Registration Nos: 2-41251
811-2214
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 / X /
Pre-Effective Amendment No. / /
Post-Effective Amendment No. 42 / X /
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 / X /
Amendment No. 24 / X /
COLONIAL TRUST I
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
One Financial Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
617-426-3750
(Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code)
Name and Address of
Agent for Service Copy to
Michael H. Koonce Peter MacDougall, Esq.
Colonial Management Associates, Inc. Ropes & Gray
One Financial Center One International Place
Boston, MA 02111 Boston, MA 02110-2624
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):
/ / immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b).
/ X / on April 30, 1997 pursuant to paragraph (b).
/ / 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1).
/ / on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485.
/ / 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2).
/ / on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485.
If appropriate, check the following box:
/ / this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date
for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
<PAGE>
DECLARATION PURSUANT TO RULE 24f-2
The Registrant has registered an indefinite number of its shares of beneficial
interest under the Securities Act of 1933 pursuant to Rule 24f-2 under the
Investment Company Act of 1940. On February 27, 1997, the Registrant filed a
Rule 24f-2 Notice in respect of its fiscal year ended December 31, 1996.
<PAGE>
COLONIAL TRUST I
Cross Reference Sheet
(Colonial High Yield Securities Fund)
Item Number of Form N-1A Prospectus Location or Caption
Part A
1. Cover Page
2. Summary of Expenses
3. The Fund's Financial History
4. The Fund's Investment
Objective;
Organization and History;
How the Fund Pursues Its
Certain Objective and Risk
Factors
5. Cover Page;
How the Fund is Managed;
Organization and History;
Back Cover
6. Organization and History;
Distributions and Taxes;
How to Buy Shares
7. How to Buy Shares;
How the Fund Values Its Shares;
12b-1 Plans; Back Cover
8. How to Sell Shares;
How to Exchange Shares;
Telephone Transactions
9. Not Applicable
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL HIGH YIELD
SECURITIES FUND
PROSPECTUS
BEFORE YOU INVEST
Colonial Management Associates, Inc. (Adviser) and your full-service financial
adviser want you to understand both the risks and benefits of mutual fund
investing.
While mutual funds offer significant opportunities and are professionally
managed, they also carry risks including possible loss of principal. Unlike
savings accounts and certificates of deposit, mutual funds are not insured or
guaranteed by any financial institution or government agency.
Please consult your full-service financial adviser to determine how investing in
this mutual fund may suit your unique needs, time horizon and risk tolerance.
Colonial High Yield Securities Fund (Fund), a diversified portfolio of Colonial
Trust I (Trust), an open-end management investment company, seeks high current
income and total return by investing primarily in lower rated corporate debt
securities. The Fund invests primarily in lower rated securities and is
considered to be highly speculative.
The Fund is managed by the Adviser, an investment adviser since 1931.
The Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in lower rated bonds (commonly
referred to as "junk bonds") which are regarded as speculative as to payment of
principal and interest and, therefore, may not be suitable for all investors.
These securities are subject to greater risks, including the risk of default,
than higher rated bonds. See "How the Fund Pursues its Objective and Certain
Risk Factors." Purchasers should carefully assess the risks associated with an
investment in the Fund.
This Prospectus explains concisely what you should know before investing in the
Fund. Read it carefully and retain it for future reference. More detailed
information about the Fund is in the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional
Information which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
and is obtainable free of charge by calling the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750. The
Statement of Additional Information is incorporated by reference in (which means
it is considered to be a part of) this Prospectus.
The Fund offers three classes of shares. Class A shares are offered at net asset
value plus a sales charge imposed at the time of purchase; Class B shares are
offered at net asset value and are subject to an annual distribution fee and a
declining contingent deferred sales charge on redemptions made within six years
after purchase; and Class D shares are offered at net asset value plus a small
initial sales charge and are subject to an annual distribution fee and a
contingent deferred sales charge on redemptions made within one year after
purchase. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately eight years. See "How to Buy Shares."
Contents Page
Summary of Expenses
The Fund's Financial History
The Fund's Investment Objective
How the Fund Pursues its Objective and
Certain Risk Factors
How the Fund Measures its Performance
How the Fund is Managed
How the Fund Values its Shares Distributions and Taxes
How to Buy Shares
How to Sell Shares
How to Exchange Shares
Telephone Transactions
12b-1 Plans
Organization and History
Appendix
- ------------------------ ------------------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ------------------------ ------------------------
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON
THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY
IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
HY--0497
<PAGE>
SUMMARY OF EXPENSES
Expenses are one of several factors to consider when investing in the Fund. The
following tables summarize your maximum transaction costs and your annual
expenses for an investment in each Class of the Fund's shares. See "How the Fund
is Managed" and "12b-1 Plans" for more complete descriptions of the Fund's
various costs and expenses.
Shareholder Transaction Expenses(1)(2)
Class A Class B Class D
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (as a % of
offering price)(3) 4.75% 5.00%(5) 1.99%(5)
Maximum Initial Sales Charge Imposed on
a Purchase (as a % of offering price)(3) 4.75% 0.00%(5) 1.00%(5)
Maximum Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
(as a % of offering price)(3) 1.00%(4) 5.00% 0.99%
(1) For accounts less than $1,000 an annual fee of $10 may be deducted. See
"How to Buy Shares."
(2) Redemption proceeds exceeding $5,000 sent via federal funds wire will
be subject to a $7.50 charge per transaction.
(3) Does not apply to reinvested distributions.
(4) Only with respect to any portion of purchases of $1 million to $5
million redeemed within approximately 18 months after purchase. See
"How to Buy Shares."
(5) Because of the 0.75% distribution fee applicable to Class B and Class D
shares, long-term Class B and Class D shareholders may pay more in
aggregate sales charges than the maximum initial sales charge permitted
by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. However,
because the Fund's Class B shares automatically convert to Class A
shares after approximately 8 years, this is less likely for Class B
shares than for a class without a conversion feature.
Annual Operating Expenses (as a % of average net assets)
CLass A Class B Class D
Management fee 0.60% 0.60% 0.60%
12b-1 fees 0.25 1.00 1.00
Other expenses 0.35 0.35 0.35
----- ---- ----
Total operating expenses 1.20% 1.95% 1.95%
===== ===== =====
Example
The following Example shows the cumulative expenses attributable to a
hypothetical $1,000 investment in each Class of shares of the Fund for the
periods specified, assuming a 5% annual return and, unless otherwise noted,
redemption at period end. The 5% return and expenses used in this Example should
not be considered indicative of actual or expected Fund performance or
expenses, both of which will vary:
Class A CLass B Class D
Period: (6) (7) (6) (7)
1 year $59 $70 $20 $40 $30
3 years 84 91 61 71 71(9)
5 years 110 125 105 114 114
10 years 186 208(8) 208(8) 235 235
(6) Assumes redemption at period end.
(7) Assumes no redemption.
(8) Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately 8 years; therefore, years 9 and 10 reflect Class A share
expenses.
(9) Class D shares do not incur a contingent deferred sales charge on
redemptions made after one year.
2
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY
The following financial highlights for a share outstanding throughout each
period have been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants. Their
unqualified report is included in the Fund's 1996 Annual Report and is
incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional Information.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended December 31
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995
---- ----
Class A Class B Class D(a) Class A Class B
------- ------- ---------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of
period $6.750 $6.750 $6.780 $6.300 $6.300
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.625 0.574 0.554 0.615 0.566
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) 0.160 0.160 0.130 0.452 0.452
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Total from Investment
Operations 0.785 0.734 0.684 1.067 1.018
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.615) (0.564) (0.544) (0.603) (0.555)
In excess of net investment income ---- ---- ---- (0.014) (0.013)
---- ---- ---- ------- -------
Total from Distributions
Declared to Shareholders ---- ---- ---- (0.617) (0.568)
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value - End of period $6.920 $6.920 $6.920 $6.750 $6.750
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Total return(b) 12.21% 11.38% 10.56(c) 17.65% 16.78%
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
Expenses 1.20%(d) 1.95%(d) 1.95%(d)(e) 1.21%(d) 1.96%(d)
Net investment income 9.02%(d) 8.27%(d) 8.27%(d)(e) 9.14%(d) 8.39%(d)
Portfolio turnover 145% 145% 145% 95% 95%
Net assets at end of period (000) $523,065 $411,124 $6,054 $466,905 $351,068
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended December 31
---------------------------------------------
1994 1993
---- ----
Class A Class B Class A Class B
------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of
period $6.950 $6.950 $6.400 $6.400
------ ------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.599 0.549 0.634 0.585
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) (0.622) (0.622) 0.576 0.576
------ ------ ------ ------
Total from Investment
Operations (0.023) (0.073) 1.210 1.161
------ ------ ------ ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.627) (0.577) (0.660) (0.611)
In excess of net investment income --- --- --- ---
--- --- --- ---
Total from Distributions
Declared to Shareholders (0.627) (0.577) (0.660) (0.611)
------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value - End of period $6.300 $6.300 $6.950 $6.950
====== ====== ====== ======
Total return(b) (0.34)% (1.09)% 19.69% 18.83%
====== ====== ====== ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
Expenses 1.23% 1.98% 1.23% 1.98%
Net investment income 9.03% 8.28% 9.55% 8.80%
Portfolio turnover 123% 123% 122% 122%
Net assets at end of period (000) $389,791 $253,438 $440,942 $222,536
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
(a) Class D shares were initially offered on January 15, 1996. Per share
amounts reflect activity from that date.
(b) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested
and no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(c) Not annualized.
(d) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements had no impact. Prior years' ratios are net of benefits
received, if any.
(e) Annualized.
3
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY (CONT'D)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended December 31
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987
Class A Class B (b) Class A Class A Class A Class A Class A
------- ----------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of
period $5.860 $6.360 $4.640 $6.340 $7.210 $7.180 $7.690
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.669 0.332 0.726 0.799 0.888 0.873 0.873
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) 0.531 0.057 1.207 (1.669) (0.867) 0.030 (0.543)
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Total from Investment
Operations 1.200 0.389 1.933 (0.870) 0.021 0.903 0.330
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.660) (0.349) (0.713) (0.830) (0.891) (0.873) (0.840)
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value - End of period $6.400 $6.400 $5.860 $4.640 $6.340 $7.210 $7.180
====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Total return(a) 21.15% 5.53%(c) 43.88% (14.86)% 0.06% 13.00% 4.30%
====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
Expenses 1.26% 2.01%(d) 1.36% 1.33% 1.21% 1.17% 1.18%
Net investment income 10.64% 9.89%(d) 13.41% 14.32% 12.71% 11.91% 11.56%
Portfolio turnover 66% 66% 37% 9% 22% 40% 51%
Net assets at end of period (000) $346,225 $94,653 $299,587 $233,813 $366,953 $463,498 $429,971
</TABLE>
- ----------------------
(a) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested and
no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(b) Class B shares were initially offered on June 8, 1992. Per share amounts
reflect activity from that date.
(c) Not annualized.
(d) Annualized.
Further performance information is contained in the Fund's Annual Report to
shareholders, which is obtainable free of charge by calling 1-800-426-3750.
4
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Fund seeks high current income and total return by investing primarily in
lower rated corporate debt securities.
HOW THE FUND PURSUES ITS
OBJECTIVE AND CERTAIN RISK
FACTORS
The Fund will normally invest at least 80% of its total assets (other than cash
and government securities) in lower rated debt securities. However, if economic
conditions narrow yield spreads between lower and higher rated securities, the
Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in higher rated securities. The Fund
may invest in debt securities of any maturity. The Fund will not invest more
than 25% of its total assets in a single industry or in securities issued or
guaranteed by foreign governments or foreign companies.
Debt Securities. The Fund may invest in debt securities of any maturity that
pay fixed, floating or adjustable interest rates. The values of debt securities
generally fluctuate inversely with changes in interest rates. This is less
likely to be true for adjustable or floating rate securities, since interest
rate changes are more likely to be reflected in changes in the rates paid on the
securities. However, reductions in interest rates also may translate into lower
distributions paid by the Fund.
The Fund also may invest in debt securities (i) that do not pay interest but,
instead are issued at a significant discount to their maturity values (referred
to as zero coupon securities), (ii) that pay interest, at the issuer's option,
in additional securities instead of cash (referred to as pay-in-kind securities)
or (iii) pay interest at predetermined rates that increase over time (referred
to as step coupon bonds). Because zero coupon securities, pay-in-kind securities
and step coupon bonds may not pay interest but the Fund nevertheless must accrue
and distribute to investors the income deemed to be earned on a current basis,
the Fund may have to sell other investments to raise the cash needed to make
income distributions.
Lower Rated Debt Securities. Lower rated debt securities (commonly referred to
as junk bonds) are debt securities which are not considered to be investment
grade (that is, they are rated below BBB by Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P)
or below Baa by Moody's Investors Service (Moody's), or are unrated but
considered by the Adviser to be of comparable credit quality). For a description
of S&P's and Moody's rating systems, see the Appendix to this Prospectus. Lower
rated debt securities are generally considered significantly more speculative
and likely to default than higher quality debt securities. Because of the
increased risk of default, lower rated debt securities generally have higher
nominal interest rates than higher quality securities.
The Fund may purchase bonds in the lowest rating categories (C for Moody's and D
for S&P) and comparable unrated securities. However, the Fund will only purchase
securities rated Ca or lower by Moody's or CC or lower by S&P if the Adviser
believes the quality of such securities is higher than indicated by the rating.
The values of lower rated securities are more likely to fluctuate directly,
rather than inversely, with changes in interest rates. This is because increases
in interest rates often are associated with an improving economy, which may
translate into an improved ability of the issuers to pay off their
5
<PAGE>
bonds (lowering the risk of default). Relative to other debt securities, the
values of lower rated debt securities tend to be more volatile because: (i) an
economic downturn may more significantly impact their potential for default, or
(ii) the secondary market for such securities may at times be less liquid or
respond more adversely to negative publicity or investor perceptions, making it
more difficult to value or dispose of the securities. The likelihood that these
securities will help the Fund achieve its investment objective is more dependent
on the Adviser's own credit analysis.
Weighted average composition of the Fund's portfolio during the year ended
December 31, 1996, was:
Investment grade 0.00%
BB 6.80
B 70.30
CCC 12.00
CC 0.00
C 0.00
D 0.00
Nonrated 0.20
------
Subtotal 89.30
U.S. governments,
equities and others 10.70
Total 100.00
======
The portfolio composition during 1996 does not necessarily reflect the current
or future investments of the Fund.
Foreign Investments. Investments in foreign securities have special risks
related to political, economic and legal conditions outside of the U.S. As a
result, the prices of foreign securities may fluctuate substantially more than
the prices of securities of issuers based in the U.S. Special risks associated
with foreign securities include the possibility of unfavorable movements in
currency exchange rates, the existence of less liquid markets, the
unavailability of reliable information about issuers, the existence (or
potential imposition) of exchange control regulations (including currency
blockage), and political and economic instability, among others. In addition,
transactions in foreign securities may be more costly because of currency
conversion costs and higher brokerage and custodial costs. See "Foreign
Securities" and "Foreign Currency Transactions" in the Statement of Additional
6
<PAGE>
Information for more information about foreign investments.
Emerging Markets. The Fund may invest in foreign securities issued or guaranteed
by companies or governments located in countries whose economies or securities
markets are not yet highly developed. Special risks associated with these
investments (in addition to those of foreign investments generally) may include,
among others, greater political uncertainties, an economy's dependence on
revenues from particular commodities or on international aid or development
assistance, extreme or volatile debt burdens or inflation rates, highly limited
numbers of potential buyers for such securities, heightened volatility of
security prices, restrictions on repatriation of capital invested abroad and
delays and disruptions in securities settlement procedures.
Foreign Currency Transactions. In connection with its investments in foreign
securities, the Fund may purchase and sell (i) foreign currencies on a spot or
forward basis, (ii) foreign currency futures contracts and (iii) options on
foreign currencies and foreign currency futures. Such transactions will be
entered into (a) to lock in a particular foreign exchange rate pending
settlement of a purchase or sale of a foreign security or pending the receipt of
interest, principal or dividend payments on a foreign security held by the Fund,
or (b) to hedge against a decline in the value, in U.S. dollars or in another
currency, of a foreign currency in which securities held by the Fund are
denominated. The Fund will not attempt, nor would it be able, to eliminate all
foreign currency risk. Further, although hedging may lessen the risk of loss if
the hedged currency's value declines, it limits the potential gain from currency
value increases. See the Statement of Additional Information for information
relating to the Fund's obligations in entering into foreign currency
transactions.
Temporary/Defensive Investments. Temporarily available cash may be invested in
certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, high quality commercial paper,
Treasury bills, repurchase agreements and U.S. government securities. Some or
all of the Fund's assets also may be invested in such investments during periods
of unusual market conditions.
Under a repurchase agreement, the Fund buys a security from a bank or dealer,
which is obligated to buy it back at a fixed price and time. The security is
held in a separate account at the Fund's custodian and constitutes the Fund's
collateral for the bank's or dealer's repurchase obligation. Additional
collateral will be added so that the obligation will at all times be fully
collateralized. However, if the bank or dealer defaults or enters bankruptcy,
the Fund may experience costs and delays in liquidating the collateral, and may
experience a loss if it is unable to demonstrate its rights to the collateral in
a bankruptcy proceeding. Not more than 10% of the Fund's net assets will be
invested in repurchase agreements maturing in more than 7 days and other
illiquid assets.
Interest Rate Futures And Options. For hedging purposes, the Fund may (1) buy or
sell interest rate futures and (2) buy put and call options on such futures. The
total market value of securities to be delivered or acquired pursuant to such
contracts will not exceed 5% of the Fund's net assets. A futures contract
creates an obligation by the seller to deliver and the buyer to take delivery of
the type of instrument at the time and in the amount specified in the contract.
Although futures contracts call for the delivery (or acceptance) of the
specified instrument, the contracts are usually closed out before the settlement
date through the purchase (or sale) of an offsetting contract. If the price of
the initial sale of the futures contract exceeds (or is less
7
<PAGE>
than) the price of the offsetting purchase, the Fund realizes a gain (or loss).
"When-Issued" and "Delayed Delivery" Securities. The Fund may acquire securities
on a "when-issued" or "delayed delivery" basis by contracting to purchase
securities for a fixed price on a date beyond the customary settlement time with
no interest accruing until settlement. If made through a dealer, the contract is
dependent on the dealer completing the sale. The dealer's failure could deprive
the Fund of an advantageous yield or price. These contracts involve the risk
that the value of the underlying security may change prior to settlement. The
Fund may realize short-term gains or losses if the contracts are sold.
Transactions in "when-issued" securities may be limited by certain Internal
Revenue Code requirements
Borrowing of Money. The Fund may borrow money from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however, the Fund will not
purchase additional portfolio securities while borrowings exceed 5% of net
assets.
Common Stock. The Fund may invest up to 20% of its total assets in common
stocks, usually as a result of warrants associated with debt instruments
purchased by the Fund, but also under certain circumstances to seek capital
appreciation.
Other. The Fund may not always achieve its investment objective. The Fund may
trade portfolio securities for short-term profits to take advantage of price
differentials. These trades are limited by certain Internal Revenue Code
requirements. High portfolio turnover may result in higher transaction costs and
higher levels of realized capital gains. The Fund's investment objective and
non-fundamental investment policies may be changed without shareholder approval.
The Fund will notify investors at in connection with any material change in the
Fund's investment objective. If there is a change in the investment objective,
shareholders should consider whether the Fund remains an appropriate investment
in light of their financial position and needs. Shareholders may incur a
contingent deferred sales charge if shares are redeemed in response to a change
in investment objective. The Fund's fundamental investment policies listed in
the Statement of Additional Information cannot be changed without the approval
of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. Additional
information concerning certain of the securities and investment techniques
described above is contained in the Statement of Additional Information.
HOW THE FUND MEASURES ITS PERFORMANCE
Performance may be quoted in sales literature and advertisements. Each Class's
average annual total returns are calculated in accordance with the Securities
and Exchange Commission's formula and assume the reinvestment of all
distributions, the maximum initial sales charge of 4.75% on Class A shares, the
maximum initial sales charge of 1.00% on Class D shares and the contingent
deferred sales charge applicable to the time period quoted on Class B and Class
D shares. Other total returns differ from average annual total return only in
that they may relate to different time periods, may represent aggregate as
opposed to average annual total returns and may not reflect the initial or
contingent deferred sales charges.
Each Class's yield, which differs from total return because it does not consider
changes in net asset value, is calculated in accordance with the Securities and
Exchange Commission's formula. Each Class's
8
<PAGE>
distribution rate is calculated by dividing the most recent month's
distribution, annualized, by the maximum offering price of that Class at the end
of the month. Each Class's performance may be compared to various indices.
Quotations from various publications may be included in sales literature and
advertisements. See "Performance Measures" in the Statement of Additional
Information for more information. All performance information is historical and
does not predict future results.
HOW THE FUND IS MANAGED
The Trustees formulate the Fund's general policies and oversee the Fund's
affairs as conducted by the Adviser.
Colonial Investment Services, Inc. (Distributor), a subsidiary of the Adviser,
serves as the distributor for the Fund's shares. Colonial Investors Service
Center, Inc. (Transfer Agent), an affiliate of the Adviser, serves as the
shareholder services and transfer agent for the Fund. Each of the Adviser, the
Distributor and the Transfer Agent is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty
Financial Companies, Inc. which in turn is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty
Mutual Insurance Company (Liberty Mutual). Liberty Mutual is considered to be
the controlling entity of the Adviser and its affiliates. Liberty Mutual is an
underwriter of workers' compensation insurance and a property and casualty
insurer in the U.S.
The Adviser furnishes the Fund with investment management, accounting and
administrative personnel and services, office space and other equipment and
services at the Adviser's expense. For these services, the Fund paid the Adviser
0.60% of the Fund's average daily net assets for fiscal year 1996.
Andrea S. Feingold, Vice President and head of the Corporate Group of the
Adviser, has managed the Fund since 1993. Ms. Feingold joined the Adviser in
1991 as an Investment Analyst.
The Adviser also provides pricing and bookkeeping services to the Fund for a
monthly fee of $2,250 plus a percentage of the Fund's average net assets over
$50 million. The Transfer Agent provides transfer agency and shareholder
services to the Fund for a fee of 0.25% annually of average net assets plus
certain out-of pocket expenses.
Each of the foregoing fees is subject to any reimbursement or fee waiver to
which the Adviser may agree.
The Adviser places all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities.
In selecting broker-dealers, the Adviser may consider research and brokerage
services furnished by such broker-dealers to the Adviser and its affiliates. In
recognition of the research and brokerage services provided, the Adviser may
cause the Fund to pay the selected broker-dealer a higher commission than would
have been charged by another broker-dealer not providing such services. Subject
to seeking best execution, the Adviser may consider sales of shares of the Fund
(and of certain other Colonial funds) in selecting broker-dealers for portfolio
security transactions.
HOW THE FUND VALUES ITS SHARES
Per share net asset value is calculated by dividing the total value of each
Class's net assets by its number of outstanding shares. Shares of the Fund are
valued as of the close (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) of the New York Stock
Exchange (Exchange) each day the Exchange is open. Portfolio securities for
which market quotations are readily available are valued at current market
value.
9
<PAGE>
Short-term investments maturing in 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost,
when the Adviser determines, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Trustees,
that such cost approximates current market value. All other securities and
assets are valued at their fair value following procedures adopted by the
Trustees.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
The Fund intends to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the
Internal Revenue Code and to distribute to shareholders net income monthly and
any net realized gain at least annually. The Fund generally declares
distributions daily. Distributions are invested in additional shares of the same
Class of the Fund at net asset value unless the shareholder elects to receive
cash. Regardless of the shareholder's election, distributions of $10 or less
will not be paid in cash to shareholders but will be invested in additional
shares of the same Class of the Fund at net asset value. To change your
election, call the Transfer Agent for information.
Whether you receive distributions in cash or in additional Fund shares, you must
report them as taxable income unless you are a tax-exempt institution. Each
January, information on the amount and nature of your distributions for the
prior year is sent to shareholders.
The Fund has a significant capital loss carry forward and, until it is
exhausted, it is unlikely that capital gain distributions will be made. Any
capital gains will, however, be reflected in the net asset value.
HOW TO BUY SHARES
Shares of the Fund are offered continuously. Orders received in good form prior
to the time at which the Fund values its shares (or placed with a financial
service firm before such time and transmitted by the financial service firm
before the Fund processes that day's share transactions) will be processed based
on that day's closing net asset value, plus any applicable initial sales charge.
The minimum initial investment is $1,000; subsequent investments may be as small
as $50. The minimum initial investment for the Colonial Fundamatic program is
$50, and the minimum initial investment for a Colonial retirement account is
$25. Certificates will not be issued for Class B or Class D shares and there are
some limitations on the issuance of Class A share certificates. The Fund may
refuse any purchase order for its shares. See the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.
CLASS A SHARES. Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus an initial
sales charge as follows:
Initial Sales Charge
--------------------
Retained
by
Financial
Service
as % of Firm
------------------- as % of
Amount Offering Offering
Amount Purchased Invested Price Price
Less than $50,000 4.99% 4.75% 4.25%
$50,000 to less
than $100,000 4.71% 4.50% 4.00%
$100,000 to less
than $250,000 3.63% 3.50% 3.00%
$250,000 to less
than $500,000 2.56% 2.50% 2.00%
$500,000 to less
than $1,000,000 2.04% 2.00% 1.75%
$1,000,000 or more 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
On purchases of $1 million or more, the Distributor pays the financial service
firm a cumulative commission as follows:
Amount Purchased Commission
First $3,000,000 1.00%
Next $2,000,000 0.50%
Over $5,000,000 0.25%(1)
(1) Paid over 12 months but only to the extent the
shares
10
<PAGE>
remain outstanding.
In determining the sales charge and commission applicable to a new purchase
under the above schedules, the amount of the current purchase is added to the
current value of shares previously purchased and still held by an investor. If a
purchase results in an account having a value from $1 million to $5 million,
then the shares purchased will be subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales
charge payable to the Distributor, if redeemed within 18 months from the first
day of the month following the purchase. If the purchase results in an account
having a value in excess of $5 million, the contingent deferred sales charge
will not apply to the portion of the purchased shares representing such excess
amount.
Class B Shares. Class B shares are offered at net asset value, without an
initial sales charge and are subject to a 0.75% annual distribution fee for
approximately eight years (at which time they automatically convert to Class A
shares not bearing a distribution fee) and a declining contingent deferred sales
charge if redeemed within six years after purchase. As shown below, the amount
of the contingent deferred sales charge depends on the number of years after
purchase that the redemption occurs:
Contingent
Years Deferred
After Purchase Sales Charge
0-1 5.00%
1-2 4.00%
2-3 3.00%
3-4 3.00%
4-5 2.00%
5-6 1.00%
More than 6 0.00%
Year one ends one year after the end of the month in which the purchase was
accepted and so on. The Distributor pays financial service firms a commission of
4.00% on Class B share purchases.
Class D Shares. Class D shares are offered at net asset value plus a 1.00%
initial sales charge and are subject to a 0.75% annual distribution fee and a
contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% (0.99% of the offering price) on
redemptions made within one year from the first day of the month after purchase.
The Distributor pays financial service firms an initial commission of 1.85% on
purchases of Class D shares and an ongoing commission of 0.65% annually. Payment
of the ongoing commission is conditioned on receipt by the Distributor of the
0.75% annual distribution fee referred to above. In addition, the ongoing
commission is payable only for periods after shares purchased have been
outstanding for one year. The commission may be reduced or eliminated if the
distribution fee paid by the Fund is reduced or eliminated for any reason.
General. All contingent deferred sales charges are deducted from the amount
redeemed, not the amount remaining in the account, and are paid to the
Distributor. Shares issued upon distribution reinvestment and amounts
representing appreciation are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
The contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on redemptions which result in
the account value falling below its Base Amount (the total dollar value of
purchase payments (including initial sales charge, if any), in the account
reduced by prior redemptions on which a contingent deferred sales charge was
paid and any exempt redemptions). See the Statement of Additional Information
for more information.
Which Class is more beneficial to an investor depends on the amount and intended
length of the investment. Large investments, qualifying for a reduced Class A
sales charge, avoid the distribution fee. Investments in Class B shares have
100% of the purchase invested immediately. Investors investing
11
<PAGE>
for a relatively short period of time might consider Class D shares. Purchases
of $250,000 or more must be for Class A or Class D shares. Purchases of $500,000
or more must be for Class A shares. Consult your financial service firm.
Financial service firms may receive different compensation rates for selling
different classes of shares. The Distributor may pay additional compensation to
financial service firms which have made or may make significant sales See the
Statement of Additional Information for more information.
Special Purchase Programs. The Fund allows certain investors or groups of
investors to purchase shares with reduced or without initial or contingent
deferred sales charges. The programs are described in the Statement of
Additional Information under "Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales
Charges".
Shareholder Services and Account Fees. A variety of shareholder services are
available. For more information about these services or your account, call
1-800-345-6611. Some services are described in the attached account application.
A shareholder's manual explaining all available services will be provided upon
request.
In June of any year, the Fund may deduct $10 (payable to the Transfer Agent)
from accounts valued at less than $1,000 unless the account value has dropped
below $1,000 solely as a result of share value depreciation. Shareholders will
receive 60 days' written notice to increase the account value before the fee is
deducted. The Fund may also deduct annual maintenance and processing fees
(payable to the Transfer Agent) in connection with certain retirement plan
accounts. See "Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services" in the Statement of
Additional Information for more information.
HOW TO SELL SHARES
Shares of the Fund may be sold on any day the Exchange is open, either directly
to the Fund or through your financial service firm. Sale proceeds generally are
sent within seven days (usually on the next business day after your request is
received in good form). However, for shares recently purchased by check, the
Fund will send proceeds as soon as the check has cleared (which may take up to
15 days).
Selling Shares Directly To The Fund. Send a signed letter of instruction or
stock power form to the Transfer Agent, along with any certificates for shares
to be sold. The sale price is the net asset value (less any applicable
contingent deferred sales charge) next calculated after the Fund receives the
request in proper form. Signatures must be guaranteed by a bank, a member firm
of a national stock exchange or another eligible guarantor institution. Stock
power forms are available from financial service firms, the Transfer Agent and
many banks. Additional documentation is required for sales by corporations,
agents, fiduciaries, surviving joint owners and individual retirement account
holders. For details contact:
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 1722
Boston, MA 02105-1722
1-800-345-6611
Selling Shares Through Financial Service Firms. Financial service firms must
receive requests prior to the time at which the Fund values its shares to
receive that day's price, are responsible for furnishing all necessary
documentation to the Transfer Agent and may charge for this service.
General. The sale of shares is a taxable transaction for income tax purposes and
may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. The contingent deferred
sales charge
12
<PAGE>
may be waived under certain circumstances. See the Statement of Additional
Information for more information. Under unusual circumstances, the Fund may
suspend repurchases or postpone payment for up to seven days or longer, as
permitted by federal securities law.
HOW TO EXCHANGE SHARES
Except as described below with respect to money market funds, Fund shares may be
exchanged at net asset value among shares of the SAME CLASS of MOST Colonial
funds. Not all Colonial funds offer Class D shares. Shares will continue to age
without regard to the exchange for purposes of conversion and in determining the
contingent deferred sales charge, if any, upon redemption. Carefully read the
prospectus of the fund into which the exchange will go before submitting the
request. Call 1-800-426-3750 to receive a prospectus and an exchange
authorization form. Call 1-800-422-3737 to exchange shares by telephone. An
exchange is a taxable capital transaction. The exchange service may be changed,
suspended or eliminated on 60 days' written notice. The Fund will terminate the
exchange privilege as to a particular shareholder if it is determined by the
Adviser, in its sole and absolute discretion, that the shareholder's exchange
activity is likely to adversely impact the Adviser's ability to manage the
Fund's investments in accordance with its investment objective or otherwise harm
the Fund or its remaining shareholders.
Class A Shares. An exchange from a money market fund into a non-money market
fund will be at the applicable offering price next determined (including sales
charge), except for amounts on which an initial sales charge was paid. Non-money
market fund shares must be held for five months before qualifying for exchange
to a fund with a higher sales charge, after which, exchanges are made at the net
asset value next determined.
Class B Shares. Exchanges of Class B shares are not subject to the contingent
deferred sales charge. However, if shares are redeemed within six years after
the original purchase, a contingent deferred sales charge will be assessed using
the schedule of the fund into which the original investment was made.
Class D Shares. Exchanges of Class D shares will not be subject to the
contingent deferred sales charge. However, if shares are redeemed within one
year after the original purchase, a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge will
be assessed.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
All shareholders and/or their financial advisers are automatically eligible to
exchange Fund shares and redeem up to $50,000 of Fund shares by calling
1-800-422-3737 toll-free any business day between 9:00 a.m. and the time at
which the Fund values it shares. Telephone redemption privileges for larger
amounts may be elected on the account application. The Transfer Agent will
employ reasonable procedures to confirm that instructions communicated by
telephone are genuine and may be liable for losses related to unauthorized or
fraudulent transactions in the event reasonable procedures are not employed.
Such procedures include restrictions on where proceeds of telephone redemptions
may be sent, limitations on the ability to
13
<PAGE>
redeem by telephone shortly after an address change, recording of telephone
lines and requirements that the redeeming shareholder and/or financial adviser
provide certain identifying information. Shareholders and/or their financial
advisers wishing to redeem or exchange shares by telephone may experience
difficulty in reaching the Fund at its toll-free telephone number during periods
of drastic economic or market changes. In that event, shareholders and/or their
financial advisers should follow the procedures for redemption or exchange by
mail as described above under "How to Sell Shares." The Adviser, the Transfer
Agent and the Fund reserve the right to change, modify, or terminate the
telephone redemption or exchange services at any time upon prior written notice
to shareholders. Shareholders and/or their financial advisers are not obligated
to transact by telephone.
12B-1 PLANS
Under 12b-1 Plans, the Fund pays the Distributor monthly a service fee at the
annual rate of 0.25% of the Fund's net assets attributed to each Class of
shares. The Fund also pays the Distributor monthly a distribution fee at the
annual rate of 0.75% of the average daily net assets attributed to its Class B
and Class D shares. Because the Class B and Class D shares bear the additional
distribution fee, their dividends will be lower than the dividends of Class A
shares. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares, approximately
eight years after the Class B shares were purchased. Class D shares do not
convert. The multiple class structure could be terminated should certain
Internal Revenue Service rulings be rescinded. See the Statement of Additional
Information for more information. The Distributor uses the fees to defray the
cost of commissions and service fees paid to financial service firms which have
sold Fund shares, and to defray other expenses such as sales literature,
prospectus printing and distribution, shareholder servicing costs and
compensation to wholesalers. Should the fees exceed the Distributor's expenses
in any year, the Distributor would realize a profit. The Plans also authorize
other payments to the Distributor and its affiliates (including the Adviser)
which may be construed to be indirect financing of sales of Fund shares.
ORGANIZATION AND HISTORY
The Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized in 1985. The Fund
represents the entire interest in a separate portfolio of the Trust.
The Trust is not required to hold annual shareholder meetings, but special
meetings may be called for certain purposes. Shareholders receive one vote for
each Fund share. Shares of the Trust vote together except when required by law
to vote separately by fund or by class. Shareholders owning in the aggregate ten
percent of Trust shares may call meetings to consider removal of Trustees. Under
certain circumstances, the Trust will provide information to assist shareholders
in calling such a meeting. See the Statement of Additional Information for more
information.
14
<PAGE>
15
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
DESCRIPTION OF BOND
RATINGS
S&P
AAA bonds have the highest rating assigned by S&P. Capacity to pay interest and
repay principal is extremely strong.
AA bonds have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and
they differ from AAA only in small degree.
A bonds have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, although
they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB bonds are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a
weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal than for bonds in the A
category.
BB, B, CCC and CC bonds are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative
with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligation. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and
CC the highest degree. While such debt will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or large
exposures to adverse conditions.
C ratings are reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being paid.
D bonds are in default, and payment of interest and/or principal is in arrears.
Plus (+) or minus (-) are modifiers relative to the standing within the major
rating categories.
MOODY'S
Aaa bonds are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree
of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge". Interest
payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and
principal is secure. While 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 are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with Aaa bonds 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 in Aaa securities.
Those bonds in the Aa through B groups which Moody's believes possess the
strongest investment attributes are designated by the symbol Aa1, A1 and Baa1.
A bonds 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 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 are judged to have speculative elements: their future cannot be
considered as well secured. Often, the protection of interest and principal
payments may be very moderate, and thereby not well safeguarded
16
<PAGE>
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
B bonds 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.
Caa bonds 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 represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree. Such
issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C bonds 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.
<PAGE>
Investment Adviser
Colonial Management Associates, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Distributor
Colonial Investment Services, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Custodian
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company
One Boston Place
Boston, MA 02108-2624
Shareholder Services And Transfer Agent
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
1-800-345-6611
Independent Accountants
Price Waterhouse LLP
160 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Legal Counsel
Ropes & Gray
One International Place
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Your financial service firm is:
Printed in U.S.A.
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND
PROSPECTUS
Colonial High Yield Securities Fund seeks high current income and total return
by investing primarily in lower rated corporate debt securities.
For more detailed information about the Fund, call the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750
for the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional Information.
- ----------------- -----------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ----------------- -----------------
[COLONIAL FLAG LOGO]
Colonial Mutual Funds
_________________________________________________________________
Please send your completed application to:
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 1722
Boston, Massachusetts 02105-1722
New Account Application/Revision to Existing Account
To open a new account, complete sections 1, 2, 3, & 7.
To apply for special services for a new or existing account, complete sections
4, 5, 6, or 8 as appropriate.
___ Please check here if this is a revision.
1-----------Account Ownership--------------
Please choose one of the following.
__Individual: Print your name, Social Security #, U.S. citizen status.
__Joint Tenant: Print all names, the Social Security # for the first person,
and his/her U.S. citizen status.
__Uniform Gift to Minors: Names of custodian and minor, minor's Social Security
#, minor's U.S. citizen status.
__Corporation, Association, Partnership: Include full name, Taxpayer I.D. #.
__Trust: Name of trustee, trust title & date, and trust's Taxpayer I.D. #.
______________________________________
Name of account owner
______________________________________
Name of joint account owner
______________________________________
Street address
______________________________________
Street address
______________________________________
City, State, and Zip
______________________________________
Daytime phone number
______________________________________
Social Security # or Taxpayer I.D. #
Are you a U.S. citizen? ___Yes ___No
______________________________________
If no, country of permanent residence
______________________________________
Owner's date of birth
______________________________________
Account number (if existing account)
2 -----Colonial Fund(s) You Are Purchasing--------
Your investment will be made in Class A shares if no class is indicated.
Certificates are not available for Class B or D shares. If no distribution
option is selected, distributions will be reinvested in additional Fund
shares. Please consult your financial adviser to determine which class of
shares best suits your needs.
Fund Fund Fund
________________ ___________________ _____________________
$_______________ $__________________ $____________________
Amount Amount Amount
Class
___ A Shares ___ B Shares (less than $250,000) ___ C Shares (Adjustable Rate
U.S. Government Fund only)
___ D Shares (less than $500,000, available on certain funds; see prospectus)
Method of Payment
Choose one
___Check payable to the Fund
___Bank wired on ____/____/____
(Date) Wire/Trade confirmation #__________________
Ways to Receive Your Distributions
Choose one
___Reinvest dividends and capital gains
___Dividends and capital gains in cash
___Dividends in cash; reinvest capital gains
___Automatic Dividend Diversification See section 5A, inside
___Direct Deposit via Colonial Cash Connection Complete Bank Information
in section 4B. I understand that my bank must be a member of the
Automated Clearing House (ACH).
Distributions of $10.00 or less will automatically be reinvested in additional
fund shares.
3---Your Signature & Taxpayer I.D. Number Certification----
Each person signing on behalf of an entity represents that his/her actions are
authorized.
I have received and read each appropriate Fund prospectus and understand that
its terms are incorporated by reference into this application. I understand
that this application is subject to acceptance. I understand that certain
redemptions may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. It is agreed
that the Fund, all Colonial Companies and their officers, directors, agents,
and employees will not be liable for any loss, liability, damage, or expense
for relying upon this application or any instruction believed genuine.
I certify, under penalties of perjury, that:
1. The Social Security # or Taxpayer I.D. # provided is correct.
You must cross out Item 2a, b or c below only if you have been notified by the
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that you are currently subject to back-up
withholding because of under-reporting interest or dividends on you tax return.
2. I am not subject to back-up withholding because: (a) I am exempt from back-
up withholding, or (b) I have not been notified by the IRS that I am
subject to back-up withholding as a result of a failure to report all
interest or dividends, or (c) the IRS has notified me that I am no longer
subject to back-up withholding.
The Internal Revenue Service does not require your consent to any provision of
this document other than the certifications required to avoid backup
withholdings.
X______________________________________________
Signature
_______________________________________________
Capacity, if applicable Date
X______________________________________________
Signature
_______________________________________________
Capacity, if applicable Date
4--------Ways to Withdraw from Your Fund-------
It may take up to 30 days to activate the following features. Complete only
the section(s) that apply to the features you would like.
A. Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)
You can receive monthly, quarterly, or semiannual checks from your account in
any amount you select, with certain limitations. Your redemption checks can
be sent to you at the address of record for your account, to your bank
account, or to another person you choose. The value of the shares in your
account must be at least $5,000 and you must reinvest all of your
distributions. Checks will be processed on the 10th calendar day of the month
or the following business day. If you receive your SWP payment via electronic
funds transfer (EFT), you may request it to be processed any day of the month.
Withdrawals in excess of 12% annually of your current account value will not be
accepted. Redemptions made in addition to SWP payments may be subject to a
contingent deferred sales charge for Class B or Class D shares. Please consult
your financial or tax adviser before electing this option.
Funds for Withdrawal:
___________________
Name of fund
Withdrawal Amount
Redeem shares from account as follows:
Dollar amount of payment $___________
or
Total annual %_________
Frequency (choose one)
__Monthly __Quarterly __Semiannually
I would like payments to begin _____/_____ (day, if indicating EFT,month).
