(s) or non-qualified
plans so long as the employers in the Association (i) have retirement plan
assets in the aggregate of at least $1 million or 250 participants in the
aggregate and (ii) maintain their accounts with the Transfer Agent.
    
 
   
  PRUARRAY SAVINGS PROGRAM. Class A shares are also offered at NAV to employees
of companies that enter into a written agreement with Prudential Retirement
Services to participate in the PruArray Savings Program. Under this Program, a
limited number of Prudential Mutual Funds are available for purchase at NAV by
Individual Retirement Accounts and Savings Accumulation Plans of the company's
employees. The Program is available only to (i) employees who open an IRA or
Savings Accumulation Plan account with the Transfer Agent and (ii) spouses of
employees who open an IRA account with the Transfer Agent. The Program is
offered to companies that have at least 250 eligible employees.
    
 
  SPECIAL RULES APPLICABLE TO RETIREMENT PLANS. After a Benefit Plan or PruArray
or SmartPath Plan qualifies to purchase Class A shares at NAV, all subsequent
purchases will be made at NAV.
 
  OTHER WAIVERS. In addition, Class A shares may be purchased at NAV, through
Prudential Securities or the Transfer Agent, by the following persons: (a)
officers of the Prudential Mutual Funds (including the Fund), (b) employees of
Prudential Securities and PIFM and their subsidiaries and members of the
families of such persons who maintain an "employee related" account at
Prudential Securities or the Transfer Agent, (c) employees of subadvisers of the
Prudential Mutual Funds provided that purchases at NAV are permitted by such
person's employer, (d) Prudential, employees and special agents of Prudential
and its subsidiaries and all persons who have retired directly from active
service with Prudential or one of its subsidiaries, (e) registered
 
                                       23
<PAGE>
representatives and employees of dealers who have entered into a selected dealer
agreement with Prudential Securities provided that purchases at NAV are
permitted by such person's employer, (f) investors who have a business
relationship with a financial adviser who joined Prudential Securities from
another investment firm, provided that (i) the purchase is made within 180 days
of the commencement of the financial adviser's employment at Prudential
Securities, or within one year in the case of benefit plans, (ii) the purchase
is made with proceeds of a redemption of shares of any open-end, non-money
market fund sponsored by the financial adviser's previous employer (other than a
fund which imposes a distribution or service fee of .25 of 1% or less) and (iii)
the financial adviser served as the client's broker on the previous purchase and
(g) investors in Individual Retirement Accounts, provided the purchase is made
with the proceeds of a tax-free rollover of assets from a Benefit Plan for which
Prudential Investments serves as the recordkeeper or administrator.
 
  You must notify the Transfer Agent either directly or through Prudential
Securities or Prusec that you are entitled to the reduction or waiver of the
sales charge. The reduction or waiver will be granted subject to confirmation of
your entitlement. No initial sales charges are imposed upon Class A shares
purchased upon the reinvestment of dividends and distributions. See "Purchase
and Redemption of Fund Shares--Reduction and Waiver of Initial Sales
Charges--Class A Shares" in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
  CLASS B AND CLASS C SHARES
 
  The offering price of Class B and Class C shares for investors choosing one of
the deferred sales charge alternatives is the NAV next determined following
receipt of an order by the Transfer Agent or Prudential Securities. Although
there is no sales charge imposed at the time of purchase, redemptions of Class B
and Class C shares may be subject to a CDSC. See "How to Sell Your
Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charges." The Distributor will pay, from its
own resources, sales commissions of up to 4% of the purchase price of Class B
shares to dealers, financial advisers and other persons who sell Class B shares
at the time of sale. This facilitates the ability of the Fund to sell the Class
B shares without an initial sales charge being deducted at the time of purchase.
The Distributor anticipates that it will recoup its advancement of sales
commissions from the combination of the CDSC and the distribution fee. See "How
the Fund is Managed--Distributor." In connection with the sale of Class C
shares, the Distributor will pay, from its own resources, dealers, financial
advisers and other persons which distribute Class C shares a sales commission of
up to 1% of the purchase price at the time of the sale.
 
  CLASS Z SHARES
 
   
  Class Z shares of the Fund are currently available for purchase by the
following categories of investors: (i) pension, profit-sharing or other employee
benefit plans qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code, deferred
compensation plans and annuity plans under Sections 457 and 403(b)(7) of the
Internal Revenue Code, and non-qualified plans for which the Fund is an
available option (collectively, Benefit Plans), provided that such Benefit Plans
(in combination with other plans sponsored by the same employer or group of
related employers) have at least $50 million in defined contribution assets;
(ii) participants in any fee-based program or trust program sponsored by
Prudential Securities, The Prudential Savings Bank, F.S.B. or any affiliate
which includes mutual funds as investment options and for which the Fund is an
available option; (iii) certain participants in the MEDLEY Program (group
variable annuity contracts) sponsored by Prudential for whom Class Z shares of
the Prudential Mutual Funds are an available investment option; (iv) Benefit
Plans for which Prudential Retirement Services serves as recordkeeper and as of
September 20, 1996, (a) were Class Z shareholders of the Prudential Mutual
Funds, or (b) executed a letter of intent to purchase Class Z shares of the
Prudential Mutual Funds; (v) current and former Directors/Trustees of the
Prudential Mutual Funds (including the Fund); and (vi) employees of Prudential
and/or Prudential Securities who participate in a Prudential-sponsored employee
savings plan. After a Benefit Plan qualifies to purchase Class Z shares, all
subsequent purchases will be for Class Z shares.
    
 
                                       24
<PAGE>
  In connection with the sale of Class Z shares, the Manager, Distributor or one
of their affiliates may pay dealers, financial advisers and other persons who
distribute shares a finders' fee from its own resources based on a percentage of
the net asset value of shares sold by such persons.
 
HOW TO SELL YOUR SHARES
 
   
  YOU CAN REDEEM SHARES OF THE FUND AT ANY TIME FOR CASH AT THE NAV PER SHARE
NEXT DETERMINED AFTER THE REDEMPTION REQUEST IS RECEIVED IN PROPER FORM BY THE
TRANSFER AGENT OR PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES. See "How the Fund Values its Shares."
In certain cases, however, redemption proceeds will be reduced by the amount of
any applicable CDSC, as described below. See "Contingent Deferred Sales
Charges."
    
 
  IF YOU HOLD SHARES OF THE FUND THROUGH PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES, YOU MUST REDEEM
YOUR SHARES THROUGH PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PRUDENTIAL
SECURITIES FINANCIAL ADVISER.
 
  IF YOU HOLD SHARES IN NON-CERTIFICATE FORM, A WRITTEN REQUEST FOR REDEMPTION
SIGNED BY YOU EXACTLY AS THE ACCOUNT IS REGISTERED IS REQUIRED. IF YOU HOLD
CERTIFICATES, THE CERTIFICATES SIGNED IN THE NAMES(S) SHOWN ON THE FACE OF THE
CERTIFICATES, MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE TRANSFER AGENT IN ORDER FOR THE REDEMPTION
REQUEST TO BE PROCESSED. IF REDEMPTION IS REQUESTED BY A CORPORATION,
PARTNERSHIP, TRUST OR FIDUCIARY, WRITTEN EVIDENCE OF AUTHORITY ACCEPTABLE TO THE
TRANSFER AGENT MUST BE SUBMITTED BEFORE SUCH REQUEST WILL BE ACCEPTED. All
correspondence and documents concerning redemptions should be sent to the Fund
in care of its Transfer Agent, Prudential Mutual Fund Services LLC, Attention:
Redemption Services, P.O. Box 15010, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08906-5010.
 
   
  If the proceeds of the redemption (a) exceed $50,000, (b) are to be paid to a
person other than the record owner, (c) are to be sent to an address other than
the address on the Transfer Agent's records, or (d) are to be paid to a
corporation, partnership, trust or fiduciary, the signature(s) on the redemption
request and on the certificates, if any, or stock power must be guaranteed by an
"eligible guarantor institution." An "eligible guarantor institution" includes
any bank, broker, dealer or credit union. The Transfer Agent reserves the right
to request additional information from, and make reasonable inquiries of, any
eligible guarantor institution. For clients of Prusec, a signature guarantee may
be obtained from the agency or office manager of most Prudential Insurance and
Financial Services or Prudential Preferred Financial Services offices. In the
case of redemptions from a PruArray or SmartPath Plan, if the proceeds of the
redemption are invested in another investment option of the plan in the name of
the record holder and at the same address as reflected in the Transfer Agent's
records, a signature guarantee is not required.
    
 
   
  PAYMENT FOR SHARES PRESENTED FOR REDEMPTION WILL BE MADE BY CHECK WITHIN SEVEN
DAYS AFTER RECEIPT BY THE TRANSFER AGENT OF THE CERTIFICATE AND/OR WRITTEN
REQUEST EXCEPT AS INDICATED BELOW. If you hold shares through Prudential
Securities, payment for shares presented for redemption will be credited to your
Prudential Securities Account, unless you indicate otherwise. Such payment may
be postponed or the right of redemption suspended at times (a) when the New York
Stock Exchange is closed for other than customary weekends and holidays, (b)
when trading on such Exchange is restricted, (c) when an emergency exists as a
result of which disposal by the Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably
practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for the Fund fairly to determine
the value of its net assets, or (d) during any other period when the Commission,
by order, so permits; provided that applicable rules and regulations of the
Commission shall govern as to whether the conditions prescribed in (b), (c) or
(d) exist.
    
 
  PAYMENT FOR REDEMPTION OF RECENTLY PURCHASED SHARES WILL BE DELAYED UNTIL THE
FUND OR ITS TRANSFER AGENT HAS BEEN ADVISED THAT THE PURCHASE CHECK HAS BEEN
HONORED, UP TO 10 CALENDAR DAYS FROM THE TIME OF RECEIPT OF THE PURCHASE CHECK
BY THE TRANSFER AGENT. SUCH DELAY MAY BE AVOIDED BY PURCHASING SHARES BY WIRE OR
BY CERTIFIED OR CASHIER'S CHECK.
 
  REDEMPTION IN KIND. If the Board of Trustees determines that it would be
detrimental to the best interests of the remaining shareholders of the Fund to
make payment wholly or partly in cash, the Fund may pay the redemption price in
whole or in part by a
 
                                       25
<PAGE>
   
distribution in kind of securities from the investment portfolio of the Fund, in
lieu of cash, in conformity with applicable rules of the Commission. Securities
will be readily marketable and will be valued in the same manner as a regular
redemption. See "How the Fund Values its Shares." If your shares are redeemed in
kind, you would incur transaction costs in converting the assets into cash. The
Fund has, however, elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment
Company Act, under which the Fund is obligated to redeem shares solely in cash
up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the NAV of the Fund during any 90-day
period for any one shareholder.
    
 
   
  INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTION. In order to reduce expenses of the Fund, the Board of
Trustees may redeem all of the shares of any shareholder, other than a
shareholder which is an IRA or other tax-deferred retirement plan, whose account
has a net asset value of less than $500 due to a redemption. The Fund will give
any such shareholder 60 days' prior written notice in which to purchase
sufficient additional shares to avoid such redemption. No CDSC will be imposed
on any such involuntary redemption.
    
 
   
  90-DAY REPURCHASE PRIVILEGE. If you redeem your shares and have not previously
exercised the repurchase privilege, you may reinvest any portion or all of the
proceeds of such redemption in shares of the Fund at the NAV next determined
after the order is received, which must be within 90 days after the date of
redemption. Any CDSC paid in connection with such redemption will be credited
(in shares) to your account. (If less than a full repurchase is made, the credit
will be on a PRO RATA basis.) You must notify the Transfer Agent, either
directly or through Prudential Securities, at the time the repurchase privilege
is exercised to adjust your account for the CDSC you previously paid.
Thereafter, any redemptions will be subject to the CDSC applicable at the time
of the redemption. See "Contingent Deferred Sales Charges" below. Exercise of
the repurchase privilege will generally not affect the federal tax treatment of
any gain realized upon redemption. However, if the redemption was made within a
30 day period of the repurchase and if the redemption resulted in a loss, some
or all of the loss depending on the amount reinvested, may not be allowed for
federal income tax purposes. For more information on the rule which disallows a
loss on the sale or exchange of shares of the Fund which are replaced, see
"Taxes, Dividends and Distributions" in the Statement of Additional Information.
    
 
  CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGES
 
  Redemptions of Class B shares will be subject to a contingent deferred sales
charge (CDSC) declining to zero from 5% over a six-year period. Class C shares
redeemed within one year of purchase will be subject to a 1% CDSC. The CDSC will
be deducted from the redemption proceeds and reduce the amount paid to you. The
CDSC will be imposed on any redemption by you which reduces the current value of
your Class B or Class C shares to an amount which is lower than the amount of
all payments by you for shares during the preceding six years, in the case of
Class B shares, and one year, in the case of Class C shares. A CDSC will be
applied on the lesser of the original purchase price or the current value of the
shares being redeemed. Increases in the value of your shares or shares purchased
through reinvestment of dividends or distributions are not subject to CDSC. The
amount of any contingent deferred sales charge will be paid to and retained by
the Distributor. See "How the Fund is Managed--Distributor" and "Waiver of
Contingent Deferred Sales Charges--Class B Shares" below.
 
  The amount of the CDSC, if any, will vary depending on the number of years
from the time of payment for the purchase of your shares until the time of
redemption of such shares. Solely for purposes of determining the number of
years from the time of any payment for the purchase of shares, all payments
during a month will be aggregated and deemed to have been made on the last day
of the month. The CDSC will be calculated from the first day of the month after
the initial purchase, excluding the time shares were held in a money market
fund. See "How to Exchange Your Shares" below.
 
                                       26
<PAGE>
  The following table sets forth the rates of the CDSC applicable to redemptions
of Class B shares:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE
YEAR SINCE PURCHASE             AS A PERCENTAGE OF DOLLARS INVESTED
  PAYMENT MADE                        OR REDEMPTION PROCEEDS
- ------------------------------  -----------------------------------
<S>                             <C>
First.........................                 5.0%
Second........................                 4.0%
Third.........................                 3.0%
Fourth........................                 2.0%
Fifth.........................                 1.0%
Sixth.........................                 1.0%
Seventh.......................                 None
</TABLE>
 
   
  In determining whether a CDSC is applicable to a redemption, the calculation
will be made in a manner that results generally in the lowest possible rate. It
will be assumed that the redemption is made first of amounts representing shares
acquired pursuant to the reinvestment of dividends and distributions; then of
amounts representing the increase in NAV above the total amount of payments for
the purchase of Fund shares made during the preceding six years; then of amounts
representing the cost of shares held beyond the applicable CDSC period; and
finally, of amounts representing the cost of shares held for the longest period
of time within the applicable CDSC period.
    
 
  For example, assume you purchased 100 Class B shares at $10 per share for a
cost of $1,000. Subsequently, you acquired 5 additional Class B shares through
dividend reinvestment. During the second year after the purchase, you decided to
redeem $500 of your investment. Assuming at the time of the redemption the NAV
had appreciated to $12 per share, the value of your Class B shares would be
$1,260 (105 shares at $12 per share). The CDSC would not be applied to the value
of the reinvested dividend shares and the amount which represents appreciation
($260). Therefore, $240 of the $500 redemption proceeds ($500 minus $260) would
be charged at a rate of 4% (the applicable rate in the second year after
purchase) for a total CDSC of $9.60.
 
  For federal income tax purposes, the amount of the CDSC will reduce the gain
or increase the loss, as the case may be, on the amount recognized on the
redemption of shares.
 
  WAIVER OF CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGES--CLASS B SHARES. The CDSC will be
waived in the case of a redemption following the death or disability of a
shareholder or, in the case of a trust account, following the death or
disability of the grantor. The waiver is available for total or partial
redemptions of shares owned by a person, either individually or in joint tenancy
(with rights of survivorship), or a trust, at the time of death or initial
determination or disability, provided that the shares were purchased prior to
death or disability.
 
   
  The CDSC will also be waived in the case of a total or partial redemption in
connection with certain distributions made without penalty under the Internal
Revenue Code from a tax-deferred retirement plan, an IRA or Section 403(b)
custodial account. These distributions include: (i) in the case of a
tax-deferred retirement plan, a lump-sum or other distribution after retirement;
(ii) in the case of an IRA or Section 403(b) custodial account, a lump-sum or
other distribution after attaining age 59 1/2; and (iii) a tax-free return of an
excess contribution or plan distributions following the death or disability of
the shareholder, provided that the shares were purchased prior to death or
disability. The waiver does not apply in the case of a tax-free rollover or
transfer of assets, other than one following a separation from service, I.E.,
following voluntary or involuntary termination of employment or following
retirement. Under no circumstances will the CDSC be waived on redemptions
resulting from the termination of a tax-deferred retirement plan unless such
redemptions otherwise qualify as a waiver as described above. In the case of
Direct Account and Prudential Securities or Subsidiary Prototype Benefit Plans,
the CDSC will be waived on redemptions which represent borrowings from such
plans. Shares purchased with amounts used to repay a loan from such plans on
which a CDSC was not previously
    
 
                                       27
<PAGE>
deducted will thereafter be subject to a CDSC without regard to the time such
amounts were previously invested. In the case of a 401(k) plan, the CDSC will
also be waived upon the redemption of shares purchased with amounts used to
repay loans made from the account to the participant and from which a CDSC was
previously deducted.
 
  SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN. The CDSC will be waived (or reduced) on certain
redemptions from a Systematic Withdrawal Plan. On an annual basis, up to 12% of
the total dollar amount subject to the CDSC may be redeemed without charge. The
Transfer Agent will calculate the total amount available for this waiver
annually on the anniversary date of your purchase or, for exchanged shares
purchased prior to March 1, 1997, on March 1 of the current year. The CDSC will
be waived (or reduced) on redemptions until this threshold 12% amount is
reached.
 
  In addition, the CDSC will be waived on redemptions of shares held by a
Trustee of the Fund.
 
  You must notify the Transfer Agent either directly or through Prudential
Securities or Prusec, at the time of redemption, that you are entitled to waiver
of the CDSC and provide the Transfer Agent with such supporting documentation as
it may deem appropriate. The waiver will be granted subject to confirmation of
your entitlement. See "Purchase and Redemption of Fund Shares--Waiver of the
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge--Class B Shares" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
 
  WAIVER OF CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGES--CLASS C SHARES
 
  PRUARRAY OR SMARTPATH PLANS. The CDSC will be waived on redemptions from
qualified and non-qualified retirement and deferred compensation plans that
participate in the Transfer Agent's PruArray and SmartPath Programs.
 
CONVERSION FEATURE--CLASS B SHARES
 
  Class B shares will automatically convert to Class A shares on a quarterly
basis approximately seven years after purchase. Conversions will be effected at
relative net asset value without the imposition of any additional sales charge.
 
   
  Since the Fund tracks amounts paid rather than the number of shares bought on
each purchase of Class B shares, the number of Class B shares eligible to
convert to Class A shares (excluding shares acquired through the automatic
reinvestment of dividends and other distributions) (the Eligible Shares) will be
determined on each conversion date in accordance with the following formula: (i)
the ratio of (a) the amounts paid for Class B shares purchased at least seven
years prior to the conversion date to (b) the total amount paid for all Class B
shares purchased and then held in your account (ii) multiplied by the total
number of Class B shares purchased and then held in your account. Each time any
Eligible Shares in your account convert to Class A shares, all shares or amounts
representing Class B shares purchased and then held in your account that were
acquired through the automatic reinvestment of dividends and other distributions
will convert to Class A shares.
    
 
  For purposes of determining the number of Eligible Shares, if the Class B
shares in your account on any conversion date are the result of multiple
purchases at different net asset values per share, the number of Eligible Shares
calculated as described above will generally be either more or less than the
number of shares actually purchased approximately seven years before such
conversion date. For example, if 100 shares were initially purchased at $10 per
share (for a total of $1,000) and a second purchase of 100 shares was
subsequently made at $11 per share (for a total of $1,100), 95.24 shares would
convert approximately seven years from the initial purchase (I.E., $1,000
divided by $2,100 or 47.62% multiplied by 200 shares or 95.24 shares). The
Manager reserves the right to modify the formula for determining the number of
Eligible Shares in the future as it deems appropriate on notice to shareholders.
 
   
  Since annual distribution-related fees are lower for Class A shares than Class
B shares, the per share NAV of the Class A shares may be higher than that of the
Class B shares at the time of conversion. Thus, although the aggregate dollar
value will be the same, you may receive fewer Class A shares than Class B shares
converted. See "How the Fund Values its Shares."
    
 
                                       28
<PAGE>
  For purposes of calculating the applicable holding period for conversions, all
payments for Class B shares during a month will be deemed to have been made on
the last day of the month, or for Class B shares acquired through exchange, or a
series of exchanges, on the last day of the month in which the original payment
for purchases of such Class B shares was made. For Class B shares previously
exchanged for shares of a money market fund, the time period during which such
shares were held in the money market fund will be excluded. For example, Class B
shares held in a money market fund for one year will not convert to Class A
shares until approximately eight years from purchase. For purposes of measuring
the time period during which shares are held in a money market fund, exchanges
will be deemed to have been made on the last day of the month. Class B shares
acquired through exchange will convert to Class A shares after expiration of the
conversion period applicable to the original purchase of such shares.
 
  The conversion feature may be subject to the continuing availability of
opinions of counsel or rulings of the Internal Revenue Service (i) that the
dividends and other distributions paid on Class A, Class B, Class C and Class Z
shares will not constitute "preferential dividends" under the Internal Revenue
Code and (ii) that the conversion of shares does not constitute a taxable event.
The conversion of Class B shares into Class A shares may be suspended if such
opinions or rulings are no longer available. If conversions are suspended, Class
B shares will continue to be subject, possibly indefinitely, to their higher
annual distribution and service fee.
 
HOW TO EXCHANGE YOUR SHARES
 
  AS A SHAREHOLDER OF THE FUND YOU HAVE AN EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE WITH CERTAIN OTHER
PRUDENTIAL MUTUAL FUNDS, INCLUDING ONE OR MORE SPECIFIED MONEY MARKET FUNDS,
SUBJECT TO THE MINIMUM INVESTMENT REQUIREMENTS OF SUCH FUNDS. CLASS A, CLASS B,
CLASS C AND CLASS Z SHARES MAY BE EXCHANGED FOR CLASS A, CLASS B, CLASS C AND
CLASS Z SHARES, RESPECTIVELY, OF ANOTHER FUND ON THE BASIS OF THE RELATIVE NAV.
No sales charge will be imposed at the time of exchange. Any applicable CDSC
payable upon the redemption of shares exchanged will be that imposed by the fund
in which shares are initially purchased and will be calculated from the first
day of the month after the initial purchase, excluding the time shares were held
in a money market fund. Class B and Class C shares may not be exchanged into
money market funds other than Prudential Special Money Market Fund, Inc. For
purposes of calculating the holding period applicable to the Class B conversion
feature, the time period during which Class B shares were held in a money market
fund will be excluded. See "Conversion Feature--Class B Shares." An exchange
will be treated as a redemption and purchase for tax purposes. See "Shareholder
Investment Account--Exchange Privilege" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
 
   
  IN ORDER TO EXCHANGE SHARES BY TELEPHONE, YOU MUST AUTHORIZE TELEPHONE
EXCHANGES ON YOUR INITIAL APPLICATION FORM OR BY WRITTEN NOTICE TO THE TRANSFER
AGENT AND HOLD SHARES IN NON-CERTIFICATE FORM. Thereafter, you may call the Fund
at (800) 225-1852 to execute a telephone exchange of shares, on weekdays, except
holidays, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M., New York time. For your
protection and to prevent fraudulent exchanges, your telephone call will be
recorded and you will be asked to provide your personal identification number. A
written confirmation of the exchange transaction will be sent to you. NEITHER
THE FUND NOR ITS AGENTS WILL BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS, LIABILITY OR COST WHICH
RESULTS FROM ACTING UPON INSTRUCTIONS REASONABLY BELIEVED TO BE GENUINE UNDER
THE FOREGOING PROCEDURES. All exchanges will be made on the basis of the
relative NAV of the two funds next determined after the request is received in
good order.
    
 
  IF YOU HOLD SHARES THROUGH PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES, YOU MUST EXCHANGE YOUR
SHARES BY CONTACTING YOUR PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES FINANCIAL ADVISER.
 
  IF YOU HOLD CERTIFICATES, THE CERTIFICATES, SIGNED IN THE NAME(S) SHOWN ON THE
FACE OF THE CERTIFICATES, MUST BE RETURNED IN ORDER FOR THE SHARES TO BE
EXCHANGED. SEE "HOW TO SELL YOUR SHARES" ABOVE.
 
  You may also exchange shares by mail by writing to Prudential Mutual Fund
Services LLC, Attention: Exchange Processing, P.O. Box 15010, New Brunswick, New
Jersey 08906-5010.
 
                                       29
<PAGE>
  IN PERIODS OF SEVERE MARKET OR ECONOMIC CONDITIONS THE TELEPHONE EXCHANGE OF
SHARES MAY BE DIFFICULT TO IMPLEMENT AND YOU SHOULD MAKE EXCHANGES BY MAIL BY
WRITING TO PRUDENTIAL MUTUAL FUND SERVICES LLC, AT THE ADDRESS NOTED ABOVE.
 