___________________
Name of fund
Withdrawal Amount
Redeem shares from account as follows:
Dollar amount of payment $___________
or
Total annual %_________
Frequency (choose one)
__Monthly __Quarterly __Semiannually
I would like payments to begin _____/_____ (day,if indicating EFT,month).
Payment Instructions
Send the payment to (choose one):
__My address of record.
__My bank account via EFT. Please complete the Bank Information section below.
All EFT transactions will be made two business days after the processing date.
Your bank must be a member of the Automated Clearing House system.
__The payee listed at right. If more than one payee, provide the name,
address, payment amount, and frequency for other payees (maximum of 5) on
a separate sheet. If you are adding this service to an existing account,
please sign below and have your signature(s) guaranteed.
______________________________________________
Name of payee
______________________________________________
Address of payee
______________________________________________
City
______________________________________________
State Zip
______________________________________________
Payee's bank account number, if applicable
B. Telephone Withdrawal Options
All telephone transaction calls are recorded. These options are not available
for retirement accounts. Please sign below and have your signature(s)
guaranteed.
1. Fast Cash
You are automatically eligible for this service. You or your financial
adviser can withdraw up to $50,000 from your account and have it sent to your
address of record. For your protection, this service is only available on
accounts that have not had an address change within 30 days of the redemption
request.
2. Telephone Redemption
__I would like the Telephone Redemption privilege either by federal fund wire
or EFT. Telephone redemptions over $1,000 will be sent via federal fund wire,
usually on the next business day ($7.50 will be deducted). Redemptions of
$1,000 or less will be sent by check to your designated bank.
3. On-Demand EFT Redemption
__I would like the On-Demand EFT Redemption Privilege. Proceeds paid via EFT
will be credited to your bank account two business days after the process
date. You or your financial adviser may withdraw shares from your fund account
by telephone and send your money to your bank account. If you are adding this
service to an existing account, complete the Bank Information section below
and have all shareholder signatures guaranteed.
Colonial's and the Fund's liability is limited when following telephone
instructions; a shareholder may suffer a loss from an unauthorized transaction
reasonably believed by Colonial to have been authorized.
Bank Information (For Sections A and B Above)
I authorize deposits to the following bank account:
____________________________________________________________
Bank name City Bank account number
____________________________________________________________
Bank street address State Zip Bank routing # (your bank
can provide this)
X__________________________________
Signature of account owner(s)
X__________________________________
Signature of account owner(s) Place signature guarantee here.
5-----Ways to Make Additional Investments--------
These services involve continuous investments regardless of varying share
prices. Please consider your ability to continue purchases through periods of
price fluctuations. Dollar cost averaging does not assure a profit or protect
against loss in declining markets.
A. Automatic Dividend Diversification
Please diversify my portfolio by investing distributions from one fund into
another Colonial fund. These investments will be made in the same share class
and without sales charges. Accounts must be identically registered. I have
carefully read the prospectus for the fund(s) listed below.
____________________________
From fund
____________________________
Account number (if existing)
____________________________
To fund
____________________________
Account number (if existing)
____________________________
From fund
____________________________
Account number (if existing)
____________________________
To fund
____________________________
Account number (if existing)
B. Automated Dollar Cost Averaging
This program allows you to automatically have money from any Colonial fund in
which you have a balance of at least $5,000 exchanged into the same share
class of up to four other identically registered Colonial accounts, on a
monthly basis. The minimum amount for each exchange is $100. Please complete
the section below.
____________________________________
Fund from which shares will be sold
$_________________________
Amount to redeem monthly
1____________________________________
Fund to invest shares in
$_________________________
Amount to invest monthly
2____________________________________
Fund to invest shares in
$_________________________
Amount to invest monthly
C. Fundamatic/On-Demand EFT Purchase
Fundamatic automatically transfers the specified amount from your bank
checking account to your Colonial fund account by electronic funds transfer on
any specified day of the month. You will receive the applicable price two
business days after the receipt of your request. Your bank needs to be a
member of the Automated Clearing House System. Please attach a blank check
marked "VOID." Also, complete the section below.
1____________________________________
Fund name
_________________________________
Account number
$_____________________ _________________
Amount to transfer Month to start
2___________________________________
Fund name
________________________________
Account number
$_____________________ _________________
Amount to transfer Month to start
__On-Demand Purchase (will be automatically established if you choose
Fundamatic)
__Fundamatic Frequency
__Monthly or __Quarterly
Check one:
__EFT- Choose any day of the month_____________________
__Paper Draft-Choose either the:
__5th day of the month
__20th day of the month
Authorization to honor checks drawn by Colonial Investors Service Center,
Inc. Do Not Detach. Make sure all depositors on the bank account sign to
the far right. Please attach a blank check marked "VOID" here. See reverse
for bank instructions.
I authorize Colonial to draw on my bank account, by check or electronic funds
transfer, for an investment in a Colonial fund. Colonial and my bank are not
liable for any loss arising from delays or dishonored draws. If a draw is not
honored, I understand that notice may not be given and Colonial may reverse
the purchase and charge my account $15.
______________________________________
Bank name
______________________________________
Bank street address
______________________________________
Bank street address
______________________________________
City State Zip
______________________________________
Bank account number
______________________________________
Bank routing #
X_____________________________________
Depositor's Signature(s)
Exactly as appears on bank records
X_____________________________________
Depositor's Signature(s)
Exactly as appears on bank records
6------------Ways to Reduce Your Sales Charges------------
These services can help you reduce your sales charge while increasing your
share balance over the long term.
A. Right of Accumulation
If you, your spouse or your children own any other shares in other
Colonial funds, you may be eligible for a reduced sales charge. The combined
value of your accounts must be $50,000 or more. Class A shares of money market
funds are not eligible unless purchased by exchange from another Colonial fund.
The sales charge for your purchase will be based on the sum of the purchase(s)
added to the value of all shares in other Colonial funds at the previous
day's public offering price.
__Please link the accounts listed below for Right of Accumulation privileges,
so that this and future purchases will receive any discount for which they
are eligible.
_____________________________________
Name on account
_____________________________________
Account number
_____________________________________
Name on account
_____________________________________
Account number
B. Statement of Intent
If you agree in advance to invest at least $50,000 within 13 months, you'll
pay a lower sales charge on every dollar you invest. If you sign a Statement
of Intent within 90 days after you establish your account, you can receive a
retroactive discount on prior investments. The amount required to receive a
discount varies by fund; see the sales charge table in the "How to Buy Shares"
section of your fund prospectus.
__I want to reduce my sales charge.
I agree to invest $ _______________ over a 13-month period starting
______/______/ 19______ (not more than 90 days prior to this application). I
understand an additional sales charge must be paid if I do not complete this
Statement of Intent.
7-------------Financial Service Firm---------------------
To be completed by a Representative of your financial service firm.
This application is submitted in accordance with our selling agreement with
Colonial Investment Services, Inc. (CISI), the Fund's prospectus, and this
application. We will notify CISI, Inc., of any purchase made under a Statement
of Intent, Right of Accumulation, or Sponsored Arrangement. We guarantee the
signatures on this application and the legal capacity of the signers.
_____________________________________
Representative's name
_____________________________________
Representative's number
_____________________________________
Representative's phone number
_____________________________________
Account # for client at financial
service firm
_____________________________________
Branch office address
_____________________________________
City
_____________________________________
State Zip
_____________________________________
Branch office number
_____________________________________
Name of financial service firm
_____________________________________
Main office address
_____________________________________
Main office address
_____________________________________
City
_____________________________________
State Zip
X____________________________________
Authorized signature
8----------Request for a Combined Quarterly Statement Mailing-----------
Colonial can mail all of your quarterly statements in one envelope. This
option simplifies your record keeping and helps reduce fund expenses.
__I want to receive a combined quarterly mailing for all my accounts. Please
indicate accounts to be linked.______________________
Fundamatic (See Reverse Side)
Applications must be received before the start date for processing.
This program's deposit privilege can be revoked by Colonial without prior
notice if any check is not paid upon presentation. Colonial has no obligation
to notify the shareholder of non-payment of any draw. This program may be
discontinued by Colonial by written notice at least 30 business days prior
to the due date of any draw or by the shareholder at any time.
To the Bank Named on the Reverse Side:
Your depositor has authorized Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc. to
collect amounts due under an investment program from his/her personal checking
account. When you pay and charge the draws to the account of your depositor
executing the authorization payable to the order of Colonial Investors
Service Center, Inc., Colonial Investment Services, Inc., hereby indemnifies
and holds you harmless from any loss (including reasonable expenses) you may
suffer from honoring such draw, except any losses due to your payment of any
draw against insufficient funds.
SH-938B-0396
<PAGE>
COLONIAL TRUST I
Cross Reference Sheet
(Colonial Income Fund)
Item Number of Form N-1A Prospectus Location or Caption
Part A
1. Cover Page
2. Summary of Expenses
3. The Fund's Financial History
4. The Fund's Investment
Objective;
Organization and History;
How the Fund Pursues
Its Objective and Certain Risk
Factors
5. Cover Page;
How the Fund is Managed;
Organization and History;
Back Cover
6. Organization and History;
Distributions and Taxes;
How to Buy Shares
7. How to Buy Shares;
How the Fund Values Its Shares;
12b-1 Plans; Back Cover
8. How to Sell Shares;
How to Exchange Shares;
Telephone Transactions
9. Not Applicable
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
PROSPECTUS
BEFORE YOU INVEST
Colonial Management Associates, Inc. (Adviser) and your full-service financial
adviser want you to understand both the risks and benefits of mutual fund
investing.
While mutual funds offer significant opportunities and are professionally
managed, they also carry risks including possible loss of principal. Unlike
savings accounts and certificates of deposit, mutual funds are not insured or
guaranteed by any financial institution or government agency.
Please consult your full-service financial adviser to determine how investing in
this mutual fund may suit your unique needs, time horizon and risk tolerance.
Colonial Income Fund (Fund), a diversified portfolio of Colonial Trust I
(Trust), an open-end management investment company, seeks as high a level of
current income and total return, as is consistent with prudent risk, by
investing primarily in corporate debt securities.
The Fund is managed by the Adviser, an investment adviser since 1931.
This Prospectus explains concisely what you should know before investing in the
Fund.
Read it carefully and retain it for future reference. More detailed information
about the Fund is in the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional Information,
which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is
obtainable free of charge by calling the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750. The
Statement of Additional Information is incorporated by reference in (which means
it is considered to be a part of) this Prospectus.
IF-01/596D-0497
The Fund offers two classes of shares. Class A shares are offered at net asset
value plus a sales charge imposed at the time of purchase; Class B shares are
offered at net asset value and are subject to an annual distribution fee and a
declining contingent deferred sales charge on redemptions made within six years
after purchase. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately eight years. See "How to Buy Shares."
Contents Page
Summary of Expenses
The Fund's Financial History
The Fund's Investment Objective
How the Fund Pursues its Objective and
Certain Risk Factors
How the Fund Measures its Performance
How the Fund is Managed
How the Fund Values its Shares
Distributions and Taxes
How to Buy Shares
How to Sell Shares
How to Exchange Shares
Telephone Transactions
12b-1 Plans
Organization and History
Appendix
- ----------------- -----------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ----------------- -----------------
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON
THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY
IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<PAGE>
SUMMARY OF EXPENSES
Expenses are one of several factors to consider when investing in the Fund. The
following tables summarize your maximum transaction costs and your annual
expenses for an investment in each Class of the Fund's shares. See "How the Fund
is Managed" and "12b-1 Plans" for more complete descriptions of the Fund's
various costs and expenses.
Shareholder Transaction Expenses(1)(2)
Class A Class B
Maximum Initial Sales Charge Imposed on a
Purchase (as a % of offering price)(3) 4.75% 0.00%(5)
Maximum Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
(as a % of offering price)(3) 1.00%(4) 5.00%
(1) For accounts less than $1,000 an annual fee of $10 may be deducted.
See "How to Buy Shares."
(2) Redemption proceeds exceeding $5,000 sent via federal funds wire will
be subject to a $7.50 charge per
transaction.
(3) Does not apply to reinvested distributions.
(4) Only with respect to any portion of purchases of $1 million to $5
million redeemed within approximately 18 months after purchase.
See "How to Buy Shares."
(5) Because of the 0.75% distribution fee applicable to Class B shares,
long-term Class B shareholders may pay more in aggregate sales charges
than the maximum initial sales charge permitted by the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. However, because the Fund's
Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately 8 years, this is less likely for Class B shares than for
a class without a conversion feature.
Annual Operating Expenses (as a % of average net assets)
Class A Class B
Management fee 0.50% 0.50%
12b-1 fees 0.25 1.00
Other expenses 0.35 0.35
---- ----
Total operating expenses 1.10% 1.85%
Example
The following Example shows the cumulative expenses attributable to a
hypothetical $1,000 investment in each Class of shares of the Fund for the
periods specified, assuming a 5% annual return and, unless otherwise noted,
redemption at period end. The 5% return and expenses used in this Example should
not be considered indicative of actual or expected Fund performance or expenses,
both of which will vary:
Class A Class B
Period: (6) (7)
1 year $58 $69 $19
3 years 81 88 58
5 years 105 120 100
10 years 175 197(8) 197(8)
(6) Assumes redemption at period end.
(7) Assumes no redemption.
(8) Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately 8 years; therefore,
years 9 and 10 reflect Class A share expenses.
2
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY
The following financial highlights for a share outstanding throughout each
period have been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants. Their
unqualified report is included in the Fund's 1996 Annual Report and is
incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional Information.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 31
------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value -
Beginning of period $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460 $6.460
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.460 0.472 0.487 0.501 0.546
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments (0.240) 0.698 (0.761) 0.261 0.001
------- ------ ------- ------ -----
Total from investment
operations 0.220 1.170 (0.274) 0.762 0.547
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.450) (0.480) (0.496) (0.502) (0.547)
From capital paid in --- --- --- --- ---
--- --- --- --- ---
Total distributions declared to
shareholders (0.450) (0.480) (0.496) (0.502) (0.547)
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net asset value - End of period $6.410 $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
Total return (a) 3.59% 20.30% (4.09)% 12.05% 8.83%
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:
Expenses 1.10% (b) 1.09% (b) 1.11% 1.10% 1.24%
Net investment income 7.12% (b) 7.45% (b) 7.80% 7.45% 8.49%
Portfolio turnover 253% 85% 16% 46% 68%
Net assets at end of period (000) $129,681 $143,834 $129,560 $155,543 $149,309
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 31
------------------------------------------------------------
1991 1990 1989 1988 1987
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value -
Beginning of period $5.970 $6.430 $6.610 $6.520 $7.220
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.587 0.632 0.647 0.687 0.703
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments 0.487 (0.477) (0.159) 0.081 (0.649)
------ ------- ------- ------ -------
Total from investment operations 1.074 0.155 0.488 0.768 0.054
------ ------- ------- ------ ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.584) (0.615) (0.662) (0.678) (0.754)
From capital paid in --- --- (0.006) --- ---
--- --- ------- --- ---
Total distributions declared to
shareholders (0.584) (0.615) (0.668) (0.678) (0.754)
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net asset value - End of period $6.460 $5.970 $6.430 $6.610 $6.520
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
Total return (a) 18.80% 2.65% 7.62% 12.45% 0.48%
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:
Expenses 1.25% 1.23% 1.15% 1.13% 1.15%
Net investment income 9.46% 10.30% 9.82% 10.37% 10.10%
Portfolio turnover 44% 29% 41% 19% 32%
Net assets at end of period (000) $$146,905 $141,467 $162,163 $159,991 $164,636
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
(a) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested and
no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(b) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements had no impact. Prior years' ratios are net of benefits
received, if any.
3
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY (CONT'D)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS B
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year ended December 31
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992(a)
---- ---- ---- ---- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of period $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460 $6.390
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.412 0.425 0.440 0.451 0.290
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments (0.240) 0.698 (0.761) 0.261 0.088
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
Total from investment operations 0.172 1.123 (0.321) 0.712 0.378
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.402) (0.433) (0.449) (0.452) (0.308)
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
Net asset value - End of period $6.410 $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
Total return (b) 2.82% 19.42% (4.82)% 11.23% 6.00(c)
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:
Expenses 1.85%(d) 1.84%(d) 1.86% 1.85% 1.99(e)
Net investment income 6.37%(d) 6.70%(d) 7.05% 6.70% 7.74(e)
Portfolio turnover 253% 85% 16% 46% 68%
Net assets at end of period (000) $35,770 $38,203 $22,805 $19,787 $6,092
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
(a) Class B shares were initially offered on May 15, 1992. Per share amounts
reflect activity from that date.
(b) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested and
no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(c) Not annualized.
(d) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements had no impact. Prior years' ratios are net of benefits
received, if any.
(e) Annualized.
Further performance information is contained in the Fund's Annual Report to
shareholders, which is obtainable free of charge by calling 1-800-426-3750.
4
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Fund seeks as high a level of current income and total return, as is
consistent with prudent risk, by investing primarily in corporate debt
securities.
HOW THE FUND PURSUES ITS OBJECTIVE AND CERTAIN RISK FACTORS
The Fund invests primarily in corporate and government debt securities and
preferred stocks, but intends to limit investments in preferred stocks to 10% of
its net assets. Some preferred stocks may be accompanied by rights to acquire
the issuer's common stock, but the Fund intends to dispose of any common stock
acquired through these rights. The type and the maturity of debt securities held
by the Fund will vary over time based on management's judgment of market and
economic conditions, fiscal and monetary policy and interest rate trends. The
Fund may invest up to 25% of its assets in securities issued or guaranteed by
foreign governments or foreign companies. The Fund will not invest more than
25% of its total assets in a single industry.
Debt Securities. The Fund may invest in debt securities of any maturity that pay
fixed, floating or adjustable interest rates. The values of debt securities
generally fluctuate inversely with changes in interest rates. This is less
likely to be true for adjustable or floating rate securities, since interest
rate changes are more likely to be reflected in changes in the rates paid on the
securities. However, reductions in interest rates also may translate into lower
distributions paid by the Fund.
The Fund also may invest in debt securities (i) that do not pay interest but,
instead are issued at a significant discount to their maturity values (referred
to as zero coupon securities), (ii) that pay interest, at the issuer's option,
in additional securities instead of cash (referred to as pay-in-kind securities)
or (iii) pay interest at predetermined rates that increase over time (referred
to as step coupon bonds). Because zero coupon securities, pay-in-kind securities
and step coupon bonds may not pay interest but the Fund nevertheless must accrue
and distribute to investors the income deemed to be earned on a current basis,
the Fund may have to sell other investments to raise the cash needed to make
income distributions.
REMICs and CMOs. The Fund may invest in real estate mortgage investment conduits
(REMICs), collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) and other mortgage-backed
securities of investment grade or which are considered by the Adviser to be of
comparable quality. Certain of these securities may be issued by non-U.S.
government agencies, although the underlying mortgages will in all cases be
guaranteed by a U.S. government agency. The Fund may experience costs and delays
in liquidating the collateral if the non-U.S. government issuer defaults or
enters bankruptcy and may incur a loss. CMOs are obligations issued by
special-purpose trusts, secured by mortgages. REMICs own mortgages and elect
REMIC status under the Internal Revenue Code. Both CMOs and REMICs issue one or
more classes of securities of which one (the Residual) is in the nature of
equity. The Fund will not invest in the Residual class. The principal of a
REMIC, CMO or other mortgage-backed security may be prepaid if the underlying
mortgages are prepaid. Because of the prepayment feature, these investments may
not increase in value when interest rates fall. The Fund may be able to invest
prepaid principal only at lower yields. The Fund may invest in "stripped"
mortgage-backed securities representing interests in, for example, only the
principal or only the interest on underlying mortgages. Interest-only strips
involve the additional risk of loss of the entire value of the investment if the
underlying mortgages are prepaid. The prepayment of REMICs, CMOs or other
mortgage-backed securities purchased at a premium may result in losses equal to
the premium.
Lower Rated Debt Securities. Lower rated debt securities (commonly referred to
as junk bonds) are debt securities which are not considered to be investment
grade (that is, they are rated below BBB by Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P)
or below Baa by Moody's Investors Service (Moody's), or are unrated but
considered by the Adviser to be of comparable credit quality). For a description
of S&P's and Moody's rating
5
<PAGE>
systems, see the Appendix to this Prospectus. Lower rated bonds also are
generally considered significantly more speculative and likely to default than
higher quality bonds. Because of the increased risk of default, lower rated debt
securities generally have higher interest rates than higher quality
securities.As a matter of policy, the Adviser will not invest more than 25% of
the Fund's total assets in lower rated debt securities.
The Fund may purchase bonds in the lowest rating categories (C for Moody's and D
for S&P) and comparable unrated securities. However, the Fund will only purchase
securities rated Ca or lower by Moody's or CC or lower by S&P if the Adviser
believes the quality of such securities is higher than indicated by the rating.
The values of lower rated securities are more likely to fluctuate directly,
rather than inversely, with changes in interest rates. This is because increases
in interest rates often are associated with an improving economy, which may
translate into an improved ability of the issuers to pay off their bonds
(lowering the risk of default). Relative to other debt securities, the values of
lower rated bonds tend to be more volatile because: (i) an economic downturn may
more significantly impact their potential for default, or (ii) the secondary
market for such securities may at times be less liquid or respond more adversely
to negative publicity or investor perceptions, making it more difficult to value
or dispose of the securities. The likelihood that these securities will help the
Fund achieve its investment objective is more dependent on the Adviser's own
credit analysis.
During the year ended December 31, 1996, 18.5% of the Fund's weighted average
total assets were invested in lower rated bonds. The portfolio composition
during 1996 does not necessarily reflect the current or future investments of
the Fund.
Foreign Investments. Investments in foreign securities have special risks
related to political, economic, and legal conditions outside of the U.S. As a
result, the prices of foreign securities may fluctuate substantially more than
the prices of securities of issuers based in the U.S. Special risks associated
with foreign securities include the possibility of unfavorable movements in
currency exchange rates, the existence of less liquid markets, the
unavailability of reliable information about issuers, the existence (or
potential imposition) of exchange control regulations (including currency
blockage), and political and economic instability, among others. In addition,
transactions in foreign securities may be more costly because of currency
conversion costs and higher brokerage and custodial costs. See "Foreign
Securities" and "Foreign Currency Transactions" in the Statement of Additional
Information for more information about foreign investments.
Emerging Markets. The Fund may invest in foreign securities issued or guaranteed
by companies or governments located in countries whose economies or securities
markets are not yet highly developed. Special risks associated with these
investments (in addition to those of
6
<PAGE>
foreign investments generally) may include, among others, greater political
uncertainties, an economy's dependence on revenues from particular commodities
or on international aid or development assistance, extreme or volatile debt
burdens or inflation rates, highly limited numbers of potential buyers for such
securities, heightened volatility of security prices, restrictions on
repatriation of capital invested abroad and delays and disruptions in securities
settlement procedures.
Foreign Currency Transactions. In connection with its investments in foreign
securities, the Fund may purchase and sell (i) foreign currencies on a spot or
forward basis, (ii) foreign currency futures contracts, and (iii) options on
foreign currencies and foreign currency futures. Such transactions may be
entered into (a) to lock in a particular foreign exchange rate pending
settlement of a purchase or sale of a foreign security or pending the receipt of
interest, principal or dividend payments on a foreign security held by the Fund,
or (b) to hedge against a decline in the value, in U.S. dollars or in another
currency, of a foreign currency in which securities held by the Fund are
denominated. The Fund will not attempt, nor would it be able, to eliminate all
foreign currency risk. Further, although hedging may lessen the risk of loss if
the hedged currency's value declines, it limits the potential gain from currency
value increases. See the Statement of Additional Information for information
relating to the Fund's obligations in entering into foreign currency
transactions.
Temporary/Defensive Instruments. Temporarily available cash may be invested in
certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, high quality commercial paper,
Treasury bills, repurchase agreements and U.S. government securities. Some or
all of the Fund's assets also may be invested in such investments during periods
of unusual market conditions.
Under a repurchase agreement, the Fund buys a security from a bank or dealer,
which is obligated to buy it back at a fixed price and time. The security is
held in a separate account at the Fund's custodian and constitutes the Fund's
collateral for the bank's or dealer's repurchase obligation. Additional
collateral will be added so that the obligation will at all times be fully
collateralized. However, if the bank or dealer defaults or enters bankruptcy,
the Fund may experience costs and delays in liquidating the collateral, and may
experience a loss if it is unable to demonstrate its rights to the collateral in
a bankruptcy proceeding. Not more than 10% of the Fund's net assets will be
invested in repurchase agreements maturing in more than 7 days or other illiquid
assets.
Interest Rate Futures and Options. For hedging purposes, the Fund may (1) buy or
sell interest rate futures and (2) buy and sell options on such futures. The
total market value of securities to be delivered or acquired pursuant to such
contracts will not exceed 5% of the Fund's net assets. A futures contract
creates an obligation by the seller to deliver and the buyer to take delivery of
the type of instrument at the time and in the amount specified in the contract.
Although futures contracts call for the delivery (or acceptance) of the
specified instrument, the contracts are usually closed out before the settlement
date through the purchase (or sale) of an offsetting contract. If the price of
the initial sale of the futures contract exceeds (or is less than) the price of
the offsetting purchase, the Fund realizes a gain (or loss).
"When-Issued" and "Delayed Delivery" Securities. The Fund may acquire securities
on a "when-issued" or "delayed delivery" basis by contracting to purchase
securities for a fixed price on a date beyond the customary settlement time with
no interest accruing until settlement. If made through a dealer, the contract is
dependent on the dealer completing the sale. The dealer's failure could deprive
the Fund of an advantageous yield or price. These contracts involve the risk
that the value of the underlying security may change prior to settlement. The
Fund may realize short-term gains or losses if the contracts are sold.
Transactions in "when-issued" securities may be limited by certain Internal
Revenue Code requirements.
Borrowing of Money. The Fund may borrow money from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however, the Fund will not
purchase additional portfolio securities while borrowings exceed 5% of net
assets.
Other. The Fund may not always achieve its investment objective. The Fund may
trade portfolio securities for short-term profits to
7
<PAGE>
take advantage of price differentials. These trades are limited by certain
Internal Revenue Code requirements. High portfolio turnover may result in higher
transaction costs and higher levels of realized capital gains. The Fund's
investment objective and non-fundamental investment policies may be changed
without shareholder approval. The Fund will notify investors in connection with
any material change in the Fund's investment objective. If there is a change in
the investment objective or investment policies, shareholders should consider
whether the Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of their financial
position and needs. Shareholders may incur a contingent deferred sales charge if
shares are redeemed in response to a change in investment objective or
investment policies . The Fund's fundamental investment policies listed in the
Statement of Additional Information cannot be changed without the approval of a
majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. Additional information
concerning certain of the securities and investment techniques described above
is contained in the Statement of Additional Information.
HOW THE FUND MEASURES ITS PERFORMANCE
Performance may be quoted in sales literature and advertisements. Each Class's
average annual total returns are calculated in accordance with the Securities
and Exchange Commission's formula and assume the reinvestment of all
distributions, the maximum initial sales charge of 4.75% on Class A shares and
the contingent deferred sales charge applicable to the time period quoted on
Class B shares. Other total returns differ from average annual total return only
in that they may relate to different time periods, may represent aggregate as
opposed to average annual total returns, and may not reflect the initial sales
charge or contingent deferred sales charges.
Each Class's yield, which differs from total return because it does not consider
changes in net asset value, is calculated in accordance with the Securities and
Exchange Commission's formula. Each Class's distribution rate is calculated by
dividing the most recent month's distribution, annualized, by the maximum
offering price of that Class at the end of the month. Each Class's performance
may be compared to various indices. Quotations from various publications may be
included in sales literature and advertisements. See "Performance Measures" in
the Statement of Additional Information for more information.
All performance information is historical and does not predict future results.
HOW THE FUND IS MANAGED
The Trustees formulate the Fund's general policies and oversee the Fund's
affairs as conducted by the Adviser.
Colonial Investment Services, Inc. (Distributor), a subsidiary of the Adviser,
serves as the distributor for the Fund's shares. Colonial Investors Service
Center, Inc. (Transfer Agent), an affiliate of the Adviser, serves as the
shareholder services and transfer agent for the Fund. Each of the Adviser,
Distributor and Transfer Agent is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty Financial
Companies, Inc. which in turn is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty Mutual
Insurance Company (Liberty Mutual). Liberty Mutual is considered to be the
controlling entity of the Adviser and its affiliates. Liberty Mutual is an
underwriter of workers' compensation insurance and a property and casualty
insurer in the U.S.
The Adviser furnishes the Fund with investment management, accounting and
administrative personnel and services, office space and other equipment and
services at the Adviser's expense. For these services, the Fund paid the Adviser
0.50% of the Fund's average daily net assets for fiscal year 1996.
Richard A. Stevens, Vice President of the Adviser, has managed or co-managed the
Fund since September, 1995. Prior to co-managing the Fund, Mr. Stevens was a
Senior Research Analyst for the Adviser. Prior to joining the Adviser in 1994,
Mr. Stevens was an Investment Analyst for Back Bay Advisors.
The Adviser also provides pricing and bookkeeping services to the Fund for a
monthly fee of $2,250 plus a percentage of the Fund's average net assets over
$50 million. The Transfer Agent provides transfer agency and
8
<PAGE>
shareholder services to the Fund for a fee of 0.18% annually of average net
assets plus certain out-of-pocket expenses. Effective January 1, 1998, the
transfer agency and shareholder services fee will be reduced to 0.17% annually
of average net assets plus certain out-of-pocket expenses.
Each of the foregoing fees is subject to any reimbursement or fee waiver to
which the Adviser may agree.
The Adviser places all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities.
In selecting broker-dealers, the Adviser may consider research and brokerage
services furnished by such broker-dealers to the Adviser and its affiliates and
may, in recognition of the research and brokerage services provided, pay the
selected broker-dealer a higher commission than would have been charged by
another broker-dealer not providing such services. Subject to seeking best
execution, the Adviser may consider sales of shares of the Fund (and of certain
other Colonial funds) in selecting broker-dealers for portfolio security
transactions.
HOW THE FUND VALUES ITS SHARES
Per share net asset value is calculated by dividing the total value of each
Class's net assets by its number of outstanding shares. Shares of the Fund are
valued as of the close of the New York Stock Exchange (Exchange) (normally 4:00
p.m. Eastern time) each day the Exchange is open. Portfolio securities for which
market quotations are readily available are valued at current market value.
Short-term investments maturing in 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost
when the Adviser determines, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Trustees,
that such cost approximates current market value. All other securities and
assets are valued at their fair value following procedures adopted by the
Trustees.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
The Fund intends to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the
Internal Revenue Code and to distribute to shareholders net income monthly and
any net realized gain at least annually. The Fund generally declares
distributions daily.
Distributions are invested in additional shares of the same Class of the Fund at
net asset value unless the shareholder elects to receive cash. Regardless of the
shareholder's election, distributions of $10 or less will not be paid in cash to
shareholders but will be invested in additional shares of the same Class of the
Fund at net asset value. To change your election, call the Transfer Agent for
information. Whether you receive taxable distributions in cash or in additional
fund shares, you must report them as taxable income unless you are a tax-exempt
institution. Each January, information on the amount and nature of distributions
for the prior year is sent to shareholders.
The Fund has a significant capital loss carry forward and, until it is
exhausted, it is unlikely that capital gains distributions will be made. Any
capital gains will, however, be reflected in the net asset value.
HOW TO BUY SHARES
Shares of the Fund are offered continuously. Orders received in good form prior
to the time at which the Fund values its shares (or placed with a financial
service firm before such time and transmitted by the financial service firm
before the Fund processes that day's share transactions) will be processed based
on that day's closing net asset value, plus any applicable initial sales charge.
The minimum initial investment is $1,000; subsequent investments may be as small
as $50. The minimum initial investment for the Colonial Fundamatic program is
$50 and the minimum initial investment for a Colonial retirement account is $25.
Certificates will not be issued for Class B shares and there are some
limitations on the issuance of Class A share certificates. The Fund may refuse
any purchase order for its shares. See the Statement of Additional Information
for more information.
Class A Shares. Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus an initial
sales charge as follows:
9
<PAGE>
Initial Sales Charge
---------------------------------
Retained
by
Financial
Service
as % of Firm
--------------------- as % of
Amount Offering Offering
Amount Purchased Invested Price Price
Less than $50,000 4.99% 4.75% 4.25%
$50,000 to less than
$100,000 4.71% 4.50% 4.00%
$100,000 to less than
$250,000 3.63% 3.50% 3.00%
$250,000 to less than
$500,000 2.56% 2.50% 2.00%
$500,000 to less than
$1,000,000 2.04% 2.00% 1.75%
$1,000,000 or more 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
On purchases of $1 million or more, the Distributor pays the financial service
firm a cumulative commission as follows:
Amount Purchased Commission
First $3,000,000 1.00%
Next $2,000,000 0.50%
Over $5,000,000 0.25%(1)
(1) Paid over 12 months but only to the extent the shares remain outstanding.
In determining the sales charge and commission applicable to a new purchase
under the above schedules, the amount of the current purchase is added to the
current value of shares previously purchased and still held. If a purchase
results in an account having a value from $1 million to $5 million, then the
shares purchased will be subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge,
payable to the Distributor, if redeemed within 18 months from the first day of
the month following the purchase. If the purchase results in an account having a
value in excess of $5 million, the contingent deferred sales charge will not
apply to the portion of the purchased shares comprising such excess amount.
Class B Shares. Class B shares are offered at net asset value, without an
initial sales charge, and are subject to a 0.75% annual distribution fee for
approximately eight years (at which time they automatically convert to Class A
shares not bearing a distribution fee) and a declining contingent deferred sales
charge if redeemed within six years after purchase. As shown below, the amount
of the contingent deferred sales charge depends on the number of years after
purchase that the redemption occurs:
Years Contingent Deferred
After Purchase Sales Charge
0-1 5.00%
1-2 4.00%
2-3 3.00%
3-4 3.00%
4-5 2.00%
5-6 1.00%
More than 6 0.00%
Year one ends one year after the end of the month in which the purchase was
accepted and so on.
The Distributor pays financial service firms a commission of 4.00% on Class B
share purchases.
General. All contingent deferred sales charges are deducted from the amount
redeemed, not the amount remaining in the account, and are paid to the
Distributor. Shares issued upon distribution reinvestment and amounts
representing appreciation are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
The contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on redemptions which result in
the account value falling below its Base Amount (the total dollar value of
purchase payments in the account reduced by prior redemptions on which a
contingent deferred sales charge was paid and any exempt redemption). See the
Statement of Additional Information for more information.
Which Class is more beneficial to an investor depends on the amount and intended
length of the investment. Large investments, qualifying for a reduced Class A
sales charge, avoid the distribution fee. Investments in Class B shares have
100% of the purchase invested immediately. Purchases of $250,000 or more
10
<PAGE>
must be for Class A shares. Consult your financial service firm.
Financial service firms may receive different compensation rates for selling
different classes of shares. The Distributor may pay additional compensation to
financial service firms which have made or may make significant sales.
Special Purchase Programs. The Fund allows certain investors or groups of
investors to purchase shares with reduced or without initial or contingent
deferred sales charges. These programs are described in the Statement of
Additional Information under "Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales
Charges."
Shareholder Services and Account Fees. A variety of shareholder services are
available. For more information about these services or your account, call
1-800-345-6611. Some services are described in the attached account application.
A shareholder's manual explaining all available services will be provided upon
request.
In June of any year, the Fund may deduct $10 (payable to the Transfer Agent)
from accounts valued at less than $1,000 unless the account value has dropped
below $1,000 solely as a result of share value depreciation. Shareholders will
receive 60 days' written notice to increase the account value before the fee is
deducted. The Fund may also deduct annual maintenance and processing fees
(payable to the Transfer Agent) in connection with certain retirement plan
accounts. See "Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services" in the Statement of
Additional Information for more information.
HOW TO SELL SHARES
Shares of the Fund may be sold on any day the Exchange is open, either directly
to the Fund or through your financial service firm. Sale proceeds generally are
sent within seven days (usually on the next business day after your request is
received in good form). However, for shares recently purchased by check, the
Fund will send proceeds as soon as the check has cleared (which may take up to
15 days).
Selling Shares Directly To The Fund. Send a signed letter of instruction or
stock power form to the Transfer Agent, along with any certificates for shares
to be sold. The sale price is the net asset value (less any applicable
contingent deferred sales charge) next calculated after the Fund receives the
request in proper form. Signatures must be guaranteed by a bank, a member firm
of a national stock exchange or another eligible guarantor institution. Stock
power forms are available from your financial service firm, the Transfer Agent
and many banks. Additional documentation is required for sales by corporations,
agents, fiduciaries, surviving joint owners and individual retirement account
holders. For details contact:
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 1722
Boston, MA 02105-1722
1-800-345-6611
Selling Shares Through Financial Service Firms. Financial service firms must
receive requests prior to the time at which the Fund values its shares to
receive that day's price, are responsible for furnishing all necessary
documentation to the Transfer Agent and may charge for this service.
General. The sale of shares is a taxable transaction for income tax purposes and
may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. The contingent deferred
sales charge may be waived under certain circumstances. See the Statement of
Additional Information for more information. Under unusual circumstances, the
Fund may suspend repurchases or postpone payment for up to seven days or longer,
as permitted by federal securities law.
HOW TO EXCHANGE SHARES
Except as described below with respect to money market funds, Fund shares may be
exchanged at net asset value among shares of the same class of most Colonial
funds. Shares will continue to age without regard to the exchange for purposes
of conversion and determining the contingent deferred sales charge, if any, upon
redemption. Carefully read the prospectus of the fund into which the exchange
will go before submitting the request. Call 1-800-426-3750 to receive a
prospectus and an exchange authorization form. Call 1-800-422-3737 to exchange
shares by telephone. An exchange is a taxable capital transaction for federal
tax purposes. The exchange service may be
11
<PAGE>
changed, suspended or eliminated on 60 days' written notice. The Fund will
terminate the exchange privilege as to a particular shareholder if it is
determined by the Adviser, in its sole and absolute discretion, that the
shareholder's exchange activity is likely to adversely impact the Adviser's
ability to manage the Fund's investments in accordance with its investment
objectives or otherwise harm the Fund or its remaining shareholders.
Class A Shares. An exchange from a money market fund into a non-money market
fund will be at the applicable offering price next determined (including sales
charge), except for amounts on which an initial sales charge previously was
paid. Non-money market fund shares must be held for five months before
qualifying for exchange to a fund with a higher sales charge, after which,
exchanges are made at the net asset value next determined.
Class B Shares. Exchanges of Class B shares are not subject to the contingent
deferred sales charge. However, if shares are redeemed within six years after
the original purchase, a contingent deferred sales charge will be assessed using
the schedule of the fund into which the original investment was made.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
All shareholders and/or their financial advisers are automatically eligible to
exchange Fund shares and redeem up to $50,000 of Fund shares by calling
1-800-422-3737 toll-free any business day between 9:00 a.m. and the time at
which the Fund values its shares. Telephone redemption privileges for larger
amounts may be elected on the account application. The Transfer Agent will
employ reasonable procedures to confirm that instructions communicated by
telephone are genuine and may be liable for losses related to unauthorized or
fraudulent transactions in the event reasonable procedures are not employed.
Such procedures include restrictions on where proceeds of telephone redemptions
may be sent, limitations on the ability to redeem by telephone shortly after an
address change, recording of telephone lines and requirements that the redeeming
shareholder and/or their financial adviser provide certain identifying
information. Shareholders and/or their financial advisers wishing to redeem or
exchange shares by telephone may experience difficulty in reaching the Fund at
its toll-free telephone number during periods of drastic economic or market
changes. In that event, shareholders and/or their financial advisers should
follow the procedures for redemption or exchange by mail as described above
under "How to Sell Shares." The Adviser, the Transfer Agent and the Fund reserve
the right to change, modify, or terminate the telephone redemption or exchange
services at any time upon prior written notice to shareholders. Shareholders
and/or their financial advisers are not obligated to transact by telephone.
12B-1 PLANS
Under 12b-1 Plans, the Fund pays the Distributor monthly a service fee at the
annual rate of 0.25% of the Fund's net assets attributed to each Class of
shares. The Fund also pays the Distributor monthly a distribution fee at the
annual rate of 0.75% of the average daily net assets attributed to its Class B
shares. Because the Class B shares bear the additional distribution fee, their
dividends will be lower than the dividends of Class A shares. Class B shares
automatically convert to Class A shares, approximately eight years after the
Class B shares were purchased. The multiple class structure could be terminated
should certain Internal Revenue Service rulings be rescinded. See the Statement
of Additional Information for more information. The Distributor uses the fees to
defray the cost of commissions and service fees paid to financial service firms
which have sold Fund shares, and to defray other expenses such as sales
literature, prospectus printing and distribution, shareholder servicing costs
and compensation to wholesalers. Should the fees exceed the Distributor's
expenses in any year, the Distributor would realize a profit. The Plans also
authorize other payments to the Distributor and its affiliates (including the
Adviser) which may be construed to be indirect financing of sales of Fund
shares.
ORGANIZATION AND HISTORY
The Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized in 1985. The Fund
represents
12
<PAGE>
the entire interest in a separate portfolio of the Trust.
The Trust is not required to hold annual shareholder meetings, but special
meetings may be called for certain purposes. Shareholders receive one vote for
each Fund share. Shares of the Trust vote together except when required by law
to vote separately by fund or by class. Shareholders owning in the aggregate ten
percent of Trust shares may call meetings to consider removal of Trustees. Under
certain circumstances, the Trust will provide information to assist shareholders
in calling such a meeting. See the Statement of Additional Information for more
information.
13
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
S&P
AAA bonds have the highest rating assigned by S&P. Capacity to pay interest and
repay principal is extremely strong.
AA bonds have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and
they differ from AAA only in small degree.
A bonds have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, although
they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB bonds are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a
weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal than for bonds in the A
category.
BB, B, CCC and CC bonds are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative
with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligation. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and
CC the highest degree. While such debt will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or large
exposures to adverse conditions.
C ratings are reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being paid.
D bonds are in default, and payment of interest and/or principal is in arrears.