  SPECIAL EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES. A special exchange privilege is available for
shareholders who qualify to purchase Class A shares at NAV (see "Alternative
Purchase Plan--Class A Shares--Reduction and Waiver of Initial Sales Charges"
above) and for shareholders who qualify to purchase Class Z shares (see
"Alternative Purchase Plan--Class Z Shares" above). Under this exchange
privilege, amounts representing any Class B and Class C shares (which are not
subject to a CDSC) held in such a shareholder's account will be automatically
exchanged for Class A shares for shareholders who qualify to purchase Class A
shares at NAV on a quarterly basis, unless the shareholder elects otherwise.
Similarly, shareholders who qualify to purchase Class Z shares, will have their
Class B and Class C shares which are not subject to a CDSC and their Class A
shares exchanged for Class Z shares on a quarterly basis. Eligibility for this
exchange privilege will be calculated on the business day prior to the date of
the exchange. Amounts representing Class B or Class C shares which are not
subject to a CDSC include the following: (1) amounts representing Class B or
Class C shares acquired pursuant to the automatic reinvestment of dividends and
distributions, (2) amounts representing the increase in the net asset value
above the total amount of payments for the purchase of Class B or Class C shares
and (3) amounts representing Class B or Class C shares held beyond the
applicable CDSC period. Class B and Class C shareholders must notify the
Transfer Agent either directly or through Prudential Securities or Prusec that
they are eligible for this special exchange privilege.
 
   
  Participants in any fee-based program for which the Fund is an available
option will have their Class A shares, if any, exchanged for Class Z shares when
they elect to have those assets become a part of the fee-based program. Upon
leaving the program (whether voluntarily or not), such Class Z shares (and, to
the extent provided for in the program, Class Z shares acquired through
participation in the program) will be exchanged for Class A shares at NAV.
    
 
  The exchange privilege is not a right and may be suspended, modified or
terminated on 60 days' notice to shareholders.
 
  FREQUENT TRADING. The Fund and the other Prudential Mutual Funds are not
intended to serve as vehicles for frequent trading in response to short-term
fluctuations in the market. Due to the disruptive effect that market timing
investment strategies and excessive trading can have on efficient portfolio
management, the Fund reserves the right to refuse purchase orders and exchanges
by any person, group or commonly controlled accounts, if, in the Manager's sole
judgment, such person, group or accounts were following a market timing strategy
or were otherwise engaging in excessive trading (Market Timers).
 
  To implement this authority to protect the Fund and its shareholders from
excessive trading, the Fund will reject all exchanges and purchases from a
Market Timer unless the Market Timer has entered into a written agreement with
the Fund or its affiliates pursuant to which the Market Timer has agreed to
abide by certain procedures, which include a daily dollar limit on trading. The
Fund may notify the Market Timer of rejection of an exchange or purchase order
subsequent to the day on which the order was placed.
 
SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
 
  In addition to the exchange privilege, as a shareholder in the Fund, you can
take advantage of the following additional services and privileges:
 
  -AUTOMATIC REINVESTMENT OF DIVIDENDS AND/OR DISTRIBUTIONS WITHOUT A SALES
CHARGE. For your convenience, all dividends and distributions are automatically
reinvested in full and fractional shares of the Fund at NAV without a sales
charge. You may direct the Transfer Agent in writing not less than 5 full
business days prior to the record date to have subsequent dividends and/or
distributions sent in cash rather than reinvested. If you hold shares through
Prudential Securities, you should contact your financial adviser.
 
                                       30
<PAGE>
  -AUTOMATIC SAVINGS ACCUMULATION PLAN (ASAP). Under ASAP you may make regular
purchases of the Fund's shares in amounts as little as $50 via an automatic
debit to a bank account or Prudential Securities account (including a Command
Account). For additional information about this service, you may contact your
Prudential Securities financial adviser, Prusec registered representative or the
Transfer Agent directly.
 
  -TAX-DEFERRED RETIREMENT PLANS. Various tax-deferred retirement plans,
including a 401(k) plan, self-directed individual retirement accounts and
"tax-sheltered accounts" under Section 403(b)(7)of the Internal Revenue Code are
available through the Distributor. These plans are for use by both self-employed
individuals and corporate employers. These plans permit either self-direction of
accounts by participants, or a pooled account arrangement. Information regarding
the establishment of these plans, the administration, custodial fees and other
details is available from Prudential Securities or the Transfer Agent. If you
are considering adopting such a plan, you should consult with your own legal or
tax adviser with respect to the establishment and maintenance of such a plan.
 
  -SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN. A systematic withdrawal plan is available to
shareholders, which provides for monthly or quarterly checks. Withdrawals of
Class B and Class C shares may be subject to a CDSC. See "How to Sell Your
Shares-- Contingent Deferred Sales Charges." See also "Shareholder Investment
Account--Systematic Withdrawal Plan" in the Statement of Additional Information.
 
  -REPORTS TO SHAREHOLDERS. The Fund will send you annual and semi-annual
reports. The financial statements appearing in annual reports are audited by
independent accountants. In order to reduce duplicate mailing and printing
expenses, the Fund will provide one annual and semi-annual shareholder report
and annual prospectus per household. You may request additional copies of such
reports by calling (800) 225-1852 (toll-free) or by writing to the Fund at
Gateway Center Three, 100 Mulberry Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4077. In
addition, monthly unaudited financial data are available upon request from the
Fund.
 
  -SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES. Inquiries should be addressed to the Fund at Gateway
Center Three, 100 Mulberry Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4077, or by
telephone, at (800) 225-1852 (toll-free) or, from outside the U.S.A. at (908)
417-7555 (collect).
 
  For additional information regarding the services and privileges described
above, see "Shareholder Investment Account" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
 
                                       31
<PAGE>
   
                        DESCRIPTION OF SECURITY RATINGS
    
 
   
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC.
    
 
   
BOND RATINGS
    
 
   
  Aaa: Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt edged". Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
    
 
   
  Aa: Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known
as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities.
    
 
   
  A: Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
    
 
   
  Baa: Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade obligations,
I.E., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present, but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.
    
 
   
  Ba: Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate, and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
    
 
   
  B: Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
    
 
   
  Moody's applies numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 in each generic rating
classification from Aa to B. The modifier 1 indicates that the company ranks in
the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a
mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates that the company ranks in the
lower end of its generic rating category.
    
 
   
  Caa: Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest.
    
 
   
  Ca: Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in a
high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
    
 
   
  C: Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds, and issues so
rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any
real investment standing.
    
 
   
SHORT-TERM DEBT RATINGS
    
 
   
  Moody's short-term debt ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to
repay punctually senior debt obligations. These obligations have an original
maturity not exceeding one year, unless explicitly noted.
    
 
   
  Prime-1: Issuers rated "Prime-1" (or supporting institutions) have a superior
ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations.
    
 
                                      A-1
<PAGE>
   
  Prime-2: Issuers rated "Prime-2" (or supporting institutions) have a strong
ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations.
    
 
   
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP
    
 
   
DEBT RATINGS
    
 
   
  AAA: Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by S&P. Capacity to pay
interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
    
 
   
  AA: Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the highest rated issues only in small degree.
    
 
   
  A: Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal,
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher-rated categories.
    
 
   
  BBB: Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest
and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than in higher-rated categories.
    
 
   
  BB, B, CCC, CC and C: Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C is regarded as having
predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C
the highest degree of speculation. While such debt will likely have some quality
and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or
major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
    
 
   
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
    
 
   
  S&P's commercial paper ratings are current assessments of the likelihood of
timely payment of debt considered short-term in the relevant market.
    
 
   
  A-1: This highest category indicates that the degree of safety regarding
timely payment is strong. Those issues determined to possess extremely strong
safety characteristics are denoted with a plus sign (+) designation.
    
 
   
  A-2: Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is
satisfactory. However, the relative degree of safety is not as high as for
issues designated A-1.
    
 
                                      A-2
<PAGE>
                       THE PRUDENTIAL MUTUAL FUND FAMILY
 
   
  Prudential offers a broad range of mutual funds designed to meet your
individual needs. We welcome you to review the investment options available
through our family of funds. For more information on the Prudential Mutual
Funds, including charges and expenses, contact your Prudential Securities
financial adviser or Prusec representative or telephone the Fund at (800)
225-1852 for a free prospectus. Read the prospectus carefully before you invest
or send money.
    
 
      TAXABLE BOND FUNDS
    --------------------------
 
   
Prudential Diversified Bond Fund, Inc.
Prudential Government Income Fund, Inc.
Prudential Government Securities Trust
    Short-Intermediate Term Series
Prudential High Yield Fund, Inc.
Prudential High Yield Total Return Fund, Inc.
Prudential Mortgage Income Fund, Inc.
Prudential Structured Maturity Fund, Inc.
    Income Portfolio
    
 
      TAX-EXEMPT BOND FUNDS
    -----------------------------
 
Prudential California Municipal Fund
    California Series
    California Income Series
Prudential Municipal Bond Fund
    High Yield Series
    Insured Series
    Intermediate Series
Prudential Municipal Series Fund
    Florida Series
    Maryland Series
    Massachusetts Series
    Michigan Series
    New Jersey Series
    New York Series
    North Carolina Series
    Ohio Series
    Pennsylvania Series
Prudential National Municipals Fund, Inc.
 
      GLOBAL FUNDS
    --------------------
 
Prudential Europe Growth Fund, Inc.
Prudential Global Genesis Fund, Inc.
Prudential Global Limited Maturity Fund, Inc.
    Limited Maturity Portfolio
Prudential Intermediate Global Income Fund, Inc.
Prudential International Bond Fund, Inc.
Prudential Natural Resources Fund, Inc.
Prudential Pacific Growth Fund, Inc.
Prudential World Fund, Inc.
    Global Series
    International Stock Series
The Global Total Return Fund, Inc.
Global Utility Fund, Inc.
 
      EQUITY FUNDS
    --------------------
 
   
Prudential Balanced Fund
Prudential Distressed Securities Fund, Inc.
Prudential Emerging Growth Fund, Inc.
Prudential Equity Fund, Inc.
Prudential Equity Income Fund
Prudential Index Series Fund
    Prudential Bond Market Index Fund
    Prudential Europe Index Fund
    Prudential Pacific Index Fund
    Prudential Small-Cap Index Fund
    Prudential Stock Index Fund
Prudential Jennison Series Fund, Inc.
    Prudential Jennison Active Balanced Fund
    Prudential Jennison Growth Fund
    Prudential Jennison Growth & Income Fund
Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund
Prudential Multi-Sector Fund, Inc.
Prudential Real Estate Securities Fund
Prudential Small-Cap Quantum Fund, Inc.
Prudential Small Company Value Fund, Inc.
Prudential Utility Fund, Inc.
Nicholas-Applegate Fund, Inc.
    Nicholas-Applegate Growth Equity Fund
    
 
      MONEY MARKET FUNDS
    --------------------------
 
   
- - TAXABLE MONEY MARKET FUNDS
Cash Accumulation Trust
    Liquid Assets Fund
    National Money Market Fund
Prudential Government Securities Trust
    Money Market Series
    U.S. Treasury Money Market Series
Prudential Special Money Market Fund, Inc.
    Money Market Series
Prudential MoneyMart Assets, Inc.
- - TAX-FREE MONEY MARKET FUNDS
Prudential Tax-Free Money Fund, Inc.
Prudential California Municipal Fund
    California Money Market Series
Prudential Municipal Series Fund
    Connecticut Money Market Series
    Massachusetts Money Market Series
    New Jersey Money Market Series
    New York Money Market Series
- - COMMAND FUNDS
Command Money Fund
Command Government Fund
Command Tax-Free Fund
- - INSTITUTIONAL MONEY MARKET FUNDS
Prudential Institutional Liquidity Portfolio, Inc.
    Institutional Money Market Series
    
 
                                      B-1
<PAGE>
No dealer, sales representative or any other person has been authorized to give
any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in
this Prospectus, in connection with the offer contained herein, and, if given or
made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as
having been authorized by the Fund or the Distributor. This Prospectus does not
constitute an offer by the Fund or by the Distributor to sell or a solicitation
of any offer to buy any of the securities offered hereby in any jurisdiction to
any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer in such jurisdiction.
- -------------------------------------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    PAGE
                                                     ---
<S>                                               <C>
FUND HIGHLIGHTS.................................         2
  What are the Fund's Risk Factors and Special
   Characteristics?.............................         2
FUND EXPENSES...................................         4
HOW THE FUND INVESTS............................         5
  Investment Objective and Policies.............         5
  Other Investments and Policies................         7
  Hedging and Return Enhancement Strategies.....         9
  Investment Restrictions.......................        12
HOW THE FUND IS MANAGED.........................        13
  Manager.......................................        13
  Distributor...................................        14
  Fee Waivers...................................        15
  Portfolio Transactions........................        15
  Custodian and Transfer and Dividend Disbursing
   Agent........................................        15
  Year 2000.....................................        15
HOW THE FUND VALUES ITS SHARES..................        16
HOW THE FUND CALCULATES PERFORMANCE.............        16
TAXES, DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS..............        17
GENERAL INFORMATION.............................        18
  Description of Shares.........................        18
  Additional Information........................        19
SHAREHOLDER GUIDE...............................        20
  How to Buy Shares of the Fund.................        20
  Alternative Purchase Plan.....................        21
  How to Sell Your Shares.......................        25
  Conversion Feature--Class B Shares............        28
  How to Exchange Your Shares...................        29
  Shareholder Services..........................        30
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITY RATINGS.................       A-1
THE PRUDENTIAL MUTUAL FUND FAMILY...............       B-1
</TABLE>
    
 
- -------------------------------------------
 
MF   A
 
   
                                       Class A:    744353-10-3
                                       Class B:    744353-20-2
                        CUSIP Nos.:    Class C:    744353-30-1
                                       Class Z:    744353-40-0
 
    
 
PRUDENTIAL
MID-CAP
VALUE
FUND
 
   
                         PROSPECTUS
  May 1, 1998
    
 
                              www.prudential.com
 
           -----------------
 
         [LOGO]
<PAGE>
   
                         PRUDENTIAL MID-CAP VALUE FUND
                      STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
                               DATED MAY 1, 1998
    
 
   
    Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund (the Fund) is a diversified, open-end,
management investment company. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term
capital growth. The Fund seeks to achieve this objective by investing primarily
in a portfolio of equity securities of mid-cap companies that the investment
adviser believes are undervalued. There can be no assurance that the Fund's
investment objective will be achieved. See "Investment Objective and Policies."
    
 
    The Fund's address is Gateway Center Three, 100 Mulberry Street, Newark, New
Jersey 07102-4077, and its telephone number is (800) 225-1852.
 
   
    This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus and should be
read in conjunction with the Prospectus of the Fund dated May 1, 1998, a copy of
which may be obtained from the Fund upon request.
    
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                  CROSS-REFERENCE
                                                                                                                    TO PAGE IN
                                                                                                       PAGE         PROSPECTUS
                                                                                                     ---------  -------------------
<S>                                                                                                  <C>        <C>
Investment Objective and Policies..................................................................  B-2                     5
Investment Restrictions............................................................................  B-11                   12
Trustees and Officers..............................................................................  B-12                   13
Manager............................................................................................  B-15                   13
Distributor........................................................................................  B-17                   14
Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage...............................................................  B-17                   15
Purchase and Redemption of Fund Shares.............................................................  B-19                   19
Shareholder Investment Account.....................................................................  B-21                   30
Net Asset Value....................................................................................  B-25                   16
Performance Information............................................................................  B-26                   16
Taxes, Dividends and Distributions.................................................................  B-27                   17
Custodian, Transfer and Dividend Disbursing Agent and Independent Accountants......................  B-29                   15
Statement of Assets and Liabilities................................................................  B-30                   --
Report of Independent Accountants..................................................................  B-32                   --
Appendix I--General Investment Information.........................................................  I-1                    --
Appendix II--Historical Performance Data...........................................................  II-1                   --
Appendix III--Information Relating to Prudential...................................................  III-1                  --
</TABLE>
    
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
MF____B
<PAGE>
                       INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
 
   
    The Fund's investment objective is long-term capital growth. It attempts to
achieve such objective by investing primarily in a portfolio of equity
securities of mid-cap companies that the investment adviser believes are
undervalued. There can be no assurance that the Fund's investment objective will
be achieved. See "How the Fund Invests--Investment Objective and Policies" in
the Prospectus.
    
 
   
    The investment adviser believes that, in seeking to attain capital
appreciation, it is important to attempt to minimize losses. Accordingly, the
investment adviser will attempt to anticipate periods when stock prices
generally decline. When, in the investment adviser's judgment, such a period is
imminent, the Fund will take defensive measures, such as investing all or part
of the Fund's assets in money market instruments during this period. The Fund
may also engage in various derivatives transactions, such as the purchase and
sale of options on equity securities, stock indices and foreign currencies,
forward foreign currency exchange contracts and futures contracts on stock
indices and foreign currencies and options thereon to hedge its portfolio and to
attempt to enhance return.
    
 
   
EQUITY AND EQUITY-RELATED SECURITIES
    
 
   
    AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS AND AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES. Generally, ADRs
and ADSs are in registered form. There are no fees imposed on the purchase or
sale of ADRs and ADSs when purchased from the issuing bank or trust company in
the initial underwriting, although the issuing bank or trust company may impose
charges for the collection of dividends and the conversion of ADRs and ADSs into
the underlying securities. Investment in ADRs and ADSs has certain advantages
over direct investment in the underlying foreign securities since: (i) ADRs and
ADSs are U.S. dollar-denominated investments that are registered domestically,
easily transferable, and for which market quotations are readily available; and
(ii) issuers whose securities are represented by ADRs and ADSs are usually
subject to auditing, accounting, and financial reporting standards comparable to
those of domestic issuers.
    
 
   
    WARRANTS AND RIGHTS. A warrant gives the holder thereof the right to
subscribe by a specified date to a stated number of shares of stock of the
issuer at a fixed price. Warrants tend to be more volatile than the underlying
stock, and if, at a warrant's expiration date the stock is trading at a price
below the price set in the warrant, the warrant will expire worthless.
Conversely, if at the expiration date, the underlying stock is trading at a
price higher than the price set in the warrant, the Fund can acquire the stock
at a price below its market value. Rights are similar to warrants but normally
have a shorter duration and are distributed directly by the issuer to
shareholders. Rights and warrants have no voting rights, receive no dividends
and have no rights with respect to the corporation issuing them.
    
 
   
FOREIGN SECURITIES
    
 
   
    The Fund is permitted to invest up to 30% of its total assets in securities
of foreign issuers.
    
 
   
    If the security is denominated in a foreign currency, it will be affected by
changes in currency exchange rates and in exchange control regulations, and
costs will be incurred in connection with conversions between currencies. A
change in the value of any such currency against the U.S. dollar will result in
a corresponding change in the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's securities
denominated in that currency. Such changes also will affect the Fund's income
and distributions to shareholders. In addition, although the Fund will receive
income in such currencies, the Fund will be required to compute and distribute
its income in U.S. dollars. Therefore, if the exchange rate for any such
currency declines after the Fund's income has been accrued and translated into
U.S. dollars, the Fund could be required to liquidate portfolio securities to
make such distributions, particularly in instances in which the amount of income
the Fund is required to distribute is not immediately reduced by the decline in
such currency. Similarly, if an exchange rate declines between the time the Fund
incurs expenses in U.S. dollars and the time such expenses are paid, the amount
of such currency required to be converted into U.S. dollars in order to pay such
expenses in U.S. dollars will be greater than the equivalent amount in any such
currency of such expenses at the time they were incurred. The Fund may, but need
not, enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts, options on foreign
currencies and futures contracts on foreign currencies and related options, for
hedging purposes, including: locking-in the U.S. dollar price of the purchase or
sale of securities denominated in a foreign currency; locking-in the U.S. dollar
equivalent of dividends to be paid on such securities which are held by the
Fund; and protecting the U.S. dollar value of such securities which are held by
the Fund.
    
 
   
    Under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Internal Revenue
Code), changes in an exchange rate which occur between the time the Fund accrues
interest or other receivables or accrues expenses or other liabilities
denominated in a foreign currency and the time the Fund actually collects such
receivables or pays such liabilities will result in foreign currency
    
 
                                      B-2
<PAGE>
   
gains or losses that increase or decrease an investment company's taxable
income. The exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and other currencies can be
volatile and are determined by such factors as supply and demand in the currency
exchange markets, international balances of payments, government intervention,
speculation and other economic and political conditions.
    
 
   
    Foreign securities include securities of any foreign country the investment
adviser considers appropriate for investment by the Fund. Foreign securities may
also include securities of foreign issuers that are traded in U.S. dollars in
the United States although the underlying security is usually denominated in a
foreign currency.
    
 
   
    The costs attributable to foreign investing are higher than the costs of
domestic investing. For example, the cost of maintaining custody of foreign
securities generally exceeds custodian costs for domestic securities, and
transaction and settlement costs of foreign investing are frequently higher than
those attributable to domestic investing. Foreign investment income may be
subject to foreign withholding or other government taxes that could reduce the
return to the Fund on those securities. Tax treaties between the United States
and certain foreign countries may, however, reduce or eliminate the amount of
foreign tax to which the Fund would be subject.
    
 
   
RISKS OF INVESTING IN HIGH YIELD SECURITIES
    
 
    Fixed-income securities are subject to the risk of an issuer's inability to
meet principal interest payments on the obligations (credit risk) and may also
be subject to price volatility due to such factors as interest rate sensitivity,
market perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and general market
liquidity (market risk). Lower rated or unrated (I.E., high yield) securities
are more likely to react to developments affecting market and credit risk than
are more highly rated securities, which react primarily to movements in the
general level of interest rates. The investment adviser considers both credit
risk and market risk in making investment decisions for the Fund. Investors
should carefully consider the relative risks of investing high yield securities
and understand that such securities are not generally meant for short-term
trading.
 
   
    The amount of high yield securities outstanding proliferated in the 1980s in
conjunction with the increase in merger and acquisition and leveraged buyout
activity. Under adverse economic conditions, there is a risk that highly
leveraged issuers may be unable to service their debt obligations or to repay
their obligations upon maturity. In addition, the secondary market for high
yield securities, which is concentrated in relatively few market makers, may not
be as liquid as the secondary market for more highly rated securities. Under
adverse market or economic conditions, the secondary market for high yield
securities could contract further, independent of any specific adverse changes
in the condition of a particular issuer. As a result, the investment adviser
could find it more difficult to sell these securities or may be able to sell the
securities only at prices lower than if such securities were widely traded.
Prices realized upon the sale of such lower rated or unrated securities, under
these circumstances, may be less than the prices used in calculating the Fund's
net asset value.
    
 
   
    Lower rated or unrated debt obligations also present risks based on payment
expectations. If an issuer calls the obligation for redemption, the Fund may
have to replace the security with a lower yielding security, resulting in a
decreased return for investors. If the Fund experiences unexpected net
redemptions, it may be forced to sell its higher rated securities, resulting in
a decline in the overall credit quality of the Fund's portfolio and increasing
the exposure of the Fund to the risks of high yield securities.
    
 
LIMITATIONS ON PURCHASE AND SALE OF STOCK OPTIONS, OPTIONS ON STOCK INDICES AND
STOCK INDEX FUTURES
 
    CALL OPTIONS ON STOCK. The Fund may, from time to time, write call options
on its portfolio securities. The Fund may only write call options which are
"covered," meaning that the Fund either owns the underlying security or has an
absolute and immediate right to acquire that security, without additional
consideration, upon conversion or exchange of other securities currently held in
its portfolio. In addition, the Fund will not permit the call to become
uncovered prior to the expiration of the option or termination through a closing
purchase transaction as described below. If the Fund writes a call option, the
purchaser of the option has the right to buy (and the Fund has the obligation to
sell) the underlying security at the exercise price throughout the term of the
option. The amount paid to the Fund by the purchaser of the option is the
"premium." The Fund's obligation to deliver the underlying security against
payment of the exercise price would terminate either upon expiration of the
option or earlier if the Fund were to effect a "closing purchase transaction"
through the purchase of an equivalent option on an exchange. There can be no
assurance that a closing purchase transaction can be effected.
 
    The Fund would not be able to effect a closing purchase transaction after it
had received notice of exercise. In order to write a call option on an exchange,
the Fund is required to comply with the rules of The Options Clearing
Corporation and the various exchanges with respect to collateral requirements.
The Fund may not purchase call options except in connection with a closing
purchase transaction. It is possible that the cost of effecting a closing
purchase transaction may be greater than the premium received by the Fund for
writing the option.
 
                                      B-3
<PAGE>
    Generally, the investment adviser intends to write listed covered call
options during periods when it anticipates declines in the market values of
portfolio securities because the premiums received may offset to some extent the
decline in the Fund's net asset value (NAV) occasioned by such declines in
market value. Except as part of the "sell discipline" described below, the
investment adviser will generally not write listed covered call options when it
anticipates that the market values of the Fund's portfolio securities will
increase.
 
    One reason for the Fund to write call options is as part of a "sell
discipline." If the investment adviser decides that a portfolio security would
be overvalued and should be sold at a certain price higher than the current
price, the Fund could write an option on the stock at the higher price. Should
the stock subsequently reach that price and the option be exercised, the Fund
would, in effect, have increased the selling price of that stock, which it would
have sold at that price in any event, by the amount of the premium. In the event
the market price of the stock declined and the option were not exercised, the
premium would offset all or some portion of the decline. It is possible that the
price of the stock could increase beyond the exercise price; in that event, the
Fund would forego the opportunity to sell the stock at that higher price.
 