Plus(+) or minus (-) are modifiers relative to the standing within the major
rating categories.
MOODY'S
Aaa bonds are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree
of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge". Interest
payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and
principal is secure. While 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 are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with Aaa
bonds 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 in Aaa securities. Those bonds in the Aa through B
groups which Moody's believes possess the strongest investment attributes are
designated by the symbol Aa1, A1 and Baa1.
A bonds 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 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 are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be
considered as well secured. 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 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.
Caa bonds 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 represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree. Such
issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
14
<PAGE>
C bonds 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.
15
<PAGE>
Investment Adviser
Colonial Management Associates, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Distributor
Colonial Investment Services, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Custodian
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company
One Boston Place
Boston, MA 02108-2624
Shareholder Services and Transfer Agent
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
1-800-345-6611
Independent Accountants
Price Waterhouse LLP
160 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Legal Counsel
Ropes & Gray
One International Place
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Your financial service firm is:
Printed in U.S.A.
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
PROSPECTUS
Colonial Income Fund seeks as high a level of current income and total return,
as is consistent with prudent risk, by investing primarily in corporate debt
securities.
For more detailed information about the Fund, call the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750
for the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional Information.
- ----------------- -----------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ----------------- -----------------
16
<PAGE>
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
Statement of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) contains information which may be
useful to investors but which is not included in the Prospectus of Colonial
Income Fund (Fund). This SAI is not a prospectus and is only authorized for
distribution when accompanied or preceded by the Prospectus of the Fund dated
April 30, 1997. This SAI should be read together with the Prospectus. Investors
may obtain a free copy of the Prospectus from Colonial Investment Services,
Inc., One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111-2621.
Part 1 of this SAI contains specific information about the Fund. Part 2 includes
information about the Colonial funds generally and additional information about
certain securities and investment techniques described in the Fund's Prospectus.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part 1 Page
Definitions
Investment Objective and Policies
Fundamental Investment Policies
Other Investment Policies
Portfolio Turnover
Fund Charges and Expenses
Investment Performance
Custodian
Independent Accountants
Part 2
Miscellaneous Investment Practices
Taxes
Management of the Colonial Funds
Determination of Net Asset Value
How to Buy Shares
Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services
Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales Charges
How to Sell Shares
Distributions
How to Exchange Shares
Suspension of Redemptions
Shareholder Liability
Shareholder Meetings
Performance Measures
Appendix I
Appendix II
a
<PAGE>
Part 1
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
Statement of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
DEFINITIONS
"Trust" Colonial Trust I
"Fund" Colonial Income Fund
"Adviser" Colonial Management Associates, Inc., the Fund's investment
adviser
"CISI" Colonial Investment Services, Inc., the Fund's distributor
"CISC" Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc., the Fund's
shareholder services and transfer agent
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The Fund's Prospectus describes its investment objective and investment
policies. Part 1 of this SAI includes additional information concerning, among
other things, the investment restrictions of the Fund. Part 2 contains
additional information about the following securities and investment techniques
that are described or referred to in the Prospectus:
Lower Rated Debt Securities
Zero Coupon Securities
Step Coupon Bonds
Pay-In-Kind Securities
Forward Commitments (When Issued and Delayed Delivery Securities)
Repurchase Agreements
Futures Contracts and Related Options (interest rate futures and
related options only)
Foreign Securities
Foreign Currency Transactions
Except as indicated below under "Fundamental Investment Policies," the Fund's
investment policies are not fundamental, and the Trustees may change the
policies without shareholder approval.
FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT POLICIES
The Investment Company Act of 1940 (Act) provides that a "vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities" means the affirmative vote of the lesser of
(1) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund, or (2) 67% or more of
the shares present at a meeting if more than 50% of the outstanding shares are
represented at the meeting in person or by proxy. The following fundamental
investment policies can not be changed without such a vote.
Total assets and net assets are determined at current value for purposes of
compliance with investment restrictions and policies. All percentage limitations
will apply at the time of investment and are not violated unless an excess or
deficiency occurs as a result of such investment. For the purpose of the Act
diversification requirement, an issuer is the entity whose revenues support the
security.
The Fund may:
1. Issue senior securities only through borrowing money from banks for
temporary or emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however, the
Fund will not purchase additional portfolio securities while borrowings
exceed 5% of net assets;
2. Only own real estate acquired as a result of owning securities and not
more than 5% of total assets;
3. Invest up to 10% of its net assets in illiquid assets;
4. Purchase and sell futures contracts and related options so long as the
total initial margin and premiums on contracts do not exceed 5% of its
total assets;
5. Underwrite securities issued by others only when disposing of portfolio
securities;
6. Make loans through lending of securities not exceeding 30% of total
assets, through the purchase of debt instruments or similar evidences of
indebtedness typically sold privately to financial institutions and
through repurchase agreements; and
7. Not concentrate more than 25% of its total assets in any one industry, or
with respect to 75% of total assets purchase any security (other than
obligations of the U.S. Government and cash items including receivables)
if as a result more than 5% of its total assets would then be invested in
securities of a single issuer, or purchase voting securities of an issuer
if, as a result of such purchase, the Fund would own more than 10% of the
outstanding voting shares of such issuer.
b
<PAGE>
OTHER INVESTMENT POLICIES As non-fundamental investment policies which may be
changed without a shareholder vote, the Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may receive short-term credit
to clear securities transactions and may make initial or maintenance margin
deposits in connection with futures transactions; and
2. Have a short securities position, unless the Fund owns, or owns rights
(exercisable without payment) to acquire, an equal amount of such
securities.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
Portfolio turnover for the last two fiscal years is included in the Prospectus
under "The Fund's Financial History." High portfolio turnover may cause the Fund
to realize capital gains which, if realized and distributed by the Fund, may be
taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. High portolio turnover may result in
correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs, which
will be borne directly by the Fund.
FUND CHARGES AND EXPENSES
Under the Fund's management agreement, the Fund pays the Adviser a monthly fee
based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at the annual rate of 0.50%.
Recent Fees paid to the Adviser, CISI and CISC (for the fiscal years ended
December 31) (dollars in thousands)
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Management fee $852 $849 $814
Bookkeeping fee 69 69 67
Shareholder services and
transfer agent fee 385 384 377
12b-1 fees:
Service fee 425 426 406
Distribution fee (ClassB) 271 223 161
Brokerage Commissions
The Fund did not pay brokerage commissions during the fiscal years ended
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994.
c
<PAGE>
Trustees Fees
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, and the calendar year ended
December 31, 1996, the Trustees received the following compensation for serving
as Trustees (a):
Total Compensation
Aggregate From Trust And
Compensation Fund Complex Paid To The
From Fund For The Fiscal Trustees For The Calendar
Trustee Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31,
1996 1996(b)
Robert J. Birnbaum $1,431 $ 92,000
Tom Bleasdale 1,643(c) 104,500 (d)
Lora S. Collins 1,435 92,000
James E. Grinnell 1,449 93,000
William D. Ireland, Jr. 1,697 109,000
Richard W. Lowry 1,482 95,000
William E. Mayer 1,416 91,000
James L. Moody, Jr. 1,658(e) 106,500 (f)
John J. Neuhauser 1,475 94,500
George L. Shinn 1,647 105,500
Robert L. Sullivan 1,585 102,000
Sinclair Weeks, Jr. 1,714 110,000
(a) The Fund does not currently provide pension or retirement plan benefits
to the Trustees.
(b) At December 31, 1996, the Colonial Funds complex consisted of 37
open-end and 5 closed-end management investment company portfolios.
(c) Includes $812 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(d) Includes $51,500 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(e) Total compensation of $1,658 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996
will be payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(f) Total compensation of $106,500 for the calendar year ended December 31,
1996 will be payable in later years as deferred compensation.
The following table sets forth the amount of compensation paid to Messrs.
Birnbaum, Grinnell and Lowry in their capacities as Trustees or Directors of the
Liberty All-Star Equity Fund and of the Liberty All-Star Growth Fund, Inc.
(formerly known as The Charles Allmon Trust, Inc.) (together, Liberty Funds) for
service during the calendar year ended December 31, 1996:
Total Compensation
From Liberty Funds
For The Calendar
Trustee Year Ended December
31, 1996 (g)
Robert J. Birnbaum $25,000
James E. Grinnell 25,000
Richard W. Lowry 25,000
(g) At December 31, 1996, the Liberty Funds were advised by Liberty Asset
Management Company (LAMCO). LAMCO is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary
of Liberty Financial Companies, Inc. (an intermediate parent of the
Adviser).
d
<PAGE>
Ownership of the Fund
The following information is as of March 31, 1997:
The officers and Trustees of the Trust as a group beneficially owned less than
1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund.
Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith Inc., Attn: Book Entry, Mutual Fund
Operations, 4800 Deer Lake Dr., E 3rd Fl, Jacksonville, FL 32216, owned % of the
Fund's outstanding Class B Shares.
There were Class A and Class B shareholders.
SALES CHARGES (for the fiscal years ended December 31) (dollars in thousands)
Class A Shares
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate initial sales charges on
Fund share sales $159 $204 $179
Initial sales charges retained by CISI 19 24 22
Class B Shares
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate contingent deferred sales
charges $142 $82 $60
(CDSC) on Fund redemptions retained
by CISI
12B-1 Plans, CDSC and Conversion of Shares
The Fund offers two classes of shares - Class A and Class B. The Fund may in the
future offer other classes of shares. The Trustees have approved 12b-1 Plans
(Plans) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the Plans, the Fund pays
CISI monthly a service fee at an annual rate of 0.25% of net assets attributed
to each Class of shares. The Fund also pays CISI monthly a distribution fee at
anannual rate of 0.75% of average daily net assets attributed to Class B shares.
CISI may use the entire amount of such fees to defray the costs of commissions
and service fees paid to financial service firms (FSFs) and for certain other
purposes. Since the distribution and service fees are payable regardless of the
amount of CISI's expenses, CISI may realize a profit from the fees.
The Plans also authorize any other payments by the Fund to CISI and its
affiliates (including the Adviser) to the extent that such payments might be
construed to be indirectly financing the distribution of Fund shares.
The Trustees believe the Plans could be a significant factor in the growth and
retention of Fund assets resulting in a more advantageous expense ratio and
increased investment flexibility which could benefit each class of Fund
shareholders. The Plans will continue in effect from year to year so long as
continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a vote of the
Trustees, including Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust and
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plans or
in any agreements related to the Plans (Independent Trustees), cast in person at
a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the Plans. The Plans may not be
amended to increase materially the fee without approval by vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares and all
material amendments of the Plans must be approved by the Trustees in the manner
provided in the foregoing sentence. The Plans may be terminated at any time by
vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares. The continuance
of the Plans will only be effective if the selection and nomination of the
Trustees who are non-interested Trustees is effected by such non-interested
Trustees.
Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus varying sales charges which
may include a CDSC. Class B shares are offered at net asset value and are
subject to a CDSC if redeemed within six years after purchase. The CDSCs are
described in the Prospectus.
e
<PAGE>
No CDSC will be imposed on shares derived from reinvestment of distributions or
on amounts representing capital appreciation. In determining the applicability
and rate of any CDSC, it will be assumed that a redemption is made first of
shares representing capital appreciation, next of shares representing
reinvestment of distributions and finally of other shares held by the
shareholder for the longest period of time.
Eight years after the end of the month in which a Class B share is purchased,
such share and a pro rata portion of any shares issued on the reinvestment of
distributions will be automatically converted into Class A shares having an
equal value, which are not subject to the distribution fee.
Sales-related expenses (dollars in thousands) of CISI relating to the Fund for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 were:
Class A Class B
Shares Shares
Fees to FSFs $323 $302
Cost of sales material relating to the Fund
(including printing and 12 12
mailing expenses)
Allocated travel, entertainment and other
promotional expenses 19 19
(including advertising)
INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE
The Fund's Class A and Class B yields for the month ended December 31, 1996,
were 6.60% and 5.69%, respectively.
The Fund's average annual total returns at December 31, 1996, were:
Class A Shares
1 year 5 years 10 years
------ ------- --------
With sales charge of 4.75% (1.33)% 6.78% 7.49%
Without sales charge 3.59% 7.83% 8.01%
Class B Shares
May 15, 1992
(commencement of investment
operations)
1 year through December 31, 1996
------ -------------------------
With applicable CDSC (2.01)% (4.83% CDSC) 6.82% (2.00% CDSC)
Without CDSC 2.82% 7.16%
The Fund's Class A and Class B distribution rates at December 31, 1996, based on
the most recent month's distributions, annualized, and the maximum offering
price at the end of the month, were 6.50% and 6.16%, respectively.
See Part 2 of this SAI, "Performance Measures," for how calculations are made.
CUSTODIAN
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company is the Fund's custodian. The custodian is
responsible for safeguarding the Fund's cash and securities, receiving and
delivering securities and collecting the Fund's interest and dividends.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
Price Waterhouse LLP are the Fund's independent accountants providing audit and
tax return preparation services and assistance and consultation in connection
with the review of various Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The
financial statements incorporated by reference in this SAI have been so
incorporated, and the financial highlights included in the Prospectus has been
so included, in reliance upon the report of Price Waterhouse LLP given on the
authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
f
<PAGE>
The financial statements and the Report of Independent Accountants appearing on
pages 6 through 25 of the December 31, 1996 Annual Report, are incorporated in
this SAI by reference.
g
<PAGE>
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL HIGH YIELD
SECURITIES FUND
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
PROSPECTUS
BEFORE YOU INVEST
Colonial Management Associates, Inc. (Adviser) and your full-service financial
adviser want you to understand both the risks and benefits of mutual fund
investing.
While mutual funds offer significant opportunities and are professionally
managed, they also carry risks including possible loss of principal. Unlike
savings accounts and certificates of deposit, mutual funds are not insured or
guaranteed by any financial institution or government agency.
Please consult your full-service financial adviser to determine how investing in
this mutual fund may suit your unique needs, time horizon and risk tolerance.
Colonial Income Fund (Fund), a diversified portfolio of Colonial Trust I
(Trust), an open-end management investment company, seeks as high a level of
current income and total return, as is consistent with prudent risk, by
investing primarily in corporate debt securities.
The Fund is managed by the Adviser, an investment adviser since 1931.
This Prospectus explains concisely what you should know before investing in the
Fund.
Read it carefully and retain it for future reference. More detailed information
about the Fund is in the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional Information,
which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is
obtainable free of charge by calling the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750. The
Statement of Additional Information is incorporated by reference in (which means
it is considered to be a part of) this Prospectus.
IF-01/596D-0497
The Fund offers two classes of shares. Class A shares are offered at net asset
value plus a sales charge imposed at the time of purchase; Class B shares are
offered at net asset value and are subject to an annual distribution fee and a
declining contingent deferred sales charge on redemptions made within six years
after purchase. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately eight years. See "How to Buy Shares."
Contents Page
Summary of Expenses
The Fund's Financial History
The Fund's Investment Objective
How the Fund Pursues its Objective and
Certain Risk Factors
How the Fund Measures its Performance
How the Fund is Managed
How the Fund Values its Shares
Distributions and Taxes
How to Buy Shares
How to Sell Shares
How to Exchange Shares
Telephone Transactions
12b-1 Plans
Organization and History
Appendix
- ----------------- -----------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ----------------- -----------------
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON
THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY
IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<PAGE>
SUMMARY OF EXPENSES
Expenses are one of several factors to consider when investing in the Fund. The
following tables summarize your maximum transaction costs and your annual
expenses for an investment in each Class of the Fund's shares. See "How the Fund
is Managed" and "12b-1 Plans" for more complete descriptions of the Fund's
various costs and expenses.
Shareholder Transaction Expenses(1)(2)
Class A Class B
Maximum Initial Sales Charge Imposed on a
Purchase (as a % of offering price)(3) 4.75% 0.00%(5)
Maximum Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
(as a % of offering price)(3) 1.00%(4) 5.00%
(1) For accounts less than $1,000 an annual fee of $10 may be deducted.
See "How to Buy Shares."
(2) Redemption proceeds exceeding $5,000 sent via federal funds wire will
be subject to a $7.50 charge per
transaction.
(3) Does not apply to reinvested distributions.
(4) Only with respect to any portion of purchases of $1 million to $5
million redeemed within approximately 18 months after purchase.
See "How to Buy Shares."
(5) Because of the 0.75% distribution fee applicable to Class B shares,
long-term Class B shareholders may pay more in aggregate sales charges
than the maximum initial sales charge permitted by the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. However, because the Fund's
Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately 8 years, this is less likely for Class B shares than for
a class without a conversion feature.
Annual Operating Expenses (as a % of average net assets)
Class A Class B
Management fee 0.50% 0.50%
12b-1 fees 0.25 1.00
Other expenses 0.35 0.35
---- ----
Total operating expenses 1.10% 1.85%
Example
The following Example shows the cumulative expenses attributable to a
hypothetical $1,000 investment in each Class of shares of the Fund for the
periods specified, assuming a 5% annual return and, unless otherwise noted,
redemption at period end. The 5% return and expenses used in this Example should
not be considered indicative of actual or expected Fund performance or expenses,
both of which will vary:
Class A Class B
Period: (6) (7)
1 year $58 $69 $19
3 years 81 88 58
5 years 105 120 100
10 years 175 197(8) 197(8)
(6) Assumes redemption at period end.
(7) Assumes no redemption.
(8) Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately 8 years; therefore,
years 9 and 10 reflect Class A share expenses.
2
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY
The following financial highlights for a share outstanding throughout each
period have been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants. Their
unqualified report is included in the Fund's 1996 Annual Report and is
incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional Information.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 31
------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value -
Beginning of period $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460 $6.460
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.460 0.472 0.487 0.501 0.546
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments (0.240) 0.698 (0.761) 0.261 0.001
------- ------ ------- ------ -----
Total from investment
operations 0.220 1.170 (0.274) 0.762 0.547
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.450) (0.480) (0.496) (0.502) (0.547)
From capital paid in --- --- --- --- ---
--- --- --- --- ---
Total distributions declared to
shareholders (0.450) (0.480) (0.496) (0.502) (0.547)
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net asset value - End of period $6.410 $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
Total return (a) 3.59% 20.30% (4.09)% 12.05% 8.83%
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:
Expenses 1.10% (b) 1.09% (b) 1.11% 1.10% 1.24%
Net investment income 7.12% (b) 7.45% (b) 7.80% 7.45% 8.49%
Portfolio turnover 253% 85% 16% 46% 68%
Net assets at end of period (000) $129,681 $143,834 $129,560 $155,543 $149,309
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 31
------------------------------------------------------------
1991 1990 1989 1988 1987
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value -
Beginning of period $5.970 $6.430 $6.610 $6.520 $7.220
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.587 0.632 0.647 0.687 0.703
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments 0.487 (0.477) (0.159) 0.081 (0.649)
------ ------- ------- ------ -------
Total from investment operations 1.074 0.155 0.488 0.768 0.054
------ ------- ------- ------ ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO
SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.584) (0.615) (0.662) (0.678) (0.754)
From capital paid in --- --- (0.006) --- ---
--- --- ------- --- ---
Total distributions declared to
shareholders (0.584) (0.615) (0.668) (0.678) (0.754)
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net asset value - End of period $6.460 $5.970 $6.430 $6.610 $6.520
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
Total return (a) 18.80% 2.65% 7.62% 12.45% 0.48%
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:
Expenses 1.25% 1.23% 1.15% 1.13% 1.15%
Net investment income 9.46% 10.30% 9.82% 10.37% 10.10%
Portfolio turnover 44% 29% 41% 19% 32%
Net assets at end of period (000) $$146,905 $141,467 $162,163 $159,991 $164,636
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
(a) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested and
no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(b) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements had no impact. Prior years' ratios are net of benefits
received, if any.
3
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY (CONT'D)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS B
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year ended December 31
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992(a)
---- ---- ---- ---- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of period $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460 $6.390
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.412 0.425 0.440 0.451 0.290
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments (0.240) 0.698 (0.761) 0.261 0.088
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
Total from investment operations 0.172 1.123 (0.321) 0.712 0.378
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.402) (0.433) (0.449) (0.452) (0.308)
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
Net asset value - End of period $6.410 $6.640 $5.950 $6.720 $6.460
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
Total return (b) 2.82% 19.42% (4.82)% 11.23% 6.00(c)
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS:
Expenses 1.85%(d) 1.84%(d) 1.86% 1.85% 1.99(e)
Net investment income 6.37%(d) 6.70%(d) 7.05% 6.70% 7.74(e)
Portfolio turnover 253% 85% 16% 46% 68%
Net assets at end of period (000) $35,770 $38,203 $22,805 $19,787 $6,092
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
(a) Class B shares were initially offered on May 15, 1992. Per share amounts
reflect activity from that date.
(b) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested and
no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(c) Not annualized.
(d) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements had no impact. Prior years' ratios are net of benefits
received, if any.
(e) Annualized.
Further performance information is contained in the Fund's Annual Report to
shareholders, which is obtainable free of charge by calling 1-800-426-3750.
4
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Fund seeks as high a level of current income and total return, as is
consistent with prudent risk, by investing primarily in corporate debt
securities.
HOW THE FUND PURSUES ITS OBJECTIVE AND CERTAIN RISK FACTORS
The Fund invests primarily in corporate and government debt securities and
preferred stocks, but intends to limit investments in preferred stocks to 10% of
its net assets. Some preferred stocks may be accompanied by rights to acquire
the issuer's common stock, but the Fund intends to dispose of any common stock
acquired through these rights. The type and the maturity of debt securities held
by the Fund will vary over time based on management's judgment of market and
economic conditions, fiscal and monetary policy and interest rate trends. The
Fund may invest up to 25% of its assets in securities issued or guaranteed by
foreign governments or foreign companies. The Fund will not invest more than
25% of its total assets in a single industry.
Debt Securities. The Fund may invest in debt securities of any maturity that pay
fixed, floating or adjustable interest rates. The values of debt securities
generally fluctuate inversely with changes in interest rates. This is less
likely to be true for adjustable or floating rate securities, since interest
rate changes are more likely to be reflected in changes in the rates paid on the
securities. However, reductions in interest rates also may translate into lower
distributions paid by the Fund.
The Fund also may invest in debt securities (i) that do not pay interest but,
instead are issued at a significant discount to their maturity values (referred
to as zero coupon securities), (ii) that pay interest, at the issuer's option,
in additional securities instead of cash (referred to as pay-in-kind securities)
or (iii) pay interest at predetermined rates that increase over time (referred
to as step coupon bonds). Because zero coupon securities, pay-in-kind securities
and step coupon bonds may not pay interest but the Fund nevertheless must accrue
and distribute to investors the income deemed to be earned on a current basis,
the Fund may have to sell other investments to raise the cash needed to make
income distributions.
REMICs and CMOs. The Fund may invest in real estate mortgage investment conduits
(REMICs), collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) and other mortgage-backed
securities of investment grade or which are considered by the Adviser to be of
comparable quality. Certain of these securities may be issued by non-U.S.
government agencies, although the underlying mortgages will in all cases be
guaranteed by a U.S. government agency. The Fund may experience costs and delays
in liquidating the collateral if the non-U.S. government issuer defaults or
enters bankruptcy and may incur a loss. CMOs are obligations issued by
special-purpose trusts, secured by mortgages. REMICs own mortgages and elect
REMIC status under the Internal Revenue Code. Both CMOs and REMICs issue one or
more classes of securities of which one (the Residual) is in the nature of
equity. The Fund will not invest in the Residual class. The principal of a
REMIC, CMO or other mortgage-backed security may be prepaid if the underlying
mortgages are prepaid. Because of the prepayment feature, these investments may
not increase in value when interest rates fall. The Fund may be able to invest
prepaid principal only at lower yields. The Fund may invest in "stripped"
mortgage-backed securities representing interests in, for example, only the
principal or only the interest on underlying mortgages. Interest-only strips
involve the additional risk of loss of the entire value of the investment if the
underlying mortgages are prepaid. The prepayment of REMICs, CMOs or other
mortgage-backed securities purchased at a premium may result in losses equal to
the premium.
Lower Rated Debt Securities. Lower rated debt securities (commonly referred to
as junk bonds) are debt securities which are not considered to be investment
grade (that is, they are rated below BBB by Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P)
or below Baa by Moody's Investors Service (Moody's), or are unrated but
considered by the Adviser to be of comparable credit quality). For a description
of S&P's and Moody's rating
5
<PAGE>
systems, see the Appendix to this Prospectus. Lower rated bonds also are
generally considered significantly more speculative and likely to default than
higher quality bonds. Because of the increased risk of default, lower rated debt
securities generally have higher interest rates than higher quality
securities.As a matter of policy, the Adviser will not invest more than 25% of
the Fund's total assets in lower rated debt securities.
The Fund may purchase bonds in the lowest rating categories (C for Moody's and D
for S&P) and comparable unrated securities. However, the Fund will only purchase
securities rated Ca or lower by Moody's or CC or lower by S&P if the Adviser
believes the quality of such securities is higher than indicated by the rating.
The values of lower rated securities are more likely to fluctuate directly,
rather than inversely, with changes in interest rates. This is because increases
in interest rates often are associated with an improving economy, which may
translate into an improved ability of the issuers to pay off their bonds
(lowering the risk of default). Relative to other debt securities, the values of
lower rated bonds tend to be more volatile because: (i) an economic downturn may
more significantly impact their potential for default, or (ii) the secondary
market for such securities may at times be less liquid or respond more adversely
to negative publicity or investor perceptions, making it more difficult to value
or dispose of the securities. The likelihood that these securities will help the
Fund achieve its investment objective is more dependent on the Adviser's own
credit analysis.
During the year ended December 31, 1996, 18.5% of the Fund's weighted average
total assets were invested in lower rated bonds. The portfolio composition
during 1996 does not necessarily reflect the current or future investments of
the Fund.
Foreign Investments. Investments in foreign securities have special risks
related to political, economic, and legal conditions outside of the U.S. As a
result, the prices of foreign securities may fluctuate substantially more than
the prices of securities of issuers based in the U.S. Special risks associated
with foreign securities include the possibility of unfavorable movements in
currency exchange rates, the existence of less liquid markets, the
unavailability of reliable information about issuers, the existence (or
potential imposition) of exchange control regulations (including currency
blockage), and political and economic instability, among others. In addition,
transactions in foreign securities may be more costly because of currency
conversion costs and higher brokerage and custodial costs. See "Foreign
Securities" and "Foreign Currency Transactions" in the Statement of Additional
Information for more information about foreign investments.
Emerging Markets. The Fund may invest in foreign securities issued or guaranteed
by companies or governments located in countries whose economies or securities
markets are not yet highly developed. Special risks associated with these
investments (in addition to those of
6
<PAGE>
foreign investments generally) may include, among others, greater political
uncertainties, an economy's dependence on revenues from particular commodities
or on international aid or development assistance, extreme or volatile debt
burdens or inflation rates, highly limited numbers of potential buyers for such
securities, heightened volatility of security prices, restrictions on
repatriation of capital invested abroad and delays and disruptions in securities
settlement procedures.
Foreign Currency Transactions. In connection with its investments in foreign
securities, the Fund may purchase and sell (i) foreign currencies on a spot or
forward basis, (ii) foreign currency futures contracts, and (iii) options on
foreign currencies and foreign currency futures. Such transactions may be
entered into (a) to lock in a particular foreign exchange rate pending
settlement of a purchase or sale of a foreign security or pending the receipt of
interest, principal or dividend payments on a foreign security held by the Fund,
or (b) to hedge against a decline in the value, in U.S. dollars or in another
currency, of a foreign currency in which securities held by the Fund are
denominated. The Fund will not attempt, nor would it be able, to eliminate all
foreign currency risk. Further, although hedging may lessen the risk of loss if
the hedged currency's value declines, it limits the potential gain from currency
value increases. See the Statement of Additional Information for information
relating to the Fund's obligations in entering into foreign currency
transactions.
Temporary/Defensive Instruments. Temporarily available cash may be invested in
certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, high quality commercial paper,
Treasury bills, repurchase agreements and U.S. government securities. Some or
all of the Fund's assets also may be invested in such investments during periods
of unusual market conditions.
Under a repurchase agreement, the Fund buys a security from a bank or dealer,
which is obligated to buy it back at a fixed price and time. The security is
held in a separate account at the Fund's custodian and constitutes the Fund's
collateral for the bank's or dealer's repurchase obligation. Additional
collateral will be added so that the obligation will at all times be fully
collateralized. However, if the bank or dealer defaults or enters bankruptcy,
the Fund may experience costs and delays in liquidating the collateral, and may
experience a loss if it is unable to demonstrate its rights to the collateral in
a bankruptcy proceeding. Not more than 10% of the Fund's net assets will be
invested in repurchase agreements maturing in more than 7 days or other illiquid
assets.
Interest Rate Futures and Options. For hedging purposes, the Fund may (1) buy or
sell interest rate futures and (2) buy and sell options on such futures. The
total market value of securities to be delivered or acquired pursuant to such
contracts will not exceed 5% of the Fund's net assets. A futures contract
creates an obligation by the seller to deliver and the buyer to take delivery of
the type of instrument at the time and in the amount specified in the contract.
Although futures contracts call for the delivery (or acceptance) of the
specified instrument, the contracts are usually closed out before the settlement
date through the purchase (or sale) of an offsetting contract. If the price of
the initial sale of the futures contract exceeds (or is less than) the price of
the offsetting purchase, the Fund realizes a gain (or loss).
"When-Issued" and "Delayed Delivery" Securities. The Fund may acquire securities
on a "when-issued" or "delayed delivery" basis by contracting to purchase
securities for a fixed price on a date beyond the customary settlement time with
no interest accruing until settlement. If made through a dealer, the contract is
dependent on the dealer completing the sale. The dealer's failure could deprive
the Fund of an advantageous yield or price. These contracts involve the risk
that the value of the underlying security may change prior to settlement. The
Fund may realize short-term gains or losses if the contracts are sold.
Transactions in "when-issued" securities may be limited by certain Internal
Revenue Code requirements.
Borrowing of Money. The Fund may borrow money from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however, the Fund will not
purchase additional portfolio securities while borrowings exceed 5% of net
assets.
Other. The Fund may not always achieve its investment objective. The Fund may
trade portfolio securities for short-term profits to
7
<PAGE>
take advantage of price differentials. These trades are limited by certain
Internal Revenue Code requirements. High portfolio turnover may result in higher
transaction costs and higher levels of realized capital gains. The Fund's
investment objective and non-fundamental investment policies may be changed
without shareholder approval. The Fund will notify investors in connection with
any material change in the Fund's investment objective. If there is a change in
the investment objective or investment policies, shareholders should consider
whether the Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of their financial
position and needs. Shareholders may incur a contingent deferred sales charge if
shares are redeemed in response to a change in investment objective or
investment policies . The Fund's fundamental investment policies listed in the
Statement of Additional Information cannot be changed without the approval of a
majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. Additional information
concerning certain of the securities and investment techniques described above
is contained in the Statement of Additional Information.
HOW THE FUND MEASURES ITS PERFORMANCE
Performance may be quoted in sales literature and advertisements. Each Class's
average annual total returns are calculated in accordance with the Securities
and Exchange Commission's formula and assume the reinvestment of all
distributions, the maximum initial sales charge of 4.75% on Class A shares and
the contingent deferred sales charge applicable to the time period quoted on
Class B shares. Other total returns differ from average annual total return only
in that they may relate to different time periods, may represent aggregate as
opposed to average annual total returns, and may not reflect the initial sales
charge or contingent deferred sales charges.
Each Class's yield, which differs from total return because it does not consider
changes in net asset value, is calculated in accordance with the Securities and
Exchange Commission's formula. Each Class's distribution rate is calculated by
dividing the most recent month's distribution, annualized, by the maximum
offering price of that Class at the end of the month. Each Class's performance
may be compared to various indices. Quotations from various publications may be
included in sales literature and advertisements. See "Performance Measures" in
the Statement of Additional Information for more information.
All performance information is historical and does not predict future results.
HOW THE FUND IS MANAGED
The Trustees formulate the Fund's general policies and oversee the Fund's
affairs as conducted by the Adviser.
Colonial Investment Services, Inc. (Distributor), a subsidiary of the Adviser,
serves as the distributor for the Fund's shares. Colonial Investors Service
Center, Inc. (Transfer Agent), an affiliate of the Adviser, serves as the
shareholder services and transfer agent for the Fund. Each of the Adviser,
Distributor and Transfer Agent is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty Financial
Companies, Inc. which in turn is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty Mutual
Insurance Company (Liberty Mutual). Liberty Mutual is considered to be the
controlling entity of the Adviser and its affiliates. Liberty Mutual is an
underwriter of workers' compensation insurance and a property and casualty
insurer in the U.S.
The Adviser furnishes the Fund with investment management, accounting and
administrative personnel and services, office space and other equipment and
services at the Adviser's expense. For these services, the Fund paid the Adviser
0.50% of the Fund's average daily net assets for fiscal year 1996.
Richard A. Stevens, Vice President of the Adviser, has managed or co-managed the
Fund since September, 1995. Prior to co-managing the Fund, Mr. Stevens was a
Senior Research Analyst for the Adviser. Prior to joining the Adviser in 1994,
Mr. Stevens was an Investment Analyst for Back Bay Advisors.
The Adviser also provides pricing and bookkeeping services to the Fund for a
monthly fee of $2,250 plus a percentage of the Fund's average net assets over
$50 million. The Transfer Agent provides transfer agency and
8
<PAGE>
shareholder services to the Fund for a fee of 0.18% annually of average net
assets plus certain out-of-pocket expenses. Effective January 1, 1998, the
transfer agency and shareholder services fee will be reduced to 0.17% annually
of average net assets plus certain out-of-pocket expenses.
Each of the foregoing fees is subject to any reimbursement or fee waiver to
which the Adviser may agree.
The Adviser places all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities.
In selecting broker-dealers, the Adviser may consider research and brokerage
services furnished by such broker-dealers to the Adviser and its affiliates and
may, in recognition of the research and brokerage services provided, pay the
selected broker-dealer a higher commission than would have been charged by
another broker-dealer not providing such services. Subject to seeking best
execution, the Adviser may consider sales of shares of the Fund (and of certain
other Colonial funds) in selecting broker-dealers for portfolio security
transactions.
HOW THE FUND VALUES ITS SHARES
Per share net asset value is calculated by dividing the total value of each
Class's net assets by its number of outstanding shares. Shares of the Fund are
valued as of the close of the New York Stock Exchange (Exchange) (normally 4:00
p.m. Eastern time) each day the Exchange is open. Portfolio securities for which
market quotations are readily available are valued at current market value.
Short-term investments maturing in 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost
when the Adviser determines, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Trustees,
that such cost approximates current market value. All other securities and
assets are valued at their fair value following procedures adopted by the
Trustees.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
The Fund intends to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the
Internal Revenue Code and to distribute to shareholders net income monthly and
any net realized gain at least annually. The Fund generally declares
distributions daily.
Distributions are invested in additional shares of the same Class of the Fund at
net asset value unless the shareholder elects to receive cash. Regardless of the
shareholder's election, distributions of $10 or less will not be paid in cash to
shareholders but will be invested in additional shares of the same Class of the
Fund at net asset value. To change your election, call the Transfer Agent for
information. Whether you receive taxable distributions in cash or in additional
fund shares, you must report them as taxable income unless you are a tax-exempt
institution. Each January, information on the amount and nature of distributions
for the prior year is sent to shareholders.
The Fund has a significant capital loss carry forward and, until it is
exhausted, it is unlikely that capital gains distributions will be made. Any
capital gains will, however, be reflected in the net asset value.
HOW TO BUY SHARES
Shares of the Fund are offered continuously. Orders received in good form prior
to the time at which the Fund values its shares (or placed with a financial
service firm before such time and transmitted by the financial service firm
before the Fund processes that day's share transactions) will be processed based
on that day's closing net asset value, plus any applicable initial sales charge.
The minimum initial investment is $1,000; subsequent investments may be as small
as $50. The minimum initial investment for the Colonial Fundamatic program is
$50 and the minimum initial investment for a Colonial retirement account is $25.
Certificates will not be issued for Class B shares and there are some
limitations on the issuance of Class A share certificates. The Fund may refuse
any purchase order for its shares. See the Statement of Additional Information
for more information.
Class A Shares. Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus an initial
sales charge as follows:
9
<PAGE>
Initial Sales Charge
---------------------------------
Retained
by
Financial
Service
as % of Firm
--------------------- as % of
Amount Offering Offering
Amount Purchased Invested Price Price
Less than $50,000 4.99% 4.75% 4.25%
$50,000 to less than
$100,000 4.71% 4.50% 4.00%
$100,000 to less than
$250,000 3.63% 3.50% 3.00%
$250,000 to less than
$500,000 2.56% 2.50% 2.00%
$500,000 to less than
$1,000,000 2.04% 2.00% 1.75%
$1,000,000 or more 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
On purchases of $1 million or more, the Distributor pays the financial service
firm a cumulative commission as follows:
Amount Purchased Commission
First $3,000,000 1.00%
Next $2,000,000 0.50%
Over $5,000,000 0.25%(1)
(1) Paid over 12 months but only to the extent the shares remain outstanding.
In determining the sales charge and commission applicable to a new purchase
under the above schedules, the amount of the current purchase is added to the
current value of shares previously purchased and still held. If a purchase
results in an account having a value from $1 million to $5 million, then the
shares purchased will be subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge,
payable to the Distributor, if redeemed within 18 months from the first day of
the month following the purchase. If the purchase results in an account having a
value in excess of $5 million, the contingent deferred sales charge will not
apply to the portion of the purchased shares comprising such excess amount.
Class B Shares. Class B shares are offered at net asset value, without an
initial sales charge, and are subject to a 0.75% annual distribution fee for
approximately eight years (at which time they automatically convert to Class A
shares not bearing a distribution fee) and a declining contingent deferred sales
charge if redeemed within six years after purchase. As shown below, the amount
of the contingent deferred sales charge depends on the number of years after
purchase that the redemption occurs:
Years Contingent Deferred
After Purchase Sales Charge
0-1 5.00%
1-2 4.00%
2-3 3.00%
3-4 3.00%
4-5 2.00%
5-6 1.00%
More than 6 0.00%
Year one ends one year after the end of the month in which the purchase was
accepted and so on.
The Distributor pays financial service firms a commission of 4.00% on Class B
share purchases.
General. All contingent deferred sales charges are deducted from the amount
redeemed, not the amount remaining in the account, and are paid to the
Distributor. Shares issued upon distribution reinvestment and amounts
representing appreciation are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
The contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on redemptions which result in
the account value falling below its Base Amount (the total dollar value of
purchase payments in the account reduced by prior redemptions on which a
contingent deferred sales charge was paid and any exempt redemption). See the
Statement of Additional Information for more information.
Which Class is more beneficial to an investor depends on the amount and intended
length of the investment. Large investments, qualifying for a reduced Class A
sales charge, avoid the distribution fee. Investments in Class B shares have
100% of the purchase invested immediately. Purchases of $250,000 or more
10
<PAGE>
must be for Class A shares. Consult your financial service firm.
Financial service firms may receive different compensation rates for selling
different classes of shares. The Distributor may pay additional compensation to
financial service firms which have made or may make significant sales.
Special Purchase Programs. The Fund allows certain investors or groups of
investors to purchase shares with reduced or without initial or contingent
deferred sales charges. These programs are described in the Statement of
Additional Information under "Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales
Charges."
Shareholder Services and Account Fees. A variety of shareholder services are
available. For more information about these services or your account, call
1-800-345-6611. Some services are described in the attached account application.
A shareholder's manual explaining all available services will be provided upon
request.
In June of any year, the Fund may deduct $10 (payable to the Transfer Agent)
from accounts valued at less than $1,000 unless the account value has dropped
below $1,000 solely as a result of share value depreciation. Shareholders will
receive 60 days' written notice to increase the account value before the fee is
deducted. The Fund may also deduct annual maintenance and processing fees
(payable to the Transfer Agent) in connection with certain retirement plan
accounts. See "Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services" in the Statement of
Additional Information for more information.
HOW TO SELL SHARES
Shares of the Fund may be sold on any day the Exchange is open, either directly
to the Fund or through your financial service firm. Sale proceeds generally are
sent within seven days (usually on the next business day after your request is
received in good form). However, for shares recently purchased by check, the
Fund will send proceeds as soon as the check has cleared (which may take up to
15 days).
Selling Shares Directly To The Fund. Send a signed letter of instruction or
stock power form to the Transfer Agent, along with any certificates for shares
to be sold. The sale price is the net asset value (less any applicable
contingent deferred sales charge) next calculated after the Fund receives the
request in proper form. Signatures must be guaranteed by a bank, a member firm
of a national stock exchange or another eligible guarantor institution. Stock
power forms are available from your financial service firm, the Transfer Agent
and many banks. Additional documentation is required for sales by corporations,
agents, fiduciaries, surviving joint owners and individual retirement account
holders. For details contact:
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 1722
Boston, MA 02105-1722
1-800-345-6611
Selling Shares Through Financial Service Firms. Financial service firms must
receive requests prior to the time at which the Fund values its shares to
receive that day's price, are responsible for furnishing all necessary
documentation to the Transfer Agent and may charge for this service.
General. The sale of shares is a taxable transaction for income tax purposes and
may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. The contingent deferred
sales charge may be waived under certain circumstances. See the Statement of
Additional Information for more information. Under unusual circumstances, the
Fund may suspend repurchases or postpone payment for up to seven days or longer,
as permitted by federal securities law.
HOW TO EXCHANGE SHARES
Except as described below with respect to money market funds, Fund shares may be
exchanged at net asset value among shares of the same class of most Colonial
funds. Shares will continue to age without regard to the exchange for purposes
of conversion and determining the contingent deferred sales charge, if any, upon
redemption. Carefully read the prospectus of the fund into which the exchange
will go before submitting the request. Call 1-800-426-3750 to receive a
prospectus and an exchange authorization form. Call 1-800-422-3737 to exchange
shares by telephone. An exchange is a taxable capital transaction for federal
tax purposes. The exchange service may be
11
<PAGE>
changed, suspended or eliminated on 60 days' written notice. The Fund will
terminate the exchange privilege as to a particular shareholder if it is
determined by the Adviser, in its sole and absolute discretion, that the
shareholder's exchange activity is likely to adversely impact the Adviser's
ability to manage the Fund's investments in accordance with its investment
objectives or otherwise harm the Fund or its remaining shareholders.
Class A Shares. An exchange from a money market fund into a non-money market
fund will be at the applicable offering price next determined (including sales
charge), except for amounts on which an initial sales charge previously was
paid. Non-money market fund shares must be held for five months before
qualifying for exchange to a fund with a higher sales charge, after which,
exchanges are made at the net asset value next determined.
Class B Shares. Exchanges of Class B shares are not subject to the contingent
deferred sales charge. However, if shares are redeemed within six years after
the original purchase, a contingent deferred sales charge will be assessed using
the schedule of the fund into which the original investment was made.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
All shareholders and/or their financial advisers are automatically eligible to
exchange Fund shares and redeem up to $50,000 of Fund shares by calling
1-800-422-3737 toll-free any business day between 9:00 a.m. and the time at
which the Fund values its shares. Telephone redemption privileges for larger
amounts may be elected on the account application. The Transfer Agent will
employ reasonable procedures to confirm that instructions communicated by
telephone are genuine and may be liable for losses related to unauthorized or
fraudulent transactions in the event reasonable procedures are not employed.
Such procedures include restrictions on where proceeds of telephone redemptions
may be sent, limitations on the ability to redeem by telephone shortly after an
address change, recording of telephone lines and requirements that the redeeming
shareholder and/or their financial adviser provide certain identifying
information. Shareholders and/or their financial advisers wishing to redeem or
exchange shares by telephone may experience difficulty in reaching the Fund at
its toll-free telephone number during periods of drastic economic or market
changes. In that event, shareholders and/or their financial advisers should
follow the procedures for redemption or exchange by mail as described above
under "How to Sell Shares." The Adviser, the Transfer Agent and the Fund reserve
the right to change, modify, or terminate the telephone redemption or exchange
services at any time upon prior written notice to shareholders. Shareholders
and/or their financial advisers are not obligated to transact by telephone.
12B-1 PLANS
Under 12b-1 Plans, the Fund pays the Distributor monthly a service fee at the
annual rate of 0.25% of the Fund's net assets attributed to each Class of
shares. The Fund also pays the Distributor monthly a distribution fee at the
annual rate of 0.75% of the average daily net assets attributed to its Class B
shares. Because the Class B shares bear the additional distribution fee, their
dividends will be lower than the dividends of Class A shares. Class B shares
automatically convert to Class A shares, approximately eight years after the
Class B shares were purchased. The multiple class structure could be terminated
should certain Internal Revenue Service rulings be rescinded. See the Statement
of Additional Information for more information. The Distributor uses the fees to
defray the cost of commissions and service fees paid to financial service firms
which have sold Fund shares, and to defray other expenses such as sales
literature, prospectus printing and distribution, shareholder servicing costs
and compensation to wholesalers. Should the fees exceed the Distributor's
expenses in any year, the Distributor would realize a profit. The Plans also
authorize other payments to the Distributor and its affiliates (including the
Adviser) which may be construed to be indirect financing of sales of Fund
shares.
ORGANIZATION AND HISTORY
The Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized in 1985. The Fund
represents
12
<PAGE>
the entire interest in a separate portfolio of the Trust.
The Trust is not required to hold annual shareholder meetings, but special
meetings may be called for certain purposes. Shareholders receive one vote for
each Fund share. Shares of the Trust vote together except when required by law
to vote separately by fund or by class. Shareholders owning in the aggregate ten
percent of Trust shares may call meetings to consider removal of Trustees. Under
certain circumstances, the Trust will provide information to assist shareholders
in calling such a meeting. See the Statement of Additional Information for more
information.
13
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
S&P
AAA bonds have the highest rating assigned by S&P. Capacity to pay interest and
repay principal is extremely strong.
AA bonds have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and
they differ from AAA only in small degree.
A bonds have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, although
they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB bonds are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a
weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal than for bonds in the A
category.
BB, B, CCC and CC bonds are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative
with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligation. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and
CC the highest degree. While such debt will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or large
exposures to adverse conditions.
C ratings are reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being paid.
D bonds are in default, and payment of interest and/or principal is in arrears.
Plus(+) or minus (-) are modifiers relative to the standing within the major
rating categories.
MOODY'S
Aaa bonds are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree
of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge". Interest
payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and
principal is secure. While 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 are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with Aaa
bonds 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 in Aaa securities. Those bonds in the Aa through B
groups which Moody's believes possess the strongest investment attributes are
designated by the symbol Aa1, A1 and Baa1.
A bonds 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 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 are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be
considered as well secured. 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 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.
Caa bonds 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 represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree. Such
issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
14
<PAGE>
C bonds 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.
15
<PAGE>
Investment Adviser
Colonial Management Associates, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Distributor
Colonial Investment Services, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Custodian
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company
One Boston Place
Boston, MA 02108-2624
Shareholder Services and Transfer Agent
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
1-800-345-6611
Independent Accountants
Price Waterhouse LLP
160 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Legal Counsel
Ropes & Gray
One International Place
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Your financial service firm is:
Printed in U.S.A.
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
PROSPECTUS
Colonial Income Fund seeks as high a level of current income and total return,
as is consistent with prudent risk, by investing primarily in corporate debt
securities.
For more detailed information about the Fund, call the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750
for the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional Information.
- ----------------- -----------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ----------------- -----------------
16
<PAGE>
COLONIAL TRUST I
Cross Reference Sheet
(Colonial Strategic Income Fund)
Item Number of Form N-1A Prospectus Location or Caption
Part A
1. Cover Page
2. Summary of Expenses
3. The Fund's Financial History
4. The Fund's Investment
Objective;
Organization and History;
How the Fund Pursues
Its Objective and Certain Risk
Factors
5. Cover Page;
How the Fund is Managed;
Organization and History;
Back Cover
6. Organization and History;
Distributions and Taxes;
How to Buy Shares
7. How to Buy Shares;
How the Fund Values Its Shares;
12b-1 Plans; Back Cover
8. How to Sell Shares;
How to Exchange Shares;
Telephone Transactions
9. Not Applicable
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL STRATEGIC
INCOME FUND
PROSPECTUS
BEFORE YOU INVEST
Colonial Management Associates, Inc. (Adviser) and your full-service financial
adviser want you to understand both the risks and benefits of mutual fund
investing.
While mutual funds offer significant opportunities and are professionally
managed, they also carry risks including possible loss of principal. Unlike
savings accounts and certificates of deposit, mutual funds are not insured or
guaranteed by any financial institution or government agency.
Please consult your full-service financial adviser to determine how investing in
this mutual fund may suit your unique needs, time horizon and risk tolerance.
Colonial Strategic Income Fund (Fund), a diversified portfolio of Colonial Trust
I (Trust), an open-end management investment company, seeks as high a level of
current income and total return as is consistent with prudent risk, by
diversifying investments primarily in U.S. and foreign government and lower
rated corporate debt securities.
The Fund is managed by the Adviser, an investment adviser since 1931.
The Fund may invest a significant portion of its assets in lower rated bonds
(commonly referred to as "junk bonds") which are regarded as speculative as to
payment of principal and interest and, therefore, may not be suitable for all
investors. These securities are subject to greater risks, including the risk of
default, than higher rated bonds. See "How the Fund Pursues its Objective and
Certain Risk Factors." Purchasers should carefully assess the risks associated
with an investment in the Fund.
This Prospectus explains concisely what you should know before investing in the
Fund. Read it carefully and retain it for your future reference. More detailed
information about the Fund is in the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional
Information, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
and is obtainable free of charge by calling the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750. The
Statement of Additional Information is incorporated by reference in (which means
it is considered to be a part of) this Prospectus.
The Fund offers three classes of shares. Class A shares are offered at net asset
value plus a sales charge imposed at the time of purchase; Class B shares are
offered at net asset value and are subject to an annual distribution fee and a
declining contingent deferred sales charge on redemptions made within six years
after purchase; and Class D shares are offered at net asset value plus a small
initial sales charge and are subject to an annual distribution fee and a
contingent deferred sales charge on redemptions made within one year after
purchase. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after
approximately eight years. See "How to Buy Shares."
Contents Page
Summary of Expenses
The Fund's Financial History
The Fund's Investment Objective
How the Fund Pursues its Objective
and Certain Risk Factors
How the Fund Measures its
Performance
How the Fund is Managed
How the Fund Values its Shares
Distributions and Taxes
How to Buy Shares
How to Sell Shares
How to Exchange Shares
Telephone Transactions
12b-1 Plans
Organization and History
Appendix
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------- --------------------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ----------------------------- --------------------------
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON
THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY
IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
SI--0497
2
<PAGE>
SUMMARY OF EXPENSES
Expenses are one of several factors to consider when investing in the Fund. The
following tables summarize your maximum transaction costs and your annual
expenses for an investment in each Class of the Fund's shares. See "How the Fund
is Managed" and "12b-1 Plans" for more complete descriptions of the Fund's
various costs and expenses.
Shareholder Transaction Expenses (1)(2)
Class A Class B Class D
Maximum Sales Charge (as a % of
offering price) (3) 4.75% 5.00%(5) 1.99%(5)
Maximum Initial Sales Charge Imposed
on a Purchase (as a % of offering 4.75% 0.00%(5) 1.00%(5)
price) (3)
Maximum Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge (as a % of offering price) (3) 1.00%(4) 5.00% 0.99%
(1) For accounts less than $1,000 an annual fee of $10 may be deducted.
See "How to Buy Shares."
(2) Redemption proceeds exceeding $5,000 sent via federal funds wire will be
subject to a $7.50 charge per transaction.
(3) Does not apply to reinvested distributions.
(4) Only with respect to any portion of purchases of $1 million to $5 million
redeemed within approximately 18
months after purchase. See "How to Buy Shares."
(5) Because of the 0.75% distribution fee applicable to Class B and Class
D shares, long-term Class B and Class D shareholders may pay more in
aggregate sales charges than the maximum initial sales charge
permitted by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
However, because the Fund's Class B shares automatically convert to
Class A shares after approximately 8 years, this is less likely for
Class B shares than for a class without a conversion feature.
Annual Operating Expenses (as a % of average net assets)
Class A Class B Class D
Management fee 0.63% 0.63% 0.63%
12b-1 fees 0.23(6) 0.98(6) 0.98(6)
Other expenses 0.32 0.32 0.32
---- ---- ----
Total operating expenses 1.18% 1.93% 1.93%
==== ==== ====
(6) The service fee rate will fluctuate but will not exceed 0.25%. See "12b-1
Plans."
Example
The following Example shows the cumulative expenses attributable to a
hypothetical $1,000 investment in each Class of shares of the Fund for the
periods specified, assuming a 5% annual return and, unless otherwise noted,
redemption at period end. The 5% return and expenses used in this Example should
not be considered indicative of actual or expected Fund performance or expenses,
both of which will vary:
Class A Class B Class D
Period: (7) (8) (7) (8)
1 year $ 59 $ 70 $ 20 $ 39 $ 29
3 years 83 91 61 70 70(10)
5 years 109 124 104 113 113
10 years 184 206(9) 206(9) 233 233
(7) Assumes redemption at period end.
(8) Assumes no redemption.
(9) Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares after approximately
8 years; therefore years 9 and 10 reflect Class A share expenses.
(10) Class D shares do not incur a contingent deferred sales charge on
redemptions made after one year.
3
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY
The following financial highlights for a share outstanding throughout each
period have been audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants. Their
unqualified report is included in the Fund's 1996 Annual Report and is
incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional Information. The Fund
adopted its current investment objective on November 30, 1994. The data
presented for periods prior to November 30, 1994, represent operations under an
earlier investment objective. As of December 31, 1996 no Class D shares had been
issued.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 31
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994(d) 1993(d) 1992(d)
---- ---- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of
period $7.220 $6.530 $7.390 $7.010 $7.020
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.623 0.621 0.580 0.565 0.669
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.081 0.650 (0.848) 0.448 (0.004)
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Total from Investment Operations 0.704 1.271 (0.268) 1.013 0.665
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.614)(a) (0.581) (0.580) (0.585) (0.673)
In excess of net investment income --- --- --- --- (0.002)
From net realized gains --- --- --- --- ---
From capital paid in --- --- (0.012) (0.048) ---
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Total Distributions Declared to
Shareholders (0.614) (0.581) (0.592) (0.633) (0.675)
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value - End of period $7.310 $7.220 $6.530 $7.390 $7.010
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Total return (b) 10.24% 20.17% (3.67)% 14.95% 9.77%
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
Expenses 1.18%(c) 1.18%(c) 1.21% 1.19% 1.18%
Net investment income 8.01%(c) 8.42%(c) 8.38% 8.42% 9.39%
Portfolio turnover 110% 83% 78% 138% 96%
Net assets at end of period (000) $755,352 $714,961 $636,824 $660,654 $437,380
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
---------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 31
---------------------------------------------------
1991(d) 1990(d) 1989(d) 1988(d) 1987(d)
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of
period $6.050 $7.250 $7.270 $6.890 $7.580
------- ------- ------- ------- ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.684 0.697 0.661 0.387 0.272
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.966 (1.177) 0.039 0.733 0.098
------ ------- ------ ------ -----
Total from Investment Operations 1.650 (0.480) 0.700 1.120 0.370
------ ------- ------ ------ -----
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.680) (0.697) (0.661) (0.476) (0.250)
In excess of net investment income --- --- --- --- ---
From net realized gains --- --- --- (0.044) (0.810)
From capital paid in --- (0.023) (0.059) (0.220) ---
------ ------- ------ ------ -----
Total Distributions Declared to Shareholders (0.680) (0.720) (0.720) (0.740) (1.060)
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Net asset value - End of period $7.020 $6.050 $7.250 $7.270 $6.890
======= ======= ======= ======= ======
Total return (b) 28.41% (7.04)% 9.93% 16.66% 3.74%
====== ======= ===== ====== =====
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
Expenses 1.12% 1.12% 1.10% 1.07% 1.00%
Net investment income 10.27% 10.27% 8.94% 5.33% 3.31%
Portfolio turnover 48% 2% 32% 28% 82%
Net assets at end of period (000) $424,824 $410,270 $498,294 $631,982 $783,125
</TABLE>
- ---------------------------------
(a) Distributions from income included currency gains and gains on securities
treated as ordinary income for tax purposes.
(b) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested and
no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(c) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements had no impact. Prior years' ratios are net of benefits
received, if any.
(d) The data presented for periods prior to November 30, 1994, represent
operations under an earlier objective.
4
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S FINANCIAL HISTORY (CONT'D)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS B
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year ended December 31
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994(a) 1993(a) 1992(a)(b)
---- ---- ------- ------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value - Beginning of period $7.220 $6.530 $7.390 $7.010 $7.080
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
Net investment income 0.569 0.569 0.529 0.511 0.385
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.081 0.650 (0.849) 0.448 (0.067)
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Total from Investment Operations 0.650 1.219 (0.320) 0.959 0.318
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS DECLARED TO SHAREHOLDERS:
From net investment income (0.560)(c) (0.529) (0.529) (0.535) (0.388)
From capital paid in --- --- (0.011) (0.044) ---
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Total Distributions Declared to Shareholders (0.560) (0.529) (0.540) (0.579) (0.388)
------ ------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value - End of period $7.310 $7.220 $6.530 $7.390 $7.010
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
Total return (d) 9.43% 19.29% (4.40)% 14.11% 2.48%(e)
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
Expenses 1.93%(f) 1.97%(f) 1.96% 1.94% 1.93%(g)
Net investment income 7.26%(f) 7.63%(f) 7.63% 7.67% 8.64%(g)
Portfolio turnover 110% 83% 78% 138% 96%
Net assets at end of period (000) $783,620 $714,049 $608,348 $475,141 $37,935
</TABLE>
(a) The data presented for periods prior to November 30, 1994, represent
operations under an earlier objective.
(b) Class B shares were initially offered on May 15, 1992. Per share
amounts reflect activity from that date.
(c) Distributions from income included currency gains and gains on securities
treated as ordinary income for tax purposes.
(d) Total return at net asset value assuming all distributions reinvested and
no initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
(e) Not annualized.
(f) The benefits derived from custody credits and directed brokerage
arrangements had no impact. Prior years' ratios are net of benefits
received, if any.
(g) Annualized
Further performance information is contained in the Fund's Annual Report to
shareholders, which is obtainable free of charge by calling 1-800-426-3750.
5
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Fund seeks as high a level of current income and total return as is
consistent with prudent risk, by diversifying investments primarily in U.S. and
foreign government and lower rated corporate debt securities.
HOW THE FUND PURSUES ITS OBJECTIVE AND CERTAIN RISK FACTORS
The Fund will seek to achieve its objective by investing its assets in each of
the following sectors of the debt securities markets: (i) securities issued or
guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies,
authorities or instrumentalities (government securities); (ii) debt securities
issued by foreign governments and their political subdivisions; and (iii) lower
rated debt securities, some of which may involve equity features. The allocation
of investments among these types of securities at any given time is based on the
Adviser's estimate of expected performance and risk of each type of investment.
Debt Securities. The Fund may invest in debt securities of any maturity that pay
fixed, floating or adjustable interest rates. The values of these securities
generally fluctuate inversely with changes in interest rates. This is less
likely to be true for adjustable or floating rate securities, since interest
rate changes are more likely to be reflected in changes in the rates paid on the
securities. However, reductions in interest rates also may translate into lower
distributions paid by the Fund.
The Fund also may invest in debt securities (i) that do not pay interest but,
instead are issued at a significant discount to their maturity values (referred
to as zero coupon securities), (ii) that pay interest, at the issuer's option,
in additional securities instead of cash) referred to as pay-in-kind securities)
or (iii) pay interest at predetermined rates that increase over time (referred
to as step coupon bonds). Because zero coupon securities, pay-in-kind securities
and step coupon bonds may not pay interest, but the Fund nevertheless must
accrue and distribute to investors the income deemed to be earned on a current
basis, the Fund may have to sell other investments to raise the cash needed to
make income distributions.
U.S. Government Securities. U.S. government securities include (1) U.S. treasury
obligations, (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies
and instrumentalities (Agency Securities) which are supported by: (a) the full
faith and credit of the U.S. government, (b) the right of the issuing agency to
borrow under a line of credit with the U.S. treasury, (c) the discretionary
power of the U.S. government to purchase obligations of the agency or (d) the
credit of the agency, and (3) "when-issued" government securities.
The Fund may also invest in U.S. government securities of any maturity,
including certificates representing undivided interests in the interest or
principal of mortgage backed securities (interest only/principal only), which
tend to be more volatile than other types of securities. The interest only class
involves the risk of loss of the entire value of the investment if the
underlying mortgages are prepaid.
REMICS and CMOS. The Fund may invest in real estate mortgage investment conduits
(REMICs), collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) and other mortgage-backed
securities of investment grade or which are considered by the Adviser to be of
comparable quality. Certain
6
<PAGE>
of these securities may be issued by non-U.S. government agencies although the
underlying mortgages will in all cases be guaranteed by a U.S. government
agency. The Fund may experience costs and delays in liquidating the collateral
if the issuer defaults or enters bankruptcy and may incur a loss. CMOs are
obligations issued by special-purpose trusts, secured by mortgages. REMICs own
mortgages and elect REMIC status under the Internal Revenue Code. Both CMOs and
REMICs issue one or more classes of securities of which one (the Residual) is in
the nature of equity. The Fund will not invest in the Residual class. Principal
on a REMIC, CMO or other mortgage-backed security may be prepaid if the
underlying mortgages are prepaid. Because of the prepayment feature, these
investments may not increase in value when interest rates fall. The Fund may be
able to invest prepaid principal only at lower yields. The Fund may invest in
"stripped" mortgage-backed securities representing interests in, for example,
only the principal or only the interest on underlying mortgages. Interest-only
strips involve the additional risk of loss of the entire value of the investment
if the underlying mortgages are prepaid. The prepayment of REMICs, CMOs or other
mortgage-backed securities purchased at a premium may result in losses equal to
the premium.
Lower Rated Debt Securities. Lower rated debt securities (commonly referred to
as junk bonds) are debt securities which are not considered to be investment
grade (that is, they are rated below BBB by Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P)
or below Baa by Moody's Investors Service (Moody's), or are unrated but
considered by the Adviser to be of comparable credit quality). For a description
of S&P's and Moody's rating systems, see the Appendix to this Prospectus. Lower
rated bonds also are generally considered significantly more speculative and
likely to default than higher quality bonds. Because of the increased risk of
default, lower rated debt securities generally have higher interest rates than
higher quality securities.
The market values of U.S. government securities and corporate debt securities
will fluctuate with changing interest rates, as will the Fund's net asset value
per share. The Fund will limit its investments in corporate debt securities so
that not more than 25% of its assets are invested in any one "industry."
The Fund may purchase bonds in the lowest rating categories (C for Moody's and D
for S&P) and comparable unrated securities. However, the Fund will only purchase
securities rated Ca or lower by Moody's or CC or lower by S&P if the Adviser
believes the quality of such securities is higher than indicated by the rating,
if as a result holdings of that issuer will not exceed 0.50% of the Fund's net
assets.
The values of lower rated securities are more likely to fluctuate directly,
rather than inversely, with changes in interest rates. This is because increases
in interest rates often are associated with an improving economy, which may
translate into an improved ability of the issuers to pay off their bonds
(lowering the risk of default). Relative to other debt securities, the values of
lower rated bonds tend to be more volatile because: (i) an economic downturn may
more significantly impact their potential for default, or (ii) the secondary
market for such securities may at times be less liquid or respond more adversely
to negative publicity or investor perceptions, making it more difficult to value
or dispose of the securities. The likelihood that these securities will help the
Fund achieve its investment objective is more dependent on the Adviser's own
credit analysis.
Weighted average composition of the Fund's portfolio during the year ended
December 31, 1996, was:
Investment grade
BB
B
CCC
CC
C
D
Nonrated
Subtotal
U.S. governments,
equities and others
Total
Rated Unrated
Investment grade 0.0% 0.0%
B-BB and equivalent 37.1 0.1
Below B 4.0 0.0
---- ----
41.1 0.1
---- ----
Subtotal 41.2
Equities and Governments 58.8
Total 100.0%
The portfolio composition during 1996 does not necessarily reflect the current
or future investments of the Fund.
Foreign Investments. Investments in foreign securities have special risks
related to political, economic and legal conditions outside of the U.S. As a
result, the prices of foreign
7
<PAGE>
securities may fluctuate substantially more than the prices of securities of
issuers based in the U.S. Special risks associated with foreign securities
include the possibility of unfavorable movements in currency exchange rates, the
existence of less liquid markets, the unavailability of reliable information
about issuers, the existence (or potential imposition) of exchange control
regulations (including currency blockage), and political and economic
instability, among others. In addition, transactions in foreign securities may
be more costly because of currency conversion costs and higher brokerage and
custodial costs. See "Foreign Securities" and "Foreign Currency Transactions" in
the Statement of Additional Information for more information about foreign
investments.
Emerging Markets. The Fund may invest in foreign securities issued or guaranteed
by companies or governments located in countries whose economies or securities
markets are not yet highly developed. Special risks associated with these
investments (in addition to those of foreign investments generally) may include,
among others, greater political uncertainties, an economy's dependence on
revenues from particular commodities or on international aid or development
assistance, extreme or volatile debt burdens or inflation rates, highly limited
numbers of potential buyers for such securities, heightened volatility of
security prices, restrictions on repatriation of capital invested abroad and
delays and disruptions in securities settlement procedures.
Foreign Currency Transactions. In connection with its investments in foreign
securities, the Fund may purchase and sell (i) foreign currencies on a spot or
forward basis, (ii) foreign currency futures contracts, and (iii) options on
foreign currencies and foreign currency futures. Such transactions will be
entered into (a) to lock in a particular foreign exchange rate pending
settlement of a purchase or sale of a foreign security or pending the receipt of
interest, principal or dividend payments on a foreign security held by the Fund,
or (b) to hedge against a decline in the value, in U.S. dollars or in another
currency, of a foreign currency in which securities held by the Fund are
denominated. The Fund will not attempt, nor would it be able, to eliminate all
foreign currency risk. Further, although hedging may lessen the risk of loss if
the hedged currency's value declines, it limits the potential gain from currency
value increases. See the Statement of Additional Information for information
relating to the Fund's obligations in entering into foreign currency
transactions.
8
<PAGE>
Temporary/Defensive Investments. Temporarily available cash may be invested in
certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, high quality commercial paper,
Treasury bills, repurchase agreements and U.S. government securities. Some or
all of the Fund's assets may be invested in such investments during periods of
unusual market conditions.
Under a repurchase agreement, the Fund buys a security from a bank or dealer,
which is obligated to buy it back at a fixed price and time. The security is
held in a separate account at the Fund's custodian and constitutes the Fund's
collateral for the bank's or dealer's repurchase obligation. Additional
collateral will be added so that the obligation will at all times be fully
collateralized. However, if the bank or dealer defaults or enters bankruptcy,
the Fund may experience costs and delays in liquidating the collateral and may
experience a loss if it is unable to demonstrate its right to the collateral in
a bankruptcy proceeding. Not more than 15% of the Fund's net assets will be
invested in repurchase agreements maturing in more than 7 days and other
illiquid assets.
"When-Issued" and "Delayed Delivery" Securities. The Fund may acquire-
securities on a "when-issued" or "delayed delivery" basis by contracting to
purchase securities for a fixed price on a date beyond the customary settlement
time with no interest accruing until settlement. If made through a dealer, the
contract is dependent on the dealer completing the sale. The dealer's failure
could deprive the Fund of advantageous yield or price. These contracts involve
the risk that the value of the underlying security may change prior to
settlement. The Fund may realize short-term gains or losses if the contracts are
sold. Transactions in "when-issued" securities may be limited by certain
Internal Revenue Code requirements.
Borrowing of Money. The Fund may borrow money from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however, the Fund will not
purchase additional portfolio securities while borrowings exceed 5% of net
assets.
Other. The Fund may not always achieve its investment objective. The Fund may
trade portfolio securities for short-term profits to take advantage of price
differentials. These trades are limited by certain Internal Revenue Code
requirements. High portfolio turnover may result in higher transaction costs and
higher levels of realized capital gains. The Fund's investment objective and
non-fundamental investment policies may be changed without shareholder approval.
The Fund will notify investors in connection with any material change in the
Fund's investment objective or investment policies. If there is a change in the
investment objective, shareholders should consider whether the Fund remains an
appropriate investment in light of their financial position and needs.
Shareholders may incur a contingent deferred sales charge if shares are redeemed
in response to a change in investment objective or investment policies. The
Fund's fundamental investment policies listed in the Statement of Additional
Information cannot be changed without the approval of a majority of the Fund's
outstanding voting securities. Additional information
9
<PAGE>
concerning certain of the securities and investment techniques described above
is contained in the Statement of Additional Information.
HOW THE FUND MEASURES ITS PERFORMANCE
Performance may be quoted in sales literature and advertisements. Each Class's
average annual total returns are calculated in accordance with the Securities
and Exchange Commission's formula and assume the reinvestment of all
distributions, the maximum initial sales charge of 4.75% on Class A shares, the
maximum initial sales charge of 1.00% on Class D shares and the contingent
deferred sales charge applicable to the time period quoted on Class B and Class
D shares. Other total returns differ from the average annual total return in
that they may relate to different time periods, may represent aggregate as
opposed to average annual total returns and may not reflect the initial or
contingent deferred sales charges.
Each Class's yield, which differs from total return because it does not consider
changes in net asset value, is calculated in accordance with the Securities and
Exchange Commission's formula. Each Class's distribution rate is calculated by
dividing the most recent quarter's distributions, annualized, by the maximum
offering price of that Class at the end of the quarter. Each Class's performance
may be compared to various indices. Quotations from various publications may be
included in sales literature and advertisements. See "Performance Measures" in
the Statement of Additional Information for more information. All performance
information is historical and does not predict future results.
HOW THE FUND IS MANAGED
The Trustees formulate the Fund's general policies and oversee the Fund's
affairs as conducted by the Adviser.
Colonial Investment Services, Inc. (Distributor), a subsidiary of the Adviser,
serves as the distributor for the Fund's shares. Colonial Investors Service
Center, Inc. (Transfer Agent), an affiliate of the Adviser, serves as the
shareholder services and transfer agent for the Fund. Each of the Adviser, the
Distributor and the Transfer Agent is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty
Financial Companies, Inc. which in turn is an indirect subsidiary of Liberty
Mutual Insurance Company (Liberty Mutual). Liberty Mutual is considered to be
the controlling entity of the Adviser and its affiliates. Liberty Mutual is an
underwriter of workers' compensation insurance and a property and casualty
insurer in the U.S.
The Adviser furnishes the Fund with investment management, accounting and
administrative personnel and services, office space and other equipment and
services at the Adviser's expense. For these services, the Fund paid the Adviser
0.63% of the Fund's average daily net assets in fiscal year 1996.
Carl C. Ericson, Senior Vice President (formerly Vice President), Director and
Manager of the Taxable Fixed Income Group of the Adviser, has managed the Fund
since 1991 and various other Colonial taxable income funds since 1985.
The Adviser also provides pricing and bookkeeping services to the Fund for a
monthly fee of $2,250 plus a percentage of the Fund's average net assets over
$50 million.
The Transfer Agent provides transfer agency and shareholder services to the Fund
for a fee of 0.20% annually of average net assets plus certain out-of-pocket
expenses.
Each of the foregoing fees is subject to any reimbursement or fee waiver to
which the Adviser may agree.
The Adviser places all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities.
In selecting broker-dealers, the Adviser may consider research and brokerage
services furnished by such broker-dealers to the Adviser and its affiliates. In
recognition of the research and brokerage services provided, the Adviser may
cause the Fund to pay the selected broker-dealer a higher commission than would
have been charged by another broker-dealer not providing such services. Subject
to seeking best execution, the Adviser may consider sales of shares of the Fund
(and of certain other Colonial funds) in selecting broker-dealers for portfolio
security transactions.
HOW THE FUND VALUES ITS SHARES
Per share net asset value is calculated by dividing the total value of each
Class's net assets by its number of outstanding shares. Shares of the Fund are
valued as of the close (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) of the New York Stock
Exchange (Exchange) each day the Exchange is open. Portfolio securities for
which market quotations are readily available are valued at current market
10
<PAGE>
value. Short-term investments maturing in 60 days or less are valued at
amortized cost when the Adviser determines, pursuant to procedures adopted by
the Trustees, that such cost approximates current market value. All other
securities and assets are valued at their fair value following procedures
adopted by the Trustees.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
The Fund intends to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the
Internal Revenue Code and to distribute to shareholders monthly net income and
any net realized gain, at least annually. The Fund generally declares
distributions daily.
Distributions are invested in additional shares of the same Class of the Fund at
net asset value unless the shareholder elects to receive cash. Regardless of the
shareholder's election, distributions of $10 or less will not be paid in cash to
shareholders but will be invested in additional shares of the same Class of the
Fund at net asset value. To change your election, call the Transfer Agent for
information.
Whether you receive distributions in cash or in additional Fund shares, you must
report them as taxable income unless you are a tax-exempt institution. If you
buy shares shortly before a distribution is declared, the distribution will be
taxable although it is, in effect, a partial return of the amount invested. Each
January, information on the amount and nature of distributions for the prior
year is sent to shareholders.
The Fund has a significant capital loss carry-forward, and until it is exhausted
it is unlikely that capital gain distributions will be made. Any capital gains
will, however, be reflected in the net asset value.
HOW TO BUY SHARES
Shares of the Fund are offered continuously. Orders received in good form prior
to the time at which the Fund values its shares (or placed with a financial
service firm before such time and transmitted by the financial service firm
before the Fund processes that day's share transactions) will be processed based
on that day's closing net asset value, plus any applicable initial sales charge.
The minimum initial investment is $1,000; subsequent investments may be as small
as $50. The minimum initial investment for the Colonial Fundamatic program is
$50; and the minimum initial investment for a Colonial retirement account is
$25. Certificates will not be issued for Class B or Class D shares and there are
some limitations on the issuance of Class A share certificates. The Fund may
refuse any purchase order for its shares. See the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.
Class A Shares. Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus an initial
sales charge as follows:
Initial Sales Charge
-----------------------------
Retained
by
Financial
Service
as % of Firm
------------------- as % of
Amount Offering Offering
Amount Purchased Invested Price Price
Less than $50,000 4.99% 4.75% 4.25%
$50,000 to less than $100,000 4.71% 4.50% 4.00%
$100,000 to less than $250,000 3.63% 3.50% 3.00%
$250,000 to less than $500,000 2.56% 2.50% 2.00%
$500,000 to less than $1,000,000 2.04% 2.00% 1.75%
$1,000,000 or more 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
On purchases of $1 million or more, the Distributor pays the financial service
firm a cumulative commission as follows:
Amount Purchased Commission
First $3,000,000 1.00%
Next $2,000,000 0.50%
Over $5,000,000 0.25%(1)
(1) Paid over 12 months but only to the extent the shares remain outstanding.
In determining the sales charge and commission applicable to a new purchase
under the above schedules, the amount of the current purchase is added to the
current value of shares previously purchased and still held. If a purchase
results in an account having a value from $1 million to $5 million, then the
shares purchased will be subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge,
payable to the Distributor, if redeemed within 18 months from the first day of
the month following the purchase. If the purchase results in an account having a
value in excess of $5 million, the contingent deferred sales charge will not
apply to the portion of the purchased shares comprising such excess amount.
Class B Shares. Class B shares are offered at net asset value, without an
initial sales charge, and are subject to a 0.75% annual distribution fee for
approximately eight years (at which time they automatically convert to Class A
shares not bearing a distribution fee)
11
<PAGE>
and a declining contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within six years
after purchase. As shown below, the amount of the contingent deferred sales
charge depends on the number of years after purchase that the redemption occurs:
Years Contingent Deferred
After Purchase Sales Charge
0-1 5.00%
1-2 4.00%
2-3 3.00%
3-4 3.00%
4-5 2.00%
5-6 1.00%
More than 6 0.00%
Year one ends one year after the end of the month in which the purchase was
accepted and so on. The Distributor pays financial service firms a commission of
4.00% on Class B share purchases.
Class D Shares. Class D shares are offered at net asset value plus a 1.00%
initial sales charge, subject to a 0.75% annual distribution fee and a
contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% (0.99% of the offering price) on
redemptions made within one year from the first day of the month after purchase.
The Distributor pays financial service firms an initial commission of 1.85% on
purchases of Class D shares and an ongoing commission of 0.65% annually. Payment
of the ongoing commission is conditioned on receipt by the Distributor of the
0.75% annual distribution fee referred to above. In addition, the ongoing
commission is payable only after shares purchased have been outstanding for one
year. The commission may be reduced or eliminated if the distribution fee paid
by the Fund is reduced or eliminated for any reason.
General. All contingent deferred sales charges are deducted from the amount
redeemed, not the amount remaining in the account, and are paid to the
Distributor. Shares issued upon distribution reinvestment and amounts
representing appreciation are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
The contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on redemptions which result in
the account falling below its Base Amount (the total dollar value of purchase
payments (including initial sales charge, if any) in the account, reduced by
prior redemptions on which a contingent deferred sales charge was paid and any
exempt redemptions). See the Statement of Additional Information for more
information.
Which Class is more beneficial to an investor depends on the amount and intended
length of the investment. Large investments, qualifying for a reduced Class A
sales charge, avoid the distribution fee. Investments in Class B shares have
100% of the purchase invested immediately. Investors investing for a relatively
short period of time might consider Class D shares. Purchases of $250,000 or
more must be for Class A or Class D shares. Purchases of $500,000 or more must
be for Class A shares. Consult your financial service firm.
Financial service firms may receive different compensation rates for selling
different classes of shares. The Distributor may pay additional compensation to
financial service firms which have made or may make significant sales. See the
Statement of Additional Information for more information.
Special Purchase Programs. The Fund allows certain investors or groups of
investors to purchase shares with reduced or without initial or contingent
deferred sales charges. The programs are described in the Statement of
Additional Information under "Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales
Charges."
Shareholder Services and Account Fees. A variety of shareholder services are
available. For more information about these services or your account call
1-800-345-6611. Some services are described in the attached account application.
A shareholder's manual explaining all available services will be provided upon
request.
In June of any year, the Fund may deduct $10 (payable to the Transfer Agent)
from accounts valued at less than $1,000 unless the account value has dropped
below $1,000 solely as a result of share value depreciation. Shareholders will
receive 60 days' written notice to increase the account value before the fee is
deducted. The Fund may also deduct annual maintenance and processing fees
(payable to the Transfer Agent) in connection with certain retirement plan
accounts. See "Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services" in the Statement of
Additional Information for more information.
HOW TO SELL SHARES
Shares of the Fund may be sold on any day the Exchange is open, either directly
to the Fund or through your financial service firm. Sale proceeds generally are
sent within seven days (usually on the next business day after your request
12
<PAGE>
is received in good form). However, for shares recently purchased by check, the
Fund will send proceeds as soon as the check has cleared (which may take up to
15 days).
Selling Shares Directly To The Fund. Send a signed letter of instruction or
stock power form to the Transfer Agent, along with any certificates, for shares
to be sold. The sale price is the net asset value (less any applicable
contingent deferred sales charge) next calculated after the Fund receives the
request in proper form. Signatures must be guaranteed by a bank, a member firm
of a national stock exchange or another eligible guarantor institution. Stock
power forms are available from financial service firms, the Transfer Agent and
many banks. Additional documentation is required for sales by corporations,
agents, fiduciaries, surviving joint owners and individual retirement account
holders. For details contact:
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 1722
Boston, MA 02105-1722
1-800-345-6611
Selling Shares Through Financial Service Firms. Financial service firms must
receive requests prior to the time at which the Fund values its shares to
receive that day's price, are responsible for furnishing all necessary
documentation to the Transfer Agent, and may charge for this service.
General. The sale of shares is a taxable transaction for income tax purposes and
may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. The contingent deferred
sales charge may be waived under certain circumstances. See the Statement of
Additional Information for more information. Under unusual circumstances, the
Fund may suspend repurchases or postpone payment for up to seven days or longer,
as permitted by federal securities law.
HOW TO EXCHANGE SHARES
Except as described below with respect to money market funds, Fund shares may be
exchanged at net asset value among shares of the SAME CLASS of MOST Colonial
funds. Not all Colonial funds offer Class D shares. Shares will continue to age
without regard to the exchange for purposes of conversion and determining the
contingent deferred sales charge, if any, upon redemption. Carefully read the
prospectus of the fund into which the exchange will go before submitting the
request. Call 1-800-426-3750 to receive a prospectus and an exchange
authorization form. Call 1-800-422-3737 to exchange shares by telephone. An
exchange is a taxable capital transaction. The exchange service may be changed,
suspended or eliminated on 60 days' written notice. The Fund will terminate the
exchange privilege as to a particular shareholder if it is determine by the
Adviser, in its sole and absolute discretion, that the shareholder's exchange
activity is likely to adversely impact the Adviser's ability to manage the
Fund's investments in accordance with its investment objectives or otherwise
harm the Fund or its remaining shareholders.
Class A Shares. An exchange from a money market fund into a non-money market
fund will be at the applicable offering price next determined (including sales
charge), except for amounts on which an initial sales charge was paid. Non-money
market fund shares must be held for five months before qualifying for exchange
to a fund with a higher sales charge, after which exchanges are made at the net
asset value next determined.
Class B Shares. Exchanges of Class B shares are not subject to the contingent
deferred sales charge. However, if shares are redeemed within six years after
the original purchase, a contingent deferred sales charge will be assessed using
the schedule of the fund into which the original investment was made.
Class D Shares. Exchanges of Class D shares will not be subject to the
contingent deferred sales charge. However, if shares are redeemed within one
year after the original purchase, a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge will
be assessed.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
All shareholders and/or their financial advisers are automatically eligible to
exchange Fund shares and redeem up to $50,000 of Fund shares by calling
1-800-422-3737 toll-free any business day between 9:00 a.m. and the time at
which the Fund values its shares. Telephone redemption privileges for larger
amounts may be elected on the account application. The Transfer Agent will
employ reasonable procedures
13
<PAGE>
to confirm that instructions communicated by telephone are genuine and may be
liable for losses related to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions in the
event reasonable procedures are not employed. Such procedures include
restrictions on where proceeds of telephone redemptions may be sent, limitations
on the ability to redeem by telephone shortly after an address change, recording
telephone lines and requirements that the redeeming shareholder and/or their
financial adviser provide certain identifying information. Shareholders and/or
their financial advisers wishing to redeem or exchange shares by telephone may
experience difficulty in reaching the Fund at its toll-free telephone number
during periods of drastic economic or market changes. In that event,
shareholders and/or their financial advisers should follow the procedures for
redemption or exchange by mail as described above under "How to Sell Shares."
The Adviser, the Transfer Agent and the Fund reserve the right to change, modify
or terminate the telephone redemption or exchange services at any time upon
prior written notice to shareholders. Shareholders and/or their financial
advisers are not obligated to transact by telephone.
12B-1 PLANS
Under 12b-1 Plans, the Fund pays the Distributor monthly a service fee at an
annual rate of 0.15% of the Fund's net assets outstanding on January 1, 1993,
and 0.25% of the Fund's net assets issued thereafter attributed to each Class of
shares. The Fund also pays the Distributor monthly a distribution fee at an
annual rate of 0.75% of the average daily net assets attributed to its Class B
and Class D shares. Because the Class B and Class D shares bear the additional
distribution fees, their dividends will be lower than the dividends of Class A
shares. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares, approximately
eight years after the Class B shares were purchased. Class D shares do not
convert. The multiple class structure could be terminated should certain
Internal Revenue Service rulings be rescinded. See the Statement of Additional
Information for more information. The Distributor uses the fees to defray the
cost of commissions and service fees paid to financial service firms which have
sold Fund shares, and to defray other expenses such as sales literature,
prospectus printing and distribution, shareholder servicing costs and
compensation to wholesalers. Should the fees exceed the Distributor's expenses
in any year, the Distributor would realize a profit. The Plans also authorize
other payments to the Distributor and its affiliates (including the Adviser)
which may be construed to be indirect financing of sales of Fund shares.