    In addition, call options may be used as part of a different strategy in
connection with sales of portfolio securities. If, in the judgment of the
investment adviser, the market price of a stock is overvalued and it should be
sold, the Fund may elect to write a call option with an exercise price
substantially below the current market price. As long as the value of the
underlying security remains above the exercise price during the term of the
option, the option will, in all probability, be exercised, in which case the
Fund will be required to sell the stock at the exercise price. If the sum of the
premium and the exercise price exceeds the market price of the stock at the time
the call option is written, the Fund would, in effect, have increased the
selling price of the stock. The Fund would not write a call option in these
circumstances if the sum of the premium and the exercise price were less than
the current market price of the stock.
 
    PUT OPTIONS ON STOCK. The Fund may also write listed put options. If the
Fund writes a put option, it is obligated to purchase a given security at a
specified price at any time during the term of the option.
 
    Writing listed put options is a useful portfolio investment strategy when
the Fund has cash or other reserves available for investment as a result of
sales of Fund shares or, more importantly, because the investment adviser
believes a more defensive and less fully invested position is desirable in light
of market conditions. If the Fund wishes to invest its cash or reserves in a
particular security at a price lower than current market value, it may write a
put option on that security at an exercise price which reflects the lower price
it is willing to pay. The buyer of the put option generally will not exercise
the option unless the market price of the underlying security declines to a
price near or below the exercise price. If the Fund writes a listed put, the
price of the underlying stock declines and the option is exercised, the premium,
net of transaction charges, will reduce the purchase price paid by the Fund for
the stock. The price of the stock may decline by an amount in excess of the
premium, in which event the Fund would have foregone an opportunity to purchase
the stock at a lower price.
 
    If, prior to the exercise of a put option, the investment adviser determines
that it no longer wishes to invest in the stock on which the put option had been
written, the Fund may be able to effect a closing purchase transaction on an
exchange by purchasing a put option of the same series as the one which it has
previously written. The cost of effecting a closing purchase transaction may be
greater than the premium received on writing the put option and there is no
guarantee that a closing purchase transaction can be effected.
 
   
    At the time a put option is written, the Fund will be required to segregate,
until the put is exercised or has expired, with State Street Bank and Trust
Company (the Custodian), cash or other liquid assets, equal in value to the
amount the Fund will be obligated to pay upon exercise of the put option.
    
 
   
    STOCK INDEX OPTIONS. Except as described below, the Fund will write call
options on indices only if on such date it holds a portfolio of stocks at least
equal to the value of the index times the multiplier times the number of
contracts. When the Fund writes a call option on a broadly-based stock market
index, the Fund will segregate with its Custodian, or pledge to a broker as
collateral for the option, cash or other liquid assets, with a market value at
the time the option is written of not less than 100% of the current index value
times the multiplier times the number of contracts.
    
 
   
    If the Fund has written an option on an industry or market segment index, it
will segregate with the Custodian, or pledge to a broker as collateral for the
option, at least ten "qualified securities," which are securities of an issuer
in such industry or market segment, with a market value at the time the option
is written of not less than 100% of the current index value times the multiplier
times the number of contracts. Such securities will include stocks which
represent at least 50% of the weighting of the industry or market segment index
and will represent at least 50% of the Fund's holdings in that industry or
market segment. No individual security will represent more than 25% of the
amount so segregated or pledged. If at the close of business on any day the
market value of such qualified securities so segregated or pledged falls below
100% of the current index value times the multiplier times
    
 
                                      B-4
<PAGE>
   
the number of contracts, the Fund will so segregate or pledge an amount in cash
or other liquid assets, equal in value to the difference. In addition, when the
Fund writes a call on an index which is in-the-money at the time the call is
written, the Fund will segregate with the Custodian or pledge to the broker as
collateral cash or other liquid assets equal in value to the amount by which the
call is in-the-money times the multiplier times the number of contracts. Any
amount segregated pursuant to the foregoing sentence may be applied to the
Fund's obligation to segregate additional amounts in the event that the market
value of the qualified securities falls below 100% of the current index value
times the multiplier times the number of contracts. A "qualified security" is an
equity security which is listed on a national securities exchange or listed on
the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System
against which the Fund has not written a stock call option and which has not
been hedged by the Fund by the sale of stock index futures. However, if the Fund
holds a call on the same index as the call written where the exercise price of
the call held is equal to or less than the exercise price of the call written or
greater than the exercise price of the call written if the difference is
segregated by the Fund in cash or other liquid assets with the Custodian, it
will not be subject to the requirements described in this paragraph.
    
 
    STOCK INDEX FUTURES. The Fund will engage in transactions in stock index
futures contracts as a hedge against changes resulting from market conditions in
the values of securities which are held in the Fund's portfolio or which it
intends to purchase. The Fund will engage in such transactions when they are
economically appropriate for the reduction of risks inherent in the ongoing
management of the Fund or for return enhancement. The Fund may not purchase or
sell stock index futures if, immediately thereafter, more than one-third of its
net assets would be hedged and, in addition, except as described above in the
case of a call written and held on the same index, will write call options on
indices or sell stock index futures only if the amount resulting from the
multiplication of the then current level of the index (or indices) upon which
the option or future contract(s) is based, the applicable multiplier(s), and the
number of futures or options contracts which would be outstanding, would not
exceed one-third of the value of the Fund's net assets. In instances involving
the purchase of stock index futures contracts by the Fund, an amount of cash or
other liquid assets having a value equal to the market value of the futures
contracts, will be segregated with the Fund's Custodian, a futures commissions
merchant, and/or in a margin account with a broker to collateralize the position
and thereby insure that the use of such futures is unleveraged.
 
    Under regulations of the Commodity Exchange Act, investment companies
registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the Investment
Company Act), are exempt from the definition of "commodity pool operator,"
provided all of the Fund's commodity futures or commodity options transactions
constitute BONA FIDE hedging transactions within the meaning of the regulations
of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The Fund will use stock
index futures and options on futures as described herein in a manner consistent
with this requirement.
 
    RISKS OF TRANSACTIONS IN STOCK OPTIONS. Writing options involves the risk
that there will be no market in which to effect a closing transaction. An option
position may be closed out only on an exchange which provides a secondary market
for an option of the same series. Although the Fund will generally write only
those options for which there appears to be an active secondary market, there is
no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an exchange will exist for any
particular option, or at any particular time, and for some options no secondary
market on an exchange may exist. If the Fund as a covered call option writer is
unable to effect a closing purchase transaction in a secondary market, it will
not be able to sell the underlying security until the option expires or it
delivers the underlying security upon exercise. The Fund, and thus investors,
may lose money through any unsuccessful use of these strategies.
 
    RISKS OF OPTIONS ON INDICES. The Fund's purchase and sale of options on
indices will be subject to risks described above under "Risks of Transactions in
Stock Options." In addition, the distinctive characteristics of options on
indices create certain risks that are not present with stock options.
 
    Because the value of an index option depends upon movements in the level of
the index rather than the price of a particular stock, whether the Fund will
realize a gain or loss on the purchase or sale of an option on an index depends
upon movements in the level of stock prices in the stock market generally or in
an industry or market segment rather than movements in the price of a particular
stock. Accordingly, successful use by the Fund of options on indices would be
subject to the investment adviser's ability to predict correctly movements in
the direction of the stock market generally or of a particular industry. This
requires different skills and techniques than predicting changes in the price of
individual stocks.
 
    Index prices may be distorted if trading of certain stocks included in the
index is interrupted. Trading in the index options also may be interrupted in
certain circumstances, such as if trading were halted in a substantial number of
securities included in the index. If this occurred, the Fund would not be able
to close out options which it had purchased or written and, if restrictions on
exercise were imposed, may be unable to exercise an option it holds, which could
result in substantial losses to the Fund. It is the Fund's policy to purchase or
write options only on indices which include a number of stocks sufficient to
minimize the likelihood of a trading halt in the index.
 
                                      B-5
<PAGE>
    Although the markets for certain index option contracts have developed
rapidly, the markets for other index options are still relatively illiquid. The
ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to
the development and maintenance of a liquid secondary market. It is not certain
that this market will develop in all index option contracts. The Fund will not
purchase or sell any index option contract unless and until, in the investment
adviser's opinion, the market for such options has developed sufficiently that
the risk in connection with such transactions is no greater than the risk in
connection with options on stocks.
 
   
    SPECIAL RISKS OF WRITING CALLS ON INDICES. Because exercises of index
options are settled in cash, a call writer such as the Fund cannot determine the
amount of its settlement obligations in advance and, unlike call writing on
specific stocks, cannot provide in advance for, or cover, its potential
settlement obligations by acquiring and holding the underlying securities.
However, the Fund will write call options on indices only under the
circumstances described above.
    
 
    Price movements in the Fund's portfolio probably will not correlate
precisely with movements in the level of the index and, therefore, the Fund
bears the risk that the price of the securities held by the Fund may not
increase as much as the index. In such event, the Fund would bear a loss on the
call which is not completely offset by movements in the price of the Fund's
portfolio. It is also possible that the index may rise when the Fund's portfolio
of stocks does not rise. If this occurred, the Fund would experience a loss on
the call which is not offset by an increase in the value of its portfolio and
might also experience a loss in its portfolio. However, because the value of a
diversified portfolio will, over time, tend to move in the same direction as the
market, movements in the value of the Fund in the opposite direction as the
market would be likely to occur for only a short period or to a small degree.
 
    Unless the Fund has other liquid assets which are sufficient to satisfy the
exercise of a call, the Fund would be required to liquidate portfolio securities
in order to satisfy the exercise. Because an exercise must be settled within
hours after receiving the notice of exercise, if the Fund fails to anticipate an
exercise, it may have to borrow (in amounts not exceeding 20% of the Fund's
total assets) pending settlement of the sale of securities in its portfolio and
would incur interest charges thereon.
 
    When the Fund has written a call, there is also a risk that the market may
decline between the time the Fund has a call exercised against it, at a price
which is fixed as of the closing level of the index on the date of exercise, and
the time the Fund is able to sell stocks in its portfolio. As with stock
options, the Fund will not learn that an index option has been exercised until
the day following the exercise date but, unlike a call on stock where the Fund
would be able to deliver the underlying securities in settlement, the Fund may
have to sell part of its stock portfolio in order to make settlement in cash,
and the price of such securities might decline before they can be sold. This
timing risk makes certain strategies involving more than one option
substantially more risky with index options than with stock options. For
example, even if an index call which the Fund has written is "covered" by an
index call held by the Fund with the same strike price, the Fund will bear the
risk that the level of the index may decline between the close of trading on the
date the exercise notice is filed with the clearing corporation and the close of
trading on the date the Fund exercises the call it holds or the time the Fund
sells the call which in either case would occur no earlier than the day
following the day the exercise notice was filed.
 
    SPECIAL RISKS OF PURCHASING PUTS AND CALLS ON INDICES. If the Fund holds an
index option and exercises it before final determination of the closing index
value for that day, it runs the risk that the level of the underlying index may
change before closing. If such a change causes the exercised option to fall
out-of-the-money, the Fund will be required to pay the difference between the
closing index value and the exercise price of the option (times the applicable
multiple) to the assigned writer. Although the Fund may be able to minimize this
risk by withholding exercise instructions until just before the daily cut off
time or by selling rather than exercising an option when the index level is
close to the exercise price, it may not be possible to eliminate this risk
entirely because the cut off times for index options may be earlier than those
fixed for other types of options and may occur before definitive closing index
values are announced.
 
    ADDITIONAL RISKS OF PURCHASING OTC OPTIONS. In addition to those risks
described in the Prospectus under "Investment Objectives and Policies -- Hedging
and Return Enhancement Strategies -- Options Transactions," OTC options are
subject to certain additional risks. It is not possible to effect a closing
transaction in OTC options in the same manner as listed options because a
clearing corporation is not interposed between the buyer and seller of the
option. In order to terminate the obligation represented by an OTC option, the
holder must agree to the termination of the OTC option and may be unable or
unwilling to do so on terms acceptable to the writer. In any event, a
cancellation, if agreed to, may require the writer to pay a premium to the
counterparty. Although it does not eliminate counterparty risk, the Fund may be
able to eliminate the market risk of an option it has written by writing or
purchasing an offsetting position with the same or another counterparty.
However, the Fund would remain exposed to each counterparty's credit risk on the
call or put option until such option is exercised or expires. There is no
guarantee that the Fund will be able to write put or call options, as the case
may be, that will effectively offset an existing position.
 
                                      B-6
<PAGE>
    OTC options are issued in privately negotiated transactions exempt from
registration under the Securities Act of 1933 and, as a result, are generally
subject to substantial legal and contractual limitations on sale. As a result,
there is no secondary market for OTC options and the staff of the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the SEC) has taken the position that OTC options held by an
investment company, as well as securities used to cover OTC options written by
one, are illiquid securities, unless the Fund and its counterparty have provided
for the Fund at its option to unwind the option. Such provisions ordinarily
involve the payment by the Fund to the counterparty to compensate it for the
economic loss caused by an early termination. In the absence of a negotiated
unwind provision, the Fund may be unable to terminate its obligation under a
written option or to enter into an offsetting transaction eliminating its market
risk.
 
    There are currently legal and regulatory limitations on the Fund's purchase
or sale of OTC options. These limitations are not fundamental policies of the
Fund and the Fund's obligation to comply with them could be changed without
approval of the Fund's shareholders in the event of modification or elimination
of such laws or regulations in the future.
 
    There can be no assurance that the Fund's use of OTC options will be
successful and the Fund may incur losses in connection with the purchase and
sale of OTC options.
 
RISKS RELATED TO FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
 
    The Fund's dealings in forward contracts will be limited to hedging
involving either specific transactions or portfolio positions. Transaction
hedging is the purchase or sale of a forward contract with respect to specific
receivables or payables of the Fund generally arising in connection with the
purchase or sale of its portfolio securities and accruals of interest or
dividends receivable and Fund expenses. Position hedging is the sale of a
foreign currency with respect to portfolio security positions denominated or
quoted in that currency or in a different currency (cross hedge). Although there
are no limits on the number of forward contracts which the Fund may enter into,
the Fund may not position hedge (including cross hedges) with respect to a
particular currency for an amount greater than the aggregate market value
(determined at the time of making any sale of forward currency) of the
securities being hedged.
 
    The Fund may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts in
several circumstances. When the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or
sale of a security denominated in a foreign currency, or when the Fund
anticipates the receipt in a foreign currency of dividends or interest payments
on a security which it holds, the Fund may desire to "lock-in" the U.S. dollar
price of the security or the U.S. dollar equivalent of such dividend or interest
payment, as the case may be. By entering into a forward contract for a fixed
amount of dollars, for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency
involved in the underlying transactions, the Fund may be able to protect itself
against a possible loss resulting from an adverse change in the relationship
between the U.S. dollar and the foreign currency during the period between the
date on which the security is purchased or sold, or on which the dividend or
interest payment is declared, and the date on which such payments are made or
received.
 
   
    Additionally, when the investment adviser believes that the currency of a
particular foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S.
dollar, the Fund may enter into a forward contract for a fixed amount of
dollars, to sell the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of some
or all of the Fund's portfolio securities denominated in such foreign currency.
The precise matching of the forward contract amounts and the value of the
securities involved will not generally be possible since the future value of
securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market
movements in the value of those securities between the date on which the forward
contract is entered into and the date it matures. The projection of short-term
currency market movement is extremely difficult, and the successful execution of
a short-term hedging strategy is highly uncertain. If the Fund enters into a
position hedging transaction, the transaction will be "covered" by the position
being hedged, or the Fund's Custodian will segregate cash or other liquid assets
(less the value of the covering positions, if any) in an amount equal to the
value of the Fund's total assets committed to the consummation of such forward
contracts. If the value of the segregated assets declines, additional cash or
other liquid assets will be segregated so that the value will, at all times,
equal the amount of the Fund's net commitment with respect to such contract. The
Fund's ability to enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts may be
limited by certain requirements for qualification as a regulated investment
company under the Internal Revenue Code. See "Taxes, Dividends and
Distributions."
    
 
    The Fund generally will not enter into a forward contract with a term of
greater than one year. At the maturity of a forward contract, the Fund may
either sell the portfolio security and make delivery of the foreign currency, or
it may retain the security and terminate its contractual obligation to deliver
the foreign currency by purchasing an "offsetting" contract with the same
currency trader obligating it to purchase, on the same maturity date, the same
amount of the foreign currency.
 
                                      B-7
<PAGE>
    It is impossible to forecast with absolute precision the market value of a
particular portfolio security at the expiration of the forward contract.
Accordingly, if a decision is made to sell the security and make delivery of the
foreign currency and if the market value of the security is less than the amount
of foreign currency that the Fund is obligated to deliver, then it would be
necessary for the Fund to purchase additional foreign currency on the spot
market (and bear the expense of such purchase).
 
    If the Fund retains the portfolio security and engages in an offsetting
transaction, the Fund will incur a gain or a loss to the extent that there has
been movement in forward contract prices. Should forward contract prices decline
during the period between the Fund's entering into a forward contract for the
sale of a foreign currency and the date it enters into an offsetting contract
for the purchase of the foreign currency, the Fund will realize a gain to the
extent that the price of the currency it has agreed to sell exceeds the price of
the currency it has agreed to purchase. Should forward contract prices increase,
the Fund will suffer a loss to the extent that the price of the currency it has
agreed to purchase exceeds the price of the currency it has agreed to sell.
 
    The Fund's dealing in forward foreign currency exchange contracts will
generally be limited to the transactions described above. Of course, the Fund is
not required to enter into such transactions with regard to its foreign
currency-denominated securities. It also should be recognized that this method
of protecting the value of the Fund's portfolio securities against a decline in
the value of a currency does not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices
of the securities which are unrelated to exchange rates. Additionally, although
such contracts tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value
of the hedged currency, at the same time they tend to limit any potential gain
which might result should the value of such currency increase. The Fund's
ability to enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts may be limited
by certain requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company
under the Internal Revenue Code. See "Taxes, Dividends and Distributions."
 
    Although the Fund values its assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, it does
not intend physically to convert its holdings of foreign currencies into U.S.
dollars on a daily basis. It will do so from time to time, and investors should
be aware of the costs of currency conversion. Although foreign exchange dealers
do not charge a fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on the
difference (the spread) between the prices at which they are buying and selling
various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to the
Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund
desire to resell that currency to the dealer.
 
RISKS OF TRANSACTIONS IN FUTURES CONTRACTS
 
    There are several risks in connection with the use of futures contracts as a
hedging device. Due to the imperfect correlation between the price of futures
contracts and movements in the prices of equity securities or a currency or
group of currencies, the price of a futures contract may move more or less than
the price of the equity securities or currencies being hedged. Therefore, a
contract forecast of equity prices, currency rates, market trends or
international political trends by the investment adviser may still not result in
a successful hedging transaction.
 
   
    Although the Fund will purchase or sell futures contracts only on exchanges
where there appears to be an adequate secondary market, there is no assurance
that a liquid secondary market or an exchange will exist for any particular
contract or at any particular time. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that
it will be possible, at any particular time, to close a futures position. In the
event the Fund could not close a futures position and the value of such position
declined, the Fund would be required to continue to make daily cash payments of
variation margin. However, in the event a futures contract has been used to
hedge portfolio securities, such securities will not be sold until the futures
contract can be terminated. In such circumstances, an increase in the price of
the securities, if any, may partially or completely offset losses on the futures
contract. However, there is no guarantee the price movements of the securities
will, in fact, correlate with the price movements in the futures contracts and
thus provide an offset to losses on a futures contract. Currently, futures
contracts are available on the Australian Dollar, British Pound, Canadian
Dollar, French Franc, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc, German Mark and Eurodollar.
    
 
   
    The Fund will use stock index futures and currency futures and options on
futures in a manner consistent with CFTC regulations. The Fund may also enter
into futures or related options contracts for income enhancement and risk
management purposes if the aggregate initial margin and option premiums do not
exceed 5% of the market value of the Fund's total assets.
    
 
    Successful use of futures contracts by the Fund is also subject to the
ability of the Fund's Manager or Subadviser to predict correctly movements in
the direction of markets and other factors affecting equity securities and
currencies generally. For example, if the Fund has hedged against the
possibility of an increase in the price of securities in its portfolio and the
price of such securities increases instead, the Fund will lose part or all of
the benefit of the increased value of its securities because it will have
offsetting losses in its futures positions. In addition, in such situations, if
the Fund has insufficient cash to meet daily variation
 
                                      B-8
<PAGE>
margin requirements, it may need to sell securities to meet such requirements.
Such sales of securities may be, but will not necessarily be, at increased
prices which reflect the rising market. The Fund may have to sell securities at
a time when it is disadvantageous to do so.
 
    The hours of trading of futures contracts may not conform to the hours
during which the Fund may trade the underlying securities. To the extent that
the futures markets close before the securities markets, significant price and
rate movements can take place in the securities markets that cannot be reflected
in the futures markets.
 
   
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
    
 
   
    The Fund's repurchase agreements will be collateralized by cash or liquid
assets. The Fund will enter into repurchase transactions only with parties
meeting creditworthiness standards approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees. The
investment adviser will monitor the creditworthiness of such parties, under the
general supervision of the Board of Trustees. In the event of a default or
bankruptcy by a seller, the Fund may liquidate the collateral. To the extent
that the proceeds from any sale of such collateral upon a default in the
obligation to repurchase are less than the repurchase price, the Fund will
suffer a loss.
    
 
   
    The Fund participates in a joint repurchase account with other investment
companies managed by Prudential Investments Fund Management LLC (PIFM) pursuant
to an order of the SEC. On a daily basis, any uninvested cash balances of the
Fund may be aggregated with those of such investment companies and invested in
one or more repurchase agreements. Each fund participates in the income earned
or accrued in the joint account based on the percentage of its investment.
    
 
   
LENDING OF SECURITIES
    
 
   
    Consistent with applicable regulatory requirements, the Fund may lend its
portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and financial institutions, provided
that outstanding loans do not exceed in the aggregate 33 1/3% of the value of
the Fund's total assets and provided that such loans are callable at any time by
the Fund and are at all times secured by cash or equivalent collateral
(including a secured letter of credit) that is equal to at least the market
value, determined daily, of the loaned securities. The advantage of such loans
is that the Fund continues to receive payments in lieu of the interest and
dividends on the loaned securities, while at the same time earning interest
either directly from the borrower or on the collateral which will be invested in
short-term obligations.
    
 
   
    A loan may be terminated by the Fund at any time. If the borrower fails to
maintain the requisite amount of collateral, the loan automatically terminates,
and the Fund could use the collateral to replace the securities while holding
the borrower liable for any excess of replacement cost over collateral. As with
any extensions of credit, there are risks of delay in recovery and in some cases
loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail
financially. However, these loans of portfolio securities will only be made to
firms determined to be creditworthy pursuant to procedures approved by the Board
of Trustees of the Fund. On termination of the loan, the borrower is required to
return the securities to the Fund, and any gain or loss in the market price
during the loan would inure to the Fund.
    
 
   
    Since voting or consent rights which accompany loaned securities pass to the
borrower, the Fund will follow the policy of calling the loan, in whole or in
part as may be appropriate, to permit the exercise of such rights if the matters
involved would have a material effect on the Fund's investment in the securities
which are the subject of the loan. The Fund will pay reasonable finders',
administrative and custodial fees in connection with a loan of its securities or
may share the interest earned on collateral with the borrower.
    
 
   
BORROWING
    
 
   
    The Fund may borrow an amount equal to no more than 20% of the value of its
total assets (calculated at the time of the borrowing) from banks for temporary,
extraordinary or emergency purposes or for the clearance of transactions. The
Fund may pledge up to 20% of its total assets to secure these borrowings. If the
Fund's asset coverage for borrowings falls below 300%, the Fund will take prompt
action to reduce its borrowings. If the 300% asset coverage should decline as a
result of market fluctuations or other reasons, the Fund may be required to sell
portfolio securities to reduce the debt and restore the 300% asset coverage,
even though it may be disadvantageous from an investment standpoint to sell
securities at that time. The Fund will not purchase portfolio securities when
borrowings exceed 5% of the value of its total assets.
    
 
                                      B-9
<PAGE>
ILLIQUID SECURITIES
 
    The Fund may not hold more than 15% of its net assets in repurchase
agreements which have a maturity of longer than seven days or in other illiquid
securities, including securities that are illiquid by virtue of the absence of a
readily available market (either within or outside of the United States) or
legal or contractual restrictions on resale. The Subadviser will monitor the
liquidity of such restricted securities under the supervision of the Board of
Trustees.
 
    Historically, illiquid securities have included securities subject to
contractual or legal restrictions on resale because they have not been
registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (Securities Act),
securities which are otherwise not readily marketable and repurchase agreements
having a maturity of longer than seven days. Securities which have not been
registered under the Securities Act are referred to as private placements or
restricted securities and are purchased directly from the issuer or in the
secondary market. Mutual funds do not typically hold a significant amount of
these restricted or other illiquid securities because of the potential for
delays on resale and uncertainty in valuation. Limitations on resale may have an
adverse effect on the marketability of portfolio securities and a mutual fund
might be unable to dispose of restricted or other illiquid securities promptly
or at reasonable prices and might thereby experience difficulty satisfying
redemptions within seven days. A mutual fund might also have to register such
restricted securities in order to dispose of them resulting in additional
expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering
of securities.
 