ORGANIZATION AND HISTORY
The Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized in 1985. The Fund
represents the entire interest in a separate portfolio of the Trust.
The Trust is not required to hold annual shareholder meetings, but special
meetings may be called for certain purposes. Shareholders receive one vote for
each Fund share. Shares of the Trust vote together except when required by law
to vote separately by fund or by class. Shareholders owning in the aggregate ten
percent of Trust shares may call meetings to consider removal of Trustees. Under
certain circumstances, the Trust will provide information to assist shareholders
in calling such a meeting. See the Statement of Additional Information for more
information.
14
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
S&P
AAA bonds have the highest rating assigned by S&P. Capacity to pay interest and
repay principal is extremely strong.
AA bonds have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and
they differ from AAA only in small degree.
A bonds have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, although
they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB bonds are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a
weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal than for bonds in the A
category.
BB, B, CCC and CC bonds are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative
with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligation. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and
CC the highest degree. While such debt will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or large
exposures to adverse conditions.
C ratings are reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being paid.
D bonds are in default, and payment of interest and/or principal is in arrears.
Plus (+) or minus (-) are modifiers relative to the standing within the major
rating categories.
MOODY'S
Aaa bonds are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree
of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge". Interest
payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and
principal is secure. While 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 are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with Aaa
bonds 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 in Aaa securities. Those bonds in the Aa through B
groups which Moody's believes possess the strongest investment attributes are
designated by the symbol Aa1, A1 and Baa1.
A bonds 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 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 are judged to have speculative elements: their future cannot be
considered as well secured. 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 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.
Caa bonds 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 represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree. Such
issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C bonds 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.
15
<PAGE>
Investment Adviser
Colonial Management Associates, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Distributor
Colonial Investment Services, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
Custodian
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company
One Boston Place
Boston, MA 02108-2624
Shareholder Services And Transfer Agent
Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111-2621
1-800-345-6611
Independent Accountants
Price Waterhouse LLP
160 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Legal Counsel
Ropes & Gray
One International Place
Boston, MA 02110-2624
Your financial service firm is:
Printed in U.S.A.
April 30, 1997
COLONIAL STRATEGIC
INCOME FUND
PROSPECTUS
Colonial Strategic Income Fund seeks as high a level of current income and total
return as is consistent with prudent risk, by diversifying investments primarily
in U.S. and foreign government and lower rated corporate debt securities. The
Fund may invest a substantial portion of its assets in lower rated bonds and,
therefore, may not be suitable for all investors.
For more detailed information about the Fund, call the Adviser at 1-800-426-3750
for the April 30, 1997 Statement of Additional Information.
- ----------------- -----------------
NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE
NO BANK GUARANTEE
- ----------------- -----------------
16
<PAGE>
Part A of Post-Effective Amendment No. 41 filed with the Commission on
October 15, 1996 (with respect to Colonial Tax-Managed Growth Fund), is
incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
<PAGE>
COLONIAL TRUST I
Cross Reference Sheet
(Colonial High Yield Securities Fund)
Item Number of Form N-1A Statement of Additional
Information Location or Caption
Part B
10. Cover Page
11. Table of Contents
12. Not Applicable
13. Investment Objective and
Policies;
Fundamental Investment
Policies;
Other Investment Policies;
Portfolio Turnover;
Miscellaneous Investment
Practices
14. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
15. Fund Charges and Expenses
16. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
17. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
18. Shareholder Meetings;
Shareholder Liability
19. How to Buy Shares;
Determination of Net Asset
Value;
Suspension of Redemptions;
Special Purchase Programs/
Investor Services;
Programs for Reducing or
Eliminating Sales Charges;
How to Sell Shares;
How to Exchange Shares
20. Taxes
21. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial Funds
22. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Investment Performance;
Performance Measures
23. Independent Accountants
COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND
Statement of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) contains information which may be
useful to investors but which is not included in the Prospectus of Colonial High
Yield Securities Fund (Fund). This SAI is not a prospectus and is only
authorized for distribution when accompanied or preceded by the Prospectus of
the Fund dated April 30, 1997. This SAI should be read together with the
Prospectus. Investors may obtain a free copy of the Prospectus from Colonial
Investment Services, Inc., One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111-2621.
Part 1 of this SAI contains specific information about the Fund. Part 2 includes
information about the Colonial funds generally and additional information about
certain securities and investment techniques described in the Fund's Prospectus.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part 1 Page
Definitions
Investment Objective and Policies
Fundamental Investment Policies
Other Investment Policies
Portfolio Turnover
Fund Charges and Expenses
Investment Performance
Custodian
Independent Accountants
Part 2
Miscellaneous Investment Practices
Taxes
Management of the Colonial Funds
Determination of Net Asset Value
How to Buy Shares
Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services
Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales Charges
How to Sell Shares
Distributions
How to Exchange Shares
Suspension of Redemptions
Shareholder Liability
Shareholder Meetings
Performance Measures
Appendix I
Appendix II
HY--0497
a
<PAGE>
Part 1
COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND
Statement Of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
DEFINITIONS
"Trust" Colonial Trust I
"Fund" Colonial High Yield Securities Fund
"Adviser" Colonial Management Associates, Inc., the Fund's investment
adviser
"CISI" Colonial Investment Services, Inc., the Fund's distributor
"CISC" Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc., the Fund's
shareholder services and transfer agent
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The Fund's Prospectus describes its investment objective and investment
policies. Part 1 of this SAI includes additional information concerning, among
other things, the investment restrictions of the Fund. Part 2 contains
additional information about the following securities and investment techniques
that are described or referred to in the Prospectus:
Short-Term Trading
Lower Rated Debt Securities
Foreign Securities
Zero Coupon Securities
Step Coupon Bonds
Pay-In-Kind Securities
Forward Commitments (When Issued and Delayed Delivery Securities)
Repurchase Agreements
Futures Contracts and Related Options (interest rate futures and
related options)
Foreign Currency Transactions
Except as indicated below under "Fundamental Investment Policies", the Fund's
investment policies are not fundamental, and the Trustees may change the
policies without shareholder approval.
FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT POLICIES
The Investment Company Act of 1940 (Act) provides that a "vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities" means the affirmative vote of the lesser of
(1) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund, or (2) 67% or more of
the shares present at a meeting if more than 50% of the outstanding shares are
represented at the meeting in person or by proxy. The following fundamental
investment policies cannot be changed without such a vote.
Total assets and net assets are determined at current value for purposes of
compliance with investment restrictions and policies. All percentage limitations
will apply at the time of investment and are not violated unless an excess or
deficiency occurs as a result of such investment. For the purpose of the Act's
diversification requirement, an issuer is the entity whose revenues support the
security.
The Fund may:
1. Issue senior securities only through borrowing money from banks for
temporary or emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however,
the Fund will not purchase additional portfolio securities while
borrowings exceed 5% of net assets;
2. Only own real estate acquired as the result of owning securities and
not more than 5% of total assets;
3. Invest up to 10% of its net assets in illiquid assets;
4. Purchase and sell futures contracts and related options so long as the
total initial margin and premiums on the contracts do not exceed 5% of
its total assets;
5. Underwrite securities issued by others only when disposing of
portfolio securities;
6. Make loans through lending of securities not exceeding 30% of total
assets, through the purchase of debt instruments or similar evidences
of indebtedness typically sold privately to financial institutions and
through repurchase agreements; and
7. Not concentrate more than 25% of its total assets in any one industry
or with respect to 75% of total assets purchase any security (other
than obligations of the U.S. Government and cash items including
receivables) if as a result more than 5% of its total assets would
then be invested in securities of a single issuer, or purchase voting
securities of an issuer if, as a result of such
b
<PAGE>
purchase, the Fund would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting
shares of such issuer.
OTHER INVESTMENT POLICIES
As non-fundamental investment policies which may be changed without a
shareholder vote the Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may receive short-term
credit to clear securities transactions and may make initial or
maintenance margin deposits in connection with futures transactions;
and
2. Have a short securities position, unless the Fund owns, or owns rights
(exercisable without payment) to acquire, an equal amount of such
securities.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
Portfolio turnover for the last two fiscal years is included in the Prospectus
under "The Fund's Financial History." High portfolio turnover may cause the Fund
to realize capital gains which, if realized and distributed by the Fund, may be
taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. High portfolio turnover may result
in correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs,
which will be borne directly by the Fund.
FUND CHARGES AND EXPENSES
Under the Fund's management agreement, the Fund pays the Adviser a monthly fee
based on the average daily net assets of the Fund, determined at the close of
each business day during the month, at the annual rate of 0.60%.
Recent Fees Paid To The Adviser, CISI and (dollars in thousands)
Year ended December 31
1996 1995 1994
Management fee $5,087 $4,423 $3,832
Bookkeeping fee 306 267 233
Shareholder service
and transfer agent fee 2,425 2,107 1,848
12b-1 fees:
Service fee 2,120 1,846 1,599
Distribution fee(Class B) 2,735 2,254 1,742
Distribution fee(Class D)(a) 18 -- --
(a) Class D shares were initially offered on January 15, 1996.
c
<PAGE>
Brokerage Commissions (dollars in thousands)
Year ended December 31
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Total commissions $ 95 $ 12 $10
Directed transactions (b) 7,683 100 0
Commissions on directed transactions 83 1 0
(b) See "Management of the Colonial Funds - Portfolio Transactions-Brokerage and
research services" in Part 2 of this SAI.
Trustees Fees
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 and the calendar year ended December
31, 1996, the Trustees received the following compensation for serving as
Trustees(c):
Total Compensation
Aggregate From Trust and Fund Complex
Compensation Paid To The Trustees For
From Fund For The Fiscal The Calendar Year Ended
Year Ended December 31, 1996 December 31, 1996(d)
Trustee
Robert J. Birnbaum $3,908 $ 92,000
Tom Bleasdale 4,494(e) 104,500(f)
Lora S. Collins 3,913 92,000
James E. Grinnell 3,952 93,000
William D. Ireland, Jr. 4,628 109,000
Richard W. Lowry 4,040 95,000
William E. Mayer 3,870 91,000
James L. Moody, Jr. 4,538(g) 106,500(h)
John J. Neuhauser 4,031 94,500
George L. Shinn 4,476 105,500
Robert L. Sullivan 4,333 102,000
Sinclair Weeks, Jr. 4,671 110,000
(c) The Fund does not currently provide pension or retirement plan
benefits to the Trustees.
(d) At December 31, 1996, the Colonial Funds complex consisted of 38
open-end and 5 closed-end management investment company portfolios.
(e) Includes $2,248 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(f) Includes $51,500 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(g) Total compensation of $4,538 will be payable in later years as
deferred compensation.
(h) Total compensation of $106,500 for the calendar year ended December
31, 1996, will be payable in later years as deferred compensation.
The following table sets forth the amount of compensation paid to Messrs.
Birnbaum, Grinnell and Lowry in their capacities as Trustees or Directors of the
Liberty All-Star Equity Fund and of the Liberty All-Star Growth Fund, Inc.
(formerly known as The Charles Allmon Trust, Inc.) (together, Liberty Funds) for
service during the calendar year ended December 31, 1996:
Total Compensation
From Liberty Funds For The Calendar
Trustee Year Ended December 31, 1996(i)
d
<PAGE>
Robert J. Birnbaum $25,000
James E. Grinnell 25,000
Richard W. Lowry 25,000
(i) At December 31, 1996, the Liberty Funds were advised by Liberty
Asset Management Company (LAMCO). LAMCO is an indirect wholly-owned
subsidiary of Liberty Financial Companies, Inc. (an intermediate
parent of the Adviser).
Ownership Of The Fund
At March 31, 1997, the officers and Trustees of the Trust as a group owned less
than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund.
As of record on April 4, 1997, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc.,
Mutual Funds Operations, 4800 Deer Lake Drive, East 3rd, Jacksonville, FL 32216
owned (3,726,438 shares, 5.00%), (240,976 shares, 19.55%) and (8,470,951 shares,
14.40%)of the Fund's outstanding Class A, Class B and Class D shares,
respectively.
At March 31, 1997, there were 23,659 Class A, 17,559 Class B and 408 Class D
shareholders.
Sales Charges (dollars in thousands)
Class A Shares
Year ended December 31
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate initial sales charges on
Fund share sales $1,397 $1,271 $1,066
Initial sales charges retained by CISI 140 149 159
Class B Shares
Year ended December 31
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate contingent deferred sales
charge (CDSC) on Fund redemptions
retained by CISI $1,045 $635 $684
Class D Shares
Year ended December 31
1996
----
Aggregate CDSC on Fund redemptions
retained by CISI $18
e
<PAGE>
12b-1 Plans, CDSCs and Conversion Of Shares
The Fund offers three classes of shares - Class A, Class B and Class D. The Fund
may in the future offer other classes of shares. The Trustees have approved
12b-1 plans (Plans) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the Plans, the
Fund pays CISI monthly a service fee at an annual rate of 0.25% of net assets
attributed to each Class of shares. The Fund also pays CISI monthly distribution
fee at an annual rate of 0.75% of average daily net assets attributed to Class B
and Class D shares. CISI may use the entire amount of such fees to defray the
costs of commissions and service fees paid to financial service firms (FSFs) and
for certain other purposes. Since the distribution and service fees are payable
regardless of the amount of CISI's expenses, CISI may realize a profit from the
fees.
The Plans authorize any other payments by the Fund to CISI and its affiliates
(including the Adviser) to the extent that such payments might be construed to
be indirect financing of the distribution of Fund shares.
The Trustees believe the Plans could be a significant factor in the growth and
retention of Fund assets resulting in a more advantageous expense ratio and
increased investment flexibility which could benefit each class of Fund
shareholders. The Plans will continue in effect from year to year so long as
continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a vote of the
Trustees, including the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust and
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plans or
in any agreements related to the Plans (Independent Trustees), cast in person at
a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the Plans. The Plans may not be
amended to increase the fee materially without approval by vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares and all
material amendments of the Plans must be approved by the Trustees in the manner
provided in the foregoing sentence. The Plans may be terminated at any time by
vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares. The continuance
of the Plans will only be effective if the selection and nomination of the
Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust is effected by such
disinterested Trustees.
Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus varying sales charges which
may include a CDSC. Class B shares are offered at net asset value and are
subject to a CDSC if redeemed within six years after purchase. Class D shares
are offered at net asset value plus a 1.00% initial sales charge and are subject
to a 1.00% CDSC if redeemed within one year after purchase. The CDSCs are
described in the Prospectus.
No CDSC will be imposed on shares derived from reinvestment of distributions or
amounts representing capital appreciation. In determining the applicability and
rate of any CDSC, it will be assumed that a redemption is made first of shares
representing capital appreciation, next of shares representing reinvestment of
distributions and finally of other shares held by the shareholder for the
longest period of time.
Eight years after the end of the month in which a Class B share is purchased,
such share and a pro rata portion of any shares issued on the reinvestment of
distributions will be automatically converted into Class A shares, which are not
subject to the distribution fee, having an equal value.
Sales-related expenses (dollars in thousands) of CISI relating to the Fund were:
Year ended December 31, 1996
Class A Shares Class B Shares Class D Shares
Fees to FSFs $1,231 $4,255 $56
Cost of sales material
relating to the Fund
(including printing and
mailing expenses) 133 256 18
Allocated travel, entertainment
and other promotional expenses
(including advertising) 171 325 22
f
<PAGE>
INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE
The Fund's Class A, Class B and Class D yields for the month ended December 31,
1996 were 8.27% and 7.92% and 7.83%, respectively.
The Fund's average annual total returns at December 31, 1996 were:
Class A Shares
1 year 5 years 10 years
------ ------- --------
With sales charge of 4.75% 6.88% 12.69% 10.13%
Without sales charge 12.21% 13.79% 10.67%
Class B Shares
June 8, 1992
(commencement of investment operations)
1 year through December 31, 1996
------ -------------------------
With applicable CDSC 6.38% (5.00% CDSC) 10.89% (2.00% CDSC)
Without CDSC 11.38% 11.20%
January 15, 1996
(commencement of investment operations)
through December 31, 1996
With applicable CDSC 8.45% (1.00% CDSC)
Without CDSC 10.56%
The Fund's Class A, Class B and Class D distribution rates at December 31, 1996,
based on the most recent month's distribution, annualized, and the maximum
offering price at the end of the month, were 8.25%, 7.92% and 7.85%,
respectively.
See Part 2 of this SAI, "Performance Measures," for how calculations are made.
CUSTODIAN
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company is the Fund's custodian. The custodian is
responsible for safeguarding the Fund's cash and securities, receiving and
delivering securities and collecting the Fund's interest and dividends.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
Price Waterhouse LLP are the Fund's independent accountants, providing audit and
tax return preparation services and assistance and consultation in connection
with the review of various Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The
financial statements incorporated by reference in this SAI have been so
incorporated, and the financial highlights included in the Prospectus have been
so included, in reliance upon the report of Price Waterhouse LLP given on the
authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
The financial statements and Report of Independent Accountants appearing on
pages 6 through 30 of the December 31, 1996 Annual Report are incorporated in
this SAI by reference.
g
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
PART 2
The following information applies generally to most Colonial funds. "Colonial
funds" or "funds" include each series of Colonial Trust I, Colonial Trust II,
Colonial Trust III, Colonial Trust IV, Colonial Trust V, Colonial Trust VI and
Colonial Trust VII. In certain cases, the discussion applies to some but not all
of the Colonial funds, and you should refer to your Fund's Prospectus and to
Part 1 of this SAI to determine whether the matter is applicable to your Fund.
You will also be referred to Part 1 for certain data applicable to your Fund.
MISCELLANEOUS INVESTMENT PRACTICES
Part 1 of this Statement lists on page b which of the following investment
practices are available to your Fund. If an investment practice is not listed in
Part 1 of this SAI, it is not applicable to your Fund.
Short-Term Trading
In seeking the fund's investment objective, the Adviser will buy or sell
portfolio securities whenever it believes it is appropriate. The Adviser's
decision will not generally be influenced by how long the fund may have owned
the security. From time to time the fund will buy securities intending to seek
short-term trading profits. A change in the securities held by the fund is known
as "portfolio turnover" and generally involves some expense to the fund. These
expenses may include brokerage commissions or dealer mark-ups and other
transaction costs on both the sale of securities and the reinvestment of the
proceeds in other securities. If sales of portfolio securities cause the fund to
realize net short-term capital gains, such gains will be taxable as ordinary
income. As a result of the fund's investment policies, under certain market
conditions the fund's portfolio turnover rate may be higher than that of other
mutual funds. The fund's portfolio turnover rate for a fiscal year is the ratio
of the lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities to the monthly
average of the value of portfolio securities, excluding securities whose
maturities at acquisition were one year or less. The fund's portfolio turnover
rate is not a limiting factor when the Adviser considers a change in the fund's
portfolio.
Lower Rated Bonds
Lower rated bonds are those rated lower than Baa by Moody's, BBB by S&P, or
comparable unrated securities. Relative to comparable securities of higher
quality:
1. the market price is likely to be more volatile because:
a. an economic downturn or increased interest rates may have a
more significant effect on the yield, price and potential for
default;
b. the secondary market may at times become less liquid or respond
to adverse publicity or investor perceptions, increasing the
difficulty in valuing or disposing of the bonds;
c. existing legislation limits and future legislation may further
limit (i) investment by certain institutions or (ii) tax
deductibility of the interest by the issuer, which may adversely
affect value; and
d. certain lower rated bonds do not pay interest in cash on a current
basis. However, the fund will accrue and distribute this
interest on a current basis, and may have to sell securities
to generate cash for distributions.
2. the fund's achievement of its investment objective is more
dependent on the Adviser's credit analysis.
3. lower rated bonds are less sensitive to interest rate changes,
but are more sensitive to adverse economic developments.
Small Companies
Smaller, less well established companies may offer greater opportunities for
capital appreciation than larger, better established companies, but may also
involve certain special risks related to limited product lines, markets, or
financial resources and dependence on a small management group. Their securities
may trade less frequently, in smaller volumes, and fluctuate more sharply in
value than securities of larger companies.
Foreign Securities
The fund may invest in securities traded in markets outside the United States.
Foreign investments can be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in
currency rates and in exchange control regulations. There may be less publicly
available information about a foreign company than about a U.S. company, and
foreign companies may not be subject to accounting, auditing and financial
reporting
1
<PAGE>
standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. Securities
of some foreign companies are less liquid or more volatile than securities of
U.S. companies, and foreign brokerage commissions and custodian fees may be
higher than in the United States. Investments in foreign securities can involve
other risks different from those affecting U.S. investments, including local
political or economic developments, expropriation or nationalization of assets
and imposition of withholding taxes on dividend or interest payments. Foreign
securities, like other assets of the fund, will be held by the fund's custodian
or by a subcustodian or depository. See also "Foreign Currency Transactions"
below.
The fund may invest in certain Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICs)
which may be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a portion of any "excess
distribution" or gain (PFIC tax) related to the investment. The PFIC tax is the
highest ordinary income rate, and it could be increased by an interest charge on
the deemed tax deferral.
The fund may possibly elect to include in its income its pro rata share of the
ordinary earnings and net capital gain of PFICs. This election requires certain
annual information from the PFICs which in many cases may be difficult to
obtain. An alternative election would permit the fund to recognize as income any
appreciation (but not depreciation) on its holdings of PFICs as of the end of
its fiscal year.
Zero Coupon Securities (Zeros)
The fund may invest in debt securities which do not pay interest, but instead
are issued at a deep discount from par. The value of the security increases over
time to reflect the interest accrued. The value of these securities may
fluctuate more than similar securities which are issued at par and pay interest
periodically. Although these securities pay no interest to holders prior to
maturity, interest on these securities is reported as income to the fund and
distributed to its shareholders. These distributions must be made from the
fund's cash assets or, if necessary, from the proceeds of sales of portfolio
securities. The fund will not be able to purchase additional income producing
securities with cash used to make such distributions and its current income
ultimately may be reduced as a result.
Step Coupon Bonds (Steps)
The fund may invest in debt securities which do not pay interest for a stated
period of time and then pay interest at a series of different rates for a series
of periods. In addition to the risks associated with the credit rating of the
issuers, these securities are subject to the volatility risk of zero coupon
bonds for the period when no interest is paid.
Tender Option Bonds
A tender option bond is a Municipal Security (generally held pursuant to a
custodial arrangement) having a relatively long maturity and bearing interest at
a fixed rate substantially higher than prevailing short-term tax-exempt rates,
that has been coupled with the agreement of a third party, such as a bank,
broker-dealer or other financial institution, pursuant to which such institution
grants the security holders the option, at periodic intervals, to tender their
securities to the institution and receive the face value thereof. As
consideration for providing the option, the financial institution receives
periodic fees equal to the difference between the Municipal Security's fixed
coupon rate and the rate, as determined by a remarketing or similar agent at or
near the commencement of such period, that would cause the securities, coupled
with the tender option, to trade at par on the date of such determination. Thus,
after payment of this fee, the security holder effectively holds a demand
obligation that bears interest at the prevailing short-term tax-exempt rate. The
Adviser will consider on an ongoing basis the creditworthiness of the issuer of
the underlying Municipal Securities, of any custodian, and of the third-party
provider of the tender option. In certain instances and for certain tender
option bonds, the option may be terminable in the event of a default in payment
of principal or interest on the underlying Municipal Securities and for other
reasons.
Pay-In-Kind (PIK) Securities
The fund may invest in securities which pay interest either in cash or
additional securities at the issuer's option. These securities are generally
high yield securities and in addition to the other risks associated with
investing in high yield securities are subject to the risks that the interest
payments which consist of additional securities are also subject to the risks of
high yield securities.
Money Market Instruments
Government obligations are issued by the U.S. or foreign governments, their
subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities. Supranational obligations are
issued by supranational entities and are generally designed to promote economic
improvements. Certificates of deposits are issued against deposits in a
commercial bank with a defined return and maturity. Banker's acceptances are
used to finance the import, export or storage of goods and are "accepted" when
guaranteed at maturity by a bank. Commercial paper is promissory notes issued by
businesses to finance short-term needs (including those with floating or
variable interest rates, or including a frequent interval put feature).
Short-term corporate obligations are bonds and notes (with one year or less to
maturity at the time of purchase) issued by businesses to finance long-term
needs. Participation Interests include the underlying securities and any related
guaranty, letter of credit, or collateralization arrangement which the fund
would be allowed to invest in directly.
Securities Loans
The fund may make secured loans of its portfolio securities amounting to not
more than the percentage of its total assets specified in Part 1 of this SAI,
thereby realizing additional income. The risks in lending portfolio securities,
as with other extensions of credit, consist
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of possible delay in recovery of the securities or possible loss of rights in
the collateral should the borrower fail financially. As a matter of policy,
securities loans are made to banks and broker-dealers pursuant to agreements
requiring that loans be continuously secured by collateral in cash or short-term
debt obligations at least equal at all times to the value of the securities on
loan. The borrower pays to the fund an amount equal to any dividends or interest
received on securities lent. The fund retains all or a portion of the interest
received on investment of the cash collateral or receives a fee from the
borrower. Although voting rights, or rights to consent, with respect to the
loaned securities pass to the borrower, the fund retains the right to call the
loans at any time on reasonable notice, and it will do so in order that the
securities may be voted by the fund if the holders of such securities are asked
to vote upon or consent to matters materially affecting the investment. The fund
may also call such loans in order to sell the securities involved.
Forward Commitments ("When-Issued" and "Delayed Delivery" Securities)
The fund may enter into contracts to purchase securities for a fixed price at a
future date beyond customary settlement time ("forward commitments" and "when
issued securities") if the fund holds until the settlement date, in a segregated
account, cash or liquid securities in an amount sufficient to meet the purchase
price, or if the fund enters into offsetting contracts for the forward sale of
other securities it owns. Forward commitments may be considered securities in
themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be
purchased declines prior to the settlement date. Where such purchases are made
through dealers, the fund relies on the dealer to consummate the sale. The
dealer's failure to do so may result in the loss to the fund of an advantageous
yield or price. Although the fund will generally enter into forward commitments
with the intention of acquiring securities for its portfolio or for delivery
pursuant to options contracts it has entered into, the fund may dispose of a
commitment prior to settlement if the Adviser deems it appropriate to do so. The
fund may realize short-term profits or losses upon the sale of forward
commitments.
Mortgage Dollar Rolls
In a mortgage dollar roll, the fund sells a mortgage-backed security and
simultaneously enters into a commitment to purchase a similar security at a
later date. The fund either will be paid a fee by the counterparty upon entering
into the transaction or will be entitled to purchase the similar security at a
discount. As with any forward commitment, mortgage dollar rolls involve the risk
that the counterparty will fail to deliver the new security on the settlement
date, which may deprive the fund of obtaining a beneficial investment. In
addition, the security to be delivered in the future may turn out to be inferior
to the security sold upon entering into the transaction. Also, the transaction
costs may exceed the return earned by the fund from the transaction.
Repurchase Agreements
The fund may enter into repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement is a
contract under which the fund acquires a security for a relatively short period
(usually not more than one week) subject to the obligation of the seller to
repurchase and the fund to resell such security at a fixed time and price
(representing the fund's cost plus interest). It is the fund's present intention
to enter into repurchase agreements only with commercial banks and registered
broker-dealers and only with respect to obligations of the U.S. government or
its agencies or instrumentalities. Repurchase agreements may also be viewed as
loans made by the fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to
repurchase. The Adviser will monitor such transactions to determine that the
value of the underlying securities is at least equal at all times to the total
amount of the repurchase obligation, including the interest factor. If the
seller defaults, the fund could realize a loss on the sale of the underlying
security to the extent that the proceeds of sale including accrued interest are
less than the resale price provided in the agreement including interest. In
addition, if the seller should be involved in bankruptcy or insolvency
proceedings, the fund may incur delay and costs in selling the underlying
security or may suffer a loss of principal and interest if the fund is treated
as an unsecured creditor and required to return the underlying collateral to the
seller's estate.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements
In a reverse repurchase agreement, the fund sells a security and agrees to
repurchase the same security at a mutually agreed upon date and price. A reverse
repurchase agreement may also be viewed as the borrowing of money by the fund
and, therefore, as a form of leverage. The fund will invest the proceeds of
borrowings under reverse repurchase agreements. In addition, the fund will enter
into a reverse repurchase agreement only when the interest income expected to be
earned from the investment of the proceeds is greater than the interest expense
of the transaction. The fund will not invest the proceeds of a reverse
repurchase agreement for a period which exceeds the duration of the reverse
repurchase agreement. The fund may not enter into reverse repurchase agreements
exceeding in the aggregate one-third of the market value of its total assets,
less liabilities other than the obligations created by reverse repurchase
agreements. Each fund will establish and maintain with its custodian a separate
account with a segregated portfolio of securities in an amount at least equal to
its purchase obligations under its reverse repurchase agreements. If interest
rates rise during the term of a reverse repurchase agreement, entering into the
reverse repurchase agreement may have a negative impact on a money market fund's
ability to maintain a net asset value of $1.00 per share.
Options on Securities
Writing covered options. The fund may write covered call options and covered put
options on securities held in its portfolio when, in the opinion of the Adviser,
such transactions are consistent with the fund's investment objective and
policies. Call options written by the fund give the purchaser the right to buy
the underlying securities from the fund at a stated exercise price; put options
give the purchaser the right to sell the underlying securities to the fund at a
stated price.
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The fund may write only covered options, which means that, so long as the fund
is obligated as the writer of a call option, it will own the underlying
securities subject to the option (or comparable securities satisfying the cover
requirements of securities exchanges). In the case of put options, the fund will
hold cash and/or high-grade short-term debt obligations equal to the price to be
paid if the option is exercised. In addition, the fund will be considered to
have covered a put or call option if and to the extent that it holds an option
that offsets some or all of the risk of the option it has written. The fund may
write combinations of covered puts and calls on the same underlying security.
The fund will receive a premium from writing a put or call option, which
increases the fund's return on the underlying security if the option expires
unexercised or is closed out at a profit. The amount of the premium reflects,
among other things, the relationship between the exercise price and the current
market value of the underlying security, the volatility of the underlying
security, the amount of time remaining until expiration, current interest rates,
and the effect of supply and demand in the options market and in the market for
the underlying security. By writing a call option, the fund limits its
opportunity to profit from any increase in the market value of the underlying
security above the exercise price of the option but continues to bear the risk
of a decline in the value of the underlying security. By writing a put option,
the fund assumes the risk that it may be required to purchase the underlying
security for an exercise price higher than its then-current market value,
resulting in a potential capital loss unless the security subsequently
appreciates in value.
The fund may terminate an option that it has written prior to its expiration by
entering into a closing purchase transaction in which it purchases an offsetting
option. The fund realizes a profit or loss from a closing transaction if the
cost of the transaction (option premium plus transaction costs) is less or more
than the premium received from writing the option. Because increases in the
market price of a call option generally reflect increases in the market price of
the security underlying the option, any loss resulting from a closing purchase
transaction may be offset in whole or in part by unrealized appreciation of the
underlying security.
If the fund writes a call option but does not own the underlying security, and
when it writes a put option, the fund may be required to deposit cash or
securities with its broker as "margin" or collateral for its obligation to buy
or sell the underlying security. As the value of the underlying security varies,
the fund may have to deposit additional margin with the broker. Margin
requirements are complex and are fixed by individual brokers, subject to minimum
requirements currently imposed by the Federal Reserve Board and by stock
exchanges and other self-regulatory organizations.
Purchasing put options. The fund may purchase put options to protect its
portfolio holdings in an underlying security against a decline in market value.
Such hedge protection is provided during the life of the put option since the
fund, as holder of the put option, is able to sell the underlying security at
the put exercise price regardless of any decline in the underlying security's
market price. For a put option to be profitable, the market price of the
underlying security must decline sufficiently below the exercise price to cover
the premium and transaction costs. By using put options in this manner, the fund
will reduce any profit it might otherwise have realized from appreciation of the
underlying security by the premium paid for the put option and by transaction
costs.
Purchasing call options. The fund may purchase call options to hedge against an
increase in the price of securities that the fund wants ultimately to buy. Such
hedge protection is provided during the life of the call option since the fund,
as holder of the call option, is able to buy the underlying security at the
exercise price regardless of any increase in the underlying security's market
price. In order for a call option to be profitable, the market price of the
underlying security must rise sufficiently above the exercise price to cover the
premium and transaction costs. These costs will reduce any profit the fund might
have realized had it bought the underlying security at the time it purchased the
call option.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) options. The Staff of the Division of Investment
Management of the Securities and Exchange Commission has taken the position that
OTC options purchased by the fund and assets held to cover OTC options written
by the fund are illiquid securities. Although the Staff has indicated that it is
continuing to evaluate this issue, pending further developments, the fund
intends to enter into OTC options transactions only with primary dealers in U.S.
Government Securities and, in the case of OTC options written by the fund, only
pursuant to agreements that will assure that the fund will at all times have the
right to repurchase the option written by it from the dealer at a specified
formula price. The fund will treat the amount by which such formula price
exceeds the amount, if any, by which the option may be "in-the-money" as an
illiquid investment. It is the present policy of the fund not to enter into any
OTC option transaction if, as a result, more than 15% (10% in some cases, refer
to your fund's Prospectus) of the fund's net assets would be invested in (i)
illiquid investments (determined under the foregoing formula) relating to OTC
options written by the fund, (ii) OTC options purchased by the fund, (iii)
securities which are not readily marketable, and (iv) repurchase agreements
maturing in more than seven days.
Risk factors in options transactions. The successful use of the fund's options
strategies depends on the ability of the Adviser to forecast interest rate and
market movements correctly.
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When it purchases an option, the fund runs the risk that it will lose its entire
investment in the option in a relatively short period of time, unless the fund
exercises the option or enters into a closing sale transaction with respect to
the option during the life of the option. If the price of the underlying
security does not rise (in the case of a call) or fall (in the case of a put) to
an extent sufficient to cover the option premium and transaction costs, the fund
will lose part or all of its investment in the option. This contrasts with an
investment by the fund in the underlying securities, since the fund may continue
to hold its investment in those securities notwithstanding the lack of a change
in price of those securities.
The effective use of options also depends on the fund's ability to terminate
option positions at times when the Adviser deems it desirable to do so. Although
the fund will take an option position only if the Adviser believes there is a
liquid secondary market for the option, there is no assurance that the fund will
be able to effect closing transactions at any particular time or at an
acceptable price.
If a secondary trading market in options were to become unavailable, the fund
could no longer engage in closing transactions. Lack of investor interest might
adversely affect the liquidity of the market for particular options or series of
options. A marketplace may discontinue trading of a particular option or options
generally. In addition, a market could become temporarily unavailable if unusual
events -- such as volume in excess of trading or clearing capability -- were to
interrupt normal market operations.
A marketplace may at times find it necessary to impose restrictions on
particular types of options transactions, which may limit the fund's ability to
realize its profits or limit its losses.
Disruptions in the markets for the securities underlying options purchased or
sold by the fund could result in losses on the options. If trading is
interrupted in an underlying security, the trading of options on that security
is normally halted as well. As a result, the fund as purchaser or writer of an
option will be unable to close out its positions until options trading resumes,
and it may be faced with losses if trading in the security reopens at a
substantially different price. In addition, the Options Clearing Corporation
(OCC) or other options markets may impose exercise restrictions. If a
prohibition on exercise is imposed at the time when trading in the option has
also been halted, the fund as purchaser or writer of an option will be locked
into its position until one of the two restrictions has been lifted. If a
prohibition on exercise remains in effect until an option owned by the fund has
expired, the fund could lose the entire value of its option.
Special risks are presented by internationally-traded options. Because of time
differences between the United States and various foreign countries, and because
different holidays are observed in different countries, foreign options markets
may be open for trading during hours or on days when U.S. markets are closed. As
a result, option premiums may not reflect the current prices of the underlying
interest in the United States.
Futures Contracts and Related Options
Upon entering into futures contracts, in compliance with the Securities and
Exchange Commission's requirements, cash or liquid securities, equal in value to
the amount of the fund's obligation under the contract (less any applicable
margin deposits and any assets that constitute "cover" for such obligation),
will be segregated with the fund's custodian.
A futures contract sale creates an obligation by the seller to deliver the type
of instrument called for in the contract in a specified delivery month for a
stated price. A futures contract purchase creates an obligation by the purchaser
to take delivery of the type of instrument called for in the contract in a
specified delivery month at a stated price. The specific instruments delivered
or taken at settlement date are not determined until on or near that date. The
determination is made in accordance with the rules of the exchanges on which the
futures contract was made. Futures contracts are traded in the United States
only on commodity exchange or boards of trade -- known as "contract markets" --
approved for such trading by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC),
and must be executed through a futures commission merchant or brokerage firm
which is a member of the relevant contract market.
Although futures contracts by their terms call for actual delivery or acceptance
of commodities or securities, the contracts usually are closed out before the
settlement date without the making or taking of delivery. Closing out a futures
contract sale is effected by purchasing a futures contract for the same
aggregate amount of the specific type of financial instrument or commodity with
the same delivery date. If the price of the initial sale of the futures contract
exceeds the price of the offsetting purchase, the seller is paid the difference
and realizes a gain. Conversely, if the price of the offsetting purchase exceeds
the price of the initial sale, the seller realizes a loss. Similarly, the
closing out of a futures contract purchase is effected by the purchaser's
entering into a futures contract sale. If the offsetting sale price exceeds the
purchase price, the purchaser realizes a gain, and if the purchase price exceeds
the offsetting sale price, the purchaser realizes a loss.
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Unlike when the fund purchases or sells a security, no price is paid or received
by the fund upon the purchase or sale of a futures contract, although the fund
is required to deposit with its custodian in a segregated account in the name of
the futures broker an amount of cash and/or U.S. Government Securities. This
amount is known as "initial margin". The nature of initial margin in futures
transactions is different from that of margin in security transactions in that
futures contract margin does not involve the borrowing of funds by the fund to
finance the transactions. Rather, initial margin is in the nature of a
performance bond or good faith deposit on the contract that is returned to the
fund upon termination of the futures contract, assuming all contractual
obligations have been satisfied. Futures contracts also involve brokerage costs.
Subsequent payments, called "variation margin", to and from the broker (or the
custodian) are made on a daily basis as the price of the underlying security or
commodity fluctuates, making the long and short positions in the futures
contract more or less valuable, a process known as "marking to market."
The fund may elect to close some or all of its futures positions at any time
prior to their expiration. The purpose of making such a move would be to reduce
or eliminate the hedge position then currently held by the fund. The fund may
close its positions by taking opposite positions which will operate to terminate
the fund's position in the futures contracts. Final determinations of variation
margin are then made, additional cash is required to be paid by or released to
the fund, and the fund realizes a loss or a gain. Such closing transactions
involve additional commission costs.
Options on futures contracts. The fund will enter into written options on
futures contracts only when, in compliance with the SEC's requirements, cash or
liquid securities equal in value to the commodity value (less any applicable
margin deposits) have been deposited in a segregated account of the fund's
custodian. The fund may purchase and write call and put options on futures
contracts it may buy or sell and enter into closing transactions with respect to
such options to terminate existing positions. The fund may use such options on
futures contracts in lieu of writing options directly on the underlying
securities or purchasing and selling the underlying futures contracts. Such
options generally operate in the same manner as options purchased or written
directly on the underlying investments.
As with options on securities, the holder or writer of an option may terminate
his position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option. There is no
guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected.
The fund will be required to deposit initial margin and maintenance margin with
respect to put and call options on futures contracts written by it pursuant to
brokers' requirements similar to those described above.
Risks of transactions in futures contracts and related options. Successful use
of futures contracts by the fund is subject to the Adviser`s ability to predict
correctly movements in the direction of interest rates and other factors
affecting securities markets.
Compared to the purchase or sale of futures contracts, the purchase of call or
put options on futures contracts involves less potential risk to the fund
because the maximum amount at risk is the premium paid for the options (plus
transaction costs). However, there may be circumstances when the purchase of a
call or put option on a futures contract would result in a loss to the fund when
the purchase or sale of a futures contract would not, such as when there is no
movement in the prices of the hedged investments. The writing of an option on a
futures contract involves risks similar to those risks relating to the sale of
futures contracts.
There is no assurance that higher than anticipated trading activity or other
unforeseen events might not, at times, render certain market clearing facilities
inadequate, and thereby result in the institution, by exchanges, of special
procedures which may interfere with the timely execution of customer orders.
To reduce or eliminate a hedge position held by the fund, the fund may seek to
close out a position. The ability to establish and close out positions will be
subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid secondary market. It is
not certain that this market will develop or continue to exist for a particular
futures contract. Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an
exchange include the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest
in certain contracts or options; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange
on opening transactions or closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts,
suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular
classes or series of contracts or options, or underlying securities; (iv)
unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an
exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or a clearing corporation may not at
all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more
exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some
future date to discontinue the trading of contracts or options (or a particular
class or series of contracts or options), in which event the secondary market on
that exchange (or in the class or series of contracts or options) would cease to
exist, although outstanding contracts or options on the exchange that had been
issued by a clearing corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would
continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
Use by tax-exempt funds of U.S. Treasury security futures contracts and options.
The funds investing in tax-exempt securities issued by a governmental entity may
purchase and sell futures contracts and related options on U.S. Treasury
securities when, in the
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opinion of the Adviser, price movements in Treasury security futures and related
options will correlate closely with price movements in the tax-exempt securities
which are the subject of the hedge. U.S. Treasury securities futures contracts
require the seller to deliver, or the purchaser to take delivery of, the type of
U.S. Treasury security called for in the contract at a specified date and price.
Options on U.S. Treasury security futures contracts give the purchaser the right
in return for the premium paid to assume a position in a U.S. Treasury futures
contract at the specified option exercise price at any time during the period of
the option.
In addition to the risks generally involved in using futures contracts, there is
also a risk that price movements in U.S. Treasury security futures contracts and
related options will not correlate closely with price movements in markets for
tax-exempt securities.