    In recent years, however, a large institutional market has developed for
certain securities that are not registered under the Securities Act including
repurchase agreements, commercial paper, foreign securities, municipal
securities, convertible securities and corporate bonds and notes. Institutional
investors depend on an efficient institutional market in which the unregistered
security can be readily resold on an issuer's ability to honor a demand for
repayment. The fact that there are contractual or legal restrictions on resale
to the general public or to certain institutions may not be indicative of the
liquidity of such investments.
 
    Rule 144A under the Securities Act allows for a broader institutional
trading market for securities otherwise subject to restriction on resale to the
general public. Rule 144A establishes a "safe harbor" from the registration
requirements of the Securities Act for resales of certain securities to
qualified institutional buyers. The investment adviser anticipates that the
market for certain restricted securities such as institutional commercial paper
and foreign securities will expand further as a result of this regulation and
the development of automated systems for the trading, clearance and settlement
of unregistered securities of domestic and foreign issuers, such as the PORTAL
System sponsored by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
 
    Restricted securities eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the
Securities Act and commercial paper for which there is a readily available
market will not be deemed to be illiquid. The investment adviser will monitor
the liquidity of such restricted securities subject to the supervision of the
Board of Trustees. In reaching liquidity decisions, the investment adviser will
consider, INTER ALIA, the following factors: (1) the frequency of trades and
quotes for the security; (2) the number of dealers wishing to purchase or sell
the security and the number of other potential purchasers; (3) dealer
undertakings to make a market in the security; and (4) the nature of the
security and the nature of the marketplace trades (E.G., the time needed to
dispose of the security, the method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of
the transfer). In addition, in order for commercial paper that is issued in
reliance on Section 4(2) of the Securities Act to be considered liquid, (i) it
must be rated in one of the two highest rating categories by at least two
nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSRO), or if only one
NRSRO rates the securities, by that NRSRO, or, if unrated, be of comparable
quality in the view of the investment adviser; and (ii) it must not be "traded
flat" (I.E., without accrued interest) or in default as to principal or
interest. Repurchase agreements subject to demand are deemed to have a maturity
equal to the notice period.
 
SECURITIES OF OTHER INVESTMENT COMPANIES
 
    The Fund is permitted to invest up to 10% of its total assets in securities
of other non-affiliated investment companies. The Fund expects to invest less
than 5% in securities of other investment companies. If the Fund does invest in
securities of other investment companies, shareholders of the Fund may be
subject to duplicate management and advisory fees. See "Investment
Restrictions."
 
   
SEGREGATED ASSETS
    
 
   
    When the Fund is required to segregate assets in connection with certain
hedging transactions, it will mark cash or liquid assets as segregated with the
Fund's Custodian. "Liquid assets" mean cash, U.S. Government securities, equity
securities (including foreign securities), debt obligations or other liquid,
unencumbered assets, marked-to-market daily.
    
 
                                      B-10
<PAGE>
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
 
    As a result of the investment policies described above, the Fund may engage
in a substantial number of portfolio transactions, but the Fund's portfolio
turnover rate is not expected to exceed 200%. The portfolio turnover rate is
generally the percentage computed by dividing the lesser of portfolio purchases
or sales (excluding all securities, including options, whose maturities or
expiration date at acquisition were one year or less) by the monthly average
value of the portfolio. High portfolio turnover (over 100%) involves
correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs, which
are borne directly by the Fund. In addition, high portfolio turnover may also
mean that a proportionately greater amount of distributions to shareholders will
be taxed as ordinary income rather than long-term capital gains compared to
investment companies with lower portfolio turnover. See "Portfolio Transactions
and Brokerage" and "Taxes, Dividends and Distributions."
 
                            INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
 
    The following restrictions are fundamental policies. Fundamental policies
are those which cannot be changed without the approval of the holders of a
majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. A "majority of the Fund's
outstanding voting securities," when used in this Statement of Additional
Information, means with respect to the Fund, the lesser of (i) 67% of the shares
represented at a meeting at which more than 50% of the outstanding voting shares
are present in person or represented by proxy or (ii) more than 50% of the
outstanding voting shares.
 
    The Fund may not:
 
    1. Purchase securities on margin (but the Fund may obtain such short-term
credits as may be necessary for the clearance of transactions); provided that
the deposit or payment by the Fund of initial or maintenance margin in
connection with futures or options is not considered the purchase of a security
on margin.
 
    2. Make short sales of securities or maintain a short position if, when
added together, more than 25% of the value of the Fund's net assets would be (i)
deposited as collateral for the obligation to replace securities borrowed to
effect short sales and (ii) allocated to segregated accounts in connection with
short sales. Short sales "against-the-box" are not subject to this limitation.
 
   
    3. Issue senior securities, borrow money or pledge its assets, except that
the Fund may borrow from banks up to 20% of the value of its total assets
(calculated when the loan is made) for temporary, extraordinary or emergency
purposes or for the clearance of transactions. The Fund may pledge up to 20% of
the value of its total assets to secure such borrowings. For purposes of this
restriction, the purchase or sale of securities on a when-issued or delayed
delivery basis, forward foreign currency exchange contracts and collateral
arrangements relating thereto, and collateral arrangements with respect to
futures contracts and options thereon and with respect to the writing of options
and obligations of the Fund to Trustees pursuant to deferred compensation
arrangements are not deemed to be a pledge of assets subject to this
restriction.
    
 
    4. Purchase any security (other than obligations of the U.S. Government, its
agencies or instrumentalities) if as a result: (i) with respect to 75% of the
Fund's total assets, more than 5% of the Fund's total assets (determined at the
time of investment) would then be invested in securities of a single issuer, or
(ii) 25% or more of the Fund's total assets (determined at the time of the
investment) would be invested in a single industry.
 
    5. Buy or sell real estate or interests in real estate, except that the Fund
may purchase and sell securities which are secured by real estate, securities of
companies which invest or deal in real estate and publicly traded securities of
real estate investment trusts.
 
    6. Buy or sell commodities or commodity contracts, except that the Fund may
purchase and sell financial futures contracts and options thereon, and forward
foreign currency exchange contracts.
 
    7. Act as underwriter except to the extent that, in connection with the
disposition of portfolio securities, it may be deemed to be an underwriter under
certain federal securities laws.
 
    8. Make investments for the purpose of exercising control or management.
 
    9. Invest in securities of other non-affiliated investment companies, except
by purchases in the open market involving only customary brokerage commissions
and as a result of which the Fund will not hold more than 3% of the outstanding
voting securities of any one investment company, will not have invested more
than 5% of its total assets in any one investment company and will not have
invested more than 10% of its total assets (determined at the time of
investment) in such securities of one or more investment companies, or except as
part of a merger, consolidation or other acquisition.
 
                                      B-11
<PAGE>
   
    10. Make loans, except through (i) repurchase agreements and (ii) loans of
portfolio securities limited to 33 1/3% of the Fund's total assets.
    
 
    11. Purchase more than 10% of all outstanding voting securities of any one
issuer.
 
    Whenever any fundamental investment policy or investment restriction states
a maximum percentage of the Fund's assets, it is intended that if the percentage
limitation is met at the time the investment is made, a later change in
percentage resulting from changing total or net asset values will not be
considered a violation of such policy. However, in the event that the Fund's
asset coverage for borrowings falls below 300%, the Fund will take prompt action
to reduce its borrowings, as required by applicable law.
 
                             TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
NAME AND ADDRESS** (AGE)                   POSITION WITH FUND                            DURING PAST 5 YEARS
- ----------------------------------    ----------------------------    ----------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                             <C>
Edward D. Beach (73)                  Trustee                         President and Director of BMC Fund, Inc., a closed-end
                                                                       investment company; formerly, Vice Chairman of Broyhill
                                                                       Furniture Industries, Inc.; Certified Public Accountant;
                                                                       Secretary and Treasurer of Broyhill Family Foundation,
                                                                       Inc.; Member of the Board of Trustees of Mars Hill
                                                                       College; Director of The High Yield Income Fund, Inc.
 
Delayne Dedrick Gold (59)             Trustee                         Marketing and Management Consultant; Director of The High
                                                                       Yield Income Fund, Inc.
 
*Robert F. Gunia (51)                 Vice President and Trustee      Vice President (since September 1997) of Prudential
                                                                       Investments; Executive Vice President and Treasurer
                                                                       (since December 1996) of Prudential Investments Fund
                                                                       Management LLC (PIFM); Senior Vice President (since March
                                                                       1987) of Prudential Securities Incorporated (Prudential
                                                                       Securities); formerly Chief Administrative Officer (July
                                                                       1990-September 1996), Director (January 1989-September
                                                                       1996) and Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief
                                                                       Financial Officer (June 1987-September 1996) of
                                                                       Prudential Mutual Fund Management, Inc.; Vice President
                                                                       and Director (since May 1989) of The Asia Pacific Fund,
                                                                       Inc.; Director of The High Yield Income Fund, Inc.
 
Douglas H. McCorkindale (58)          Trustee                         Vice Chairman (since March 1984) and President (since
                                                                       September 1997) of Gannett Co. Inc. (publishing and
                                                                       media); Director of Continental Airlines, Inc., Frontier
                                                                       Corporation and Gannett Co. Inc.
 
*Mendel A. Melzer, CFA (38)           Trustee                         Chief Investment Officer (since October 1996) of
751 Broad Street                                                       Prudential Mutual Funds & Annuities; formerly Chief
Newark, NJ 07102                                                       Financial Officer (November 1995-September 1996) of
                                                                       Prudential Investments, Senior Vice President and Chief
                                                                       Financial Officer (April 1993-November 1995) of
                                                                       Prudential Preferred Financial Services, Managing
                                                                       Director (April 1991-April 1993) of Prudential Investment
                                                                       Advisors and Senior Vice President (July 1989-April 1991)
                                                                       of Prudential Capital Corporation; Chairman and Director
                                                                       of Prudential Series Fund, Inc.; Director of The High
                                                                       Yield Income Fund, Inc.
</TABLE>
    
 
                                      B-12
<PAGE>
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
NAME AND ADDRESS** (AGE)                   POSITION WITH FUND                            DURING PAST 5 YEARS
- ----------------------------------    ----------------------------    ----------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                             <C>
Thomas T. Mooney (56)                 Trustee                         President of the Greater Rochester Metro Chamber of
                                                                       Commerce; former Rochester City Manager; Trustee of
                                                                       Center for Governmental Research, Inc.; Director of Blue
                                                                       Cross of Rochester, The Business Council of New York
                                                                       State, Executive Service Corps of Rochester, Monroe
                                                                       County Water Authority, Rochester Jobs, Inc., Monroe
                                                                       County Industrial Development Corporation, Northeast
                                                                       Midwest Institute and The High Yield Income Fund Inc.;
                                                                       President, Director and Treasurer of First Financial
                                                                       Fund, Inc. and The High Yield Plus Fund, Inc.
 
Stephen P. Munn (55)                  Trustee                         Chairman (since January 1994), Director and President
                                                                       (since 1988) and Chief Executive Officer (1988-December
                                                                       1993) of Carlisle Companies Incorporated (manufacturer of
                                                                       industrial products).
 
*Richard A. Redeker (54)              President and                   Employee of Prudential Investments; formerly President,
751 Broad St.                          Trustee                         Chief Executive Officer and Director (October
Newark NJ 07102                                                        1993-September 1996) of Prudential Mutual Fund
                                                                       Management, Inc., Executive Vice President, Director and
                                                                       Member of the Operating Committee (October 1993-September
                                                                       1996) of Prudential Securities, Director (October
                                                                       1993-September 1996) of Prudential Securities Group,
                                                                       Inc., Executive Vice President (January 1994-September
                                                                       1996) of The Prudential Investment Corporation; Director
                                                                       (January 1994-September 1996) of Prudential Mutual Fund
                                                                       Distributors, Inc. and Prudential Mutual Fund Services,
                                                                       Inc. and Senior Executive Vice President and Director
                                                                       (September 1978-September 1993) of Kemper Financial
                                                                       Services, Inc.; President and Director of The High Yield
                                                                       Income Fund, Inc.
 
Robin B. Smith (58)                   Trustee                         Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (since August 1996)
                                                                       of Publishers Clearing House, formerly President and
                                                                       Chief Executive Officer (January 1988-August 1996) and
                                                                       President and Chief Operating Officer (September
                                                                       1981-December 1988) of Publishers Clearing House;
                                                                       Director of BellSouth Corporation, Texaco Inc., Springs
                                                                       Industries Inc. and Kmart Corporation.
 
Louis A. Weil, III (56)               Trustee                         Publisher and Chief Executive Officer (since January 1996)
                                                                       and Director (since September 1991) of Central
                                                                       Newspapers, Inc.; Chairman of the Board (since January
                                                                       1996), Publisher and Chief Executive Officer (August
                                                                       1991-December 1995) of Phoenix Newspapers, Inc.; formerly
                                                                       Publisher (May 1989-March 1991) of Time Magazine,
                                                                       President, Publisher & Chief Executive Officer (February
                                                                       1986-August 1989) of The Detroit News and member of the
                                                                       Advisory Board, Chase Manhattan Bank-Westchester;
                                                                       Director of The High Yield Income Fund, Inc.
 
Clay T. Whitehead (59)                Trustee                         President (since May 1983) of National Exchange Inc. (new
                                                                       business development firm).
</TABLE>
    
 
   
                                      B-13
    
<PAGE>
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
NAME AND ADDRESS** (AGE)                   POSITION WITH FUND                            DURING PAST 5 YEARS
- ----------------------------------    ----------------------------    ----------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                             <C>
S. Jane Rose (52)                     Secretary                       Senior Vice President (since December 1996) of PIFM;
                                                                       Senior Vice President and Senior Counsel (since July
                                                                       1992) of Prudential Securities; formerly Senior Vice
                                                                       President (January 1991-September 1996) and Senior
                                                                       Counsel (June 1987-September 1996) of Prudential Mutual
                                                                       Fund Management, Inc.
 
Grace C. Torres (38)                  Treasurer and Principal         First Vice President (since December 1996) of PIFM; First
                                       Financial and Accounting        Vice President (since March 1993) of Prudential
                                       Officer                         Securities; formerly First Vice President (March
                                                                       1994-September 1996) of Prudential Mutual Fund
                                                                       Management, Inc. and Vice President (July 1989-March
                                                                       1994) of Bankers Trust Corporation.
 
Marguerite E. H. Morrison (41)        Assistant                       Vice President and Associate General Counsel (since
                                      Secretary                        December 1996) of PIFM; Vice President and Associate
                                                                       General Counsel (since September 1997) of Prudential
                                                                       Securities; formerly Vice President and Associate General
                                                                       Counsel (June 1991-September 1996) of Prudential Mutual
                                                                       Fund Management, Inc.
 
Stephen M. Ungerman (44)              Assistant Treasurer             Tax Director (since March 1996) of Prudential Investments
                                                                       and the Private Asset Group of The Prudential Insurance
                                                                       Company of America (Prudential); formerly First Vice
                                                                       President (February 1993-September 1996) of Prudential
                                                                       Mutual Fund Management, Inc. and Senior Tax Manager
                                                                       (1981-January 1993) of Price Waterhouse LLP.
</TABLE>
    
 
- ------------------------
 
*   "Interested" Trustee, as defined in the Investment Company Act, by reason of
    affiliation with Prudential Securities, Prudential or PIFM.
 
   
**  Unless otherwise indicated, the address of the Trustees and officers is c/o
    Prudential Investments Fund Management LLC, Gateway Center Three, 100
    Mulberry Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4077.
    
 
    Trustees and officers of the Fund are also trustees, directors and officers
of some or all of the other investment companies distributed by Prudential
Securities.
 
    The officers conduct and supervise the daily business operations of the
Fund, while the Trustees, in addition to their functions set forth under
"Manager" and "Distributor," oversee such actions and decide on general policy.
 
    The Trustees have adopted a retirement policy which calls for the retirement
of Trustees on December 31 of the year in which they reach the age of 72, except
that retirement is being phased in for Trustees of Prudential Mutual Funds who
were age 68 or older as of December 31, 1993. Under this phase-in provision, Mr.
Beach is scheduled to retire on December 31, 1999.
 
   
    Pursuant to the terms of the Management Agreement with the Fund, the Manager
pays all compensation of officers and employees of the Fund as well as the fees
and expenses of all Trustees of the Fund who are affiliated persons of the
Manager. The Fund pays each of its Trustees who is not an affiliated person of
PIFM or Prudential Investments annual compensation of $2,000, in addition to
certain out-of-pocket expenses. The amount of annual compensation paid to each
Trustee may change as a result of the introduction of additional funds on the
boards of which the Trustee will be asked to serve.
    
 
    Trustees may receive their Trustees' fees pursuant to a deferred fee
agreement with the Fund. Under the terms of the agreement, the Fund accrues
daily the amount of Trustees' fees in installments which accrue interest at a
rate equivalent to the prevailing rate applicable to 90-day U.S. Treasury bills
at the beginning of each calendar quarter or, pursuant to an SEC exemptive
order, at the daily rate of return of the Fund (the Fund rate). Payment of the
interest so accrued is also deferred and accruals become payable at the option
of the Trustee. The Fund's obligation to make payments of deferred Trustees'
fees, together with interest thereon, is a general obligation of the Fund.
 
                                      B-14
<PAGE>
   
    The following table sets forth the estimated aggregate compensation
estimated to be paid by the Fund for the fiscal period ending July 31, 1998 to
the Trustees who are not affiliated with the Manager and the aggregate
compensation paid to such Trustees for service on the Fund's Board and the
boards of all other investment companies managed by PIFM (Fund Complex) for the
calendar year ended December 31, 1997.
    
 
                               COMPENSATION TABLE
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                            TOTAL 1997
                                                                                                           COMPENSATION
                                                                                           AGGREGATE        FROM FUND
                                                                                         COMPENSATION      COMPLEX PAID
NAME OF TRUSTEE                                                                            FROM FUND       TO TRUSTEES
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------------
<S>                                                                                      <C>            <C>
Edward D. Beach........................................................................    $   2,000    $  135,000(38/63)*
Delayne Dedrick Gold...................................................................        2,000    $  135,000(38/63)*
Robert F. Gunia+.......................................................................       -0-              None
Douglas H. McCorkindale**..............................................................         2,000   $   70,000(20/35)*
Mendel A. Melzer+......................................................................       -0-              None
Thomas T. Mooney**.....................................................................         2,000   $  115,000(31/64)*
Stephen P. Munn........................................................................         2,000   $   45,000(15/21)*
Richard A. Redeker+....................................................................       -0-              None
Robin B. Smith**.......................................................................         2,000   $   90,000(27/34)*
Louis A. Weil, III.....................................................................         2,000   $   90,000(26/50)*
Clay T. Whitehead......................................................................         2,000   $   45,000(15/21)*
</TABLE>
    
 
- ------------------------
 
 *  Indicates number of funds/portfolios in Fund Complex to which aggregate
    compensation relates.
 
   
 ** Total compensation from all of the funds in the Fund Complex for the
    calendar year ended December 31, 1997, includes amounts deferred at the
    election of Trustees under the funds' deferred compensation plans. Including
    accrued interest, total compensation amounted to $71,640, $143,909 and
    $139,097 for Messrs. McCorkindale and Mooney and Ms. Smith, respectively.
    
 
 +  Messrs. Gunia, Melzer and Redeker, who are interested Trustees, do not
    receive compensation from the Fund or any fund in the Fund Complex.
 
   
    As of April 14, 1998, the Trustees and officers of the Fund, as a group,
owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. As of such date, PIFM
owned all of the Fund's outstanding shares and controlled the Fund.
    
 
                                    MANAGER
 
   
    The manager of the Fund is Prudential Investments Fund Management LLC (PIFM
or the Manager), Gateway Center Three, 100 Mulberry Street, Newark, New Jersey
07102-4077. PIFM serves as manager to all of the other investment companies
that, together with the Fund, comprise the Prudential Mutual Funds. See "How the
Fund is Managed--Manager" in the Prospectus of the Fund. As of March 31, 1998,
PIFM managed and/or administered open-end and closed-end management investment
companies with assets of approximately $66.5 billion. According to the
Investment Company Institute, as of March 31, 1998, the Prudential Mutual Funds
were the 17(th) largest family of mutual funds in the United States.
    
 
   
    PIFM is a subsidiary of Prudential Securities Incorporated and The
Prudential Insurance Company of America (Prudential). Prudential Mutual Fund
Services LLC (PMFS or the Transfer Agent), a wholly owned subsidiary of PIFM,
serves as the transfer agent for the Prudential Mutual Funds and, in addition,
provides customer service, recordkeeping and management and administration
services to qualified plans.
    
 
    Pursuant to the Management Agreement with the Fund (the Management
Agreement), PIFM, subject to the supervision of the Fund's Board of Trustees and
in conformity with the stated policies of the Fund, manages both the investment
operations of the Fund and the composition of the Fund's portfolio, including
the purchase, retention, disposition and loan of securities and other assets. In
connection therewith, PIFM is obligated to keep certain books and records of the
Fund. PIFM also administers the Fund's business affairs and, in connection
therewith, furnishes the Fund with office facilities, together with those
ordinary clerical and bookkeeping services which are not being furnished by
State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Fund's custodian (the Custodian), and
PMFS, the Fund's transfer and dividend disbursing agent. The management services
of PIFM for the Fund are not exclusive under the terms of the Management
Agreement and PIFM is free to, and does, render management services to others.
 
                                      B-15
<PAGE>
   
    For its services, PIFM receives, pursuant to the Management Agreement, a fee
at an annual rate of .70 of 1% of the Fund's average daily net assets. The fee
is computed daily and payable monthly. The Management Agreement also provides
that, in the event the expenses of the Fund (including the fees of PIFM, but
excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, distribution fees and
litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not
incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund's business) for any fiscal year
exceed the lowest applicable annual expense limitation established and enforced
pursuant to the statutes or regulations of any jurisdiction in which the Fund's
shares are qualified for offer and sale, the compensation due to PIFM will be
reduced by the amount of such excess. No jurisdiction currently limits the
Fund's expenses.
    
 
    In connection with its management of the business affairs of the Fund, PIFM
bears the following expenses:
 
    (a) the salaries and expenses of all personnel of the Fund and the Manager,
except the fees and expenses of Trustees who are not affiliated persons of PIFM
or the Fund's investment adviser;
 
    (b) all expenses incurred by PIFM or by the Fund in connection with managing
the ordinary course of a Fund's business, other than those assumed by the Fund
as described below; and
 
   
    (c) the costs and expenses payable to The Prudential Investment Corporation,
doing business as Prudential Investments (PI or the Subadviser) pursuant to the
subadvisory agreement between PIFM and PI (the Subadvisory Agreement).
    
 
    Under the terms of the Management Agreement, the Fund is responsible for the
payment of the following expenses: (a) the fees payable to the Manager, (b) the
fees and expenses of Trustees who are not affiliated persons of the Manager or
the Fund's investment adviser, (c) the fees and certain expenses of the
Custodian and Transfer and Dividend Disbursing Agent, including the cost of
providing records to the Manager in connection with its obligation of
maintaining required records of the Fund and of pricing the Fund's shares, (d)
the charges and expenses of legal counsel and independent accountants for the
Fund, (e) brokerage commissions and any issue or transfer taxes chargeable to
the Fund in connection with its securities transactions, (f) all taxes and
corporate fees payable by the Fund to governmental agencies, (g) the fees of any
trade associations of which the Fund may be a member, (h) the cost of share
certificates representing shares of the Fund, (i) the cost of fidelity and
liability insurance, (j) certain organization expenses of the Fund and the fees
and expenses involved in registering and maintaining registration of the Fund
and of its shares with the SEC, including the preparation and printing of the
Fund's registration statements and prospectuses for such purposes and paying the
fees and expenses of notice filings made in accordance with state securities
laws; (k) allocable communications expenses with respect to investor services
and all expenses of shareholders' and Trustees' meetings and of preparing,
printing and mailing reports, proxy statements and prospectuses to shareholders
in the amount necessary for distribution to the shareholders, (l) litigation and
indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the
ordinary course of the Fund's business and (m) distribution fees.
 
   
    The Management Agreement provides that PIFM will not be liable for any error
of judgment or for any loss suffered by the Fund in connection with the matters
to which the Management Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful
misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of duty. The
Management Agreement provides that it will terminate automatically if assigned,
and that it may be terminated without penalty by either party upon not more than
60 days' nor less than 30 days' written notice. The Management Agreement will
continue in effect for a period of more than two years from the date of
execution only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least
annually in conformity with the Investment Company Act. The Fund's Management
Agreement was approved by the Board of Trustees of the Fund, including all of
the Trustees who are not parties to the contract or interested persons of any
such party, on October 25, 1997, and by the initial shareholder of the Fund on
April 15, 1998.
    
 
   
    PIFM has entered into the Subadvisory Agreement with the Subadviser. The
Subadvisory Agreement provides that the Subadviser will furnish investment
advisory services in connection with the management of the Fund. In connection
therewith, the Subadviser is obligated to keep certain books and records of the
Fund. Under the Subadvisory Agreement, the Subadviser, subject to the
supervision of PIFM, is responsible for managing the assets of the Fund in
accordance with its investment objectives, investment program and policies. The
Subadviser determines what securities and other instruments are purchased and
sold for the Fund and is responsible for obtaining and evaluating financial data
relevant to the Fund. PIFM continues to have responsibility for all investment
advisory services pursuant to the Management Agreement. Under the Subadvisory
Agreement, the Subadviser is reimbursed by PIFM for the reasonable costs and
expenses incurred by the Subadviser in furnishing those services.
    