Index futures contracts. An index futures contract is a contract to buy or sell
units of an index at a specified future date at a price agreed upon when the
contract is made. Entering into a contract to buy units of an index is commonly
referred to as buying or purchasing a contract or holding a long position in the
index. Entering into a contract to sell units of an index is commonly referred
to as selling a contract or holding a short position. A unit is the current
value of the index. The fund may enter into stock index futures contracts, debt
index futures contracts, or other index futures contracts appropriate to its
objective(s). The fund may also purchase and sell options on index futures
contracts.
There are several risks in connection with the use by the fund of index futures
as a hedging device. One risk arises because of the imperfect correlation
between movements in the prices of the index futures and movements in the prices
of securities which are the subject of the hedge. The Adviser will attempt to
reduce this risk by selling, to the extent possible, futures on indices the
movements of which will, in its judgment, have a significant correlation with
movements in the prices of the fund's portfolio securities sought to be hedged.
Successful use of index futures by the fund for hedging purposes is also subject
to the Adviser's ability to predict correctly movements in the direction of the
market. It is possible that, where the fund has sold futures to hedge its
portfolio against a decline in the market, the index on which the futures are
written may advance and the value of securities held in the fund's portfolio may
decline. If this occurs, the fund would lose money on the futures and also
experience a decline in the value in its portfolio securities. However, while
this could occur to a certain degree, the Adviser believes that over time the
value of the fund's portfolio will tend to move in the same direction as the
market indices which are intended to correlate to the price movements of the
portfolio securities sought to be hedged. It is also possible that, if the fund
has hedged against the possibility of a decline in the market adversely
affecting securities held in its portfolio and securities prices increase
instead, the fund will lose part or all of the benefit of the increased values
of those securities that it has hedged because it will have offsetting losses in
its futures positions. In addition, in such situations, if the fund has
insufficient cash, it may have to sell securities to meet daily variation margin
requirements.
In addition to the possibility that there may be an imperfect correlation, or no
correlation at all, between movements in the index futures and the securities of
the portfolio being hedged, the prices of index futures may not correlate
perfectly with movements in the underlying index due to certain market
distortions. First, all participants in the futures markets are subject to
margin deposit and maintenance requirements. Rather than meeting additional
margin deposit requirements, investors may close futures contracts through
offsetting transactions which would distort the normal relationship between the
index and futures markets. Second, margin requirements in the futures market are
less onerous than margin requirements in the securities market, and as a result
the futures market may attract more speculators than the securities market.
Increased participation by speculators in the futures market may also cause
temporary price distortions. Due to the possibility of price distortions in the
futures market and also because of the imperfect correlation between movements
in the index and movements in the prices of index futures, even a correct
forecast of general market trends by the Adviser may still not result in a
successful hedging transaction.
Options on index futures. Options on index futures are similar to options on
securities except that options on index futures give the purchaser the right, in
return for the premium paid, to assume a position in an index futures contract
(a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a
put), at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option.
Upon exercise of the option, the delivery of the futures position by the writer
of the option to the holder of the option will be accompanied by delivery of the
accumulated balance in the writer's futures margin account which represents the
amount by which the market price of the index futures contract, at exercise,
exceeds (in the case of a call) or is less than (in the case of a put) the
exercise price of the option on the index future. If an option is exercised on
the last trading day prior to the expiration date of the option, the settlement
will be made entirely in cash equal to the difference between the exercise price
of the option and the closing level of the index on which the future is based on
the expiration date. Purchasers of options who fail to exercise their options
prior to the exercise date suffer a loss of the premium paid.
Options on indices. As an alternative to purchasing call and put options on
index futures, the fund may purchase call and put options on the underlying
indices themselves. Such options could be used in a manner identical to the use
of options on index futures.
Foreign Currency Transactions
The fund may engage in currency exchange transactions to protect against
uncertainty in the level of future currency exchange rates.
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The fund may engage in both "transaction hedging" and "position hedging". When
it engages in transaction hedging, the fund enters into foreign currency
transactions with respect to specific receivables or payables of the fund
generally arising in connection with the purchase or sale of its portfolio
securities. The fund will engage in transaction hedging when it desires to "lock
in" the U.S. dollar price of a security it has agreed to purchase or sell, or
the U.S. dollar equivalent of a dividend or interest payment in a foreign
currency. By transaction hedging the fund attempts to protect itself against a
possible loss resulting from an adverse change in the relationship between the
U.S. dollar and the applicable 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.
The fund may purchase or sell a foreign currency on a spot (or cash) basis at
the prevailing spot rate in connection with the settlement of transactions in
portfolio securities denominated in that foreign currency. The fund may also
enter into contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies at a future date
("forward contracts") and purchase and sell foreign currency futures contracts.
For transaction hedging purposes the fund may also purchase exchange-listed and
over-the-counter call and put options on foreign currency futures contracts and
on foreign currencies. Over-the-counter options are considered to be illiquid by
the SEC staff. A put option on a futures contract gives the fund the right to
assume a short position in the futures contract until expiration of the option.
A put option on currency gives the fund the right to sell a currency at an
exercise price until the expiration of the option. A call option on a futures
contract gives the fund the right to assume a long position in the futures
contract until the expiration of the option. A call option on currency gives the
fund the right to purchase a currency at the exercise price until the expiration
of the option.
When it engages in position hedging, the fund enters into foreign currency
exchange transactions to protect against a decline in the values of the foreign
currencies in which its portfolio securities are denominated (or an increase in
the value of currency for securities which the fund expects to purchase, when
the fund holds cash or short-term investments). In connection with position
hedging, the fund may purchase put or call options on foreign currency and
foreign currency futures contracts and buy or sell forward contracts and foreign
currency futures contracts. The fund may also purchase or sell foreign currency
on a spot basis.
The precise matching of the amounts of foreign currency exchange transactions
and the value of the portfolio securities involved will not generally be
possible since the future value of such securities in foreign currencies will
change as a consequence of market movements in the value of those securities
between the dates the currency exchange transactions are entered into and the
dates they mature.
It is impossible to forecast with precision the market value of portfolio
securities at the expiration or maturity of a forward or futures contract.
Accordingly, it may be necessary for the fund to purchase additional foreign
currency on the spot market (and bear the expense of such purchase) if the
market value of the security or securities being hedged is less than the amount
of foreign currency the fund is obligated to deliver and if a decision is made
to sell the security or securities and make delivery of the foreign currency.
Conversely, it may be necessary to sell on the spot market some of the foreign
currency received upon the sale of the portfolio security or securities if the
market value of such security or securities exceeds the amount of foreign
currency the fund is obligated to deliver.
Transaction and position hedging do not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying
prices of the securities which the fund owns or intends to purchase or sell.
They simply establish a rate of exchange which one can achieve at some future
point in time. Additionally, although these techniques tend to minimize the risk
of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency, they tend to limit
any potential gain which might result from the increase in value of such
currency.
Currency forward and futures contracts. Upon entering into such contracts, in
compliance with the SEC's requirements, cash or liquid securities, equal in
value to the amount of the fund's obligation under the contract (less any
applicable margin deposits and any assets that constitute "cover" for such
obligation), will be segregated with the fund's custodian.
A forward currency 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 as agreed by the parties, at a price set at the time of
the contract. In the case of a cancelable contract, the holder has the
unilateral right to cancel the contract at maturity by paying a specified fee.
The contracts are traded in the interbank market conducted directly between
currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. A
contract generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are charged at
any stage for trades. A currency futures contract is a standardized contract for
the future delivery of a specified amount of a foreign currency at a future date
at a price set at the time of the contract. Currency futures contracts traded in
the United States are designed and traded on exchanges regulated by the CFTC,
such as the New York Mercantile Exchange.
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<PAGE>
Forward currency contracts differ from currency futures contracts in certain
respects. For example, the maturity date of a forward contract may be any fixed
number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, rather
than a predetermined date in a given month. Forward contracts may be in any
amounts agreed upon by the parties rather than predetermined amounts. Also,
forward contracts are traded directly between currency traders so that no
intermediary is required. A forward contract generally requires no margin or
other deposit.
At the maturity of a forward or futures contract, the fund may either accept or
make delivery of the currency specified in the contract, or at or prior to
maturity enter into a closing transaction involving the purchase or sale of an
offsetting contract. Closing transactions with respect to forward contracts are
usually effected with the currency trader who is a party to the original forward
contract. Closing transactions with respect to futures contracts are effected on
a commodities exchange; a clearing corporation associated with the exchange
assumes responsibility for closing out such contracts.
Positions in currency futures contracts may be closed out only on an exchange or
board of trade which provides a secondary market in such contracts. Although the
fund intends to purchase or sell currency futures contracts only on exchanges or
boards of trade where there appears to be an active secondary market, there is
no assurance that a secondary market on an exchange or board of trade will exist
for any particular contract or at any particular time. In such event, it may not
be possible to close a futures position and, in the event of adverse price
movements, the fund would continue to be required to make daily cash payments of
variation margin.
Currency options. In general, options on currencies operate similarly to options
on securities and are subject to many similar risks. Currency options are traded
primarily in the over-the-counter market, although options on currencies have
recently been listed on several exchanges. Options are traded not only on the
currencies of individual nations, but also on the European Currency Unit
("ECU"). The ECU is composed of amounts of a number of currencies, and is the
official medium of exchange of the European Economic Community's European
Monetary System.
The fund will only purchase or write currency options when the Adviser believes
that a liquid secondary market exists for such options. There can be no
assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for a particular option at
any specified time. Currency options are affected by all of those factors which
influence exchange rates and investments generally. To the extent that these
options are traded over the counter, they are considered to be illiquid by the
SEC staff.
The value of any currency, including the U.S. dollars, may be affected by
complex political and economic factors applicable to the issuing country. In
addition, the exchange rates of currencies (and therefore the values of currency
options) may be significantly affected, fixed, or supported directly or
indirectly by government actions. Government intervention may increase risks
involved in purchasing or selling currency options, since exchange rates may not
be free to fluctuate in respect to other market forces.
The value of a currency option reflects the value of an exchange rate, which in
turn reflects relative values of two currencies, the U.S. dollar and the foreign
currency in question. Because currency transactions occurring in the interbank
market involve substantially larger amounts than those that may be involved in
the exercise of currency options, investors may be disadvantaged by having to
deal in an odd lot market for the underlying currencies in connection with
options at prices that are less favorable than for round lots. Foreign
governmental restrictions or taxes could result in adverse changes in the cost
of acquiring or disposing of currencies.
There is no systematic reporting of last sale information for currencies and
there is no regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or
other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis. Available quotation
information is generally representative of very large round-lot transactions in
the interbank market and thus may not reflect exchange rates for smaller odd-lot
transactions (less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable. The
interbank market in currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the
extent that options markets are closed while the markets for the underlying
currencies remain open, significant price and rate movements may take place in
the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the options markets.
Settlement procedures. Settlement procedures relating to the fund's investments
in foreign securities and to the fund's foreign currency exchange transactions
may be more complex than settlements with respect to investments in debt or
equity securities of U.S. issuers, and may involve certain risks not present in
the fund's domestic investments, including foreign currency risks and local
custom and usage. Foreign currency transactions may also involve the risk that
an entity involved in the settlement may not meet its obligations.
Foreign currency conversion. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a
fee for currency conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference
(spread) between 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. Foreign currency transactions may also involve the risk
that an entity involved in the settlement may not meet its obligation.
9
<PAGE>
Municipal Lease Obligations
Although a municipal lease obligation does not constitute a general obligation
of the municipality for which the municipality's taxing power is pledged, a
municipal lease obligation is ordinarily backed by the municipality's covenant
to budget for, appropriate and make the payments due under the municipal lease
obligation. However, certain lease obligations contain "non-appropriation"
clauses which provide that the municipality has no obligation to make lease or
installment purchase payments in future years unless money is appropriated for
such purpose on a yearly basis. Although "non-appropriation" lease obligations
are secured by the leased property, disposition of the property in the event of
foreclosure might prove difficult. In addition, the tax treatment of such
obligations in the event of non-appropriation is unclear.
Determinations concerning the liquidity and appropriate valuation of a municipal
lease obligation, as with any other municipal security, are made based on all
relevant factors. These factors include, among others: (1) the frequency of
trades and quotes for the obligation; (2) the number of dealers willing to
purchase or sell the security and the number of other potential buyers; (3) the
willingness of dealers to undertake to make a market in the security; and (4)
the nature of the marketplace trades, including the time needed to dispose of
the security, the method of soliciting offers, and the mechanics of the
transfer.
Participation Interests
The fund may invest in municipal obligations either by purchasing them directly
or by purchasing certificates of accrual or similar instruments evidencing
direct ownership of interest payments or principal payments, or both, on
municipal obligations, provided that, in the opinion of counsel to the initial
seller of each such certificate or instrument, any discount accruing on such
certificate or instrument that is purchased at a yield not greater than the
coupon rate of interest on the related municipal obligations will be exempt from
federal income tax to the same extent as interest on such municipal obligations.
The fund may also invest in tax-exempt obligations by purchasing from banks
participation interests in all or part of specific holdings of municipal
obligations. Such participations may be backed in whole or part by an
irrevocable letter of credit or guarantee of the selling bank. The selling bank
may receive a fee from the fund in connection with the arrangement. The fund
will not purchase such participation interests unless it receives an opinion of
counsel or a ruling of the Internal Revenue Service that interest earned by it
on municipal obligations in which it holds such participation interests is
exempt from federal income tax.
Stand-by Commitments
When the fund purchases municipal obligations it may also acquire stand-by
commitments from banks and broker-dealers with respect to such municipal
obligations. A stand-by commitment is the equivalent of a put option acquired by
the fund with respect to a particular municipal obligation held in its
portfolio. A stand-by commitment is a security independent of the municipal
obligation to which it relates. The amount payable by a bank or dealer during
the time a stand-by commitment is exercisable, absent unusual circumstances
relating to a change in market value, would be substantially the same as the
value of the underlying municipal obligation. A stand-by commitment might not be
transferable by the fund, although it could sell the underlying municipal
obligation to a third party at any time.
The fund expects that stand-by commitments generally will be available without
the payment of direct or indirect consideration. However, if necessary and
advisable, the fund may pay for stand-by commitments either separately in cash
or by paying a higher price for portfolio securities which are acquired subject
to such a commitment (thus reducing the yield to maturity otherwise available
for the same securities.) The total amount paid in either manner for outstanding
stand-by commitments held in the fund portfolio will not exceed 10% of the value
of the fund's total assets calculated immediately after each stand-by commitment
is acquired. The fund will enter into stand-by commitments only with banks and
broker-dealers that, in the judgment of the Trust's Board of Trustees, present
minimal credit risks.
Inverse Floaters
Inverse floaters are derivative securities whose interest rates vary inversely
to changes in short-term interest rates and whose values fluctuate inversely to
changes in long-term interest rates. The value of certain inverse floaters will
fluctuate substantially more in response to a given change in long-term rates
than would a traditional debt security. These securities have investment
characteristics similar to leverage, in that interest rate changes have a
magnified effect on the value of inverse floaters.
Rule 144A Securities
The fund may purchase securities that have been privately placed but that are
eligible for purchase and sale under Rule 144A under the 1933 Act. That Rule
permits certain qualified institutional buyers, such as the fund, to trade in
privately placed securities that have not been registered for sale under the
1933 Act. The Adviser, under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, will
consider whether securities purchased under Rule 144A are illiquid and thus
subject to the fund's investment restriction on illiquid securities. A
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<PAGE>
determination of whether a Rule 144A security is liquid or not is a question of
fact. In making this determination, the Adviser will consider the trading
markets for the specific security, taking into account the unregistered nature
of a Rule 144A security. In addition, the Adviser could consider the (1)
frequency of trades and quotes, (2) number of dealers and potential purchasers,
(3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) nature of the security and of
marketplace trades (e.g., the time needed to dispose of the security, the method
of soliciting offers, and the mechanics of transfer). The liquidity of Rule 144A
securities would be monitored and, if as a result of changed conditions, it is
determined by the Adviser that a Rule 144A security is no longer liquid, the
fund's holdings of illiquid securities would be reviewed to determine what, if
any, steps are required to assure that the fund does not invest more than its
investment restriction on illiquid securities allows. Investing in Rule 144A
securities could have the effect of increasing the amount of the fund's assets
invested in illiquid securities if qualified institutional buyers are unwilling
to purchase such securities.
TAXES
All discussions of taxation at the shareholder level relate to federal taxes
only. Consult your tax adviser for state and local tax considerations and for
information about special tax considerations that may apply to shareholders that
are not natural persons.
Dividends Received Deductions. Distributions will qualify for the corporate
dividends received deduction only to the extent that dividends earned by the
fund qualify. Any such dividends are, however, includable in adjusted current
earnings for purposes of computing corporate alternative minimum tax (AMT).
Return of Capital Distributions. To the extent that a distribution is a return
of capital for federal tax purposes, it reduces the cost basis of the shares on
the record date and is similar to a partial return of the original investment
(on which a sales charge may have been paid). There is no recognition of a gain
or loss, however, unless the return of capital reduces the cost basis in the
shares to below zero.
Funds that invest in U.S. Government Securities. Many states grant tax-free
status to dividends paid to shareholders of mutual funds from interest income
earned by the fund from direct obligations of the U.S. government. Investments
in mortgage-backed securities (including GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC Securities) and
repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not
qualify as direct federal obligations in most states. Shareholders should
consult with their own tax advisers about the applicability of state and local
intangible property, income or other taxes to their fund shares and
distributions and redemption proceeds received from the fund.
Distributions from Tax-Exempt Funds. Each tax-exempt fund will have at least 50%
of its total assets invested in tax-exempt bonds at the end of each quarter so
that dividends from net interest income on tax-exempt bonds will be exempt from
Federal income tax when received by a shareholder. The tax-exempt portion of
dividends paid will be designated within 60 days after year-end based upon the
ratio of net tax-exempt income to total net investment income earned during the
year. That ratio may be substantially different from the ratio of net tax-exempt
income to total net investment income earned during any particular portion of
the year. Thus, a shareholder who holds shares for only a part of the year may
be allocated more or less tax-exempt dividends than would be the case if the
allocation were based on the ratio of net tax-exempt income to total net
investment income actually earned while a shareholder.
The Tax Reform Act of 1986 makes income from certain "private activity bonds"
issued after August 7, 1986, a tax preference item for the AMT at the maximum
rate of 28% for individuals and 20% for corporations. If the fund invests in
private activity bonds, shareholders may be subject to the AMT on that part of
the distributions derived from interest income on such bonds. Other provisions
of the Tax Reform Act affect the tax treatment of distributions for
corporations, casualty insurance companies and financial institutions; interest
on all tax-exempt bonds is included in corporate adjusted current earnings when
computing the AMT applicable to corporations. Seventy-five percent of the excess
of adjusted current earnings over the amount of income otherwise subject to the
AMT is included in a corporation's alternative minimum taxable income.
Dividends derived from any investments other than tax-exempt bonds and any
distributions of short-term capital gains are taxable to shareholders as
ordinary income. Any distributions of net long-term gains will in general be
taxable to shareholders as long-term capital gains regardless of the length of
time fund shares are held.
Shareholders receiving social security and certain retirement benefits may be
taxed on a portion of those benefits as a result of receiving tax-exempt income,
including tax-exempt dividends from the fund.
Special Tax Rules Applicable to Tax-Exempt Funds. Income distributions to
shareholders who are substantial users or related persons of substantial users
of facilities financed by industrial revenue bonds may not be excludable from
their gross income if such income is derived from such bonds. Income derived
from the fund's investments other than tax-exempt instruments may give rise to
taxable income. The fund's shares must be held for more than six months in order
to avoid the disallowance of a capital loss on the sale
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<PAGE>
of fund shares to the extent of tax-exempt dividends paid during that period. A
shareholder who borrows money to purchase the fund's shares will not be able to
deduct the interest paid with respect to such borrowed money.
Sales of Shares. In general, any gain or loss realized upon a taxable
disposition of shares by a shareholder will be treated as long-term capital gain
or loss if the shares have been held for more than twelve months, and otherwise
as short-term capital gain or loss assuming such shares are held as a capital
asset. However, any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of shares held for
six months or less will be treated as long-term, rather than short-term, capital
loss to the extent of any long-term capital gain distributions received by the
shareholder with respect to those shares. All or a portion of any loss realized
upon a taxable disposition of shares will be disallowed if other shares are
purchased within 30 days before or after the disposition. In such a case, the
basis of the newly purchased shares will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed
loss.
Backup Withholding. Certain distributions and redemptions may be subject to a
31% backup withholding unless a taxpayer identification number and certification
that the shareholder is not subject to the withholding is provided to the fund.
This number and form may be provided by either a Form W-9 or the accompanying
application. In certain instances, CISC may be notified by the Internal Revenue
Service that a shareholder is subject to backup withholding.
Excise Tax. To the extent that the Fund does not annually distribute
substantially all taxable income and realized gains, it is subject to an excise
tax. The Adviser intends to avoid this tax except when the cost of processing
the distribution is greater than the tax.
Tax Accounting Principles. To qualify as a "regulated investment company," the
fund must (a) derive at least 90% of its gross income from dividends, interest,
payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other
disposition of securities 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)
derive less than 30% of its gross income from the sale or other disposition of
certain assets held less than three months; (c) diversify its holdings so that,
at the close of each quarter of its taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the value
of its total assets consists of cash, cash items, U.S. Government securities,
and other securities limited generally with respect to any one issuer to not
more than 5% of the total assets of the fund and not more than 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 issuer (other than U.S.
Government securities).
Futures Contracts. Accounting for futures contracts will be in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. The amount of any realized gain or
loss on the closing out of a futures contract will result in a capital gain or
loss for tax purposes. In addition, certain futures contracts held by the fund
(so-called "Section 1256 contracts") will be required to be "marked-to-market"
(deemed sold) for federal income tax purposes at the end of each fiscal year.
Sixty percent of any net gain or loss recognized on such deemed sales or on
actual sales will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss, and the
remainder will be treated as short-term capital gain or loss.
However, if a futures contract is part of a "mixed straddle" (i.e., a straddle
comprised in part of Section 1256 contracts), a fund may be able to make an
election which will affect the character arising from such contracts as
long-term or short-term and the timing of the recognition of such gains or
losses. In any event, the straddle provisions described below will be applicable
to such mixed straddles.
Special Tax Rules Applicable to "Straddles". The straddle provisions of the Code
may affect the taxation of the fund's options and futures transactions and
transactions in securities to which they relate. A "straddle" is made up of two
or more offsetting positions in "personal property," including debt securities,
related options and futures, equity securities, related index futures and, in
certain circumstances, options relating to equity securities, and foreign
currencies and related options and futures.
The straddle rules may operate to defer losses realized or deemed realized on
the disposition of a position in a straddle, may suspend or terminate the fund's
holding period in such positions, and may convert short-term losses to long-term
losses in certain circumstances.
Foreign Currency-Denominated Securities and Related Hedging Transactions. The
fund's transactions in foreign currency-denominated debt securities, certain
foreign currency options, futures contracts and forward contracts may give rise
to ordinary income or loss to the extent such income or loss results from
fluctuations in the value of the foreign currency concerned.
If more than 50% of the fund's total assets at the end of its fiscal year are
invested in securities of foreign corporate issuers, the fund may make an
election permitting its shareholders to take a deduction or credit for federal
tax purposes for their portion of certain foreign taxes paid by the fund. The
Adviser will consider the value of the benefit to a typical shareholder, the
cost to the fund of compliance with the election, and incidental costs to
shareholders in deciding whether to make the election. A shareholder's ability
to claim such a foreign tax credit will be subject to certain limitations
imposed by the Code, as a result of which a shareholder may not get a full
credit for the amount of foreign taxes so paid by the fund. Shareholders who do
not itemize on their federal income tax returns may claim a credit (but no
deduction) for such foreign taxes.
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Certain securities are considered to be Passive Foreign Investment Companies
(PFICS) under the Code, and the fund is liable for any PFIC-related taxes.
MANAGEMENT OF THE COLONIAL FUNDS (in this section, and the following sections
entitled "Trustees and Officers," "The Management Agreement," "Administration
Agreement," "The Pricing and Bookkeeping Agreement," "Portfolio Transactions,"
"Investment decisions," and "Brokerage and research services," the "Adviser"
refers to Colonial Management Associates, Inc.)
The Adviser is the investment adviser to each of the Colonial funds (except for
Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund, Colonial Global Utilities Fund, Colonial
Newport Tiger Fund, Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund and Colonial Newport Japan
Fund-see Part I of each Fund's respective SAI for a description of the
investment adviser). The Adviser is a subsidiary of The Colonial Group, Inc.
(TCG), One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111. TCG is a direct subsidiary of
Liberty Financial Companies, Inc. (Liberty Financial), which in turn is a direct
subsidiary of LFC Holdings, Inc., which in turn is a direct subsidiary of
Liberty Mutual Equity Corporation, which in turn is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Liberty Mutual Insurance Company (Liberty Mutual). Liberty Mutual is an
underwriter of workers' compensation insurance and a property and casualty
insurer in the U.S. Liberty Financial's address is 600 Atlantic Avenue, Boston,
MA 02210. Liberty Mutual's address is 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02117.
Trustees and Officers (this section applies to all of the Colonial funds)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address Age Position with Fund Principal Occupation
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Robert J. Birnbaum 69 Trustee Retired (formerly Special Counsel, Dechert Price & Rhoads
313 Bedford Road from September, 1988 to December, 1993).
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Tom Bleasdale 66 Trustee Retired (formerly Chairman of the Board and Chief
102 Clubhouse Drive #275 Executive Officer, Shore Bank & Trust Company from
Naples, FL 34105 1992-1993), is a Director of The Empire Company since
June, 1995.
Lora S. Collins 61 Trustee Attorney (formerly Attorney, Kramer, Levin, Naftalis,
1175 Hill Road Nessen, Kamin & Frankel from September, 1986 to
Southold, NY 11971 November, 1996).
James E. Grinnell 67 Trustee Private Investor since November, 1988.
22 Harbor Avenue
Marblehead, MA 01945
William D. Ireland, Jr. 73 Trustee Retired, is a Trustee of certain charitable and
103 Springline Drive non-charitable organizations since February, 1990.
Vero Beach, FL 32963
Richard W. Lowry 60 Trustee Private Investor since August, 1987.
10701 Charleston Drive
Vero Beach, FL 32963
William E. Mayer* 56 Trustee Partner, Development Capital, LLC (formerly Dean, College
500 Park Avenue, 5th Floor of Business and Management, University of Maryland from
New York, NY 10022 October, 1992 to November, 1996, Dean, Simon Graduate
School of Business, University of Rochester from
October, 1991 to July, 1992).
James L. Moody, Jr. 65 Trustee Chairman of the Board and Director, Hannaford Bros. Co.
P.O. Box 1000 since May, 1984 (formerly Chief Executive Officer,
Portland, ME 04104 Hannaford Bros. Co. from May, 1973 to May, 1992).
John J. Neuhauser 53 Trustee Dean, Boston College School of Management since 1978.
140 Commonwealth Avenue
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<PAGE>
Chestnut Hill, MA 02167
George L. Shinn 73 Trustee Financial Consultant since 1989.
Credit Suisse First Boston
Corp.
Eleven Madison Avenue, 25th
Floor
New York, NY 10010-3629
Robert L. Sullivan 69 Trustee Retired Partner, Peat Marwick Main & Co.
7121 Natelli Woods Lane
Bethesda, MD 20817
Sinclair Weeks, Jr. 73 Trustee Chairman of the Board, Reed & Barton Corporation since
Bay Colony Corporate Ctr. 1987.
Suite 4550
1000 Winter Street
Waltham, MA 02154
Harold W. Cogger 61 President President of Colonial funds since March, 1996 (formerly
(formerly Vice Vice President from July, 1993 to March, 1996); is
President) Director, since March, 1984 and Chairman of the Board
since March, 1996 of the Adviser (formerly President
from July, 1993 to December, 1996, Chief Executive Officer
from March, 1995 to December, 1996 and Executive
Vice President from October, 1989 to July, 1993); Director since
October, 1991 and Chairman of the Board since March, 1996 of
TCG (formerly President from October, 1994 to December, 1996
and Chief Executive Officer from March, 1995 to December,
1996); Executive Vice President and Director since March,
1995, Liberty Financial; Director since November, 1996
of Stein Roe & Farnham Incorporated.
Timothy J. Jacoby 44 Treasurer and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of Colonial funds
Chief Financial since October, 1996, is Senior Vice President of the
Officer Adviser since September, 1996 (formerly Senior Vice
President, Fidelity Accounting and Custody Services
from September, 1993 to September, 1996 and Assistant
Treasurer to the Fidelity Group of Funds from August,
1990 to September, 1993).
Peter L. Lydecker 43 Chief Accounting Chief Accounting Officer and Controller of Colonial
Officer and funds since June, 1993 (formerly Assistant Controller
Controller from March, 1985 to June, 1993); is Vice President of
(formerly the Adviser since June, 1993 (formerly Assistant Vice
Assistant President of the Adviser from August, 1988 to June,
Controller) 1993).
Davey S. Scoon 50 Vice President Vice President of Colonial funds since June, 1993, is
Executive Vice President since July, 1993 and Director
since March, 1985 of the Adviser (formerly Senior Vice
President and Treasurer of the Adviser from March, 1985
to July, 1993); Executive Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer, TCG since March, 1995 (formerly Vice
President - Finance and
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Administration of TCG from November, 1985 to March, 1995).
Arthur O. Stern 58 Secretary Secretary of Colonial funds since 1985, is Director
since 1985, Executive Vice President since July, 1993,
General Counsel, Clerk and Secretary since March, 1985
of the Adviser; Executive Vice President, Legal since
March, 1995 and Clerk since March, 1985 of TCG
(formerly Executive Vice President, Compliance from
March, 1995 to March, 1996 and Vice President - Legal
of TCG from March, 1985 to March, 1995).
* A Trustee who is an "interested person" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940) of the fund or the
Adviser.
</TABLE>
The address of the officers of each Colonial Fund is One Financial Center,
Boston, MA 02111.
The Trustees serve as trustees of all Colonial funds for which each Trustee will
receive an annual retainer of $45,000 and attendance fees of $7,500 for each
regular joint meeting and $1,000 for each special joint meeting. Committee
chairs receive an annual retainer of $5,000. Committee members receive an annual
retainer of $1,000 and $1,000 for each special meeting attended. Two-thirds of
the Trustee fees are allocated among the Colonial funds based on each fund's
relative net assets and one-third of the fees are divided equally among the
Colonial funds.
The Adviser and/or its affiliate, Colonial Advisory Services, Inc. (CASI), has
rendered investment advisory services to investment company, institutional and
other clients since 1931. The Adviser currently serves as investment adviser and
administrator for 38 open-end and 5 closed-end management investment company
portfolios, and is the administrator for 5 open-end management investment
company portfolios (collectively, Colonial funds). Trustees and officers of the
Trust, who are also officers of the Adviser or its affiliates, will benefit from
the advisory fees, sales commissions and agency fees paid or allowed by the
Trust. More than 30,000 financial advisers have recommended Colonial funds to
over 800,000 clients worldwide, representing more than $16.3. billion in assets.
The Agreement and Declaration of Trust (Declaration) of the Trust provides that
the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and
expenses incurred in connection with litigation in which they may be involved
because of their offices with the Trust but that such indemnification will not
relieve any officer or Trustee of any liability to the Trust or its shareholders
by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless
disregard of his or her duties. The Trust, at its expense, provides liability
insurance for the benefit of its Trustees and officers.
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The Management Agreement (this section does not apply to the Colonial Municipal
Money Market Fund, Colonial Global Utilities Fund, Colonial Newport Tiger Fund,
Colonial Newport Japan Fund or Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund)
Under a Management Agreement (Agreement), the Adviser has contracted to furnish
each fund with investment research and recommendations or fund management,
respectively, and accounting and administrative personnel and services, and with
office space, equipment and other facilities. For these services and facilities,
each Colonial fund pays a monthly fee based on the average of the daily closing
value of the total net assets of each fund for such month. Under the Agreement,
any liability of the Adviser to the Trust, fund and its shareholders is limited
to situations involving the Adviser's own willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross
negligence or reckless disregard of its duties.
The Agreement may be terminated with respect to the fund at any time on 60 days'
written notice by the Adviser or by the Trustees of the Trust or by a vote of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the fund. The Agreement will
automatically terminate upon any assignment thereof and shall continue in effect
from year to year only so long as such continuance is approved at least annually
(i) by the Trustees of the Trust or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding
voting securities of the fund and (ii) by vote of a majority of the Trustees who
are not interested persons (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) of the
Adviser or the Trust, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of
voting on such approval.
The Adviser pays all salaries of officers of the Trust. The Trust pays all
expenses not assumed by the Adviser including, but not limited to, auditing,
legal, custodial, investor servicing and shareholder reporting expenses. The
Trust pays the cost of printing and mailing any Prospectuses sent to
shareholders. CISI pays the cost of printing and distributing all other
Prospectuses.
Administration Agreement (this section applies only to the Colonial Municipal
Money Market Fund, Colonial Global Utilities Fund, Colonial Newport Tiger Fund,
Colonial Newport Japan Fund and Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund and their
respective Trusts).
Under an Administration Agreement with each Fund, the Adviser, in its capacity
as the Administrator to each Fund, has contracted to perform the following
administrative services:
(a) providing office space, equipment and clerical personnel;
(b) arranging, if desired by the respective Trust, for its
Directors, officers and employees to serve as Trustees,
officers or agents of each Fund;
(c) preparing and, if applicable, filing all documents
required for compliance by each Fund with applicable laws
and regulations;
(d) preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and
minutes of meetings of Trustees, committees of Trustees
and shareholders;
(e) coordinating and overseeing the activities of each Fund's
other third-party service providers; and
(f) maintaining certain books and records of each Fund.
With respect to the Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund, the Administration
Agreement for this Fund provides for the following services in addition to the
services referenced above:
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(g) monitoring compliance by the Fund with Rule 2a-7 under the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act") and
reporting to the Trustees from time to time with respect
thereto; and
(h) monitoring the investments and operations of the SR&F
Municipal Money Market Portfolio (Municipal Money Market
Portfolio) in which Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund
is invested and the LFC Utilities Trust (LFC Portfolio)
in which Colonial Global Utilities Trust is invested and
reporting to the Trustees from time to time with respect
thereto.
The Adviser is paid a monthly fee at the annual rate of average daily net assets
set forth in Part 1 of this Statement of Additional Information.
The Pricing and Bookkeeping Agreement
The Adviser provides pricing and bookkeeping services to each Colonial fund
pursuant to a Pricing and Bookkeeping Agreement. The Adviser, in its capacity
as the Administrator to each of Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund and
Colonial Global Utilities Fund, is paid an annual fee of $18,000, plus 0.0233%
of average daily net assetsin excess of $50 million. For each of the other
Colonial funds (except for Colonial Newport Tiger Fund, Colonial Newport Japan
Fund and Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund), the Adviser is paid monthly a fee of
$2,250 by each fund, plus a monthly percentage fee based on net assets of the
fund equal to the following:
1/12 of 0.000% of the first $50 million;
1/12 of 0.035% of the next $950 million;
1/12 of 0.025% of the next $1 billion;
1/12 of 0.015% of the next $1 billion; and
1/12 of 0.001% on the excess over $3 billion
The Adviser provides pricing and bookkeeping services to Colonial Newport Tiger
Fund, Colonial Newport Japan Fund andColonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund for an
annual fee of $27,000, plus 0.035% of each Fund's average daily net assets over
$50 million.
Stein Roe & Farnham Incorporated, the investment adviser of each of the
Municipal Money Market Portfolio and LFC Portfolio, provides pricing and
bookkeeping services to each Portfolio for a fee of $25,000 plus 0.0025%
annually of average daily net assets of each Portfolio over $50 million.
Portfolio Transactions
The following sections entitled "Investment decisions" and "Brokerage and
research services" do not apply to Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund, and
Colonial Global Utilities Fund. For each of these funds, see Part 1 of its
respective SAI. The Adviser of Colonial Newport Tiger Fund, Colonial Newport
Japan Fund and Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund follows the same procedures as
those set forth under "Brokerage and research services."
Investment decisions. The Adviser acts as investment adviser to each of the
Colonial funds (except for the Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund, Colonial
Global Utilities Fund, Colonial Newport Tiger Fund, Colonial Newport Japan Fund
and Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund, each of which is administered by the
Adviser. The Adviser's affiliate, CASI, advises other institutional, corporate,
fiduciary and individual clients for which CASI performs various services.
Various officers and Trustees of the Trust also serve as officers or Trustees of
other Colonial funds and the other corporate or fiduciary clients of the
Adviser. The Colonial funds and clients advised by the Adviser or the funds
administered by the Adviser sometimes invest in securities in which the Fund
also invests and sometimes engage in covered option writing programs and enter
into transactions utilizing stock index options and stock index and financial
futures and related options ("other instruments"). If the Fund, such other
Colonial funds and such other clients desire to buy or sell the same portfolio
securities, options or other instruments at about the same time, the purchases
and sales are normally made as nearly as practicable on a pro rata basis in
proportion to the amounts desired to be purchased or sold by each. Although in
some cases these practices could have a detrimental effect on the price or
volume of the securities, options or other instruments as far as the Fund is
concerned, in most cases it is believed that these practices should produce
better executions. It is the opinion of the Trustees that the desirability of
retaining the Adviser as investment adviser to the Colonial funds outweighs the
disadvantages, if any, which might result from these practices.
The portfolio managers of Colonial International Fund for Growth, a series of
Colonial Trust III, will use the trading facilities of Stein Roe & Farnham
Incorporated, an affiliate of the Adviser, to place all orders for the purchase
and sale of this fund's portfolio securities, futures contracts and foreign
currencies.
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Brokerage and research services. Consistent with the Rules of Fair Practice of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., and subject to seeking
"best execution" (as defined below) and such other policies as the Trustees may
determine, the Adviser may consider sales of shares of the Colonial funds as a
factor in the selection of broker-dealers to execute securities transactions for
a Colonial fund.
The Adviser places the transactions of the Colonial funds with broker-dealers
selected by the Adviser and, if applicable, negotiates commissions.
Broker-dealers may receive brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions,
including the purchase and writing of options, the effecting of closing purchase
and sale transactions, and the purchase and sale of underlying securities upon
the exercise of options and the purchase or sale of other instruments. The
Colonial funds from time to time also execute portfolio transactions with such
broker-dealers acting as principals. The Colonial funds do not intend to deal
exclusively with any particular broker-dealer or group of broker-dealers.
It is the Adviser's policy generally to seek best execution, which is to place
the Colonial funds' transactions where the Colonial funds can obtain the most
favorable combination of price and execution services in particular transactions
or provided on a continuing basis by a broker-dealer, and to deal directly with
a principal market maker in connection with over-the-counter transactions,
except when it is believed that best execution is obtainable elsewhere. In
evaluating the execution services of, including the overall reasonableness of
brokerage commissions paid to, a broker-dealer, consideration is given to, among
other things, the firm's general execution and operational capabilities, and to
its reliability, integrity and financial condition.
Securities transactions of the Colonial funds may be executed by broker-dealers
who also provide research services (as defined below) to the Adviser and the
Colonial funds. The Adviser may use all, some or none of such research services
in providing investment advisory services to each of its investment company and
other clients, including the fund. To the extent that such services are used by
the Adviser, they tend to reduce the Adviser's expenses. In the Adviser's
opinion, it is impossible to assign an exact dollar value for such services.
The Trustees have authorized the Adviser to cause the Colonial funds to pay a
broker-dealer which provides brokerage and research services to the Adviser an
amount of commission for effecting a securities transaction, including the sale
of an option or a closing purchase transaction, for the Colonial funds in excess
of the amount of commission which another broker-dealer would have charged for
effecting that transaction. As provided in Section 28(e) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, "brokerage and research services" include advice as to the
value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling
securities and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of
securities; furnishing analyses and reports concerning issues, industries,
securities, economic factors and trends and portfolio strategy and performance
of accounts; and effecting securities transactions and performing functions
incidental thereto (such as clearance and settlement). The Adviser must
determine in good faith that such greater commission is reasonable in relation
to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by the executing
broker-dealer viewed in terms of that particular transaction or the Adviser's
overall responsibilities to the Colonial funds and all its other clients.
The Trustees have authorized the Adviser to utilize the services of a clearing
agent with respect to all call options written by Colonial funds that write
options and to pay such clearing agent commissions of a fixed amount per share
(currently 1.25 cents) on the sale of the underlying security upon the exercise
of an option written by a fund.
Principal Underwriter
CISI is the principal underwriter of the Trust's shares. CISI has no obligation
to buy the Colonial funds' shares, and purchases the Colonial funds' shares only
upon receipt of orders from authorized FSFs or investors.
Investor Servicing and Transfer Agent
CISC is the Trust's investor servicing agent (transfer, plan and dividend
disbursing agent), for which it receives fees which are paid monthly by the
Trust. The fee paid to CISC is based on the average daily net assets of each
Colonial fund plus reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses. See "Fund
Charges and Expenses" in Part 1 of this SAI for information on fees received by
CISC. The agreement continues indefinitely but may be terminated by 90 days'
notice by the Fund to CISC or generally by 6 months' notice by CISC to the Fund.
The agreement limits the liability of CISC to the Fund for loss or damage
incurred by the Fund to situations involving a failure of CISC to use reasonable
care or to act in good faith in performing its duties under the agreement. It
also provides that the Fund will indemnify CISC against, among other
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things, loss or damage incurred by CISC on account of any claim, demand, action
or suit made on or against CISC not resulting from CISC's bad faith or
negligence and arising out of, or in connection with, its duties under the
agreement.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
Each Colonial fund determines net asset value (NAV) per share for each Class as
of the close of the New York Stock Exchange (Exchange) (generally 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time, 3:00 p.m. Chicago time) each day the Exchange is open. Currently,
the Exchange is closed Saturdays, Sundays and the following holidays: New Year's
Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day,
Thanksgiving and Christmas. Funds with portfolio securities which are primarily
listed on foreign exchanges may experience trading and changes in NAV on days on
which such Fund does not determine NAV due to differences in closing policies
among exchanges. This may significantly affect the NAV of the Fund's redeemable
securities on days when an investor cannot redeem such securities. The net asset
value of the Municipal Money Market Portfolio will not be determined on days
when the Exchange is closed unless, in the judgment of the Municipal Money
Market Portfolio's Board of Trustees, the net asset value of the Municipal Money
Market Portfolio should be determined on any such day, in which case the
determination will be made at 3:00 p.m., Chicago time. Debt securities generally
are valued by a pricing service which determines valuations based upon market
transactions for normal, institutional-size trading units of similar securities.