 
   
    The Subadvisory Agreement was approved by the Board of Trustees of the Fund,
including all of the Board of Trustees who are not parties to the contract or
interested persons of any such party on October 25, 1997, and by the initial
shareholder of the Fund on April 15, 1998.
    
 
                                      B-16
<PAGE>
   
    The Subadvisory Agreement provides that it will terminate in the event of
its assignment (as defined in the Investment Company Act) or upon the
termination of the Management Agreement. The Subadvisory Agreement may be
terminated by the Fund, PIFM or the Subadviser upon not more than 60 days', nor
less than 30 days', written notice. The Subadvisory Agreement provides that it
will continue in effect for a period of more than two years from its execution
only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually in
accordance with the requirements of the Investment Company Act.
    
 
                                  DISTRIBUTOR
 
   
    Prudential Securities Incorporated (Prudential Securities or the
Distributor), One Seaport Plaza, New York, New York 10292, acts as the
distributor of the shares of the Fund.
    
 
   
    Pursuant to separate Distribution and Service Plans (the Class A Plan, the
Class B Plan and the Class C Plan, collectively, the Plans) adopted by the Fund
under Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act and a distribution agreement
(the Distribution Agreement), the Distributor incurs the expenses of
distributing the Fund's Class A, Class B and Class C shares, respectively. The
Distributor also incurs the expenses of distributing the Class Z shares under
the Distribution Agreement with the Fund, none of which are reimbursed by or
paid for by the Fund. See "How the Fund is Managed--Distributor" in the
Prospectus.
    
 
    The Class A Plan provides that (i) .25 of 1% of the average daily net assets
of the Class A shares may be used to pay for personal service and the
maintenance of shareholder accounts (service fee) and (ii) total distribution
fees (including the service fee of .25 of 1%) may not exceed .30 of 1%. The
Class B and Class C Plans provide that (i) .25 of 1% of the average daily net
assets of the Class B and Class C shares, respectively, may be paid as a service
fee and (ii) .75 of 1% (not including the service fee) may be paid for
distribution-related expenses with respect to the Class B and Class C shares,
respectively (asset-based sales charge).
 
   
    The Class A, Class B and Class C Plans will continue in effect from year to
year, provided that each such continuance is approved at least annually by a
vote of the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not
interested persons of the Fund and who have no direct or indirect financial
interest in the operation of the Class A, Class B, or Class C Plan or in any
agreement related to the Plans (the Rule 12b-1 Trustees), at a meeting called
for the purpose of voting on such continuance. A Plan may be terminated at any
time, without penalty, by the vote of a majority of the Rule 12b-1 Trustees or
by the vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of the
applicable class of the Fund on not more than 60 days', nor less than 30 days'
written notice to any other party to the Plan. The Plans may not be amended to
increase materially the amounts to be spent for the services described therein
without approval by the shareholders of the applicable class, and all material
amendments are required to be approved by the Board of Trustees in the manner
described above. Each Plan will automatically terminate in the event of its
assignment. The Fund will not be obligated to pay expenses incurred under any
Plan if it is terminated or not continued.
    
 
    Pursuant to each Plan, the Board of Trustees will review at least quarterly
a written report of the distribution expenses incurred on behalf of each class
of shares of the Fund by the Distributor. The report will include an itemization
of the distribution expenses and the purposes of such expenditures. In addition,
as long as the Plans remain in effect, the selection and nomination of Rule
12b-1 Trustees shall be committed to the Rule 12b-1 Trustees.
 
   
    Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the Fund has agreed to indemnify the
Distributor to the extent permitted by applicable law against certain
liabilities under the federal securities laws. The Distribution Agreement was
approved by the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the Rule 12b-1
Trustees, on October 25, 1997.
    
 
NASD MAXIMUM SALES CHARGE RULE
 
    Pursuant to rules of the NASD, the Distributor is required to limit
aggregate initial sales charges, deferred sales charges and asset-based sales
charges to 6.25% of total gross sales of each class of shares. In the case of
Class B shares, interest charges equal to the prime rate plus one percent per
annum may be added to the 6.25% limitation. Sales from the reinvestment of
dividends and distributions are not required to be included in the calculation
of the 6.25% limitation. The annual asset-based sales charge with respect to
Class B and Class C shares of the Fund may not exceed .75 of 1%. The 6.25%
limitation applies to the Fund rather than on a per shareholder basis. If
aggregate sales charges were to exceed 6.25% of total gross sales of any class,
all sales charges on shares of that class would be suspended.
 
                      PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE
 
   
    The Manager is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities, futures
and options on securities and futures for the Fund, the selection of brokers,
dealers and futures commission merchants to effect the transactions and the
negotiation of brokerage commissions, if any. The term "Manager" as used in this
section includes the Subadviser. Broker-dealers may receive
    
 
                                      B-17
<PAGE>
negotiated brokerage commissions on Fund portfolio transactions, including
options and the purchase and sale of underlying securities upon the exercise of
options. On foreign securities exchanges, commissions may be fixed. Orders may
be directed to any broker or futures commission merchant including, to the
extent and in the manner permitted by applicable law, Prudential Securities and
its affiliates.
 
   
    Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter market and bonds, including
convertible bonds, are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as
principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price
of the security usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten
offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of
compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's
concession or discount. On occasion, certain money market instruments and U.S.
Government agency securities may be purchased directly from the issuer, in which
case no commissions or discounts are paid. The Fund will not deal with
Prudential Securities or any affiliate in any transaction in which Prudential
Securities or any affiliate acts as principal, except in accordance with rules
of the SEC. Thus, it will not deal in the over-the-counter market with
Prudential Securities acting as market maker, and it will not execute a
negotiated trade with Prudential Securities if execution involves Prudential
Securities' acting as principal with respect to any part of the Fund's order.
    
 
    Portfolio securities may not be purchased from any underwriting or selling
syndicate of which Prudential Securities, or an affiliate, during the existence
of the syndicate, is a principal underwriter (as defined in the Investment
Company Act), except in accordance with rules of the SEC. This limitation, in
the opinion of the Fund, will not significantly affect the Fund's ability to
pursue its present investment objective. However, in the future in other
circumstances, the Fund may be at a disadvantage because of this limitation in
comparison to other funds with similar objectives but not subject to such
limitations.
 
   
    In placing orders for portfolio securities of the Fund, the Manager is
required to give primary consideration to obtaining the most favorable price and
efficient execution. This means that the Manager will seek to execute each
transaction at a price and commission, if any, which provide the most favorable
total cost or proceeds reasonably attainable in the circumstances. While the
Manager generally seeks reasonably competitive spreads or commissions, the Fund
will not necessarily be paying the lowest spread or commission available. Within
the framework of this policy, the Manager will consider the research and
investment services provided by brokers, dealers or futures commission merchants
who effect or are parties to portfolio transactions of the Fund, the Manager or
the Manager's other clients. Such research and investment services are those
which brokerage houses customarily provide to institutional investors and
include statistical and economic data and research reports on particular
companies and industries. Such services are used by the Manager in connection
with all of its investment activities, and some of such services obtained in
connection with the execution of transactions for the Fund may be used in
managing other investment accounts. Conversely, brokers, dealers or futures
commission merchants furnishing such services may be selected for the execution
of transactions of such other accounts, whose aggregate assets are far larger
than the Fund's, and the services furnished by such brokers, dealers or futures
commission merchants may be used by the Manager in providing investment
management for the Fund. Commission rates are established pursuant to
negotiations with the broker, dealer or futures commission merchant based on the
quality and quantity of execution services provided by the broker in the light
of generally prevailing rates. The Manager's policy is to pay higher commissions
to brokers, other than Prudential Securities, for particular transactions than
might be charged if a different broker had been selected, on occasions when, in
the Manager's opinion, this policy furthers the objective of obtaining best
price and execution. In addition, the Manager is authorized to pay higher
commissions on brokerage transactions for a Fund to brokers other than
Prudential Securities (or any affiliate) in order to secure research and
investment services described above, subject to review by the Fund's Board of
Trustees from time to time as to the extent and continuation of this practice.
The allocation of orders among brokers and the commission rates paid are
reviewed periodically by the Fund's Board of Trustees. Portfolio securities may
not be purchased from any underwriting or selling syndicate of which Prudential
Securities (or any affiliate), during the existence of the syndicate, is a
principal underwriter (as defined in the Investment Company Act), except in
accordance with rules of the Commission. This limitation, in the opinion of the
Fund, will not significantly affect the Fund's ability to pursue its present
investment objective. However, in the future, in other circumstances, the Fund
may be at a disadvantage because of this limitation in comparison to other funds
with similar objectives but not subject to such limitations.
    
 
    Subject to the above considerations, Prudential Securities (or any
affiliate) may act as a securities broker or futures commission merchant for the
Fund. In order for Prudential Securities (or any affiliate) to effect any
portfolio transactions for a Fund, the commissions, fees or other remuneration
received by Prudential Securities (or any affiliate) must be reasonable and fair
compared to the commissions, fees or other remuneration paid to other brokers or
futures commission merchants in connection with comparable transactions
involving similar securities or futures being purchased or sold on an exchange
during a comparable period of time. This standard would allow Prudential
Securities (or any affiliate) to receive no more than the remuneration which
would be expected to be received by an unaffiliated broker or futures commission
merchant in a commensurate arm's-length transaction. Furthermore, the Board of
Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of the Trustees who are not
"interested" persons,
 
                                      B-18
<PAGE>
   
has adopted procedures which are reasonably designed to provide that any
commissions, fees or other remuneration paid to Prudential Securities (or any
affiliate) are consistent with the foregoing standard. In accordance with
Section 11(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, Prudential
Securities may not retain compensation for effecting transactions on a national
securities exchange for a Fund unless the Fund has expressly authorized the
retention of such compensation. Prudential Securities must furnish to the Fund
at least annually a statement setting forth the total amount of all compensation
retained by Prudential Securities from transactions effected for the Fund during
the applicable period. Brokerage and futures transactions with Prudential
Securities are also subject to such fiduciary standards as may be imposed by
applicable law.
    
 
                     PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION OF FUND SHARES
 
   
    Shares of the Fund may be purchased at a price equal to the next determined
net asset value (NAV) per share plus a sales charge which, at the election of
the investor, may be imposed either (i) at the time of purchase (Class A shares)
or (ii) on a deferred basis (Class B or Class C shares). Class Z shares of the
Fund are offered to a limited group of investors at NAV without any sales
charges. See "Shareholder Guide--How to Buy Shares of the Fund" in the
Prospectus.
    
 
    Each class represents an interest in the same assets of the Fund and is
identical in all respects except that (i) each class is subject to different
sales charges and distribution and/or service fees (except for Class Z shares,
which are not subject to any sales charges and distribution and/or service
fees), which may affect performance, (ii) each class has exclusive voting rights
with respect to any matter submitted to shareholders that relates solely to its
arrangement and has separate voting rights on any matter submitted to
shareholders in which the interests of one class differ from the interests of
any other class, (iii) each class has a different exchange privilege, (iv) only
Class B shares have a conversion feature and (v) Class Z shares are offered
exclusively for sale to a limited group of investors. See "Distributor" and
"Shareholder Investment Account--Exchange Privilege."
 
ISSUANCE OF FUND SHARES FOR SECURITIES
 
   
    Transactions involving the issuance of Fund shares for securities (rather
than cash) will be limited to (i) reorganizations, (ii) statutory mergers, or
(iii) other acquisitions of portfolio securities that: (a) meet the investment
objective and policies of the Fund, (b) are liquid and not subject to
restrictions on resale, (c) have a value that is readily ascertainable via
listing on or trading in a recognized United States or international exchange or
market, and (d) are approved by the Fund's investment adviser.
    
 
SPECIMEN PRICE MAKE-UP
 
   
    Under the current distribution arrangements between the Fund and the
Distributor, Class A shares are sold with a maximum sales charge of 5% and Class
B*, Class C* and Class Z shares are sold at NAV. Using the NAV of the Fund at
April 14, 1998, the maximum offering price of the Fund's shares is as follows:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
<S>                                                                 <C>
Net asset value and redemption price per Class A share............     $   10.00
Maximum sales charge (5% of offering price).......................           .53
                                                                          ------
Maximum offering price to public..................................     $   10.53
                                                                          ------
                                                                          ------
CLASS B
Net asset value, redemption price and offering price per Class B
 share*...........................................................     $   10.00
                                                                          ------
                                                                          ------
CLASS C
Net asset value, redemption price and offering price per Class C
 share*...........................................................     $   10.00
                                                                          ------
                                                                          ------
CLASS Z
Net asset value, offering price and redemption price per Class Z
 share............................................................     $   10.00
                                                                          ------
                                                                          ------
<FN>
 
        --------------------
         * Class B and Class C shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales
        charge on certain redemptions. See "Shareholder Guide--How to Sell Your
        Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charges" in the Prospectus.
</TABLE>
    
 
REDUCTION AND WAIVER OF INITIAL SALES CHARGES--CLASS A SHARES
 
    COMBINED PURCHASE AND CUMULATIVE PURCHASE PRIVILEGE. If an investor or
eligible group of related investors purchases Class A shares of the Fund
concurrently with Class A shares of other Prudential Mutual Funds, the purchases
may be combined to take advantage of the reduced sales charges applicable to
larger purchases. See the table of breakpoints under "Shareholder
Guide--Alternative Purchase Plan" in the Prospectus of the Fund.
 
                                      B-19
<PAGE>
    An eligible group of related Fund investors includes any combination of the
following:
 
    (a) an individual;
 
    (b) the individual's spouse, their children and their parents;
 
    (c) the individual's and spouse's Individual Retirement Account (IRA);
 
    (d) any company controlled by the individual (a person, entity or group that
holds 25% or more of the outstanding voting securities of a company will be
deemed to control the company, and a partnership will be deemed to be controlled
by each of its general partners);
 
    (e) a trust created by the individual, the beneficiaries of which are the
individual, his or her spouse, parents or children;
 
    (f) a Uniform Gifts to Minors Act/Uniform Transfers to Minors Act account
created by the individual or the individual's spouse; and
 
    (g) one or more employee benefit plans of a company controlled by an
individual.
 
    In addition, an eligible group of related Fund investors may include an
employer (or group of related employers) and one or more qualified retirement
plans of such employer or employers (an employer controlling, controlled by or
under common control with another employer is deemed related to that employer).
 
    The Distributor must be notified at the time of purchase that the investor
is entitled to a reduced sales charge. The reduced sales charge will be granted
subject to confirmation of the investor's holdings. The Combined Purchase and
Cumulative Purchase Privilege does not apply to individual participants in
pension, profit-sharing or other employee benefit plans qualified under Section
401 of the Internal Revenue Code and deferred compensation and annuity plans
under Sections 457 and 403(b)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code.
 
   
    RIGHTS OF ACCUMULATION. Reduced sales charges are also available through
Rights of Accumulation, under which an investor or an eligible group of related
investors, as described above under "Combined Purchase and Cumulative Purchase
Privilege," may aggregate the value of their existing holdings of shares of the
Fund and shares of other Prudential Mutual Funds (excluding money market funds
other than those acquired pursuant to the exchange privilege) to determine the
reduced sales charge. The value of shares held directly with the Transfer Agent
and through Prudential Securities will not be aggregated to determine the
reduced sales charge. All shares must be held either directly with the Transfer
Agent or through Prudential Securities. The value of existing holdings for
purposes of determining the reduced sales charge is calculated using the maximum
offering price (NAV plus maximum sales charge) as of the previous business day.
See "How the Fund Values its Shares" in the Prospectus of the Fund. The
Distributor must be notified at the time of purchase that the investor is
entitled to a reduced sales charge. The reduced sales charges will be granted
subject to confirmation of the investor's holdings. Rights of Accumulation are
not available to individual participants in any retirement or group plans.
    
 
   
    LETTER OF INTENT. Reduced sales charges are available to investors (or an
eligible group of related investors), including retirement and group plans, who
enter into a written Letter of Intent providing for the purchase, within a
thirteen-month period, of shares of the Fund and shares of other Prudential
Mutual Funds (Investment Letter of Intent). Retirement and group plans may also
qualify to purchase Class A shares at NAV by entering into a Letter of Intent
whereby they agree to enroll, within a thirteen-month period, a specified number
of eligible employees or participants (Participant Letter of Intent).
    
 
    For purposes of the Investment Letter of Intent, all shares of the Fund and
shares of other Prudential Mutual Funds (excluding money market funds other than
those acquired pursuant to the exchange privilege) which were previously
purchased and are still owned are also included in determining the applicable
reduction. However, the value of shares held directly with the Transfer Agent
and through Prudential Securities will not be aggregated to determine the
reduced sales charge. All shares must be held either directly with the Transfer
Agent or through Prudential Securities.
 
   
    A Letter of Intent permits a purchaser, in the case of an Investment Letter
of Intent, to establish a total investment goal to be achieved by any number of
investments over a thirteen-month period and, in the case of a Participant
Letter of Intent, to establish a minimum eligible employee or participant
enrollment goal over a thirteen-month period. Each investment made during the
period, in the case of an Investment Letter of Intent, will receive the reduced
sales charge applicable to the amount represented by the goal, as if it were a
single investment. In the case of a Participant Letter of Intent, each
investment made during the period will be made at net asset value. Escrowed
Class A shares totaling 5% of the dollar amount of the Letter of Intent will be
held by the Transfer Agent in the name of the purchaser, except in the case of
retirement and group plans where the employer or plan sponsor
    
 
                                      B-20
<PAGE>
will be responsible for paying any applicable sales charge. The effective date
of an Investment Letter of Intent (except in the case of retirement and group
plans), may be back-dated up to 90 days, in order that any investments made
during this 90-day period, valued at the purchaser's cost, can be applied to the
fulfillment of the Letter of Intent goal.
 
   
    The Investment Letter of Intent does not obligate the investor to purchase,
nor the Fund to sell, the indicated amount. Similarly, the Participant Letter of
Intent does not obligate the retirement or group plan to enroll the indicated
number of eligible employees or participants. In the event the Letter of Intent
goal is not achieved within the thirteen-month period, the purchaser (or the
employer or plan sponsor in the case of any retirement or group plan) is
required to pay the difference between the sales charge otherwise applicable to
the purchases made during this period and sales charge actually paid. Such
payment may be made directly to the Distributor or, if not paid, the Distributor
will liquidate sufficient escrowed shares to obtain such difference. If the goal
is exceeded in an amount which qualifies for a lower sales charge, a price
adjustment is made by refunding to the purchaser the amount of excess sales
charge, if any, paid during the thirteen-month period. Investors electing to
purchase Class A shares of the Fund pursuant to a Letter of Intent should
carefully read such Letter of Intent.
    
 
    The Distributor must be notified at the time of purchase that the investor
is entitled to a reduced sales charge. The reduced sales charge will, in the
case of an Investment Letter of Intent, be granted subject to confirmation of
the investor's holdings or in the case of a Participant Letter of Intent,
subject to confirmation of the number of eligible employees or participants in
the retirement or group plan. Letters of Intent are not available to individual
participants in any retirement or group plans.
 
WAIVER OF THE CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE--CLASS B SHARES
   
    The contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) is waived under circumstances
described in the Prospectus. See "Shareholder Guide--How to Sell Your
Shares--Waiver of Contingent Deferred Sales Charges" in the Prospectus. In
connection with these waivers, the Transfer Agent will require you to submit the
supporting documentation set forth below.
    
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CATEGORY OF WAIVER                       REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
<S>                                      <C>
Death                                    A copy of the shareholder's death certificate or, in
                                         the case of a trust, a copy of the grantor's death
                                         certificate, plus a copy of the trust agreement
                                         identifying the grantor.
Disability--An individual will be        A copy of the Social Security Administration award
considered disabled if he or she is      letter or a letter from a physician on the
unable to engage in any substantial      physician's letterhead stating that the shareholder
gainful activity by reason of any        (or, in the case of a trust, the grantor) is
medically determinable physical or       permanently disabled. The letter must also indicate
mental impairment which can be expected  the date of disability.
to result in death or to be of
long-continued and indefinite duration.
Distribution from an IRA or 403(b)       A copy of the distribution form from the custodial
Custodial Account                        firm indicating (i) the date of birth of the
                                         shareholder and (ii) that the shareholder is over
                                         age 59 and is taking a normal distribution--signed
                                         by the shareholder.
Distribution from Retirement Plan        A letter signed by the plan administrator/trustee
                                         indicating the reason for the distribution.
Excess Contributions                     A letter from the shareholder (for an IRA) or the
                                         plan administrator/ trustee on company letterhead
                                         indicating the amount of the excess and whether or
                                         not taxes have been paid.
</TABLE>
 
The Transfer Agent reserves the right to request such additional documents as it
may deem appropriate.
 
                         SHAREHOLDER INVESTMENT ACCOUNT
    Upon the initial purchase of Fund shares, a Shareholder Investment Account
is established for each investor under which a record of the shares held is
maintained by the Transfer Agent. If a share certificate is desired, it must be
requested in writing for each transaction. Certificates are issued only for full
shares and may be redeposited in the Account at any time. There is no charge to
the investor for issuance of a certificate. The Fund makes available to its
shareholders the following privileges and plans.
 
AUTOMATIC REINVESTMENT OF DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
    For the convenience of investors, all dividends and distributions are
automatically reinvested in full and fractional shares of the Fund. An investor
may direct the Transfer Agent in writing not less than five full business days
prior to the record date to have subsequent dividends or distributions sent in
cash rather than reinvested. In the case of recently purchased shares for which
 
                                      B-21
<PAGE>
   
registration instructions have not been received on the record date, cash
payment will be made directly to the dealer. Any shareholder who receives a cash
payment representing a dividend or distribution may reinvest such dividend or
distribution at NAV by returning the check or the proceeds to the Transfer Agent
within 30 days after the payment date. Such investment will be made at the NAV
per share next determined after receipt of the check or proceeds by the Transfer
Agent. Such shareholder will receive credit for any CDSC paid in connection with
the amount of proceeds being reinvested.
    
 
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE
   
    The Fund makes available to its shareholders the Exchange Privilege. The
Fund makes available to its shareholders the privilege of exchanging their
shares of the Fund for shares of certain other Prudential Mutual Funds,
including one or more specified money market funds, subject in each case to the
minimum investment requirements of such funds. Shares of such other Prudential
Mutual Funds may also be exchanged for shares of the Fund. All exchanges are
made on the basis of the relative NAV next determined after receipt of an order
in proper form. An exchange will be treated as a redemption and purchase for tax
purposes. Shares may be exchanged for shares of another fund only if shares of
such fund may legally be sold under applicable state laws. For retirement and
group plans having a limited menu of Prudential Mutual Funds, the exchange
privilege is available for those funds eligible for investment in the particular
program.
    
   
    It is contemplated that the exchange privilege may be applicable to new
mutual funds whose shares may be distributed by the Distributor.
    
   
    CLASS A. Shareholders of the Fund may exchange their Class A shares for
shares of certain other Prudential Mutual Funds, shares of Prudential Government
Securities Trust (Short-Intermediate Term Series) and shares of the money market
funds specified below. No fee or sales load will be imposed upon the exchange.
Shareholders of money market funds who acquired such shares upon exchange of
Class A shares may use the exchange privilege only to acquire Class A shares of
the Prudential Mutual Funds participating in the exchange privilege.
    
   
    The following money market funds participate in the Class A exchange
privilege:
    
       Prudential California Municipal Fund
         (California Money Market Series)
       Prudential Government Securities Trust
         (Money Market Series)
         (U.S. Treasury Money Market Series)
       Prudential Municipal Series Fund
         (Connecticut Money Market Series)
         (Massachusetts Money Market Series)
         (New York Money Market Series)
         (New Jersey Money Market Series)
       Prudential MoneyMart Assets, Inc. (Class A shares)
       Prudential Tax-Free Money Fund, Inc.
   
    CLASS B AND CLASS C. Shareholders of the Fund may exchange their Class B and
Class C shares of the Fund for Class B and Class C shares, respectively, of
certain other Prudential Mutual Funds and shares of Prudential Special Money
Market Fund, Inc. No CDSC will be payable upon such exchange, but a CDSC may be
payable upon the redemption of the Class B and Class C shares acquired as a
result of the exchange. The applicable sales charge will be that imposed by the
fund in which shares were initially purchased and the purchase date will be
deemed to be the date of the initial purchase, rather than the date of the
exchange.
    