However, in circumstances where such prices are not available or where the
Adviser deems it appropriate to do so, an over-the-counter or exchange bid
quotation is used. Securities listed on an exchange or on NASDAQ are valued at
the last sale price. Listed securities for which there were no sales during the
day and unlisted securities are valued at the last quoted bid price. Options are
valued at the last sale price or in the absence of a sale, the mean between the
last quoted bid and offering prices. Short-term obligations with a maturity of
60 days or less are valued at amortized cost pursuant to procedures adopted by
the Trustees. The values of foreign securities quoted in foreign currencies are
translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate for that day. Portfolio
positions for which there are no such valuations and other assets are valued at
fair value as determined by the Adviser in good faith under the direction of the
Trust's Trustees.
Generally, trading in certain securities (such as foreign securities) is
substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the
Exchange. Trading on certain foreign securities markets may not take place on
all business days in New York, and trading on some foreign securities markets
takes place on days which are not business days in New York and on which the
Fund's NAV is not calculated. The values of these securities used in determining
the NAV are computed as of such times. Also, because of the amount of time
required to collect and process trading information as to large numbers of
securities issues, the values of certain securities (such as convertible bonds,
U.S. government securities, and tax-exempt securities) are determined based on
market quotations collected earlier in the day at the latest practicable time
prior to the close of the Exchange. Occasionally, events affecting the value of
such securities may occur between such times and the close of the Exchange which
will not be reflected in the computation of each Colonial fund's NAV. If events
materially affecting the value of such securities occur during such period, then
these securities will be valued at their fair value following procedures
approved by the Trust's Trustees.
(The following two paragraphs are applicable only to Colonial Newport Tiger
Fund, Colonial Newport Japan Fund and Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund- "Adviser"
in these two paragraphs refers to each fund's Adviser, Newport Fund Management,
Inc.)
Trading in securities on stock exchanges and over-the-counter markets in the Far
East is normally completed well before the close of the business day in New
York. Trading on Far Eastern securities markets may not take place on all
business days in New York, and trading on some Far Eastern securities markets
does take place on days which are not business days in New York and on which the
Fund's NAV is not calculated.
The calculation of the Fund's NAV accordingly may not take place
contemporaneously with the determination of the prices of the Fund's portfolio
securities used in such calculations. Events affecting the values of portfolio
securities that occur between the time their prices are determined and the close
of the Exchange (when the Fund's NAV is calculated) will not be reflected in the
Fund's calculation of NAV unless the Adviser, acting under procedures
established by the Board of Trustees of the Trust, deems that the particular
event would materially affect the Fund's NAV, in which case an adjustment will
be made. Assets or liabilities initially expressed in terms of foreign
currencies are translated prior to the next determination of the NAV of the
Fund's shares into U.S. dollars at prevailing market rates.
Amortized Cost for Money Market Funds (this section currently applies only to
Colonial Government Money Market Fund, a series of Colonial Trust II - see
"Amortized Cost for Money Market Funds" under "Other Information Concerning the
Portfolio" in Part 1 of the SAI of Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund for
information relating to the Municipal Money Market Portfolio)
Money market funds generally value their portfolio securities at amortized cost
according to Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act.
Portfolio instruments are valued under the amortized cost method, whereby the
instrument is recorded at cost and thereafter amortized to maturity. This method
assures a constant NAV but may result in a yield different from that of the same
portfolio under the market value method. The Trust's Trustees have adopted
procedures intended to stabilize a money market fund's NAV per share at $1.00.
When a money market fund's market value deviates from the amortized cost of
$1.00, and results in a material dilution to existing
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shareholders, the Trust's Trustees will take corrective action that may include:
realizing gains or losses; shortening the portfolio's maturity; withholding
distributions; redeeming shares in kind; or converting to the market value
method (in which case the NAV per share may differ from $1.00). All investments
will be determined pursuant to procedures approved by the Trust's Trustees to
present minimal credit risk.
See the Statement of Assets and Liabilities in the shareholder report of the
Colonial Government Money Market Fund for a specimen price sheet showing the
computation of maximum offering price per share of Class A shares.
HOW TO BUY SHARES
The Prospectus contains a general description of how investors may buy shares of
the Fund and tables of charges. This SAI contains additional information which
may be of interest to investors.
The Fund will accept unconditional orders for shares to be executed at the
public offering price based on the NAV per share next determined after the order
is placed in good order. The public offering price is the NAV plus the
applicable sales charge, if any. In the case of orders for purchase of shares
placed through FSFs, the public offering price will be determined on the day the
order is placed in good order, but only if the FSF receives the order prior to
the time at which shares are valued and transmits it to the Fund before the Fund
processes that day's transactions. If the FSF fails to transmit before the Fund
processes that day's transactions, the customer's entitlement to that day's
closing price must be settled between the customer and the FSF. If the FSF
receives the order after the time at which the Fund values its shares, the price
will be based on the NAV determined as of the close of the Exchange on the next
day it is open. If funds for the purchase of shares are sent directly to CISC,
they will be invested at the public offering price next determined after receipt
in good order. Payment for shares of the Fund must be in U.S. dollars; if made
by check, the check must be drawn on a U.S. bank.
The Fund receives the entire NAV of shares sold. For shares subject to an
initial sales charge, CISI's commission is the sales charge shown in the Fund's
Prospectus less any applicable FSF discount. The FSF discount is the same for
all FSFs, except that CISI retains the entire sales charge on any sales made to
a shareholder who does not specify a FSF on the Investment Account Application
("Application"). CISI generally retains 100% of any asset-based sales charge
(distribution fee) or contingent deferred sales charge. Such charges generally
reimburse CISI for any up-front and/or ongoing commissions paid to FSFs.
Checks presented for the purchase of shares of the Fund which are returned by
the purchaser's bank or checkwriting privilege checks for which there are
insufficient funds in a shareholder's account to cover redemption will subject
such purchaser or shareholder to a $15 service fee for each check returned.
Checks must be drawn on a U.S. bank and must be payable in U.S. dollars.
CISC acts as the shareholder's agent whenever it receives instructions to carry
out a transaction on the shareholder's account. Upon receipt of instructions
that shares are to be purchased for a shareholder's account, the designated FSF
will receive the applicable sales commission. Shareholders may change FSFs at
any time by written notice to CISC, provided the new FSF has a sales agreement
with CISI.
Shares credited to an account are transferable upon written instructions in good
order to CISC and may be redeemed as described under "How to Sell Shares" in the
Prospectus. Certificates will not be issued for Class A shares unless
specifically requested and no certificates will be issued for Class B, C, D, T
or Z shares. The Colonial money market funds will not issue certificates.
Shareholders may send any certificates which have been previously acquired to
CISC for deposit to their account.
SPECIAL PURCHASE PROGRAMS/INVESTOR SERVICES
The following special purchase programs/investor services may be changed or
eliminated at any time.
Fundamatic Program. As a convenience to investors, shares of most Colonial funds
may be purchased through the Colonial Fundamatic Program. Preauthorized monthly
bank drafts or electronic funds transfer for a fixed amount of at least $50 are
used to purchase a Colonial fund's shares at the public offering price next
determined after CISI receives the proceeds from the draft (normally the 5th or
the 20th of each month, or the next business day thereafter). If your Fundamatic
purchase is by electronic funds transfer, you may request the Fundamatic
purchase for any day. Further information and application forms are available
from FSFs or from CISI.
Automated Dollar Cost Averaging (Classes A, B and D). Colonial's Automated
Dollar Cost Averaging program allows you to exchange $100 or more on a monthly
basis from any Colonial fund in which you have a current balance of at least
$5,000 into the same class of shares of up to four other Colonial funds.
Complete the Automated Dollar Cost Averaging section of the Application. The
designated amount will be exchanged on the third Tuesday of each month. There is
no charge for exchanges made pursuant to the Automated Dollar Cost Averaging
program. Exchanges will continue so long as your Colonial fund balance is
sufficient to complete the transfers. Your normal rights and privileges as a
shareholder remain in full force and effect. Thus you can buy any fund, exchange
between the
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same Class of shares of funds by written instruction or by telephone
exchange if you have so elected and withdraw amounts from any fund, subject to
the imposition of any applicable CDSC.
Any additional payments or exchanges into your Colonial fund will extend the
time of the Automated Dollar Cost Averaging program.
An exchange is a capital sale transaction for federal income tax purposes.
You may terminate your program, change the amount of the exchange (subject to
the $100 minimum), or change your selection of funds, by telephone or in
writing; if in writing by mailing your instructions to Colonial Investors
Service Center, Inc. P.O. Box 1722, Boston, MA 02105-1722.
You should consult your FSF or investment adviser to determine whether or not
the Automated Dollar Cost Averaging program is appropriate for you.
CISI offers several plans by which an investor may obtain reduced initial or
contingent deferred sales charges . These plans may be altered or discontinued
at any time. See "Programs For Reducing or Eliminating Sales Charges" for more
information.
Tax-Sheltered Retirement Plans. CISI offers prototype tax-qualified plans,
including Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), and Pension and Profit-Sharing
Plans for individuals, corporations, employees and the self-employed. The
minimum initial Retirement Plan investment is $25. The First National Bank of
Boston is the Trustee of CISI prototype plans and charges a $10 annual fee.
Detailed information concerning these Retirement Plans and copies of the
Retirement Plans are available from CISI.
Participants in non-Colonial prototype Retirement Plans (other than IRAs) also
are charged a $10 annual fee unless the plan maintains an omnibus account with
CISC. Participants in Colonial prototype Plans (other than IRAs) who liquidate
the total value of their account will also be charged a $15 close-out processing
fee payable to CISC. The fee is in addition to any applicable CDSC. The fee will
not apply if the participant uses the proceeds to open a Colonial IRA Rollover
account in any fund, or if the Plan maintains an omnibus account.
Consultation with a competent financial and tax adviser regarding these Plans
and consideration of the suitability of fund shares as an investment under the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 or otherwise is recommended.
Telephone Address Change Services. By calling CISC, shareholders or their FSF of
record may change an address on a recorded telephone line. Confirmations of
address change will be sent to both the old and the new addresses. Telephone
redemption privileges are suspended for 30 days after an address change is
effected.
Colonial Cash Connection. Dividends and any other distributions, including
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) payments, may be automatically deposited to a
shareholder's bank account via electronic funds transfer. Shareholders wishing
to avail themselves of this electronic transfer procedure should complete the
appropriate sections of the Application.
Automatic Dividend Diversification. The automatic dividend diversification
reinvestment program (ADD) generally allows shareholders to have all
distributions from a fund automatically invested in the same class of shares of
another Colonial fund. An ADD account must be in the same name as the
shareholder's existing open account with the particular fund. Call CISC for more
information at 1-800-422-3737.
PROGRAMS FOR REDUCING OR ELIMINATING SALES CHARGES
Right of Accumulation and Statement of Intent (Class A and Class T shares only)
(Class T shares can only be purchased by the shareholders of Colonial Newport
Tiger Fund who already own Class T shares). Reduced sales charges on Class A and
T shares can be effected by combining a current purchase with prior purchases of
Class A, B, C, D, T and Z shares of the Colonial funds. The applicable sales
charge is based on the combined total of:
1. the current purchase; and
2. the value at the public offering price at the close of business on
the previous day of all Colonial funds' Class A shares held by the
shareholder (except shares of any Colonial money market fund, unless
such shares were acquired by exchange from Class A shares of another
Colonial fund other than a money market fund and Class B, C, D, T
and Z shares).
CISI must be promptly notified of each purchase which entitles a shareholder to
a reduced sales charge. Such reduced sales charge will be applied upon
confirmation of the shareholder's holdings by CISC. A Colonial fund may
terminate or amend this Right of Accumulation.
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Any person may qualify for reduced sales charges on purchases of Class A and T
shares made within a thirteen-month period pursuant to a Statement of Intent
("Statement"). A shareholder may include, as an accumulation credit toward the
completion of such Statement, the value of all Class A, B, C, D, T and Z shares
held by the shareholder on the date of the Statement in Colonial funds (except
shares of any Colonial money market fund, unless such shares were acquired by
exchange from Class A shares of another non-money market Colonial fund). The
value is determined at the public offering price on the date of the Statement.
Purchases made through reinvestment of distributions do not count toward
satisfaction of the Statement.
During the term of a Statement, CISC will hold shares in escrow to secure
payment of the higher sales charge applicable to Class A or T shares actually
purchased. Dividends and capital gains will be paid on all escrowed shares and
these shares will be released when the amount indicated has been purchased. A
Statement does not obligate the investor to buy or a fund to sell the amount of
the Statement.
If a shareholder exceeds the amount of the Statement and reaches an amount which
would qualify for a further quantity discount, a retroactive price adjustment
will be made at the time of expiration of the Statement. The resulting
difference in offering price will purchase additional shares for the
shareholder's account at the applicable offering price. As a part of this
adjustment, the FSF shall return to CISI the excess commission previously paid
during the thirteen-month period.
If the amount of the Statement is not purchased, the shareholder shall remit to
CISI an amount equal to the difference between the sales charge paid and the
sales charge that should have been paid. If the shareholder fails within twenty
days after a written request to pay such difference in sales charge, CISC will
redeem that number of escrowed Class A shares to equal such difference. The
additional amount of FSF discount from the applicable offering price shall be
remitted to the shareholder's FSF of record.
Additional information about and the terms of Statements of Intent are available
from your FSF, or from CISC at 1-800-345-6611.
Colonial Asset Builder Investment Program (this section currently applies only
to the Class A shares of Colonial Growth Shares Fund and The Colonial Fund, each
a series of Colonial Trust III). A reduced sales charge applies to a purchase of
certain Colonial funds' Class A shares under a Statement of Intent for the
Colonial Asset Builder Investment Program. The Program offer may be withdrawn at
any time without notice. A completed Program may serve as the initial investment
for a new Program, subject to the maximum of $4,000 in initial investments per
investor. Shareholders in this program are subject to a 5% sales charge. CISC
will escrow shares to secure payment of the additional sales charge on amounts
invested if the Program is not completed. Escrowed shares are credited with
distributions and will be released when the Program has ended. Shareholders are
subject to a 1% fee on the amount invested if they do not complete the Program.
Prior to completion of the Program, only scheduled Program investments may be
made in a Colonial fund in which an investor has a Program account. The
following services are not available to Program accounts until a Program has
ended:
Systematic Withdrawal Plan Share Certificates
Sponsored Arrangements Exchange Privilege
$50,000 Fast Cash Colonial Cash Connection
Right of Accumulation Automatic Dividend Diversification
Telephone Redemption Reduced Sales Charges for any "person"
Statement of Intent
*Exchanges may be made to other Colonial funds offering the Program.
Because of the unavailability of certain services, this Program may not be
suitable for all investors.
The FSF receives 3% of the investor's intended purchases under a Program at the
time of initial investment and 1% after the 24th monthly payment. CISI may
require the FSF to return all applicable commissions paid with respect to a
Program terminated within six months of inception, and thereafter to return
commissions in excess of the FSF discount applicable to shares actually
purchased.
Since the Asset Builder plan involves continuous investment regardless of the
fluctuating prices of funds shares, investors should consult their FSF to
determine whether it is appropriate. The Plan does not assure a profit nor
protect against loss in declining markets.
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Reinstatement Privilege. An investor who has redeemed Class A, B, D or T shares
may, upon request, reinstate within one year a portion or all of the proceeds of
such sale in shares of the same Class of any Colonial fund at the NAV next
determined after CISC receives a written reinstatement request and payment. Any
CDSC paid at the time of the redemption will be credited to the shareholder upon
reinstatement. The period between the redemption and the reinstatement will not
be counted in aging the reinstated shares for purposes of calculating any CDSC
or conversion date. Investors who desire to exercise this privilege should
contact their FSF or CISC. Shareholders may exercise this Privilege an unlimited
number of times. Exercise of this privilege does not alter the Federal income
tax treatment of any capital gains realized on the prior sale of fund shares,
but to the extent any such shares were sold at a loss, some or all of the loss
may be disallowed for tax purposes. Consult your tax adviser.
Privileges of Colonial Employees or Financial Service Firms (in this section,
the "Adviser" refers to Colonial Management Associates, Inc. in its capacity as
the Adviser or Administrator to the Colonial Funds). Class A shares of certain
funds may be sold at NAV to the following individuals whether currently employed
or retired: Trustees of funds advised or administered by the Adviser; directors,
officers and employees of the Adviser, CISI and other companies affiliated with
the Adviser; registered representatives and employees of FSFs (including their
affiliates) that are parties to dealer agreements or other sales arrangements
with CISI; and such persons' families and their beneficial accounts.
Sponsored Arrangements. Class A and Class T shares (Class T shares can only be
purchased by the shareholders of Colonial Newport Tiger Fund who already own
Class T shares) of certain funds may be purchased at reduced or no sales charge
pursuant to sponsored arrangements, which include programs under which an
organization makes recommendations to, or permits group solicitation of, its
employees, members or participants in connection with the purchase of shares of
the fund on an individual basis. The amount of the sales charge reduction will
reflect the anticipated reduction in sales expense associated with sponsored
arrangements. The reduction in sales expense, and therefore the reduction in
sales charge, will vary depending on factors such as the size and stability of
the organization's group, the term of the organization's existence and certain
characteristics of the members of its group. The Colonial funds reserve the
right to revise the terms of or to suspend or discontinue sales pursuant to
sponsored plans at any time.
Class A and Class T shares (Class T shares can only be purchased by the
shareholders of Colonial Newport Tiger Fund who already own Class T shares) of
certain funds may also be purchased at reduced or no sales charge by clients of
dealers, brokers or registered investment advisers that have entered into
agreements with CISI pursuant to which the Colonial funds are included as
investment options in programs involving fee-based compensation arrangements,
and by participants in certain retirement plans.
Waiver of Contingent Deferred Sales Charges (CDSCs) (in this section, the
"Adviser" refers to Colonial Management Associates, Inc. in its capacity as the
Adviser or Administrator to the Colonial Funds) (Classes A, B, and D) CDSCs may
be waived on redemptions in the following situations with the proper
documentation:
1. Death. CDSCs may be waived on redemptions within one year
following the death of (i) the sole shareholder on an individual
account, (ii) a joint tenant where the surviving joint tenant is
the deceased's spouse, or (iii) the beneficiary of a Uniform Gifts
to Minors Act (UGMA), Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) or
other custodial account. If, upon the occurrence of one of the
foregoing, the account is transferred to an account registered in
the name of the deceased's estate, the CDSC will be waived on any
redemption from the estate account occurring within one year after
the death. If the Class B shares are not redeemed within one
year of the death, they will remain subject to the applicable
CDSC, when redeemed from the transferee's account. If the account
is transferred to a new registration and then a redemption is
requested, the applicable CDSC will be charged.
2. Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP). CDSCs may be waived on
redemptions occurring pursuant to a monthly, quarterly or
semi-annual SWP established with CISC, to the extent the
redemptions do not exceed, on an annual basis, 12% of the
account's value, so long as at the time of the first SWP
redemption the account had had distributions reinvested for
a period at least equal to the period of the SWP (e.g., if it
is a quarterly SWP, distributions must have been reinvested at
least for the three month period prior to the first SWP
redemption); otherwise CDSCs will be charged on SWP redemptions
until this requirement is met; this requirement does not apply
if the SWP is set up at the time the account is established, and
distributions are being reinvested. See below under "Investor
Services - Systematic Withdrawal Plan."
3. Disability. CDSCs may be waived on redemptions occurring within one
year after the sole shareholder on an individual account or a joint
tenant on a spousal joint tenant account becomes disabled (as
defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal
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Revenue Code). To be eligible for such waiver, (i) the disability
must arise after the purchase of shares and (ii) the disabled
shareholder must have been under age 65 at the time of the initial
determination of disability. If the account is transferred to a
new registration and then a redemption is requested, the
applicable CDSC will be charged.
4. Death of a trustee. CDSCs may be waived on redemptions occurring
upon dissolution of a revocable living or grantor trust following
the death of the sole trustee where (i) the grantor of the trust is
the sole trustee and the sole life beneficiary, (ii) death occurs
following the purchase and (iii) the trust document provides for
dissolution of the trust upon the trustee's death. If the account
is transferred to a new registration (including that of a successor
trustee), the applicable CDSC will be charged upon any subsequent
redemption.
5. Returns of excess contributions. CDSCs may be waived on redemptions
required to return excess contributions made to retirement plans or
individual retirement accounts, so long as the FSF agrees to return
the applicable portion of any commission paid by Colonial.
6. Qualified Retirement Plans. CDSCs may be waived on redemptions
required to make distributions from qualified retirement plans
following (i) normal retirement (as stated in the Plan document) or
(ii) separation from service. CDSCs also will be waived on SWP
redemptions made to make required minimum distributions from
qualified retirement plans that have invested in Colonial funds for
at least two years.
The CDSC also may be waived where the FSF agrees to return all or an agreed upon
portion of the commission earned on the sale of the shares being redeemed.
HOW TO SELL SHARES
Shares may also be sold on any day the Exchange is open, either directly to the
Fund or through the shareholder's FSF. Sale proceeds generally are sent within
seven days (usually on the next business day after your request is received in
good form). However, for shares recently purchased by check, the Fund will send
proceeds only after the check has cleared (which may take up to 15 days).
To sell shares directly to the Fund, send a signed letter of instruction or
stock power form to CISC, along with any certificates for shares to be sold. The
sale price is the net asset value (less any applicable contingent deferred sales
charge) next calculated after the Fund receives the request in proper form.
Signatures must be guaranteed by a bank, a member firm of a national stock
exchange or another eligible guarantor institution. Stock power forms are
available from FSFs, CISC, and many banks. Additional documentation is required
for sales by corporations, agents, fiduciaries, surviving joint owners and
individual retirement account holders. Call CISC for more information
1-800-345-6611.
FSFs must receive requests before the time at which the Fund's shares are valued
to receive that day's price, are responsible for furnishing all necessary
documentation to CISC and may charge for this service.
Systematic Withdrawal Plan
If a shareholder's account balance is at least $5,000, the shareholder may
establish a SWP. A specified dollar amount or percentage of the then current net
asset value of the shareholder's investment in any Colonial fund designated by
the shareholder will be paid monthly, quarterly or semi-annually to a designated
payee. The amount or percentage the shareholder specifies generally may not, on
an annualized basis, exceed 12% of the value, as of the time the shareholder
makes the election, of the shareholder's investment. Withdrawals from Class B
and Class D shares of the fund under a SWP will be treated as redemptions of
shares purchased through the reinvestment of fund distributions, or, to the
extent such shares in the shareholder's account are insufficient to cover Plan
payments, as redemptions from the earliest purchased shares of such fund in the
shareholder's account. No CDSCs apply to a redemption pursuant to a SWP of 12%
or less, even if, after giving effect to the redemption, the shareholder's
account balance is less than the shareholder's base amount. Qualified plan
participants who are required by Internal Revenue Service regulation to withdraw
more than 12%, on an annual basis, of the value of their Class B and Class D
share account may do so but will be subject to a CDSC ranging from 1% to 5% of
the amount withdrawn. If a shareholder wishes to participate in a SWP, the
shareholder must elect to have all of the shareholder's income dividends and
other fund distributions payable in shares of the fund rather than in cash.
A shareholder or a shareholder's FSF of record may establish a SWP account by
telephone on a recorded line. However, SWP checks will be payable only to the
shareholder and sent to the address of record. SWPs from retirement accounts
cannot be established by telephone.
A shareholder may not establish a SWP if the shareholder holds shares in
certificate form. Purchasing additional shares (other than through dividend and
distribution reinvestment) while receiving SWP payments is ordinarily
disadvantageous because of duplicative sales charges. For this reason, a
shareholder may not maintain a plan for the accumulation of shares of the fund
(other than through the reinvestment of dividends) and a SWP at the same time.
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SWP payments are made through share redemptions, which may result in a gain or
loss for tax purposes, may involve the use of principal and may eventually use
up all of the shares in a shareholder's account.
A fund may terminate a shareholder's SWP if the shareholder's account balance
falls below $5,000 due to any transfer or liquidation of shares other than
pursuant to the SWP. SWP payments will be terminated on receiving satisfactory
evidence of the death or incapacity of a shareholder. Until this evidence is
received, CISC will not be liable for any payment made in accordance with the
provisions of a SWP.
The cost of administering SWPs for the benefit of shareholders who participate
in them is borne by the fund as an expense of all shareholders.
Shareholders whose positions are held in "street name" by certain FSFs may not
be able to participate in a SWP. If a shareholder's Fund shares are held in
"street name", the shareholder should consult his or her FSF to determine
whether he or she may participate in a SWP.
Telephone Redemptions. All Colonial fund shareholders and/or their FSFs (except
for Colonial Newport Tiger Cub Fund and Colonial Newport Japan Fund) are
automatically eligible to redeem up to $50,000 of the fund's shares by calling
1-800-422-3737 toll- free any business day between 9:00 a.m. and the close of
trading of the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). Transactions received
after 4:00 p.m. Eastern time will receive the next business day's closing price.
Telephone redemption privileges for larger amounts and for the Colonial Newport
Tiger Cub Fund and the Colonial Newport Japan Fund may be elected on the
Application. CISC will employ reasonable procedures to confirm that instructions
communicated by telephone are genuine. Telephone redemptions are not available
on accounts with an address change in the preceding 30 days and proceeds and
confirmations will only be mailed or sent to the address of record unless the
redemption proceeds are being sent to a pre-designated bank account.
Shareholders and/or their FSFs will be required to provide their name, address
and account number. FSFs will also be required to provide their broker number.
All telephone transactions are recorded. A loss to a shareholder may result from
an unauthorized transaction reasonably believed to have been authorized. No
shareholder is obligated to execute the telephone authorization form or to use
the telephone to execute transactions.
Checkwriting (in this section, the "Adviser" refers to Colonial Management
Associates, Inc. in its capacity as the Adviser or Administrator of the Colonial
Funds) (Available only on the Class A and Class C shares of certain Colonial
funds) Shares may be redeemed by check if a shareholder has previously completed
an Application and Signature Card. CISC will provide checks to be drawn on The
First National Bank of Boston (the "Bank"). These checks may be made payable to
the order of any person in the amount of not less than $500 nor more than
$100,000. The shareholder will continue to earn dividends on shares until a
check is presented to the Bank for payment. At such time a sufficient number of
full and fractional shares will be redeemed at the next determined net asset
value to cover the amount of the check. Certificate shares may not be redeemed
in this manner.
Shareholders utilizing checkwriting drafts will be subject to the Bank's rules
governing checking accounts. There is currently no charge to the shareholder for
the use of checks. The shareholder should make sure that there are sufficient
shares in his or her open account to cover the amount of any check drawn since
the net asset value of shares will fluctuate. If insufficient shares are in the
shareholder's open account, the check will be returned marked "insufficient
funds" and no shares will be redeemed; the shareholder will be charged a $15
service fee for each check returned. It is not possible to determine in advance
the total value of an open account because prior redemptions and possible
changes in net asset value may cause the value of an open account to change.
Accordingly, a check redemption should not be used to close an open account. In
addition, a check redemption, like any other redemption, may give rise to
taxable capital gains.
Non Cash Redemptions. For redemptions of any single shareholder within any
90-day period exceeding the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of a Colonial fund's net
asset value, a Colonial fund may make the payment or a portion of the payment
with portfolio securities held by that Colonial fund instead of cash, in which
case the redeeming shareholder may incur brokerage and other costs in selling
the securities received.
DISTRIBUTIONS
Distributions are invested in additional shares of the same Class of the fund at
net asset value unless the shareholder elects to receive cash. Regardless of the
shareholder's election, distributions of $10 or less will not be paid in cash,
but will be invested in additional shares of the same Class of the Fund at net
asset value. Undelivered distribution checks returned by the post office will be
reinvested in your account.
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Shareholders may reinvest all or a portion of a recent cash distribution without
a sales charge. A shareholder request must be received within 30 calendar days
of the distribution. A shareholder may exercise this privilege only once. No
charge is currently made for reinvestment.
Shares of most funds that pay daily dividends will normally earn dividends
starting with the date the fund receives payment for the shares and will
continue through the day before the shares are redeemed, transferred or
exchanged. The daily dividends for Colonial Municipal Money Market Fund will be
earned starting with the day after that fund receives payments for the shares.
HOW TO EXCHANGE SHARES
Shares of the Fund may be exchanged for the same class of shares of the other
continuously offered Colonial funds (with certain exceptions) on the basis of
the NAVs per share at the time of exchange. Class T and Z shares may be
exchanged for Class A shares of the other Colonial funds. The prospectus of each
Colonial fund describes its investment objective and policies, and shareholders
should obtain a prospectus and consider these objectives and policies carefully
before requesting an exchange. Shares of certain Colonial funds are not
available to residents of all states. Consult CISC before requesting an
exchange.
By calling CISC, shareholders or their FSF of record may exchange among accounts
with identical registrations, provided that the shares are held on deposit.
During periods of unusual market changes or shareholder activity, shareholders
may experience delays in contacting CISC by telephone to exercise the telephone
exchange privilege. Because an exchange involves a redemption and reinvestment
in another Colonial fund, completion of an exchange may be delayed under unusual
circumstances, such as if the fund suspends repurchases or postpones payment for
the fund shares being exchanged in accordance with federal securities law. CISC
will also make exchanges upon receipt of a written exchange request and, share
certificates, if any. If the shareholder is a corporation, partnership, agent,
or surviving joint owner, CISC will require customary additional documentation.
Prospectuses of the other Colonial funds are available from the Colonial
Literature Department by calling 1-800-426-3750.
A loss to a shareholder may result from an unauthorized transaction reasonably
believed to have been authorized. No shareholder is obligated to use the
telephone to execute transactions.
You need to hold your Class A and Class T shares for five months before
exchanging to certain funds having a higher maximum sales charge. Consult your
FSF or CISC. In all cases, the shares to be exchanged must be registered on the
records of the fund in the name of the shareholder desiring to exchange.
Shareholders of the other Colonial open-end funds generally may exchange their
shares at NAV for the same class of shares of the fund.
An exchange is a capital sale transaction for federal income tax purposes. The
exchange privilege may be revised, suspended or terminated at any time.
SUSPENSION OF REDEMPTIONS
A Colonial fund may not suspend shareholders' right of redemption or postpone
payment for more than seven days unless the Exchange is closed for other than
customary weekends or holidays, or if permitted by the rules of the SEC during
periods when trading on the Exchange is restricted or during any emergency which
makes it impracticable for the fund to dispose of its securities or to determine
fairly the value of its net assets, or during any other period permitted by
order of the SEC for the protection of investors.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain circumstances, be
held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. However, the
Declaration disclaims shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the fund
and the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each
agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the fund or the
Trust's Trustees. The Declaration provides for indemnification out of fund
property for all loss and expense of any shareholder held personally liable for
the obligations of the fund. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial
loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances (which are
considered remote) in which the fund would be unable to meet its obligations and
the disclaimer was inoperative.
The risk of a particular fund incurring financial loss on account of another
fund of the Trust is also believed to be remote, because it would be limited to
circumstances in which the disclaimer was inoperative and the other fund was
unable to meet its obligations.
SHAREHOLDER MEETINGS
As described under the caption "Organization and History" in the Prospectus of
each Colonial fund, the fund will not hold annual shareholders' meetings. The
Trustees may fill any vacancies in the Board of Trustees except that the
Trustees may not fill a vacancy if, immediately after filling such vacancy, less
than two-thirds of the Trustees then in office would have been elected to such
office by the shareholders. In addition, at such times as less than a majority
of the Trustees then in office have been elected to such office by the
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shareholders, the Trustees must call a meeting of shareholders. Trustees may be
removed from office by a written consent signed by a majority of the outstanding
shares of the Trust or by a vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding
shares at a meeting duly called for the purpose, which meeting shall be held
upon written request of the holders of not less than 10% of the outstanding
shares of the Trust. Upon written request by the holders of 1% of the
outstanding shares of the Trust stating that such shareholders of the Trust, for
the purpose of obtaining the signatures necessary to demand a shareholders'
meeting to consider removal of a Trustee, request information regarding the
Trust's shareholders, the Trust will provide appropriate materials (at the
expense of the requesting shareholders). Except as otherwise disclosed in the
Prospectus and this SAI, the Trustees shall continue to hold office and may
appoint their successors.
At any shareholders' meetings that may be held, shareholders of all series would
vote together, irrespective of series, on the election of Trustees or the
selection of independent accountants, but each series would vote separately from
the others on other matters, such as changes in the investment policies of that
series or the approval of the management agreement for that series.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
Total Return
Standardized average annual total return. Average annual total return is the
actual return on a $1,000 investment in a particular class of shares of the
fund, made at the beginning of a stated period, adjusted for the maximum sales
charge or applicable CDSC for the class of shares of the fund and assuming that
all distributions were reinvested at NAV, converted to an average annual return
assuming annual compounding.
Nonstandardized total return. Nonstandardized total returns may differ from
standardized average annual total returns in that they may relate to
nonstandardized periods, represent aggregate rather than average annual total
returns or may not reflect the sales charge or CDSC.
Yield
Money market. A money market fund's yield and effective yield is computed in
accordance with the SEC's formula for money market fund yields.
Non money market. The yield for each class of shares of a fund is determined by
(i) calculating the income (as defined by the SEC for purposes of advertising
yield) during the base period and subtracting actual expenses for the period
(net of any reimbursements), and (ii) dividing the result by the product of the
average daily number of shares of the Fund that were entitled to dividends
during the period and the maximum offering price of the fund on the last day of
the period, (iii) then annualizing the result assuming semi-annual compounding.
Tax-equivalent yield is calculated by taking that portion of the yield which is
exempt from income tax and determining the equivalent taxable yield which would
produce the same after-tax yield for any given federal and state tax rate, and
adding to that the portion of the yield which is fully taxable. Adjusted yield
is calculated in the same manner as yield except that expenses voluntarily borne
or waived by Colonial have been added back to actual expenses.
Distribution rate. The distribution rate for each class of shares of a fund is
calculated by annualizing the most current period's distributions and dividing
by the maximum offering price on the last day of the period. Generally, the
fund's distribution rate reflects total amounts actually paid to shareholders,
while yield reflects the current earning power of the fund's portfolio
securities (net of the fund's expenses). The fund's yield for any period may be
more or less than the amount actually distributed in respect of such period.
The fund may compare its performance to various unmanaged indices published by
such sources as are listed in Appendix II.
The fund may also refer to quotations, graphs and electronically transmitted
data from sources believed by the Adviser to be reputable, and publications in
the press pertaining to a fund's performance or to the Adviser or its
affiliates, including comparisons with competitors and matters of national and
global economic and financial interest. Examples include Forbes, Business Week,
Money Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Boston Globe,
Barron's National Business & Financial Weekly, Financial Planning, Changing
Times, Reuters Information Services, Wiesenberger Mutual Funds Investment
Report, Lipper Analytical Services Corporation, Morningstar, Inc., Sylvia
Porter's Personal Finance Magazine, Money Market Directory, SEI Funds Evaluation
Services, FTA World Index and Disclosure Incorporated.
All data are based on past performance and do not predict future results.
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APPENDIX I
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION (S&P)
AAA bonds have the highest rating assigned by S&P.Capacity to pay interest and
repay principal is extremely strong.
AA bonds have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, and
they differ from AAA only in small degree.
A bonds have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal, although
they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB bonds are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a
weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal than for bonds in the A
category.
BB, B, CCC, and CC bonds are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative
with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligation. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and
CC the highest degree. While such debt will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or large
exposures to adverse conditions.
C ratings are reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being paid.
D bonds are in default, and payment of interest and/or principal is in arrears.
Plus(+) or minus (-) are modifiers relative to the standing within the major
rating categories.
Provisional Ratings. The letter "p" indicates that the rating is provisional. A
provisional rating assumes the successful completion of the project being
financed by the debt being rated and indicates that payment of debt service
requirements is largely or entirely dependent upon the successful and timely
completion of the project. This rating, however, although addressing credit
quality subsequent to completion of the project, makes no comments on the
likelihood of, or the risk of default upon failure of, such completion. The
investor should exercise his own judgment with respect to such likelihood and
risk.
Municipal Notes:
SP-1. Notes rated SP-1 have very strong or strong capacity to pay principal and
interest. Those issues determined to possess overwhelming safety characteristics
are designated as SP-1+.
SP-2. Notes rated SP-2 have satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest.
Notes due in three years or less normally receive a note rating. Notes maturing
beyond three years normally receive a bond rating, although the following
criteria are used in making that assessment:
Amortization schedule (the larger the final maturity relative to other
maturities, the more likely the issue will be rated as a note).
Source of payment (the more dependent the issue is on the market for
its refinancing, the more likely it will be rated as a note).
Demand Feature of Variable Rate Demand Securities:
S&P assigns dual ratings to all long-term debt issues that have as part of their
provisions a demand feature. The first rating addresses the likelihood of
repayment of principal and interest as due, and the second rating addresses only
the demand feature. The long-term debt rating symbols are used for bonds to
denote the long-term maturity, and the commercial paper rating symbols are
usually used to denote the put (demand) option (for example, AAA/A-1+).
Normally, demand notes receive note rating symbols combined with commercial
paper symbols (for example, SP-1+/A-1+).
Commercial Paper:
A. Issues assigned this highest rating are regarded as having the greatest
capacity for timely payment. Issues in this category are further refined with
the designations 1, 2, and 3 to indicate the relative degree to safety.
A-1. This designation indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely
payment is either overwhelming or very strong. Those issues determined to
possess overwhelming safety characteristics are designed A-1+.
Corporate Bonds:
The description of the applicable rating symbols and their meanings is
substantially the same as the Municipal Bond ratings set forth above.
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MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICES, INC. (MOODY'S)
Aaa bonds are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree
of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge". Interest
payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and
principal is secure. While various protective elements are likely to change,
such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair a fundamentally
strong position of such issues.
Aa bonds are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with Aaa
bonds 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 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 in Aaa securities.
Those bonds in the Aa through B groups that Moody's believes possess the
strongest investment attributes are designated by the symbol Aa1, A1 and Baa1.
A bonds 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 that suggest a
susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa bonds 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 are judged to have speculative elements: their future cannot be
considered as well secured. 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 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.
Caa bonds 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 represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree. Such
issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C bonds are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues so related can be
regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real
investment standing.
Conditional Ratings. Bonds for which the security depends upon the completion of
some act or the fulfillment of some condition are rated conditionally. These are
bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under construction, (b) earnings of
projects unseasoned in operating experience, (c) rentals which begin when
facilities are completed, or (d) payments to which some other limiting
conditions attach. Parenthetical rating denotes probable credit stature upon
completion of construction or elimination of basis of condition.
Note: Those bonds in the Aa, A, Baa, Ba, and B groups which Moody's believes
possess the strongest investment attributes are designated by the symbols Aa 1,
A 1, Baa 1, Ba 1, and B 1.
Municipal Notes:
MIG 1. This designation denotes best quality. There is present strong protection
by established cash flows, superior liquidity support or demonstrated
broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
MIG 2. This designation denotes high quality. Margins of protection are ample
although not so large as in the preceding group.
MIG 3. This designation denotes favorable quality. All security elements are
accounted for, but there is lacking the undeniable strength of the preceding
grades. Liquidity and cash flow protection may be narrow and market access for
refinancing is likely to be less well established.
Demand Feature of Variable Rate Demand Securities:
Moody's may assign a separate rating to the demand feature of a variable rate
demand security. Such a rating may include:
VMIG 1. This designation denotes best quality. There is present strong
protection by established cash flows, superior liquidity support or demonstrated
broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
VMIG 2. This designation denotes high quality. Margins of protection are ample
although not so large as in the preceding group.
29
<PAGE>
VMIG 3. This designation denotes favorable quality. All security elements are
accounted for, but there is lacking the undeniable strength of the preceding
grades. Liquidity and cash flow protection may be narrow and market access for
refinancing is likely to be less well established.
Commercial Paper:
Moody's employs the following three designations, all judged to be investment
grade, to indicate the relative repayment capacity of rated issuers:
Prime-1 Highest Quality
Prime-2 Higher Quality
Prime-3 High Quality
If an issuer represents to Moody's that its Commercial Paper obligations are
supported by the credit of another entity or entities, Moody's, in assigning
ratings to such issuers, evaluates the financial strength of the indicated
affiliated corporations, commercial banks, insurance companies, foreign
governments, or other entities, but only as one factor in the total rating
assessment.
Corporate Bonds:
The description of the applicable rating symbols (Aaa, Aa, A) and their meanings
is identical to that of the Municipal Bond ratings as set forth above, except
for the numerical modifiers. Moody's applies numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 in
the Aa and A classifications of its corporate bond rating system. The modifier 1
indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its generic rating
category; the modifier 2 indicates a midrange ranking; and the modifier 3
indicates that the issuer ranks in the lower end of its generic rating category.
FITCH INVESTORS SERVICES
Investment Grade Bond Ratings
AAA bonds are considered to be investment grade and of the highest credit
quality. The obligor has an exceptionally strong ability to pay interest and/or
dividends and repay principal, which is unlikely to be affected by reasonably
foreseeable events.
AA bonds are considered to be investment grade and of very high credit quality.
The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is very strong,
although not quite as strong as bonds rated `AAA'. Because bonds rated in the
`AAA' and `AA' categories are not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable future
developments, short-term debt of these issuers is generally rated `F-1+'.
A bonds are considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The
obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be
strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions and
circumstances than debt securities with higher ratings.
BBB bonds are considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit
quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest or dividends and repay principal
is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and
circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these
securities and, therefore, impair timely payment. The likelihood that the
ratings of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for
securities with higher ratings.
Conditional
A conditional rating is premised on the successful completion of a project or
the occurrence of a specific event.
Speculative-Grade Bond Ratings
BB bonds are considered speculative. The obligor's ability to pay interest and
repay principal may be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However,
business and financial alternatives can be identified, which could assist the
obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements.