    Class B and Class C shares of the Fund may also be exchanged for Class B and
Class C shares, respectively, of an eligible money market fund without
imposition of any CDSC at the time of exchange. Upon subsequent redemption from
such money market fund or after re-exchange into the Fund, such shares will be
subject to the CDSC calculated without regard to the time such shares were held
in the money market fund. In order to minimize the period of time in which
shares are subject to a CDSC, shares exchanged out of the money market fund will
be exchanged on the basis of their remaining holding periods, with the longest
remaining holding periods being transferred first. In measuring the time period
shares are held in a money market fund and "tolled" for purposes of calculating
the CDSC holding period, exchanges are deemed to have been made on the last day
of the month. Thus, if shares are exchanged into the Fund from a money market
fund during the month (and are held in the Fund at the end of the month), the
entire month will be included in the CDSC holding period. Conversely, if shares
are exchanged into a money market fund prior to the last day of the month (and
are held in the money market fund on the last day of the month), the entire
month will be excluded from the CDSC holding period. For purposes of calculating
the seven year holding period applicable to the Class B conversion feature, the
time period during which Class B shares were held in a money market fund will be
excluded.
    At any time after acquiring shares of other funds participating in the Class
B or Class C exchange privilege, a shareholder may again exchange those shares
(and any reinvested dividends and distributions) for Class B or Class C shares
of the Fund,
 
                                      B-22
<PAGE>
respectively, without subjecting such shares to any CDSC. Shares of any fund
participating in the Class B or Class C exchange privilege that were acquired
through reinvestment of dividends or distributions may be exchanged for Class B
or Class C shares of other funds, respectively, without being subject to any
CDSC.
    CLASS Z. Class Z shares may be exchanged for Class Z shares of other
Prudential Mutual Funds.
   
    Additional details about the exchange privilege and prospectuses for each of
the Prudential Mutual Funds are available from the Transfer Agent, Prudential
Securities or Prusec. The exchange privilege may be modified, terminated or
suspended on 60 days' notice, and any fund, including the Fund, or the
Distributor, has the right to reject any exchange application relating to such
fund's shares.
    
 
DOLLAR COST AVERAGING
    Dollar cost averaging is a method of accumulating shares by investing a
fixed amount of dollars in shares at set intervals. An investor buys more shares
when the price is low and fewer shares when the price is high. The average cost
per share is lower than it would be if a constant number of shares were bought
at set intervals.
    Dollar cost averaging may be used, for example, to plan for retirement, to
save for a major expenditure, such as the purchase of a home, or to finance a
college education. The cost of a year's education at a four-year college today
averages around $14,000 at a private college and around $6,000 at a public
university. Assuming these costs increase at a rate of 7% a year, as has been
projected, for the freshman class of 2011, the cost of four years at a private
college could reach $210,000 and over $90,000 at a public university.(1)
    The following chart shows how much you would need in monthly investments to
achieve specified lump sums to finance your investment goals.(2)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PERIOD OF
MONTHLY INVESTMENTS:                                                   $100,000     $150,000     $200,000     $250,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                                                   <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
25 Years............................................................   $     110    $     165    $     220    $     275
20 Years............................................................         176          264          352          440
15 Years............................................................         296          444          592          740
10 Years............................................................         555          833        1,110        1,388
 5 Years............................................................       1,371        2,057        2,742        3,428
</TABLE>
 
- ------------------------
    (1)Source information concerning the costs of education at public and
private universities is available from The College Board Annual Survey of
Colleges, 1993. Average costs for private institutions include tuition, fees,
room and board for the 1993-1994 academic year.
    (2)The chart assumes an effective rate of return of 8% (assuming monthly
compounding). This example is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended
to reflect the performance of an investment in shares of the Fund. The
investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an
investor's shares when redeemed may be worth more or less than their original
cost. See "Automatic Savings Accumulation Plan."
 
AUTOMATIC SAVINGS ACCUMULATION PLAN (ASAP)
    Under ASAP, an investor may arrange to have a fixed amount automatically
invested in shares of the Fund monthly by authorizing his or her bank account or
Prudential Securities Account (including a Command Account) to be debited to
invest specified dollar amounts in shares of the Fund. The investor's bank must
be a member of the Automatic Clearing House System. Share certificates are not
issued to ASAP participants.
    Further information about this program and an application form can be
obtained from the Transfer Agent, Prudential Securities or Prusec.
 
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN
    A systematic withdrawal plan is available to shareholders through Prudential
Securities or the Transfer Agent. Such withdrawal plan provides for monthly or
quarterly checks in any amount, except as provided below, up to the value of the
shares in the shareholder's account. Withdrawals of Class B or Class C shares
may be subject to a CDSC. See "Shareholder Guide--How to Sell Your
Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charges" in the Prospectus of the Fund.
   
    In the case of shares held through the Transfer Agent (i) a $10,000 minimum
account value applies, (ii) withdrawals may not be for less than $100 and (iii)
the shareholder must elect to have all dividends and/or distributions
automatically reinvested in additional full and fractional shares at NAV on
shares held under this plan. See "Shareholder Investment Account--Automatic
Reinvestment of Dividends and Distributions."
    
 
                                      B-23
<PAGE>
    Prudential Securities and the Transfer Agent act as agents for the
shareholder in redeeming sufficient full and fractional shares to provide the
amount of the periodic withdrawal payment. The systematic withdrawal plan may be
terminated at any time, and the Distributor reserves the right to initiate a fee
of up to $5 per withdrawal, upon 30 days' written notice to the shareholder.
    Withdrawal payments should not be considered as dividends, yield or income.
If periodic withdrawals continuously exceed reinvested dividends and
distributions, the shareholder's original investment will be correspondingly
reduced and ultimately exhausted.
    Furthermore, each withdrawal constitutes a redemption of shares, and any
gain or loss realized must be recognized for federal income tax purposes. In
addition, withdrawals made concurrently with purchases of additional shares are
inadvisable because of the sales charges applicable to (i) the purchase of Class
A shares and (ii) the withdrawal of Class B and Class C shares. Each shareholder
should consult his or her own tax adviser with regard to the tax consequences of
the plan, particularly if used in connection with a retirement plan.
 
TAX-DEFERRED RETIREMENT PLANS
    Various qualified retirement plans, including a 401(k) plan, self-directed
individual retirement accounts and "tax-deferred accounts" under Section
403(b)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Internal Revenue
Code) are available through the Distributor. These plans are for use by both
self-employed individuals and corporate employers. These plans permit either
self-direction of accounts by participants, or a pooled account arrangement.
Information regarding the establishment of these plans, and the administration,
custodial fees and other details are available from Prudential Securities or the
Transfer Agent.
    Investors who are considering the adoption of such a plan should consult
with their own legal counsel or tax adviser with respect to the establishment
and maintenance of any such plan.
 
TAX-DEFERRED RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS
 
INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS.  An individual retirement account (IRA) permits
the deferral of federal income tax on income earned in the account until the
earnings are withdrawn. The following chart represents a comparison of the
earnings in a personal savings account with those in an IRA, assuming a $2,000
annual contribution, an 8% rate of return and a 39.6% federal income tax bracket
and shows how much more retirement income can accumulate within an IRA as
opposed to a taxable individual savings account.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
           TAX-DEFERRED COMPOUNDING(1)
      CONTRIBUTIONS          PERSONAL
       MADE OVER:            SAVINGS       IRA
      ------------           --------    --------
<S>                          <C>         <C>
10 years                     $ 26,165    $ 31,291
15 years                       44,675      58,649
20 years                       68,109      98,846
25 years                       97,780     157,909
30 years                      135,346     244,692
</TABLE>
 
- ------------------------
   
  (1) The chart is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the
    performance of the Fund or any specific investment. It shows taxable versus
    tax-deferred compounding for the periods and on the terms indicated.
    Earnings in a traditional IRA account will be subject to tax when withdrawn
    from the account. Distributions from a Roth IRA which meet the conditions
    required under the Internal Revenue Code will not be subject to tax upon
    withdrawal from the account.
    
 
                                      B-24
<PAGE>
MUTUAL FUND PROGRAMS
    From time to time, the Fund may be included in a mutual fund program with
other Prudential Mutual Funds. Under such a program, a group of portfolios will
be selected and thereafter marketed collectively. Typically, these programs are
created with an investment theme, E.G., to seek greater diversification,
protection from interest rate movements or access to different management
styles. In the event such a program is instituted, there may be a minimum
investment requirement for the program as a whole. The Fund may waive or reduce
the minimum initial investment requirements in connection with such a program.
   
    The mutual funds in the program may be purchased individually or as part of
a program. Since the allocation of portfolios included in the program may not be
appropriate for all investors, investors should consult their Prudential
Securities Financial Advisor or Prudential/Prusec Representative concerning the
appropriate blend of portfolios for them. If investors elect to purchase the
individual mutual funds that constitute the program in an investment ratio
different from that offered by the program, the standard minimum investment
requirements for the individual mutual funds will apply.
    
 
                                NET ASSET VALUE
   
    Under the Investment Company Act, the Board of Trustees is responsible for
determining in good faith the fair value of securities of the Fund. In
accordance with procedures adopted by the Board of Trustees, the value of
investments listed on a securities exchange and NASDAQ National Market System
securities (other than options on stock and stock indices) are valued at the
last sales price on such exchange system on the day of valuation, or, if there
was no sale on such day, the mean between the last bid and asked prices on such
day, or at the bid price on such day in the absence of an asked price. Corporate
bonds (other than convertible debt securities) and U.S. Government securities
that are actively traded in the over-the-counter market, including listed
securities for which the primary market is believed by the Manager, in
consultation with the Subadviser to be over-the-counter, are valued on the basis
of valuations provided by an independent pricing agent or principal market maker
which uses information with respect to transactions in bonds, quotations from
bond dealers, agency ratings, market transactions in comparable securities and
various relationships between securities in determining value. Convertible debt
securities that are actively traded in the over-the-counter market, including
listed securities for which the primary market is believed by the Manager, in
consultation with the Subadviser to be over-the-counter, are valued at the mean
between the last reported bid and asked prices provided by principal market
makers or independent pricing agents. Options on stock and stock indices traded
on an exchange are valued at the mean between the most recently quoted bid and
asked prices on the respective exchange and futures contracts and options
thereon are valued at their last sale prices as of the close of trading on the
applicable commodities exchange or board of trade or, if there was no sale on
the applicable commodities exchange or board of trade on such day, at the mean
between the most recently quoted bid and asked prices on such exchange or board
of trade. Should an extraordinary event, which is likely to affect the value of
the security, occur after the close of an exchange on which a portfolio security
is traded, such security will be valued at fair value considering factors
determined in good faith by the investment adviser under procedures established
by and under the general supervision of the Fund's Board of Trustees.
    
   
    Securities or other assets for which reliable market quotations are not
readily available, or for which the pricing agent or principal market maker does
not provide a valuation or methodology or provides a valuation or methodology
that, in the judgment of the Manager or Subadviser (or Valuation Committee or
Board of Trustees), does not represent fair value, are valued by the Valuation
Committee or Board of Trustees in consultation with the Manager or the
Subadviser, including its portfolio managers, traders and its research and
credit analysts, on the basis of the following factors: cost of the security,
transactions in comparable securities, relationships among various securities
and such other factors as may be determined by the Manager, Subadviser, Board of
Trustees or Valuation Committee to materially affect the value of the security.
Short-term debt securities are valued at cost, with interest accrued or discount
amortized to the date of maturity, if their original maturity was 60 days or
less, unless this is determined by the Board of Trustees not to represent fair
value. Short-term securities with remaining maturities of more than 60 days, for
which market quotations are readily available, are valued at their current
market quotations as supplied by an independent pricing agent or principal
market maker.
    
   
    The Fund will compute its NAV at 4:15 P.M., New York time, on each day the
New York Stock Exchange is open for trading except on days on which no orders to
purchase, sell or redeem Fund shares have been received or days on which changes
in the value of the Fund's portfolio securities do not affect NAV. In the event
the New York Stock Exchange closes early on any business day, the NAV of a
Fund's shares shall be determined at a time between such closing and 4:15 P.M.,
New York time. The New York Stock Exchange is closed on the following holidays:
New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday,
Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
    
   
    NAV is calculated separately for each class. The NAV of Class B and Class C
shares will generally be lower than the NAV of Class A shares as a result of the
larger distribution-related fee to which Class B and Class C shares are subject.
The NAV of Class Z
    
 
                                      B-25
<PAGE>
   
shares will generally be higher than the NAV of Class A, Class B or Class C
shares because Class Z shares are not subject to any distribution or service
fee. It is expected, however, that the NAV per share of each class will tend to
converge immediately after the recording of dividends, if any, which will differ
by approximately the amount of the distribution and/or service fee expense
accrual differential among the classes.
    
 
                            PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
    AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN. The Fund may from time to time advertise its
average annual total return. Average annual total return is determined
separately for Class A, Class B, Class C and Class Z shares. See "How the Fund
Calculates Performance" in the Prospectus of the Fund.
    Average annual total return is computed according to the following formula:
                                        n
                                  P(1+T) = ERV
Where: P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000.
      T = average annual total return.
      n = number of years.
      ERV = ending redeemable value at the end of the 1, 5 or 10 year periods
            (or fractional portion thereof) of a hypothetical $1,000 investment
            made at the beginning of the 1, 5 or 10 year periods.
    Average annual total return takes into account any applicable initial or
deferred sales charges but does not take into account any federal or state
income taxes that may be payable upon redemption.
    AGGREGATE TOTAL RETURN. The Fund may also advertise its aggregate total
return. Aggregate total return is determined separately for Class A, Class B,
Class C and Class Z shares. See "How the Fund Calculates Performance" in the
Prospectus of the Fund.
    Aggregate total return represents the cumulative change in the value of an
investment in the Fund and is computed according to the following formula:
                                    ERV - P
                                    -------
                                       P
Where: P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000.
ERV = ending redeemable value at the end of the 1, 5 or 10 year periods (or
      fractional portion thereof) of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made at
      the beginning of the 1, 5 or 10 year periods.
    Aggregate total return does not take into account any federal or state
income taxes that may be payable upon redemption or any applicable initial or
contingent deferred sales charges.
    YIELD. The Fund may from time to time advertise its yield as calculated over
a 30-day period. Yield is calculated separately for Class A, Class B, Class C
and Class Z shares. The yield will be computed by dividing the Fund's net
investment income per share earned during this 30-day period by the maximum
offering price per share on the last day of this period. Yield is calculated
according to the following formula:
 
                                           6
                           YIELD=2[(a-b+1)  divided by cd -1]
 
<TABLE>
<C>         <S>
    Where:  a = dividends and interest earned during the period.
            b = expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements).
            c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during the period that were
               entitled to receive dividends.
            d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period.
</TABLE>
 
    Yield fluctuates and an annualized yield quotation is not a representation
by the Fund as to what an investment in the Fund will actually yield for any
given period.
   
    From time to time, the performance of the Fund may be measured against
various indices. Set forth below is a chart which compares the performance of
different types of investments over the long term and the rate of inflation.(1)
    
 
                                      B-26
<PAGE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     PERFORMANCE
    COMPARISON OF
      DIFFERENT
 TYPES OF INVESTMENTS
  OVER THE LONG TERM
   (1/1926-09/1997)
<S>                     <C>                   <C>
                             Long-Term Govt.
Common Stocks                          Bonds  Inflation
11.0%                                   5.1%       3.1%
</TABLE>
 
- ------------------------
 
    (1)Source: Ibbotson Associates, STOCKS, BONDS, BILLS AND INFLATION--1997
YEARBOOK (annually updates the work of Roger G. Ibbotson and Rex A.
Sinquefield). All rights reserved. Common stock returns are based on the
Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index, a market-weighted, unmanaged index of 500
common stocks in a variety of industry sectors. It is a commonly used indicator
of broad stock price movements. This chart is for illustrative purposes only and
is not intended to represent the performance of any particular investment or
fund. Investors cannot invest directly in an index. Past performance is not a
guarantee of future results.
 
                       TAXES, DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
 
   
    The Fund intends to elect to qualify and intends to remain qualified as a
regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code.
This relieves the Fund (but not its shareholders) from paying federal income tax
on income and capital gains which are distributed to shareholders and permits
net capital gains of the Fund (I.E., the excess of net long-term capital gains
over net short-term capital losses) to be treated as long-term capital gains of
the shareholders, regardless of how long shareholders have held their shares in
the Fund.
    
 
    Qualification as a regulated investment company requires, among other
things, that (a) at least 90% of the Fund's annual gross income (without
reduction for losses from the sale or other disposition of securities) be
derived from interest, dividends, payments with respect to securities loans and
gains from the sale or other disposition of securities or options thereon or
foreign currencies, or other income (including but not limited to gains from
options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of
investing in such securities or currencies; (b) the Fund diversify its holdings
so that, at the end of each fiscal quarter (i) at least 50% of the value of the
Fund's assets is represented by cash, U.S. Government securities and other
securities limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater than 5%
of the value of the Fund's assets and 10% of the outstanding voting securities
of such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its assets is
invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government
securities); and (c) the Fund distribute to its shareholders at least 90% of its
net investment income and net short-term gains (I.E., the excess of net
short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses) in each year.
 
   
    Gains or losses on sales of securities by the Fund will generally be treated
as long-term capital gains or losses if the securities have been held by it for
more than one year except in certain cases where the Fund acquires a put or
writes a call thereon or otherwise holds an offsetting position with respect to
the securities. Other gains or losses on the sale of securities will be
short-term capital gains or losses. Gains and losses on the sale, lapse or other
termination of options on securities will generally be treated as gains and
losses from the sale of securities. If an option written by the Fund on
securities lapses or is terminated through a closing transaction, such as a
repurchase by the Fund of the option from its holder, the Fund will generally
realize short-term capital gain or loss. If securities are sold by the Fund
pursuant to the exercise of a call option written by it, the Fund will include
the premium received in the sale proceeds of the securities delivered in
determining the amount of gain or loss on the sale. Certain of the Fund's
transactions may be subject to wash sale, short sale, constructive sale,
anti-conversion and straddle provisions of the Internal Revenue Code which may,
among other things, require the Fund to defer recognition of losses. In
addition, debt securities acquired by the Fund may be subject to original issue
discount and market discount rules which, respectively, may cause the Fund to
accrue income in advance of the receipt of cash with respect to interest or
cause gains to be treated as ordinary income.
    
 
                                      B-27
<PAGE>
    Special rules apply to most options on stock indices, futures contracts and
options thereon, and forward foreign currency exchange contracts in which the
Fund may invest. See "Investment Objective and Policies." These investments will
generally constitute Section 1256 contracts and will be required to be "marked
to market" for federal income tax purposes at the end of the Fund's taxable
year; that is, treated as having been sold at market value. Except with respect
to certain forward foreign currency exchange contracts, 60% of any gain or loss
recognized on such deemed sales and on actual dispositions will be treated as
long-term capital gain or loss, and the remainder will be treated as short-term
capital gain or loss.
 
    Gain or loss on the sale, lapse or other termination of options on stock and
on narrowly-based stock indices will be capital gain or loss and will be
long-term or short-term depending upon the holding period of the option. In
addition, positions which are part of a straddle will be subject to certain wash
sale, short sale and constructive sale provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
In the case of a straddle, the Fund may be required to defer the recognition of
losses on positions it holds to the extent of any unrecognized gain on
offsetting positions held by the Fund. The conversion transaction rules may
apply to certain transactions to treat all or a portion of the gain thereon as
ordinary income rather than as capital gain.
 
   
    The Fund may invest in shares of REITs. A REIT is not taxed on income
distributed to shareholders if it complies with several requirements relating to
its organization, ownership, assets and income and a requirement that it
distribute to its shareholders at least 95% of its taxable income (other than
net capital gains) for each taxable year. Qualification as a REIT requires,
among other things, that (a) at least 95% of its gross income is derived from
dividends, interest, rents from real property, gain from the sale or other
disposition of stock, securities and real property which is held for investment
purposes, and certain other specified sources; (b) at least 75% of its gross
income is derived from rents from real property, interest on obligations secured
by mortgages on real property or on interests in real property, gain from the
sale or other disposition of real property which is held for investment
purposes, and certain other specified sources; and (c) at the close of each
quarter of the taxable year (i) at least 75% of the value of its total assets is
represented by real estate assets, cash and cash items (including receivables),
and U.S. Government securities and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its
total assets is represented by securities (other than those includable under
clause (i)) limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater in
value than 5% of the value of the total assets of the REIT and to not more than
10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer.
    
 
   
    A "passive foreign investment company" (PFIC) is a foreign corporation that,
in general, meets either of the following tests: (a) at least 75% of its gross
income is passive or (b) an average of at least 50% of its assets produce, or
are held for the production of, passive income. If the Fund acquires and holds
stock in a PFIC beyond the end of the year of its acquisition, the Fund will be
subject to federal income tax on a portion of any "excess distribution" received
on the stock or of any gain from disposition of the stock (collectively, PFIC
income), plus interest thereon, even if the Fund distributes the PFIC income as
a taxable dividend to its shareholders. The balance of the PFIC income will be
included in the Fund's investment company taxable income and, accordingly, will
not be taxable to it to the extent that income is distributed to its
shareholders. The Fund may make a "mark-to-market" election with respect to any
marketable stock it holds of a PFIC. If the election is in effect, at the end of
the Fund's taxable year, the Fund will recognize the amount of gains, if any, as
ordinary income with respect to PFIC stock. No loss will be recognized on PFIC
stock except to the extent of gains recognized in prior years. Alternatively,
the Fund, if it meets certain requirements, may elect to treat any PFIC in which
it invests as a "qualified electing fund," in which case, in lieu of the
foregoing tax and interest obligation, the Fund will be required to include in
income each year its pro rata share of the qualified electing fund's annual
ordinary earnings and net capital gain, even if they are not distributed to the
Fund; those amounts would be subject to the distribution requirements applicable
to the Fund described above.
    
 
    Under the Internal Revenue Code, gains or losses attributable to
fluctuations in exchange rates which occur between the time the Fund accrues
interest or other receivables or accrues expenses or other liabilities
denominated in a foreign currency and the time the Fund actually collects such
receivables or pays such liabilities are treated as ordinary income or ordinary
loss. Similarly, gains or losses on forward foreign currency exchange contracts
or dispositions of debt securities denominated in a foreign currency
attributable to fluctuations in the value of the foreign currency between the
date of acquisition of the security and the date of disposition also may be
treated as ordinary gain or loss. These gains, referred to under the Internal
Revenue Code as "Section 988" gains or losses, increase or decrease the amount
of the Fund's investment company taxable income available to be distributed to
its shareholders as ordinary income, rather than increasing or decreasing the
amount of the Fund's net capital gain. If Section 988 losses exceed other
investment company taxable income during a taxable year, the Fund would not be
able to make any ordinary dividend distributions, or distributions made before
the losses were realized would be recharacterized as a return of capital to
shareholders, rather than as an ordinary dividend, reducing each shareholder's
basis in his or her Fund shares.
 
    The Fund is required to distribute 98% of its ordinary income in the same
calendar year in which it is earned. The Fund is also required to distribute
during the calendar year 98% of the capital gain net income it earned during the
12 months ending on October 31 of such calendar year, as well as all
undistributed ordinary income and undistributed capital gain net income from the
 
                                      B-28
<PAGE>
prior year or the twelve-month period ending on October 31 of such prior year,
respectively. To the extent it does not meet these distribution requirements,
the Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on the undistributed
amount. For purposes of this excise tax, income on which the Fund pays income
tax is treated as distributed.
 
    Any dividends paid shortly after a purchase by an investor may have the
effect of reducing the per share net asset value of the investor's shares by the
per share amount of the dividends. Furthermore, such dividends, although in
effect a return of capital, are subject to federal income taxes. Therefore,
prior to purchasing shares of the Fund, the investor should carefully consider
the impact of dividends, including capital gains distributions, which are
expected to be or have been announced.
 
    Any loss realized on a sale, redemption or exchange of shares of the Fund by
a shareholder will be disallowed to the extent the shares are replaced within a
61-day period (beginning 30 days before the disposition of shares). Shares
purchased pursuant to the reinvestment of a dividend will constitute a
replacement of shares.
 
    A shareholder who acquires shares of the Fund and sells or otherwise
disposes of such shares within 90 days of acquisition may not be allowed to
include certain sales charges incurred in acquiring such shares for purposes of
calculating gain or loss realized upon a sale or exchange of shares of the Fund.
 
    Dividends of net investment income and distributions of net short-term
capital gains paid to a shareholder (including a shareholder acting as a nominee
or fiduciary) who is a nonresident alien individual, a foreign corporation or a
foreign partnership (foreign shareholder) are subject to a 30% (or lower treaty
rate) withholding tax upon the gross amount of the dividends unless the
dividends are effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business conducted by
the foreign shareholder. Capital gain dividends paid to a foreign shareholder
are generally not subject to withholding tax. A foreign shareholder will,
however, be required to pay U.S. income tax on any dividends and capital gain
distributions which are effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business of
the foreign shareholder.
 
    Dividends received by corporate shareholders are eligible for a
dividends-received deduction of 70% to the extent the Fund's income is derived
from qualified dividends received by the Fund from domestic corporations.
Interest income, capital gain net income, gain or loss from Section 1256
contracts (described above), dividend income from foreign corporations and
income from other sources will not constitute qualified dividends. Individual
shareholders are not eligible for the dividends-received deduction.
 
    Income received by the Fund from sources within foreign countries may be
subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by such countries. Income tax
treaties between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate
such taxes. It is impossible to determine in advance the effective rate of
foreign tax to which the Fund will be subject, since the amount of the Fund's
assets to be invested in various countries will vary. The Fund does not expect
to meet the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code for "passing-through" to
its shareholders any foreign income taxes paid.
 
    Foreign shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with
respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the Fund.
 
               CUSTODIAN, TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND DISBURSING AGENT
                          AND INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
    State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Heritage Drive, North Quincy,
Massachusetts 02171, serves as Custodian for the portfolio securities of the
Fund and cash and in that capacity maintains certain financial and accounting
books and records pursuant to an agreement with the Fund. Subcustodians provide
custodial services for the Fund's foreign assets held outside the United States.
See "How the Fund is Managed--Custodian and Transfer and Dividend Disbursing
Agent" in the Prospectus.
 
    Prudential Mutual Fund Services LLC (PMFS), Raritan Plaza One, Edison, New
Jersey 08837, serves as the Transfer and Dividend Disbursing Agent of the Fund.
PMFS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PIFM. PMFS provides customary transfer
agency services to the Fund, including the handling of shareholder
communications, the processing of shareholder transactions, the maintenance of
shareholder account records, payment of dividends and distributions and related
functions. For these services, PMFS receives an annual fee per shareholder
account of $9.50, a new account set-up fee for each manually established account
of $2.00 and a monthly inactive zero balance account fee per shareholder account
of $.20. PMFS is also reimbursed for its out-of-pocket expenses, including but
not limited to postage, stationery, printing, allocable communication expenses
and other costs.
 
   
    Price Waterhouse LLP, 1177 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10036,
serves as the Fund's independent accountants, and in that capacity audits the
annual report of the Fund.
    
 
                                      B-29
<PAGE>
                         PRUDENTIAL MID-CAP VALUE FUND
                      STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       APRIL
                                                                                                      14, 1998
                                                                                                      --------
<S>                                                                                                   <C>
ASSETS
Cash................................................................................................  $100,000
Deferred organization and offering costs (Note 1)...................................................   300,000
                                                                                                      --------
    Total assets....................................................................................   400,000
                                                                                                      --------
LIABILITIES
Deferred organization and offering costs payable (Note 1)...........................................   300,000
                                                                                                      --------
Net Assets (Note 1)
  Applicable to 10,000 shares of beneficial interest................................................  $100,000
                                                                                                      --------
                                                                                                      --------
Calculation of Offering Price
Class A:
  Net asset value and redemption price per share                                                      $  10.00
    ($25,000  DIVIDED BY 2,500 shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding)................
  Maximum sales charge (5% of offering price).......................................................       .53
                                                                                                      --------
  Offering price to public..........................................................................  $  10.53
                                                                                                      --------
                                                                                                      --------
Class B:
  Net asset value, offering price and redemption price per share                                      $  10.00
    ($25,000  DIVIDED BY 2,500 shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding)................
                                                                                                      --------
                                                                                                      --------
 
Class C:
  Net asset value, offering price and redemption price per share                                      $  10.00
    ($25,000  DIVIDED BY 2,500 shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding)................
                                                                                                      --------
                                                                                                      --------
 
Class Z:
  Net asset value, offering price and redemption price per share                                      $  10.00
    ($25,000  DIVIDED BY 2,500 shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding)................
                                                                                                      --------
                                                                                                      --------
</TABLE>
    
 
See Notes to Financial Statement.
 
                                      B-30
<PAGE>
                         PRUDENTIAL MID-CAP VALUE FUND
                          NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENT
 
   
    NOTE 1. Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund ("the Fund"), which was organized as a
business trust in Delaware on October 24, 1997, is an open-end, diversified
management investment company. The Fund has had no significant operations other
than the issuance of 2,500 shares each of Class A, Class B, Class C and Class Z
shares of beneficial interest for $100,000 on April 14, 1998 to Prudential
Investments Fund Management LLC (PIFM).
    
 
    Costs incurred and expected to be incurred in connection with the
organization and offering of the Fund will be paid initially by PIFM and will be
repaid to PIFM upon commencement of investment operations. Offering costs will
be deferred and amortized over a period not to exceed 12 months. Organizational
costs will be deferred and amortized over the period of benefit not to exceed 60
months from the date the Fund commences investment operations. If any of the
initial shares of the Fund are redeemed by PIFM during the period of
amortization of organization expenses, the redemption proceeds will be reduced
by the pro rata amount of unamortized organization expenses based on the number
of initial shares being redeemed to the number of the initial shares
outstanding.
 
   
    NOTE 2. AGREEMENTS. The Fund has entered into a management agreement with
PIFM.
    
 
   
    The management fee paid PIFM will be computed daily and payable monthly, at
an annual rate of .70 of 1% of the average daily net assets of the Fund.
    
 
   
    Pursuant to a subadvisory agreement between PIFM and The Prudential
Investment Corporation (PIC) doing business as Prudential Investments (PI), PI
furnishes investment advisory services pursuant to the management agreement and
supervises PI's performance of such services. PIFM pays for the services of PI,
the cost of compensation of officers and employees of the Fund, occupancy and
certain clerical and accounting costs of the Fund. The Fund bears all other
costs and expenses.
    
 
   
    The Fund has entered into a distribution agreement with Prudential
Securities Incorporated (Prudential Securities or the Distributor) for
distribution of the Fund's shares.
    
 
   
    Pursuant to separate Plans of Distribution (the Class A Plan, the Class B
Plan and the Class C Plan, collectively the "Plans") adopted by the Fund under
Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, Prudential Securities incurs
the expenses of distributing the Fund's Class A, Class B and Class C shares.
These expenses include commissions and account servicing fees paid to, or on
account of, financial advisers of Prudential Securities and Pruco Securities
Corporation (Prusec), an affiliated broker-dealer, commissions paid to, or on
account of, other broker-dealers or certain financial institutions which have
entered into agreements with the Distributor, advertising expenses, the cost of
printing and mailing prospectuses to potential investors and indirect and
overhead costs of Prudential Securities and Prusec associated with the sale of
Fund shares, including lease, utility, communications and sales promotion
expenses.
    
 
   
    Pursuant to the Class A Plan, the Fund will compensate the Distributor for
its expenses with respect to Class A shares at an annual rate of up to .30 of 1%
of the average daily net asset value of the Class A shares. The Distributor has
agreed to limit its distribution-related fees payable under the Class A Plan to
 .25 of 1% of the average daily net asset value of the Class A shares for the
fiscal period ending July 31, 1998.
    
 
   
    Pursuant to the Class B and Class C Plans, the Fund compensates the
Distributor for its distribution-related expenses with respect to the Class B
and C shares at an annual rate of 1% of the average daily net assets of the
Class B and C shares.
    
 
   
    The Distributor incurs the expense of distributing the Fund's Class Z shares
under a distribution agreement with the Fund, none of which is paid for or
reimbursed by the Fund.
    
 
   
    Prudential Mutual Fund Services LLC (PMFS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of
PIFM, serves as the Fund's transfer agent.
    
 
   
    PIFM, PIC and the Distributor are indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries of The
Prudential Insurance Company of America.
    
 
                                      B-31
<PAGE>
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
   
To The Shareholder and Board of Trustees of
Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund:
    
 
   
    In our opinion, the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities
presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Prudential
Mid-Cap Value Fund (the "Fund") at April 14, 1998, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles. This financial statement is the responsibility
of the Fund's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on this
financial statement based on our audit. We conducted our audit of this financial
statement in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards which require
that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether
the financial statement is free of material misstatement. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statement, assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis
for the opinion expressed above.
    
 
   
/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP
    
 
   
1177 Avenue of the Americas
    
 
   
New York, New York 10036
April 14, 1998
    
 
                                      B-32
<PAGE>
                   APPENDIX I--GENERAL INVESTMENT INFORMATION
 
    The following terms are used in mutual fund investing.
 
ASSET ALLOCATION
 
    Asset allocation is a technique for reducing risk, providing balance. Asset
allocation among different types of securities within an overall investment
portfolio helps to reduce risk and to potentially provide stable returns, while
enabling investors to work toward their financial goal(s). Asset allocation is
also a strategy to gain exposure to better performing asset classes while
maintaining investment in other asset classes.
 
DIVERSIFICATION
 
    Diversification is a time-honored technique for reducing risk, providing
"balance" to an overall portfolio and potentially achieving more stable returns.
Owning a portfolio of securities mitigates the individual risks (and returns) of
any one security. Additionally, diversification among types of securities
reduces the risks (and general returns) of any one type of security.
 
DURATION
 
    Debt securities have varying levels of sensitivity to interest rates. As
interest rates fluctuate, the value of a bond (or a bond portfolio) will
increase or decrease. Longer term bonds are generally more sensitive to changes
in interest rates. When interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise.
Conversely, when interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.
 
    Duration is an approximation of the price sensitivity of a bond (or a bond
portfolio) to interest rate changes. It measures the weighted average maturity
of a bond's (or a bond portfolio's) cash flows, i.e., principal and interest
rate payments. Duration is expressed as a measure of time in years--the longer
the duration of a bond (or a bond portfolio), the greater the impact of interest
rate changes on the bond's (or the bond portfolio's) price. Duration differs
from effective maturity in that duration takes into account call provisions,
coupon rates and other factors. Duration measures interest rate risk only and
not other risks, such as credit risk and, in the case of non-U.S. dollar
denominated securities, currency risk. Effective maturity measures the final
maturity dates of a bond (or a bond portfolio).
 
MARKET TIMING
 
    Market timing--buying securities when prices are low and selling them when
prices are relatively higher--may not work for many investors because it is
impossible to predict with certainty how the price of a security will fluctuate.
However, owning a security for a long period of time may help investors offset
short-term price volatility and realize positive returns.
 
POWER OF COMPOUNDING
 
    Over time, the compounding of returns can significantly impact investment
returns. Compounding is the effect of continuous investment on long-term
investment results, by which the proceeds of capital appreciation (and income
distributions, if elected) are reinvested to contribute to the overall growth of
assets. The long-term investment results of compounding may be greater than that
of an equivalent initial investment in which the proceeds of capital
appreciation and income distributions are taken in cash.
 
   
STANDARD DEVIATION
    
 
   
    Standard deviation is an absolute (non-relative) measure of volatility
which, for a mutual fund, depicts how widely the returns varied over a certain
period of time. When a fund has a high standard deviation, its range of
performance has been very wide, implying greater volatility potential. Standard
deviation is only one of several measures of a fund's volatility.
    
 
                                      I-1
<PAGE>
                    APPENDIX II--HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA
 
    The historical performance data contained in this Appendix relies on data
obtained from statistical services, reports and other services believed by the
Manager to be reliable. The information has not been independently verified by
the Manager.
 
    This chart shows the long-term performance of various asset classes and the
rate of inflation.
 
               EACH INVESTMENT PROVIDES A DIFFERENT OPPORTUNITY.
 
                           EDGAR Representation of Chart
                                  Ending Value
 
VALUE OF $1.00 INVESTED ON 1/1/26 THROUGH 12/31/96
 
   
Small Stocks                              $5,519.97
Common Stocks                             $1,828.33
Long-Term Bonds                              $39.07
Treasury Bills                               $14.25
Inflation                                     $9.02
    
 
Source: Stocks, Bonds, Bills, and Inflation 1997 Yearbook, Ibbotson Associates,
Chicago (annually updates work by Roger G. Ibbotson and Rex A. Sinquefield).
Used with permission. This chart is for illustrative purposes only and is not
indicative of the past, present, or future performance of any asset class or any
Prudential Mutual Fund.
 
   
Generally, stock returns are due to capital appreciation and the reinvestment of
any gains. Bond returns are due to reinvesting interest. Also, stock prices
usually are more volatile than bond prices over the long-term. Small stock
returns for 1926-1980 are those of stocks comprising the 5th quintile of the New
York Stock Exchange. Thereafter, returns are those of the Dimensional Fund
Advisors (DFA) Small Company Fund. Common stock returns are based on the S&P
Composite Index, a market-weighted, unmanaged index of 500 stocks (currently) in
a variety of industries. It is often used as a broad measure of stock market
performance.
    
 
Long-term government bond returns are measured using a constant one-bond
portfolio with a maturity of roughly 20 years. Treasury bill returns are for a
one-month bill. Treasuries are guaranteed by the government as to the timely
payment of principal and interest; equities are not. Inflation is measured by
the consumer price index (CPI).
 
                                      II-1
<PAGE>
   
    Set forth below is historical performance data relating to various sectors
of the fixed-income securities markets. The chart shows the historical total
returns of U.S. Treasury bonds, U.S. mortgage securities, U.S. corporate bonds,
U.S. high yield bonds and world government bonds on an annual basis from 1987
through 1997. The total returns of the indices include accrued interest, plus
the price changes (gains or losses) of the underlying securities during the
period mentioned. The data is provided to illustrate the varying historical
total returns and investors should not consider this performance data as an
indication of the future performance of the Fund or of any sector in which the
Fund invests.
    
 
    All information relies on data obtained from statistical services, reports
and other services believed by the Manager to be reliable. Such information has
not been verified. The figures do not reflect the operating expenses and fees of
a mutual fund. See "Fund Expenses" in the prospectus. The net effect of the
deduction of the operating expenses of a mutual fund on these historical total
returns, including the compounded effect over time, could be substantial.
 
           HISTORICAL TOTAL RETURNS OF DIFFERENT BOND MARKET SECTORS
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      '87      '88      '89      '90      '91      '92      '93      '94      '95      '96
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>
U.S. GOVERNMENT
TREASURY
BONDS(1)                               2.0%     7.0%    14.4%     8.5%    15.3%     7.2%    10.7%    (3.4)%   18.4%     2.7%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U. S. GOVERNMENT
MORTGAGE
SECURITIES(2)                          4.3%     8.7%    15.4%    10.7%    15.7%     7.0%     6.8%    (1.6)%   16.8%     5.4%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. INVESTMENT GRADE
CORPORATE
BONDS(3)                               2.6%     9.2%    14.1%     7.1%    18.5%     8.7%    12.2%    (3.9)%   22.3%     3.3%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S.
HIGH YIELD
CORPORATE
BONDS(4)                               5.0%    12.5%     0.8%    (9.6)%   46.2%    15.8%    17.1%    (1.0)%   19.2%    11.4%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WORLD
GOVERNMENT
BONDS(5)                              35.2%     2.3%    (3.4)%   15.3%    16.2%     4.8%    15.1%     6.0%    19.6%     4.1%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIGHEST
AND LOWEST RETURN PERCENT             33.2     10.2     18.8     24.9     30.9     11.0     10.3      9.9      5.5      8.7
 
<CAPTION>
                                      '97
- -----------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>
U.S. GOVERNMENT


TREASURY
BONDS(1)                               9.6%
- -----------------------------------
U. S. GOVERNMENT
MORTGAGE
SECURITIES(2)                          9.5%
- -----------------------------------
U.S. INVESTMENT GRADE
CORPORATE
BONDS(3)                              10.2%
- -----------------------------------
U.S.
HIGH YIELD
CORPORATE
BONDS(4)                              12.8%
- -----------------------------------
WORLD
GOVERNMENT
BONDS(5)                              (4.3)%
- -----------------------------------
- -----------------------------------
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIGHEST
AND LOWEST RETURN PERCENT            17.12
</TABLE>
    
 
(1)LEHMAN BROTHERS TREASURY BOND INDEX is an unmanaged index made up of over 150
public issues of the U.S. Treasury having maturities of at least one year.
 
(2)LEHMAN BROTHERS MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES INDEX is an unmanaged index that
includes over 600 15- and 30-year fixed-rate mortgage-backed securities of the
Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA), Federal National Mortgage
Association (FNMA), and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC).
 
(3)LEHMAN BROTHERS CORPORATE BOND INDEX includes over 3,000 public fixed-rate,
nonconvertible investment-grade bonds. All bonds are U.S. dollar-denominated
issues and include debt issued or guaranteed by foreign sovereign governments,
municipalities, governmental agencies or international agencies. All bonds in
the index have maturities of at least one year.
 
(4)LEHMAN BROTHERS HIGH YIELD BOND INDEX is an unmanaged index comprising over
750 public, fixed-rate, nonconvertible bonds that are rated Ba1 or lower by
Moody's Investors Service (or rated BB+ or lower by Standard & Poor's or Fitch
Investors Service). All bonds in the index have maturities of at least one year.
 
(5)SALOMON BROTHERS WORLD GOVERNMENT INDEX (NON U.S.) includes over 800 bonds
issued by various foreign governments or agencies, excluding those in the U.S.,
but including those in Japan, Germany, France, the U.K., Canada, Italy,
Australia, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Austria. All
bonds in the index have maturities of at least one year.
 
                                      II-2
<PAGE>
   
    This chart illustrates the performance of major world stock markets for the
period from December 31, 1986 through December 31, 1997. It does not represent
the performance of any Prudential Mutual Fund.
    
 
   
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS OF MAJOR WORLD STOCK MARKETS (12/31/86 - 12/31/97)
    

EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
   
<TABLE>
<S>              <C>
The Netherlands      20.5%
Sweden               20.4%
Spain                20.4%
Hong Kong            19.7%
Belgium              19.5%
Switzerland          17.9%
USA                  17.1%
UK                   16.6%
France               15.6%
Germany              12.1%
Austria               9.6%
Japan                 6.6%
</TABLE>
    
   
Source: Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and Lipper Analytical
Services, Inc. as of 12/31/97. Used with permission. Morgan Stanley Country
indices are unmanaged indices which include those stocks making up the largest
two-thirds of each country's total stock market capitalization. Returns reflect
the reinvestment of all distributions. This chart is for illustrative purposes
only and is not indicative of the past, present or future performance of any
specific investment. Investors cannot invest directly in stock indices.
    
 
    This chart shows the growth of a hypothetical $10,000 investment made in the
stocks representing the S&P 500 stock index with and without reinvested
dividends.
 
   
                         EDGAR Representation of Chart
                                   1969-1997
    
 
   
Capital Appreciation Only --               $105,413
    
 
   
Capital Appreciation and Reinvesting Dividends
- --                                         $304,596
    
 
Source: Stocks, Bonds, Bills, and Inflation 1997 Yearbook, Ibbotson Associates,
Chicago (annually updates work by Roger G. Ibbotson and Rex A. Sinquefield).
Used with permission. All rights reserved. This chart is used for illustrative
purposes only and is not intended to represent the past, present or future
performance of any Prudential Mutual Fund. Common stock total return is based on
the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index, a market-value-weighted index made up of
500 of the largest stocks in the U.S. based upon their stock market value.
Investors cannot invest directly in indices.
 
                                      II-3
<PAGE>
                  WORLD STOCK MARKET CAPITALIZATION BY REGION
   
                          World Total: $12.5 Trillion
    
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
   
<TABLE>
<S>           <C>
Canada             2.5%
U.S.              49.8%
Europe            32.1%
Pacific
Basin             15.6%
</TABLE>
    
   
Source: Morgan Stanley Capital International, December 31, 1997. Used with
permission. This chart represents the capitalization of major world stock
markets as measured by the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
Index. The total market capitalization is based on the value of approximately
1577 companies in 22 countries (representing approximately 60% of the aggregate
market value of the stock exchanges). This chart is for illustrative purposes
only and does not represent the allocation of any Prudential Mutual Fund.
    
 
    This chart below shows the historical volatility of general interest rates
as measured by the long U.S. Treasury Bond.
 
   
              LONG U.S. TREASURY BOND YIELD IN PERCENT (1926-1997)
    
 
   
                                    [CHART]
 
Source: Stocks, Bonds, Bills, and Inflation 1997 Yearbook, Ibbotson Associates,
Chicago (annually updates work by Roger G. Ibbotson and Rex A. Sinquefield).
Used with permission. All rights reserved. The chart illustrates the historical
yield of the long-term U.S. Treasury Bond from 1926-1997. Yields represent that
of an annually renewed one-bond portfolio with a remaining maturity of
approximately 20 years. This chart is for illustrative purposes and should not
be construed to represent the yields of any Prudential Mutual Fund.
    
 
                                      II-4
<PAGE>
   
                APPENDIX III--INFORMATION RELATING TO PRUDENTIAL
    
 
   
    Set forth below is information relating to The Prudential Insurance Company
of America (Prudential) and its subsidiaries as well as information relating to
the Prudential Mutual Funds. See "How the Fund is Managed--Manager" in the
Prospectus. The data will be used in sales materials relating to the Prudential
Mutual Funds. Unless otherwise indicated, the information is as of December 31,
1996 and is subject to change thereafter. All information relies on data
provided by The Prudential Investment Corporation (PIC) or from other sources
believed by the Manager to be reliable. Such information has not been verified
by the Fund.
    
 
INFORMATION ABOUT PRUDENTIAL
 
    The Manager and PIC are subsidiaries of Prudential, which is one of the
largest diversified financial services institutions in the world and, based on
total assets, the largest insurance company in North America as of December 31,
1996. Principal products and services include life and health insurance, other
healthcare products, property and casualty insurance, securities brokerage,
asset management, investment advisory services and real estate brokerage.
Prudential (together with its subsidiaries) employs almost 81,000 persons
worldwide, and maintains a sales force of approximately 11,500 agents and nearly
6,400 financial advisors. Prudential is a major issuer of annuities, including
variable annuities. Prudential seeks to develop innovative products and services
to meet consumer needs in each of its business areas. Prudential uses the Rock
of Gibraltar as its symbol. Prudential rock is a recognized brand name
throughout the world.
 
   
    INSURANCE. Prudential has been engaged in the insurance business since 1875.
It insures or provides financial services to nearly 50 million people worldwide.
Long one of the largest issuers of individual life insurance, Prudential has 22
million life insurance policies in force today with a face value of $1 trillion.
Prudential has the largest capital base ($12.1 billion) of any life insurance
company in the United States. Prudential provides auto insurance for
approximately 1.6 million cars and insures approximately 1.2 million homes.
    
 
   
    MONEY MANAGEMENT. Prudential is one of the largest pension fund managers in
the country, providing pension services to 1 in 3 Fortune 500 firms. It manages
$36 billion of individual retirement plan assets, such as 401(k) plans. As of
December 31, 1996, Prudential had more than $322 billion in assets under
management. Prudential Investments, a business group of Prudential (of which
Prudential Mutual Funds is a key part), manages over $190 billion in assets of
institutions and individuals. In PENSIONS & INVESTMENTS, May 12, 1997,
Prudential was ranked third in terms of total assets under management.
    
 
    REAL ESTATE. The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, the fourth largest real
estate brokerage network in the United States, has more than 37,000 brokers and
agents across the United States.(2)
 
    HEALTHCARE. Over two decades ago, Prudential introduced the first
federally-funded, for-profit HMO in the country. Today, approximately 4.6
million Americans receive healthcare from a Prudential managed care membership.
 
   
    FINANCIAL SERVICES. The Prudential Savings Bank FSB, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Prudential, has over $1 billion in assets and serves nearly 1.5
million customers across 50 states.
    
 
INFORMATION ABOUT THE PRUDENTIAL MUTUAL FUNDS
 
   
    As of October 31, 1997, Prudential Investments Fund Management was the
17(th) largest mutual fund company in the country, with over 2.5 million
shareholders invested in more than 50 mutual fund portfolios and variable
annuities with more than 3.7 million shareholder accounts.
    
 
    The Prudential Mutual Funds have over 30 portfolio managers who manage over
$55 billion in mutual fund and variable annuity assets. Some of Prudential's
portfolio managers have over 20 years of experience managing investment
portfolios.
 
    From time to time, there may be media coverage of portfolio managers and
other investment professionals associated with the Manager and the Subadviser in
national and regional publications, on television and in other media.
Additionally, individual mutual fund portfolios are frequently cited in surveys
conducted by national and regional publications and media organizations such as
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL, THE NEW YORK TIMES, BARRON'S and USA TODAY.
 
- ------------------------
 
   
(1) PIC serves as the Subadviser to substantially all of the Prudential Mutual
    Funds. Wellington Management Company serves as the subadviser to Global
    Utility Fund, Inc., Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management as the subadviser
    to Nicholas-Applegate Fund, Inc., Jennison Associates LLC as the subadviser
    to Prudential Jennison Series Fund, Inc. and Mercator Asset Management LP as
    the subadviser to International Stock Series, a portfolio of Prudential
    World Fund, Inc. There are multiple subadvisers for The Target Portfolio
    Trust.
    
 
(2) As of December 31, 1996.
 
                                     III-1
<PAGE>
   
    EQUITY FUNDS. FORBES magazine listed Prudential Equity Fund among twenty
mutual funds on its Honor Roll in its mutual fund issue of August 28, 1995.
Honorees are chosen annually among mutual funds (excluding sector funds) which
are open to new investors and have had the same management for at least five
years. Forbes considers, among other criteria, the total return of a mutual fund
in both bull and bear markets as well as a fund's risk profile. Prudential
Equity Fund is managed with a "value" investment style by PIC. In 1995,
Prudential Securities introduced Prudential Jennison Growth Fund, a growth-style
equity fund managed by Jennison Associates LLC, a premier institutional equity
manager and a subsidiary of Prudential.
    
 
   
    HIGH YIELD FUNDS. Investing in high yield bonds is a complex and research
intensive pursuit. A separate team of high yield bond analysts monitors
approximately 200 issues held in the Prudential High Yield Fund (currently the
largest fund of its kind in the country) along with 100 or so other high yield
bonds, which may be considered for purchase.(3) Non-investment grade bonds, also
known as junk bonds or high yield bonds, are subject to a greater risk of loss
of principal and interest including default risk than higher-rated bonds.
Prudential high yield portfolio managers and analysts meet face-to-face with
almost every bond issuer in the High Yield Fund's portfolio annually, and have
additional telephone contact throughout the year.
    
 
    Prudential's portfolio managers are supported by a large and sophisticated
research organization. Fourteen investment grade bond analysts monitor the
financial viability of approximately 1,750 different bond issuers in the
investment grade corporate and municipal bond markets--from IBM to small
municipalities, such as Rockaway Township, New Jersey. These analysts consider
among other things sinking fund provisions and interest coverage ratios.
 
    Prudential's portfolio managers and analysts receive research services from
almost 200 brokers and market service vendors. They also receive nearly 100
trade publications and newspapers--from PULP AND PAPER FORECASTER to WOMEN'S
WEAR DAILY--to keep them informed of the industries they follow.
 
   
    Prudential Mutual Funds' traders scan over 100 computer monitors to collect
detailed information on which to trade. From natural gas prices in the Rocky
Mountains to the results of local municipal elections, a Prudential portfolio
manager or trader is able to monitor it if it's important to a Prudential Mutual
Fund.
    
 
    Prudential Mutual Funds trade approximately $31 billion in U.S. and foreign
government securities a year. PIC seeks information from government policy
makers. In 1995, Prudential's portfolio managers met with several senior U.S.
and foreign government officials, on issues ranging from economic conditions in
foreign countries to the viability of index-linked securities in the United
States.
 
    Prudential Mutual Funds' portfolio managers and analysts met with over 1,200
companies in 1995, often with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or Chief
Financial Officer (CFO). They also attended over 250 industry conferences.
 
    Prudential Mutual Fund global equity managers conducted many of their visits
overseas, often holding private meetings with a company in a foreign language
(our global equity managers speak 7 different languages, including Mandarin
Chinese).
 
    TRADING DATA.(4) On an average day, Prudential Mutual Funds' U.S. and
foreign equity trading desks traded $77 million in securities representing over
3.8 million shares with nearly 200 different firms. Prudential Mutual Funds'
bond trading desks traded $157 million in government and corporate bonds on an
average day. That represents more in daily trading than most bond funds tracked
by Lipper even have in assets.(5) Prudential Mutual Funds' money market desk
traded $3.2 billion in money market securities on an average day, or over $800
billion a year. They made a trade every 3 minutes of every trading day. In 1994,
the Prudential Mutual Funds effected more than 40,000 trades in money market
securities and held on average $20 billion of money market securities.(6)
 
    Based on complex-wide data, on an average day, over 7,250 shareholders
telephoned Prudential Mutual Fund Services, Inc., the Transfer Agent of the
Prudential Mutual Funds, on the Prudential Mutual Funds' toll-free number. On an
annual basis, that represents approximately 1.8 million telephone calls
answered.
 
- ------------------------
 
   
(3) As of December 31, 1996. The number of bonds and the size of the Fund are
    subject to change.
    
 
(4) Trading data represents average daily transactions for portfolios of the
    Prudential Mutual Funds for which PIC serves as the subadviser, portfolios
    of the Prudential Series Fund and institutional and non-US accounts managed
    by Prudential Mutual Fund Investment Management, a division of PIC, for the
    year ended December 31, 1995.
 
(5) Based on 669 funds in Lipper Analytical Services categories of Short U.S.
    Treasury, Short U.S. Government, Intermediate U.S. Treasury, Intermediate
    U.S. Government, Short Investment Grade Debt, Intermediate Investment Grade
    Debt, General U.S. Treasury, General U.S. Government and Mortgage funds.
 
(6) As of December 31, 1994.
 
                                     III-2
<PAGE>
INFORMATION ABOUT PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES
 
   
    Prudential Securities is the fifth largest retail brokerage firm in the
United States with approximately 5,600 financial advisors. It offers to its
clients a wide range of products, including Prudential Mutual Funds and
annuities. As of December 31, 1995, assets held by Prudential Securities for its
clients approximated $168 billion. During 1994, over 28,000 new customer
accounts were opened each month at Prudential Securities.(7)
    
 
    Prudential Securities has a two-year Financial Advisor training program plus
advanced education programs, including Prudential Securities "university," which
provides advanced education in a wide array of investment areas. In the December
1995 issue of REGISTERED REP, an industry publication, Prudential Securities
Financial Advisor training programs received a grade of A-(compared to an
industry average of B+).
 
    In 1995, Prudential Securities' equity research team ranked 8th in
INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR magazine's 1995 "All America Research Team" survey. Five
Prudential Securities analysts were ranked as first-team finishers.(8)
 
    In addition to training, Prudential Securities provides its financial
advisors with access to firm economists and market analysts. It has also
developed proprietary tools for use by financial advisors, including the
Financial Architect-SM-, a state-of-the-art asset allocation software program
which helps Financial Advisors to evaluate a client's objectives and overall
financial plan, and a comprehensive mutual fund information and analysis system
that compares different mutual funds.
 
    For more complete information about any of the Prudential Mutual Funds,
including charges and expenses, call your Prudential Securities financial
adviser or Pruco/Prudential representative for a free prospectus. Read it
carefully before you invest or send money.
 
- ------------------------
 
(7) As of December 31, 1994.
 
(8) On an annual basis, INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR magazine surveys more than 700
    institutional money managers, chief investment officers and research
    directors, asking them to evaluate analysts in 76 industry sectors. Scores
    are produced by taking the number of votes awarded to an individual analyst
    and weighting them based on the size of the voting institution. In total,
    the magazine sends its survey to approximately 2,000 institutions and a
    group of European and Asian institutions.
 
                                     III-3
<PAGE>
                               OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 24.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND EXHIBITS.
 
  (a) FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
 
    (1)Financial Statements included in the Prospectus constituting Part A of
       this Registration Statement:
 
       None.
 
    (2)Financial Statements included in the Statement of Additional Information
       constituting Part B of this Registration Statement:
 
   
        (a) Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
    
 
   
       (b) Report of Independent Accountants.
    
 
  (b) EXHIBITS:
 
   
     1. Agreement and Declaration of Trust.(1)
    
 
   
     2. By-Laws.(1)
    
 
     3. Not Applicable.
 
   
     4. Instruments defining rights of shareholders.(1)
    
 
   
     5. (a) Management Agreement between the Registrant and Prudential
        Investments Fund Management LLC(1)
    
 
   
        (b) Subadvisory Agreement between Prudential Investments Fund Management
        LLC and The Prudential Investment Corporation.(1)
    
 
   
     6. (a) Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and Prudential
        Securities Incorporated.(1)
    
 
   
        (b) Selected Dealer Agreement.(1)
    
 
     7. Not Applicable.
 
   
     8. Custodian Contract between the Registrant and State Street Bank and
        Trust Company.(1)
    
 
   
     9. Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between the Registrant and
        Prudential Mutual Fund Services LLC(1)
    
 
   
    10. Opinion of Gardner, Carton & Douglas.*
    
 
   
    11. Consent of Independent Accountants.*
    
 
    12. Not Applicable.
 
   
    13. Purchase Agreement.(1)
    
 
    14. Not Applicable.
 
   
    15. (a) Distribution and Service Plan for Class A Shares.(1)
    
 
   
        (b) Distribution and Service Plan for Class B Shares.(1)
    
 
   
        (c) Distribution and Service Plan for Class C Shares.(1)
    
 
    16. Not applicable.
 
   
    18. Rule 18f-3 Plan.(1)
    
       -------------------
 
        * Filed herewith.
   
         (1) Incorporated by reference to Registrant's Registration Statement on
             Form N-1A (File No. 333-43095) filed on December 23, 1997.
    
 
ITEM 25.  PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH REGISTRANT.
 
    None.
 
ITEM 26.  NUMBER OF HOLDERS OF SECURITIES.
 
   
    As of April 14, 1998, the Registrant had one shareholder.
    
 
                                      C-1
<PAGE>
ITEM 27.  INDEMNIFICATION.
 
    As permitted by Section 17(h) and (i) of the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended (the 1940 Act) and pursuant to Del. Code Ann. title 12 sec. 3817, a
Delaware business trust may provide in its governing instrument for the
indemnification of its officers and trustees from and against any and all claims
and demands whatsoever. Article VII, Section 2 of the Agreement and Declaration
of Trust (Exhibit 1 to the Registration Statement) states that (i) the
Registrant shall indemnify any present trustee or officer to the fullest extent
permitted by law against liability, and all expenses reasonably incurred by him
or her in connection with any claim, action, suit or proceeding in which he or
she is involved by virtue of his or her service as a trustee, officer or both,
and against any amount incurred in settlement thereof and (ii) all persons
extending credit to, contracting with or having any claim against the Registrant
shall look only to the assets of the appropriate Series (or if no Series has yet
been established, only to the assets of the Registrant). Indemnification will
not be provided to a person adjudged by a court or other adjudicatory body to be
liable to the Registrant or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance,
bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties
(collectively "disabling conduct"). In the event of a settlement, no
indemnification may be provided unless there has been a determination, as
specified in the Declaration of Trust, that the officer or trustee did not
engage in disabling conduct. In addition, Article XI of Registrant's By-Laws
(Exhibit 2 to the Registration Statement) provides that any trustee, officer,
employee or other agent of Registrant shall be indemnifed by Registrant against
all liabilities and expenses subject to certain limitations and exceptions
contained in Article XI of the By-Laws. As permitted by Section 17(i) of the
1940 Act, pursuant to Section 10 of the Distribution Agreement (Exhibit 6(a) to
the Registration Statement), the Distributor of the Registrant may be
indemnified against liabilities which it may incur, except liabilities arising
from bad faith, gross negligence, willful misfeasance or reckless disregard of
duties.
 
    Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended (Securities Act) may be permitted to trustees, officers and
controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions or
otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities
and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as
expressed in the 1940 Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a
claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by
the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a trustee, officer, or
controlling person of the Registrant in connection with the successful defense
of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted against the Registrant by such
trustee, officer or controlling person in connection with the shares being
registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter
has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the 1940 Act and will be governed by the final
adjudication of such issue.
 
    The Registrant has an insurance policy insuring its officers and trustees
against liabilities, and certain costs of defending claims against such officers
and trustees, to the extent such officers and directors are not found to have
committed conduct constituting willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence
or reckless disregard in the performance of their duties. The insurance policy
also insures the Registrant against the cost of indemnification payments to
officers and directors under certain circumstances.
 
    Section 9 of the Management Agreement (Exhibit 5(a) to the Registration
Statement) and Section 4 of the Subadvisory Agreement (Exhibit 5(b) to the
Registration Statement) limit the liability of Prudential Investments Fund
Management LLC (PIFM) and The Prudential Investment Corporation (PIC),
respectively, to liabilities arising from willful misfeasance, bad faith or
gross negligence in the performance of their respective duties or from reckless
disregard by them of their respective obligations and duties under the
agreements.
 
    The Registrant hereby undertakes that it will apply the indemnification
provisions of its Declaration of Trust, By-Laws and the Distribution Agreement
in a manner consistent with Release No. 11330 of the Securities and Exchange
Commission under the 1940 Act so long as the interpretation of Section 17(h) and
17(i) of such Act remain in effect and are consistently applied.
 
    Under Section 17(h) of the 1940 Act, it is the position of the staff of the
Securities and Exchange Commission that if there is neither a court
determination on the merits that the defendant is not liable nor a court
determination that the defendant was not guilty of willful misfeasance, bad
faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the
conduct of one's office, no indemnification will be permitted unless an
independent legal counsel (not including a counsel who does work for either the
Registrant, its investment adviser, its principal underwriter or persons
affiliated with these persons) determines, based upon a review of the facts,
that the person in question was not guilty of willful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of
his or her office.
 
                                      C-2
<PAGE>
    Under its Agreement and Declaration of Trust, the Registrant may advance
funds to provide for indemnification. Pursuant to the Securities and Exchange
Commission staff's position on Section 17(h) advances will be limited in the
following respect:
 
    (1) Any advances must be limited to amounts used, or to be used, for the
        preparation and/or presentation of a defense to the action (including
        cost connected with preparation of a settlement);
 
    (2) Any advances must be accompanied by a written promise by, or on behalf
        of, the recipient to repay that amount of the advance which exceeds the
        amount to which it is ultimately determined that he is entitled to
        receive from the Registrant by reason of indemnification;
 
    (3) Such promise must be secured by a surety bond or other suitable
        insurance; and
 
    (4) Such surety bond or other insurance must be paid for by the recipient of
        such advance.
 
ITEM 28.  BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF INVESTMENT ADVISER
 
   
    (a) Prudential Investments Fund Management LLC (PIFM)
    
 
   
    See "How the Fund is Managed--Manager" in the Prospectus constituting Part A
of this Registration Statement and "Manager" in the Statement of Additional
Information constituting Part B of this Registration Statement.
    
 
    The business and other connections of the officers of PIFM are listed in
Schedules A and D of Form ADV of PIFM as currently on file with the Securities
and Exchange Commission, the text of which is hereby incorporated by reference
(File No. 801-31104).
 
   
    The business and other connections of PIFM's directors and principal
executive officers are set forth below. Except as otherwise indicated, the
address of each person is Gateway Center Three, 100 Mulberry Street, Newark, New
Jersey 07102-4077.
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AND ADDRESS          POSITION WITH PIFM                                    PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
- ------------------------  ------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------
<S>                       <C>                                   <C>
Frank W. Giordano         Executive Vice President, Secretary   Senior Vice President, Prudential Securities
                          and General Counsel                   Incorporated; Executive Vice President, Secretary and
                                                                General Counsel, PIFM
Robert F. Gunia           Executive Vice President and          Vice President, Prudential Investments; Executive Vice
                          Treasurer                             President and Treasurer, PIFM; Senior Vice President,
                                                                Prudential Securities Incorporated
Neil A. McGuinness        Executive Vice President              Executive Vice President and Director of Marketing,
                                                                Prudential Mutual Funds & Annuities (PMF&A); Executive
                                                                Vice President, PIFM
Brian Storms              Officer-in-Charge, President, Chief   President, PMF&A; Officer-in-Charge, President, Chief
                          Executive Officer and Chief           Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, PIFM
                          Operating Officer
Robert J. Sullivan        Executive Vice President              Executive Vice President, PMF&A; Executive Vice
                                                                President, PIFM
</TABLE>
    
 
    (b) The Prudential Investment Corporation (PIC)
 
    See "How the Fund is Managed--Manager" in the Prospectus constituting Part A
of this Registration Statement and "Manager" in the Statement of Additional
Information constituting Part B of this Registration Statement.
 
                                      C-3
<PAGE>
    The business and other connections of PIC's directors and executive officers
are as set forth below. Except as otherwise indicated, the address of each
person is Prudential Plaza, Newark, New Jersey 07102.
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AND ADDRESS          POSITION WITH PIC                     PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION
- ------------------------  ------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------
<S>                       <C>                                   <C>
E. Michael Caulfield      Chairman of the Board, President and  Chief Executive Officer, Prudential Investments (PIC)
                          Chief Executive Officer and Director  of The Prudential Insurance Company of America
                                                                (Prudential)
Jonathan M. Greene        Senior Vice President and Director    President--Investment Management, Prudential
                                                                Investments of Prudential; Senior Vice President and
                                                                Director, PIC
John R. Strangfeld, Jr.   Vice President and Director           President of Private Asset Management Group of
                                                                Prudential; Senior Vice President, Prudential; Vice
                                                                President and Director, PIC
</TABLE>
    
 
ITEM 29.  PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITERS
 
    (a) Prudential Securities Incorporated
 
   
    Prudential Securities is distributor for Cash Accumulation Trust, Command
Money Fund, Command Government Fund, Command Tax-Free Fund, The Global Total
Return Fund, Inc., Global Utility Fund, Inc., Nicholas-Applegate Fund, Inc.
(Nicholas-Applegate Growth Equity Fund), Prudential Balanced Fund, Prudential
California Municipal Fund, Prudential Distressed Securities Fund, Inc.,
Prudential Diversified Bond Fund, Inc., Prudential Emerging Growth Fund, Inc.,
Prudential Equity Fund, Inc., Prudential Equity Income Fund, Prudential Europe
Growth Fund, Inc., Prudential Global Genesis Fund, Inc., Prudential Global
Limited Maturity Fund, Inc., Prudential Government Income Fund, Inc., Prudential
Government Securities Trust, Prudential High Yield Fund, Inc., Prudential High
Yield Total Return Fund, Inc., Prudential Index Series Fund, Prudential
Institutional Liquidity Portfolio, Inc., Prudential Intermediate Global Income
Fund, Inc., Prudential International Bond Fund, Inc., Prudential Jennison Series
Fund, Inc., Prudential MoneyMart Assets, Inc., Prudential Mortgage Income Fund,
Inc., Prudential Multi-Sector Fund, Inc., Prudential Municipal Bond Fund,
Prudential Municipal Series Fund, Prudential National Municipals Fund, Inc.,
Prudential Natural Resources Fund, Inc., Prudential Pacific Growth Fund, Inc.,
Prudential Real Estate Securities Fund, Prudential Small-Cap Quantum Fund, Inc.,
Prudential Small Company Value Fund, Inc., Prudential Special Money Market Fund,
Inc., Prudential Structured Maturity Fund, Inc., Prudential Tax-Free Money Fund,
Inc., Prudential Utility Fund, Inc., Prudential World Fund, Inc. and The Target
Portfolio Trust. Prudential Securities is also a depositor for the following
unit investment trusts:
    
 
                              Corporate Investment Trust Fund
                              Prudential Equity Trust Shares
                              National Equity Trust
                              Prudential Unit Trusts
                              Government Securities Equity Trust
                              National Municipal Trust
 
                                      C-4
<PAGE>
    (b) Information concerning the officers and directors of Prudential
        Securities Incorporated is set forth below.
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  POSITIONS
                                                                                  AND
                                   POSITIONS AND                                  OFFICES
                                   OFFICES WITH                                   WITH
NAME(1)                            UNDERWRITER                                    REGISTRANT
- ---------------------------------  ---------------------------------------------  -----------
<S>                                <C>                                            <C>
Alan D. Hogan....................  Executive Vice President and Director          None
William Horan....................  Chief Financial Officer                        None
George A. Murray.................  Executive Vice President and Director          None
Leland B. Paton..................  Executive Vice President and Director          None
  One New York Plaza
  New York, NY 10292
Martin Pfinsgraff................  Executive Vice President and Director          None
Vincent T. Pica II...............  Executive Vice President and Director          None
  One New York Plaza
  New York, NY 10292
Hardwick Simmons.................  Chief Executive Officer, President and         None
                                   Director
Lee B. Spencer, Jr...............  Executive Vice President, General Counsel,     None
                                   Secretary and Director
Brian Storms.....................  Director                                       None
  Gateway Center Three
  100 Mulberry Street
  Newark, NJ 07102-4077
</TABLE>
    
 
- ------------------------
 (1) The address of each person named is One Seaport Plaza, New York, New York
     10292 unless otherwise indicated.
 
    (c) Registrant has no principal underwriter who is not an affiliated person
        of the Registrant.
 
ITEM 30.  LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS
 
   
    All accounts, books and other documents required to be maintained by Section
31(a) of the 1940 Act and the Rules thereunder are maintained at the offices of
State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Heritage Drive, North Quincy,
Massachusetts, 02171, The Prudential Investment Corporation, Prudential Plaza,
745 Broad Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102, the Registrant, Gateway Center
Three, 100 Mulberry Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4077 and Prudential Mutual
Fund Services LLC, Raritan Plaza One, Edison, New Jersey 08837. Documents
required by Rules 31a-1(b)(5), (6), (7), (9), (10) and (11), 31a-1(f),
31a-1(b)(4) and (11) and 31a-1(d) will be kept at Gateway Center Three, 100
Mulberry Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4077, and the remaining accounts,
books and other documents required by such other pertinent provisions of Section
31(a) and the Rules promulgated thereunder will be kept by State Street Bank and
Trust Company and Prudential Mutual Fund Services LLC.
    
 
ITEM 31.  MANAGEMENT SERVICES
 
   
    Other than as set forth under the captions "How the Fund is
Managed--Manager" and "How the Fund is Managed-- Distributor" in the Prospectus
and the captions "Manager" and "Distributor" in the Statement of Additional
Information, constituting Parts A and B, respectively, of this Pre-Effective
Amendment to the Registration Statement, Registrant is not a party to any
management-related service contract.
    
 
ITEM 32.  UNDERTAKINGS
 
    Registrant makes the following undertakings:
 
   
    The Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish each person to whom a Prospectus
is delivered with a copy of the Registrant's latest annual report to
shareholders upon request and without charge.
    
 
                                      C-5
<PAGE>
                                   SIGNATURES
 
    Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the
Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this
Pre-Effective Amendment to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf
by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Newark, and State
of New Jersey, on the 17th day of April, 1998.
 
                                PRUDENTIAL MID-CAP VALUE FUND
 
                                By             /s/ RICHARD A. REDEKER
                                     ------------------------------------------
                                                 Richard A. Redeker
                                                     PRESIDENT
 
    Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Pre-Effective Amendment to the Registration Statement has been signed below by
the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
 
          SIGNATURE                       TITLE                    DATE
- ------------------------------  --------------------------  -------------------
     /s/ ROBERT F. GUNIA
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
       Robert F. Gunia
 
     /s/ EDWARD D. BEACH
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
       Edward D. Beach
 
   /s/ DELAYNE DEDRICK GOLD
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
     Delayne Dedrick Gold
 
 /s/ DOUGLAS H. MCCORKINDALE
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
   Douglas H. McCorkindale
 
     /s/ MENDEL A. MELZER
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
       Mendel A. Melzer
 
     /s/ THOMAS T. MOONEY
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
       Thomas T. Mooney
 
     /s/ STEPHEN P. MUNN
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
       Stephen P. Munn
 
    /s/ RICHARD A. REDEKER
- ------------------------------  President and Trustee         April 17, 1998
      Richard A. Redeker
 
      /s/ ROBIN B. SMITH
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
        Robin B. Smith
 
    /s/ LOUIS A. WEIL, III
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
      Louis A. Weil, III
    /s/ CLAY T. WHITEHEAD
- ------------------------------  Trustee                       April 17, 1998
      Clay T. Whitehead
 
     /s/ GRACE C. TORRES        Treasurer and Principal
- ------------------------------    Financial and Accounting    April 17, 1998
       Grace C. Torres            Officer
<PAGE>
                               INDEX TO EXHIBITS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   EXHIBIT
     NO.       DESCRIPTION
- -------------  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<C>            <S>                                                                                                 <C>
         1.    Agreement and Declaration of Trust.(1)
         2.    By-Laws.(1)
         3.    Not Applicable.
         4.    Instruments defining rights of shareholders.(1)
         5.    (a) Management Agreement between the Registrant and Prudential Investments Fund
                  Management LLC.(1)
               (b) Subadvisory Agreement between Prudential Investments Fund Management LLC and
                  The Prudential Investment Corporation.(1)
         6.    (a) Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and Prudential Securities Incorporated.(1)
               (b) Selected Dealer Agreement.(1)
         7.    Not Applicable.
         8.    Custodian Contract between the Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company.(1)
         9.    Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between the Registrant and Prudential Mutual Fund Services
               LLC.(1)
        10.    Opinion of Gardner, Carton & Douglas.*
        11.    Consent of Independent Accountants.*
        12.    Not Applicable.
        13.    Purchase Agreement.(1)
        14.    Not Applicable.
        15.    (a) Distribution and Service Plan for Class A Shares.(1)
               (b) Distribution and Service Plan for Class B Shares.(1)
               (c) Distribution and Service Plan for Class C Shares.(1)
        16.    Not Applicable
        18.    Rule 18f-3 Plan.(1)
</TABLE>
    
 
- ------------------------
* Filed herewith.
   
(1)  Incorporated by reference to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
     N-1A (File No. 333-43095) filed on December 23, 1997.
    

<PAGE>

                            GARDNER, CARTON & DOUGLAS
                            Suite 3300 - Quaker Tower
                             321 North Clark Street
                           Chicago Illinois 60610-4795
                                 (312)644-3000
                           Telecopier:  (312)644-3381

                                 April 20, 1998



Securities and Exchange Commission
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20549

     Re:  Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund
          Indefinite Number of Shares of Beneficial Interest,
          $.001 par value per share

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     As counsel for Prudential Mid-Cap Value Fund, a Delaware business trust
(the "Fund"), we have examined the proceedings taken and being taken for the
registration by the Fund on Form N-1A of an indefinite number of shares of
beneficial interest, $.001 par value per share.

     We have examined all instruments, documents and records which, in our
opinion, were necessary of examination for the purpose of rendering this
opinion.  Based upon such examination, we are of the opinion that the
above-described shares of beneficial interest will be, if and when issued by the
Fund in the manner and upon the terms set forth in said Form N-1A, validly
authorized and issued, fully paid and non-assessable.

     We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the Fund's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as it may be amended.

                                                  Very truly yours,

                                                  /s/ Gardner, Carton & Douglas

<PAGE>

                          CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We hereby consent to the use in the Statement of Additional Information
constituting part of this Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the registration
statement on Form N-1A (the "Registration Statement") of our report dated April
14, 1998, relating to the statement of assets and liabilities of Prudential
Mid-Cap Value Fund which appears in such Statement of Additional Information,
and to the incorporation by reference of our report into the Prospectus which
constitutes part of this registration statement.  We also consent to the
reference to us under the heading "Custodian, Transfer and Dividend Disbursing
Agent and Independent Accountants" in such Statement of Additional Information.





PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
1177 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036
April 16, 1998


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