B bonds are considered highly speculative. While securities in this class are
currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability of continued timely
payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's limited margin of
safety and the need for reasonable business and economic activity throughout the
life of the issue.
CCC bonds have certain identifiable characteristics that, if not remedied, may
lead to default. The ability to meet obligations requires an advantageous
business and economic environment.
CC bonds are minimally protected. Default in payment of interest and/or
principal seems probable over time.
C bonds are in imminent default in payment of interest or principal.
30
<PAGE>
DDD, DD, and D bonds are in default on interest and/or principal payments. Such
securities are extremely speculative and should be valued on the basis of their
ultimate recovery value in liquidation or reorganization of the obligor. `DDD'
represents the highest potential for recovery on these securities, and `D'
represents the lowest potential for recovery.
DUFF & PHELPS CREDIT RATING CO.
AAA - Highest credit quality. The risk factors are negligible, being only
slightly more than for risk-free U.S. Treasury debt.
AA+, AA, AA - High credit quality. Protection factors are strong. Risk is modest
but may vary slightly from time to time because of economic conditions.
A+, A, A - Protection factors are average but adequate. However, risk factors
are more available and greater in periods of economic stress.
BBB+, BBB, BBB - Below average protection factors but still considered
sufficient for prudent investment. Considerable variability in risk during
economic cycles.
BB+, BB, BB - Below investment grade but deemed likely to meet obligations when
due. Present or prospective financial protection factors fluctuate according to
industry conditions or company fortunes. Overall quality may move up or down
frequently within this category.
B+, B, B - Below investment grade and possessing risk that obligations will not
be met when due. Financial protection factors will fluctuate widely according to
economic cycles, industry conditions and/or company fortunes. Potential exists
for frequent changes in the rating within this category or into a higher or
lower rating grade.
CCC - Well below investment grade securities. Considerable uncertainty exists as
to timely payment of principal, interest or preferred dividends. Protection
factors are narrow and risk can be substantial with unfavorable
economic/industry conditions, and/or with unfavorable company developments.
DD - Defaulted debt obligations. Issuer failed to meet scheduled principal
and/or interest payments.
31
<PAGE>
APPENDIX II
1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SOURCE CATEGORY RETURN (%)
<S> <C> <C>
Donoghue Tax-Free Funds 4.95
Donoghue U.S. Treasury Funds 4.71
Dow Jones & Company Industrial Index 28.91
Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index 6.05
Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE GDP Index 7.63
Libor Six-month Libor N/A
Lipper Short U.S. Government Funds 4.36
Lipper California Municipal Bond Funds 3.65
Lipper Connecticut Municipal Bond Funds 3.48
Lipper Closed End Bond Funds 8.13
Lipper Florida Municipal Bond Funds 3.00
Lipper General Bond Fund 6.16
Lipper General Municipal Bonds 3.30
Lipper Global Funds 16.51
Lipper Growth Funds 19.24
Lipper Growth & Income Funds 20.78
Lipper High Current Yield Bond Funds 13.67
Lipper High Yield Municipal Bond Debt 4.17
Lipper Fixed Income Funds 10.24
Lipper Insured Municipal Bond Average 2.83
Lipper Intermediate Muni Bonds 3.70
Lipper Intermediate (5-10) U.S. Government Funds 2.68
Lipper Massachusetts Municipal Bond Funds 3.39
Lipper Michigan Municipal Bond Funds 3.17
Lipper Mid Cap Funds 18.10
Lipper Minnesota Municipal Bond Funds 3.11
Lipper U.S. Government Money Market Funds 4.75
Lipper New York Municipal Bond Funds 3.15
Lipper North Carolina Municipal Bond Funds 2.78
Lipper Ohio Municipal Bond Funds 3.35
Lipper Small Company Growth Funds 20.20
Lipper U.S. Government Funds 1.72
Lipper Pacific Region Funds-Ex-Japan 11.11
Lipper Pacific Region (4.45)
Lipper International Funds 11.78
Lipper Balanced Funds 13.76
Lipper Tax-Exempt Money Market 2.93
Shearson Lehman Composite Government Index 2.77
Shearson Lehman Government/Corporate Index 2.90
Shearson Lehman Long-term Government Index (0.84)
S&P S&P 500 Index 22.95
S&P Utility Index 3.12
S&P Barra Growth 23.98
S&P Barra Value 21.99
S&P Midcap 400 19.20
First Boston High Yield Index 12.40
Swiss Bank 10 Year U.S. Government (Corporate Bond) 0.30
Swiss Bank 10 Year United Kingdom (Corporate Bond) 19.10
Swiss Bank 10 Year France (Corporate Bond) 7.80
Swiss Bank 10 Year Germany (Corporate Bond) 1.00
Swiss Bank 10 Year Japan (Corporate Bond) (3.40)
32
<PAGE>
Swiss Bank 10 Year Canada (Corporate Bond) 10.5
Swiss Bank 10 Year Australia (Corporate Bond) 20.6
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Hong Kong (Equity) 21.87
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Belgium (Equity) 15.16
SOURCE CATEGORY RETURN (%)
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Austria (Equity) 7.65
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year France (Equity) 10.35
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Netherlands (Equity) 16.90
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Japan (Equity) 3.39
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Switzerland (Equity) 13.14
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year United Kingdom (Equity) 15.06
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Germany (Equity) 8.16
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Italy (Equity) 0.53
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Sweden (Equity) 16.42
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year United States (Equity) 14.39
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Australia (Equity) 11.44
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Norway (Equity) 13.23
Morgan Stanley Capital International 10 Year Spain (Equity) 11.55
Morgan Stanley Capital International World GDP Index 11.50
Morgan Stanley Capital International Pacific Region Funds Ex-Japan 20.54
Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index (Inflation) 3.32
FHLB-San Francisco 11th District Cost-of-Funds Index N/A
Federal Reserve Six-Month Treasury Bill N/A
Federal Reserve One-Year Constant-Maturity Treasury Rate N/A
Federal Reserve Five-Year Constant-Maturity Treasury Rate N/A
Frank Russell & Co. Russell 2000 16.50
Frank Russell & Co. Russell 1000 Value 21.64
Frank Russell & Co. Russell 1000 Growth 11.26
Bloomberg NA NA
Credit Lyonnais NA NA
Statistical Abstract of the U.S. NA NA
World Economic Outlook NA NA
</TABLE>
*in U.S. currency
33
<PAGE>
COLONIAL TRUST I
Cross Reference Sheet
(Colonial Income Fund)
Item Number of Form N-1A Statement of Additional
Information Location or Caption
Part B
10. Cover Page
11. Table of Contents
12. Not Applicable
13. Investment Objective and
Policies;
Fundamental Investment
Policies;
Other Investment Policies;
Portfolio Turnover;
Miscellaneous Investment
Practices
14. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
15. Fund Charges and Expenses
16. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
17. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
18. Shareholder Meetings;
Shareholder Liability
19. How to Buy Shares;
Determination of Net Asset
Value;
Suspension of Redemptions;
Special Purchase Programs/
Investor Services;
Programs for Reducing or
Eliminating Sales Charges;
How to Sell Shares;
How to Exchange Shares
20. Taxes
21. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial Funds
22. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Investment Performance;
Performance Measures
23. Independent Accountants
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
Statement of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) contains information which may be
useful to investors but which is not included in the Prospectus of Colonial
Income Fund (Fund). This SAI is not a prospectus and is only authorized for
distribution when accompanied or preceded by the Prospectus of the Fund dated
April 30, 1997. This SAI should be read together with the Prospectus. Investors
may obtain a free copy of the Prospectus from Colonial Investment Services,
Inc., One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111-2621.
Part 1 of this SAI contains specific information about the Fund. Part 2 includes
information about the Colonial funds generally and additional information about
certain securities and investment techniques described in the Fund's Prospectus.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part 1 Page
Definitions
Investment Objective and Policies
Fundamental Investment Policies
Other Investment Policies
Portfolio Turnover
Fund Charges and Expenses
Investment Performance
Custodian
Independent Accountants
Part 2
Miscellaneous Investment Practices
Taxes
Management of the Colonial Funds
Determination of Net Asset Value
How to Buy Shares
Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services
Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales Charges
How to Sell Shares
Distributions
How to Exchange Shares
Suspension of Redemptions
Shareholder Liability
Shareholder Meetings
Performance Measures
Appendix I
Appendix II
a
<PAGE>
Part 1
COLONIAL INCOME FUND
Statement of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
DEFINITIONS
"Trust" Colonial Trust I
"Fund" Colonial Income Fund
"Adviser" Colonial Management Associates, Inc., the Fund's investment
adviser
"CISI" Colonial Investment Services, Inc., the Fund's distributor
"CISC" Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc., the Fund's
shareholder services and transfer agent
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The Fund's Prospectus describes its investment objective and investment
policies. Part 1 of this SAI includes additional information concerning, among
other things, the investment restrictions of the Fund. Part 2 contains
additional information about the following securities and investment techniques
that are described or referred to in the Prospectus:
Lower Rated Debt Securities
Zero Coupon Securities
Step Coupon Bonds
Pay-In-Kind Securities
Forward Commitments (When Issued and Delayed Delivery Securities)
Repurchase Agreements
Futures Contracts and Related Options (interest rate futures and
related options only)
Foreign Securities
Foreign Currency Transactions
Except as indicated below under "Fundamental Investment Policies," the Fund's
investment policies are not fundamental, and the Trustees may change the
policies without shareholder approval.
FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT POLICIES
The Investment Company Act of 1940 (Act) provides that a "vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities" means the affirmative vote of the lesser of
(1) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund, or (2) 67% or more of
the shares present at a meeting if more than 50% of the outstanding shares are
represented at the meeting in person or by proxy. The following fundamental
investment policies can not be changed without such a vote.
Total assets and net assets are determined at current value for purposes of
compliance with investment restrictions and policies. All percentage limitations
will apply at the time of investment and are not violated unless an excess or
deficiency occurs as a result of such investment. For the purpose of the Act
diversification requirement, an issuer is the entity whose revenues support the
security.
The Fund may:
1. Issue senior securities only through borrowing money from banks for
temporary or emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however, the
Fund will not purchase additional portfolio securities while borrowings
exceed 5% of net assets;
2. Only own real estate acquired as a result of owning securities and not
more than 5% of total assets;
3. Invest up to 10% of its net assets in illiquid assets;
4. Purchase and sell futures contracts and related options so long as the
total initial margin and premiums on contracts do not exceed 5% of its
total assets;
5. Underwrite securities issued by others only when disposing of portfolio
securities;
6. Make loans through lending of securities not exceeding 30% of total
assets, through the purchase of debt instruments or similar evidences of
indebtedness typically sold privately to financial institutions and
through repurchase agreements; and
7. Not concentrate more than 25% of its total assets in any one industry, or
with respect to 75% of total assets purchase any security (other than
obligations of the U.S. Government and cash items including receivables)
if as a result more than 5% of its total assets would then be invested in
securities of a single issuer, or purchase voting securities of an issuer
if, as a result of such purchase, the Fund would own more than 10% of the
outstanding voting shares of such issuer.
b
<PAGE>
OTHER INVESTMENT POLICIES As non-fundamental investment policies which may be
changed without a shareholder vote, the Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may receive short-term credit
to clear securities transactions and may make initial or maintenance margin
deposits in connection with futures transactions; and
2. Have a short securities position, unless the Fund owns, or owns rights
(exercisable without payment) to acquire, an equal amount of such
securities.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
Portfolio turnover for the last two fiscal years is included in the Prospectus
under "The Fund's Financial History." High portfolio turnover may cause the Fund
to realize capital gains which, if realized and distributed by the Fund, may be
taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. High portolio turnover may result in
correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs, which
will be borne directly by the Fund.
FUND CHARGES AND EXPENSES
Under the Fund's management agreement, the Fund pays the Adviser a monthly fee
based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at the annual rate of 0.50%.
Recent Fees paid to the Adviser, CISI and CISC (for the fiscal years ended
December 31) (dollars in thousands)
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Management fee $852 $849 $814
Bookkeeping fee 69 69 67
Shareholder services and
transfer agent fee 385 384 377
12b-1 fees:
Service fee 425 426 406
Distribution fee (ClassB) 271 223 161
Brokerage Commissions
The Fund did not pay brokerage commissions during the fiscal years ended
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994.
c
<PAGE>
Trustees Fees
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, and the calendar year ended
December 31, 1996, the Trustees received the following compensation for serving
as Trustees (a):
Total Compensation
Aggregate From Trust And
Compensation Fund Complex Paid To The
From Fund For The Fiscal Trustees For The Calendar
Trustee Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31,
1996 1996(b)
Robert J. Birnbaum $1,431 $ 92,000
Tom Bleasdale 1,643(c) 104,500 (d)
Lora S. Collins 1,435 92,000
James E. Grinnell 1,449 93,000
William D. Ireland, Jr. 1,697 109,000
Richard W. Lowry 1,482 95,000
William E. Mayer 1,416 91,000
James L. Moody, Jr. 1,658(e) 106,500 (f)
John J. Neuhauser 1,475 94,500
George L. Shinn 1,647 105,500
Robert L. Sullivan 1,585 102,000
Sinclair Weeks, Jr. 1,714 110,000
(a) The Fund does not currently provide pension or retirement plan benefits
to the Trustees.
(b) At December 31, 1996, the Colonial Funds complex consisted of 38
open-end and 5 closed-end management investment company portfolios.
(c) Includes $812 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(d) Includes $51,500 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(e) Total compensation of $1,658 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996
will be payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(f) Total compensation of $106,500 for the calendar year ended December 31,
1996 will be payable in later years as deferred compensation.
The following table sets forth the amount of compensation paid to Messrs.
Birnbaum, Grinnell and Lowry in their capacities as Trustees or Directors of the
Liberty All-Star Equity Fund and of the Liberty All-Star Growth Fund, Inc.
(formerly known as The Charles Allmon Trust, Inc.) (together, Liberty Funds) for
service during the calendar year ended December 31, 1996:
Total Compensation
From Liberty Funds
For The Calendar
Trustee Year Ended December
31, 1996 (g)
Robert J. Birnbaum $25,000
James E. Grinnell 25,000
Richard W. Lowry 25,000
(g) At December 31, 1996, the Liberty Funds were advised by Liberty Asset
Management Company (LAMCO). LAMCO is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary
of Liberty Financial Companies, Inc. (an intermediate parent of the
Adviser).
d
<PAGE>
Ownership of the Fund
The following information is as of March 31, 1997:
The officers and Trustees of the Trust as a group beneficially owned less than
1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund.
Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith Inc., Attn: Book Entry, Mutual Fund
Operations, 4800 Deer Lake Dr., E 3rd Fl, Jacksonville, FL 32216, owned % of the
Fund's outstanding Class B Shares.
There were Class A and Class B shareholders.
SALES CHARGES (for the fiscal years ended December 31) (dollars in thousands)
Class A Shares
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate initial sales charges on
Fund share sales $159 $204 $179
Initial sales charges retained by CISI 19 24 22
Class B Shares
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate contingent deferred sales
charges $142 $82 $60
(CDSC) on Fund redemptions retained
by CISI
12B-1 Plans, CDSC and Conversion of Shares
The Fund offers two classes of shares - Class A and Class B. The Fund may in the
future offer other classes of shares. The Trustees have approved 12b-1 Plans
(Plans) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the Plans, the Fund pays
CISI monthly a service fee at an annual rate of 0.25% of net assets attributed
to each Class of shares. The Fund also pays CISI monthly a distribution fee at
anannual rate of 0.75% of average daily net assets attributed to Class B shares.
CISI may use the entire amount of such fees to defray the costs of commissions
and service fees paid to financial service firms (FSFs) and for certain other
purposes. Since the distribution and service fees are payable regardless of the
amount of CISI's expenses, CISI may realize a profit from the fees.
The Plans also authorize any other payments by the Fund to CISI and its
affiliates (including the Adviser) to the extent that such payments might be
construed to be indirectly financing the distribution of Fund shares.
The Trustees believe the Plans could be a significant factor in the growth and
retention of Fund assets resulting in a more advantageous expense ratio and
increased investment flexibility which could benefit each class of Fund
shareholders. The Plans will continue in effect from year to year so long as
continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a vote of the
Trustees, including Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust and
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plans or
in any agreements related to the Plans (Independent Trustees), cast in person at
a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the Plans. The Plans may not be
amended to increase materially the fee without approval by vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares and all
material amendments of the Plans must be approved by the Trustees in the manner
provided in the foregoing sentence. The Plans may be terminated at any time by
vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares. The continuance
of the Plans will only be effective if the selection and nomination of the
Trustees who are non-interested Trustees is effected by such non-interested
Trustees.
Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus varying sales charges which
may include a CDSC. Class B shares are offered at net asset value and are
subject to a CDSC if redeemed within six years after purchase. The CDSCs are
described in the Prospectus.
e
<PAGE>
No CDSC will be imposed on shares derived from reinvestment of distributions or
on amounts representing capital appreciation. In determining the applicability
and rate of any CDSC, it will be assumed that a redemption is made first of
shares representing capital appreciation, next of shares representing
reinvestment of distributions and finally of other shares held by the
shareholder for the longest period of time.
Eight years after the end of the month in which a Class B share is purchased,
such share and a pro rata portion of any shares issued on the reinvestment of
distributions will be automatically converted into Class A shares having an
equal value, which are not subject to the distribution fee.
Sales-related expenses (dollars in thousands) of CISI relating to the Fund for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 were:
Class A Class B
Shares Shares
Fees to FSFs $323 $302
Cost of sales material relating to the Fund
(including printing and 12 12
mailing expenses)
Allocated travel, entertainment and other
promotional expenses 19 19
(including advertising)
INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE
The Fund's Class A and Class B yields for the month ended December 31, 1996,
were 6.60% and 5.69%, respectively.
The Fund's average annual total returns at December 31, 1996, were:
Class A Shares
1 year 5 years 10 years
------ ------- --------
With sales charge of 4.75% (1.33)% 6.78% 7.49%
Without sales charge 3.59% 7.83% 8.01%
Class B Shares
May 15, 1992
(commencement of investment
operations)
1 year through December 31, 1996
------ -------------------------
With applicable CDSC (2.01)% (4.83% CDSC) 6.82% (2.00% CDSC)
Without CDSC 2.82% 7.16%
The Fund's Class A and Class B distribution rates at December 31, 1996, based on
the most recent month's distributions, annualized, and the maximum offering
price at the end of the month, were 6.50% and 6.16%, respectively.
See Part 2 of this SAI, "Performance Measures," for how calculations are made.
CUSTODIAN
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company is the Fund's custodian. The custodian is
responsible for safeguarding the Fund's cash and securities, receiving and
delivering securities and collecting the Fund's interest and dividends.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
Price Waterhouse LLP are the Fund's independent accountants providing audit and
tax return preparation services and assistance and consultation in connection
with the review of various Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The
financial statements incorporated by reference in this SAI have been so
incorporated, and the financial highlights included in the Prospectus has been
so included, in reliance upon the report of Price Waterhouse LLP given on the
authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
f
<PAGE>
The financial statements and the Report of Independent Accountants appearing on
pages 6 through 25 of the December 31, 1996 Annual Report, are incorporated in
this SAI by reference.
g
<PAGE>
COLONIAL TRUST I
Cross Reference Sheet
(Colonial Strategic Income Fund)
Item Number of Form N-1A Statement of Additional
Information Location or Caption
Part B
10. Cover Page
11. Table of Contents
12. Not Applicable
13. Investment Objective and
Policies;
Fundamental Investment
Policies;
Other Investment Policies;
Portfolio Turnover;
Miscellaneous Investment
Practices
14. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
15. Fund Charges and Expenses
16. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
17. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial
Funds
18. Shareholder Meetings;
Shareholder Liability
19. How to Buy Shares;
Determination of Net Asset
Value;
Suspension of Redemptions;
Special Purchase Programs/
Investor Services;
Programs for Reducing or
Eliminating Sales Charges;
How to Sell Shares;
How to Exchange Shares
20. Taxes
21. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Management of the Colonial Funds
22. Fund Charges and Expenses;
Investment Performance;
Performance Measures
23. Independent Accountants
COLONIAL STRATEGIC INCOME FUND
Statement of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) contains information which may be
useful to investors but which is not included in the Prospectus of Colonial
Strategic Income Fund (Fund). This SAI is not a prospectus and is authorized for
distribution only when accompanied or preceded by the Prospectus of the Fund
dated April 30, 1997. This SAI should be read together with the Prospectus.
Investors may obtain a free copy of the Prospectus from Colonial Investment
Services, Inc., One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111-2621.
Part 1 of this SAI contains specific information about the Fund. Part 2 includes
information about the Colonial funds generally and additional information about
certain securities and investment techniques described in the Fund's Prospectus.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part 1 Page
Definitions
Investment Objective and Policies
Fundamental Investment Policies
Other Investment Policies
Portfolio Turnover
Fund Charges and Expenses
Investment Performance
Custodian
Independent Accountants
Part 2
Miscellaneous Investment Practices
Taxes
Management of the Colonial Funds
Determination of Net Asset Value
How to Buy Shares
Special Purchase Programs/Investor Services
Programs for Reducing or Eliminating Sales Charges
How to Sell Shares
Distributions
How to Exchange Shares
Suspension of Redemptions
Shareholder Liability
Shareholder Meetings
Performance Measures
Appendix I
Appendix II
SI--0497
<PAGE>
Part 1
COLONIAL STRATEGIC INCOME FUND
Statement of Additional Information
April 30, 1997
DEFINITIONS:
"Trust" Colonial Trust I
"Fund" Colonial Strategic Income Fund
"Adviser" Colonial Management Associates, Inc., the Fund's investment
adviser
"CISI" Colonial Investment Services, Inc., the Fund's distributor
"CISC" Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc., the Fund's shareholder
services and transfer agent
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The Fund's Prospectus describes its investment objective and policies. Part I of
this SAI includes additional information concerning, among other things, the
investment restrictions of the Fund. Part 2 contains additional information
about the following securities and investment techniques that are described or
referred to in the Prospectus:
Short-Term Trading
Lower Rated Debt Securities
Foreign Securities
Zero Coupon Securities
Step Coupon Bonds
Pay-In-Kind Securities
Forward Commitments (When-Issued and Delayed Delivery Securities)
Repurchase Agreements
Options on Securities
Foreign Currency Transactions
Except as indicated below under "Fundamental Investment Policies," the Fund's
investment policies are not fundamental, and the Trustees may change the
policies without shareholder approval.
FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT POLICIES
The Investment Company Act of 1940 (Act) provides that a "vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities" means the affirmative vote of the lesser of
(1) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund, or (2) 67% or more of
the shares present at a meeting if more than 50% of the outstanding shares are
represented at the meeting in person or by proxy. The following fundamental
investment policies can not be changed without such a vote.
Total assets and net assets are determined at current value for purposes of
compliance with investment restrictions and policies. All percentage limitations
will apply at the time of investment and are not violated unless an excess or
deficiency occurs as a result of such investment. For the purpose of the Act
diversification requirement, an issuer is the entity whose revenues support the
security.
The Fund may:
1. Issue senior securities only through borrowing money from banks for
temporary or emergency purposes up to 10% of its net assets; however,
the Fund will not purchase additional portfolio securities while
borrowings exceed 5% of net assets;
2. Only own real estate acquired as a result of owning securities and not
more than 5% of total assets;
3. Purchase and sell futures contracts and related options so long as the
total initial margin and premiums on contracts do not exceed 5% of its
total assets;
4. Underwrite securities issued by others only when disposing of portfolio
securities;
5. Make loans through lending of securities not exceeding 30% of total
assets, through the purchase of debt instruments or similar evidences of
indebtedness typically sold privately to financial institutions and
through repurchase agreements; and
b
<PAGE>
6. Not concentrate more than 25% of its total assets in any one industry
or, with respect to 75% of total assets, purchase any security (other
than obligations of the U.S. government and cash items including
receivables) if as a result more than 5% of its total assets would then
be invested in securities of a single issuer or purchase the voting
securities of an issuer if, as a result of such purchases, the Fund
would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting shares of such issuer.
OTHER INVESTMENT POLICIES
As non-fundamental investment policies which may be changed without a
shareholder vote, the Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may receive short-term
credit to clear securities transactions and may make initial or
maintenance margin deposits in connection with futures transactions;
2. Have a short securities position, unless the Fund owns, or owns rights
(exercisable without payment) to acquire, an equal amount of such
securities; and
3. Invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid assets.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
Portfolio turnover for the last two fiscal years is included in the Prospectus
under "The Fund's Financial History." High portfolio turnover may cause the Fund
to realize capital gains which, if realized and distributed by the Fund, may be
taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. High portfolio turnover may result
in correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs,
which will be borne directly by the Fund.
FUND CHARGES AND EXPENSES
Under the Fund's management agreement, the Fund pays the Adviser a monthly fee
based on the average daily net assets of the Fund, determined at the close of
each business day during the month, at the following annual rates: 0.65% on the
first $1 billion and 0.60% of any excess over $1 billion.
Recent Fees paid to the Adviser, CISI AND CISC (dollars in thousands)
Year ended December 31
----------------------
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Management fee $9,243 $8,488 $8,132
Bookkeeping fee 474 442 428
Shareholder service and transfer agent fee 3,464 3,254 3,065
12b-1 fees:
Service fee 3,370 3,041 2,862
Distribution fee (Class B) 5,514 4,931 4,501
c
<PAGE>
Brokerage Commissions (dollars in thousands)
Year ended December 31
----------------------
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Total commissions $1 $ 24 $0
Directed transactions (a) 0 584 0
Commissions on directed transactions 1 6 0
(a) See "Management of the Colonial Funds-Portfolio Transaction-Brokerage and
Research Services" in Part 2 of this SAI.
Trustees Fees
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 and the calendar year ended December
31, 1996, the Trustees received the following compensation for serving as
Trustees(b):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Total Compensation From Trust And
Fund Complex Paid To The Trustees
Aggregate Compensation From Fund For The For The Calendar Year Ended
Trustee Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1996 December 31, 1996(c)
- ------- ----------------------------------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Robert J. Birnbaum $6,187 $ 92,000
Tom Bleasdale 7,112(d) $104,500(e)
Lora S. Collins 6,185 $ 92,000
James E. Grinnell 6,253 $ 93,000
William D. Ireland, Jr. 7,325 $109,000
Richard W. Lowry 6,385 $ 95,000
William E. Mayer 6,122 $ 91,000
James L. Moody, Jr. 7,177(f) $106,500(g)
John J. Neuhauser 6,367 $ 94,500
George L. Shinn 7,085 $105,500
Robert L. Sullivan 6,859 $102,000
Sinclair Weeks, Jr. 7,389 $110,000
</TABLE>
(b) The Fund does not currently provide pension or retirement plan benefits to
the Trustees.
(c) At December 31, 1996, the Colonial Funds complex consisted of 38 open-end
and 5 closed-end management investment company portfolios.
(d) Includes $3,551 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(e) Includes $51,500 payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(f) Total compensation of $7,177 for the fiscal year ended December 31,
1996, will be payable in later years as deferred compensation.
(g) Total compensation of $106,500 for the calendar year ended December 31,
1996, will be payable in later years as deferred compensation.
The following table sets forth the amount of compensation paid to Messrs.
Birnbaum, Grinnell and Lowry in their capacities as Trustees or Directors of the
Liberty All-Star Equity Fund and of the Liberty All-Star Growth Fund, Inc.
(formerly known as The Charles Allmon Trust, Inc.) (together, Liberty Funds) for
service during the calendar year ended December 31, 1996:
Total Compensation From Liberty Funds
For The Calendar Year Ended
Trustee December 31, 1996 (h)
Robert J. Birnbaum $25,000
James E. Grinnell 25,000
Richard W. Lowry 25,000
d
<PAGE>
(h) At December 31, 1996, the Liberty Funds were advised by Liberty Asset
Management Company (LAMCO). LAMCO is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary
of Liberty Financial Companies, Inc. (an intermediate parent of the
Adviser).
Ownership of the Fund
At March 31, 1997,the officers and Trustees of the Trust as a group owned less
than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund.
As of record on April 4, 1997, Merrill Lynch, Pierce Fenner & Smith, Inc., Attn.
Book Entry, 4800 Deer Lake Drive E., 3rd Floor, Jacksonville, FL 33216, owned
8.52% of outstanding Class B shares of the Fund.
At March 31, 1997, there were 37,023 Class A and 30,129 Class B shareholders.
Sales Charges (dollars in thousands)
Class A Shares
Year ended December 31
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate initial sales charges on Fund
share sales $2,340 $1,521 $3,118
Initial sales charges retained by CISI 268 177 $348
Class B Shares
Year ended December 31
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
Aggregate contingent deferred sales
charges (CDSC) on Fund redemptions
retained by CISI $2,180 $2,035 $2,267
12b-1 Plans, CDSCs and Conversion of Shares
The Fund offers three classes of shares - Class A , Class B and Class D. The
Fund may in the future offer other classes of shares. The Trustees have approved
12b-1 Plans (Plans) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the Plans, the
Fund pays CISI monthly a service fee at an annual rate of 0.15% of the net
assets attributed to each Class of shares issued on or before January 1, 1993, a
service fee of 0.25% of the net assets attributed to each Class of shares issued
and outstanding thereafter. The Fund also pays CISI a distribution fee monthly
at an annual rate of 0.75% of average daily net assets attributed to Class B and
Class D shares. CISI may use the entire amount of such fees to defray the costs
of commissions and service fees paid to financial service firms (FSFs) and for
certain other purposes. Since the distribution and service fees are payable
regardless of CISI's expenses, CISI may realize a profit from the fees. The
Plans authorize any other payments by the Fund to CISI and its affiliates
(including the Adviser) to the extent that such payments might be construed to
be indirect financing of the distribution of Fund shares.
The Trustees believe the Plans could be a significant factor in the growth and
retention of Fund assets resulting in a more advantageous expense ratio and
increased investment flexibility which could benefit each class of Fund
shareholders. The Plans will continue in effect from year to year so long as
continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a vote of the
Trustees, including the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust and
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plans or
in any agreements related to the Plans (Independent Trustees), cast in person at
a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the Plans. The Plans may not be
amended to increase the fee materially without approval by vote of a majority of
the outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares and all
material amendments of the Plans must be approved by the Trustees in the manner
provided in the foregoing sentence. The Plans may be terminated at any time by
vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the relevant class of shares. The continuance
of the Plans will only be effective if the selection and nomination of the
Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust is effected by such
disinterested Trustees.
Class A shares are offered at net asset value plus varying sales charges which
may include a CDSC. Class B shares are offered at net asset value and are
subject to a CDSC if redeemed within six years after purchase. The CDSCs are
described in the Prospectus.
e
<PAGE>
No CDSC will be imposed on shares derived from reinvestment of distributions or
amounts representing capital appreciation. In determining the applicability and
rate of any CDSC, it will be assumed that a redemption is made first of shares
representing capital appreciation, next of shares representing reinvestment of
distributions and finally of other shares held by the shareholder for the
longest period of time.
Eight years after the end of the month in which a Class B share is purchased,
such share and a pro rata portion of any shares issued on the reinvestment of
distributions will be automatically converted into Class A shares having an
equal value, which are not subject to the distribution fee.
Sales-Related Expenses (dollars in thousands) of CISI relating to the Fund
were:
Year ended December 31, 1996
Class A Shares Class B Shares
Fees to FSFs $1,550 $6,420
Cost of sales material relating to the Fund 194 318
(including printing and mailing expenses)
Allocated travel, entertainment and other
promotional expenses (including advertising) 272 444
INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE
The Fund's Class A and Class B yields for the month ended December 31, 1996 were
6.55% and 6.10%, respectively.
The Fund's average annual total returns at December 31, 1996 were:
Class A Shares
1 year 5 years 10 years
------ ------- --------
With sales charge of 4.75% 5.01% 8.93% 9.31%
Without sales charge 10.24% 10.00% 9.84%
Class B Shares
May 15, 1992
(commencement of
investment operations)
1 year through December 31, 1996
------ -------------------------
With applicable CDSC 4.43% (5.00% CDSC) 8.64% (2.00% CDSC)
Without CDSC 9.43% 8.96%
The Fund's Class A and Class B distribution rates at December 31, 1996, based on
the most recent quarter's distribution, annualized, and the maximum offering
price at the end of the quarter, were 7.51% and 7.12%, respectively.
See Part 2 of this SAI, "Performance Measures," for how calculations are made.
CUSTODIAN
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company is the Fund's custodian. The custodian is
responsible for safeguarding the Fund's cash and securities, receiving and
delivering securities and collecting the Fund's interest and dividends.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
Price Waterhouse LLP are the Fund's independent accountants providing audit and
tax return preparation services and assistance and consultation in connection
with the review of various Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The
financial statements incorporated by reference in this SAI have been so
incorporated, and the financial highlights included in the Prospectus have been
so included in reliance upon the report of Price Waterhouse LLP given on the
authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
The financial statements and Report of Independent Accountants appearing on
pages 7 through 35 of the December 31, 1996 Annual Report are incorporated in
this SAI by reference.
f
<PAGE>
Part B of Post-Effective Amendment No. 41 filed with the Commission on
October 15, 1996 (with respect to Colonial Tax-Managed Growth Fund), is
incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
<PAGE>
Part C. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 24. Financial Statements and Exhibits
(a) Financial Statements:
Included in Part A
Summary of Expenses (for Colonial High Yield
Securities Fund, Colonial Income Fund
and Colonial Strategic Income Fund)
The Fund's Financial History (for Colonial High
Yield Securities Fund, Colonial
Income Fund and Colonial Strategic Income Fund)
Incorporated by reference into Part B are the financial statements
contained in the Annual Reports for the Registrant's series, each dated December
31, 1996 (which were previously filed electronically pursuant to Section
30(b)(2) of the Investment Company Act of 1940):
Fund Accession Number
Colonial Income Fund (CIF) 0000021847-97-000048
Colonial Strategic Income Fund (CSIF) 0000021847-97-000049
Colonial High Yield Securities Fund (CHYSF) 0000276716-97-000005
The Financial Statements contained in each series' Annual Report are as
follows:
Investment Portfolio
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
Statement of Operations
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
Financial Highlights
Notes to Financial Statements
Independent Auditors' Report
Colonial Tax Managed Growth Fund (CTMGF) (Not applicable)
(b) Exhibits (each exhibit is applicable to all series of the Trust
unless otherwise referenced)
1. Amendment No. 3 to the Agreement and Declaration of Trust
2. Amended By-Laws dated 2/16/96 (a)
3. Not applicable
4. Form of Specimen of Share Certificate - filed as Exhibit 4 in Part C, Item
24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the Registration Statement on
Form N-1A of Colonial Trust IV (File Nos. 2-62492 and 811-2865) and is
hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Registration
Statement
5.(a) Management Agreement between Colonial Trust I, with respect to CHYSF
and Colonial Management Associates, Inc. (a)
5.(b) Management Agreement between Colonial Trust I, with respect to CIF
and Colonial Management Associates, Inc. (a)
5.(c) Management Agreement between Colonial Trust I, with respect to CSIF
and Colonial Management Associates, Inc. (a)
5.(d) Form of Management Agreement between Colonial Trust I, with respect
to CTMGF and Stein Roe & Farnham Incorporated (b)
6.(a) Distributor's Contract with Colonial Investment Services, Inc. - filed
as Exhibit 6(a) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to
the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust III (File Nos.
2-15184 and 811-881) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a
part of this Registration Statement
6.(b)Form of Selling Agreement with Colonial Investment Services, Inc. - filed
as Exhibit 6(b) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to
the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos.
33-45117 and 811-6529) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a
part of this Registration Statement
6.(c)Form of Bank and Bank Affiliated Selling Agreement - filed as Exhibit
6(c)in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to the
Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos.
33-45117 and 811-6529) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a
part of this Registration Statement
6.(d)Form of Asset Retention Agreement - filed as Exhibit 6(d) in Part C, Item
24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to the Registration Statement on
Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos. 33-45117 and 811-6529) and is
hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Registration
Statement
7. Not applicable
8.(a) Custody Agreement with Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company - filed as
Exhibit 8 in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to the
Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos.
33-45117 and 811-6529) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a
part of this Registration Statement
8.(b)Amendment to Custody Agreement with Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company
filed as Exhibit 8(a) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No.
10 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File
Nos. 33-45117 and 811-6529) and is hereby incorporated by reference and
made a part of this Registration Statement
8.(c) Form of Customer, Safekeeping and Procedural Agreements
9.(a) Pricing and Bookkeeping Agreement - filed as Exhibit 9(b) in Part C,
Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to the Registration Statement
on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos. 33-45117 and 811-6529) and is
hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Registration
Statement
9.(b)Amendment to Appendix I of Pricing and Bookkeeping Agreement - filed as
Exhibit 9(b)(i) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to
the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust III (File Nos.
2-15184 and 811-881) and is incorporated by reference and made a part of
this Registration Statement
9.(c)Form of Administration Agreement with Colonial Management Associates, Inc.
(CTMGF) (b)
9.(d)Amended and Restated Shareholders' Servicing and Transfer Agent Agreement
as amended -filed as Exhibit No. 9(b) in Part C, Item 24(b) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A
of Colonial Trust VII, (File Nos. 33-41559 & 811-6347) and is hereby
incorporated by reference and made a part of this Registration Statement
9.(e)Amendment No. 8 to Schedule A of Amended and Restated Shareholders'
Servicing and Transfer Agent Agreement as amended - filed as Exhibit
9(a)(i) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the
Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust III (File Nos.
2-15184 & 811-881) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part
of this Registration Statement
9.(f)Amendment No. 14 to Appendix I of Amended and Restated Shareholders'
Servicing and Transfer Agent Agreement as amended - filed as Exhibit
9(a)(ii) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the
Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust III (File Nos.
2-15184 & 811-881) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part
of this Registration Statement
9.(g)Form of Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (CIF, CSIF)- filed as Exhibit
9(e) in Part C, Item 24(b) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the
Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust III (File Nos.
2-15184 & 811-881) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part
of this Registration Statement
9.(h)Plan pursuant to Rule 18f-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940
filed as Exhibit 9(c) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No.
10 to the Registration Statement of Colonial Trust VI, File Nos. 33-45117 &
811-6529) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this
Registration Statement
9.(i) Form of Colonial Tax-Managed Growth Fund Gift Shares Trust (b)
9.(j)Investment Account Application (incorporated herein by reference to the
Prospectus of each series of Colonial Trust I)
10. (a) Opinion and Consent of Counsel (CHYSF, CTMGF)
10. (b) Opinion and Consent of Counsel (CIF)
10. (c) Opinion and Consent of Counsel (CSIF)
11. Consent of Independent Accountants (CSIF, CIF, CHYSF)
12. Not applicable
13. Not applicable
14.(a) Form of Colonial Group of Mutual Funds Money Purchase Pension and
Profit Sharing Plan Document and Trust Agreement - filed as Exhibit 14(a)
in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration
Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos. 33-45117 & 811-6529)
and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this
Registration Statement
14.(b) Form of Colonial Group of Mutual Funds Money Purchase Pension and Profit
Sharing Establishment Book - filed as Exhibit 14(b) in Part C, Item 24(b)
of Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement on Form
N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos. 33-45117 & 811-6529) and is hereby
incorporated by reference and made a part of this Registration Statement
14.(c) Form of Colonial Group Funds Individual Retirement Account and
Application - filed as Exhibit 14(c) in Part C, Item 24(b) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A
of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos. 33-45117 & 811-6529) and is hereby
incorporated by reference and made a part of this Registration Statement
14.(d) Form of Colonial Mutual Funds Simplified Employee Plan and Salary
Reduction Simplified Employee Plan - filed as Exhibit 14(d) in Part C, Item
24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement on
Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos. 33-45117 & 811-6529) and is
hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Registration
Statement
14.(e) Form of Colonial of Mutual Funds 401(k) Plan Document and Trust Agreement
- filed as Exhibit 14.(v) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment
No. 27 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust II
(File Nos. 2-66976 & 811-3009) and is hereby incorporated by reference and
made a part of this Registration Statement
14.(f) Form of Colonial Mutual Funds 401(k) Plan Establishment Booklet - filed
as Exhibit 14.(vi) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 27
to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust II (File Nos.
2-66976 & 811-3009) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part
of this Registration Statement
14.(g) Form of Colonial Mutual Funds 401(k) Employee Reports Booklet - filed as
Exhibit 14(g) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to
the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust VI (File Nos.
33-45117 & 811-6529) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a
part of this Registration Statement
15. (a) Distribution Plan adopted pursuant to Section 12b-1 of the Investment
Company Act of 1940, incorporated by reference to the Distributor's
Contract filed as Exhibit 6(a) hereto
16. (a) Calculation of Performance Information (CHYSF)
16.(b) Calculation of Yield (CHYSF)
16.(c) Calculation of Performance Information (CIF)
16.(d) Calculation of Yield (CIF)
16.(e) Calculation of Performance Information (CSIF)
16.(f) Calculation of Yield (CSIF)
17. (a) Financial Data Schedule (Class A)(CHYSF)
17. (b) Financial Data Schedule (Class B)(CHYSF)
17. (c) Financial Data Schedule (Class D) (CHYSF)
17. (d) Financial Data Schedule (Class A)(CIF)
17. (e) Financial Data Schedule (Class B)(CIF)
17. (f) Financial Data Schedule (Class A)(CSIF)
17. (g) Financial Data Schedule (Class B)(CSIF)
18.(a) Power of Attorney for: Robert J. Birnbaum, Tom Bleasdale, Lora S.
Collins, James E. Grinnell, William D. Ireland, Jr., Richard W. Lowry,
William E. Mayer, James L. Moody, Jr., John J. Neuhauser, George L. Shinn,
Robert L. Sullivan and Sinclair Weeks, Jr. - filed as Exhibit 18(a) in Part
C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the Registration
Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust III (File Nos. 2-15184 and
811-881) and is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this
Registration Statement
18.(b) Plan pursuant to Rule 18f-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940
- filed as Exhibit 18(b) in Part C, Item 24(b) of Post-Effective Amendment
No. 97 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Colonial Trust III
(File Nos. 2-15184 & 811-881) and is hereby incorporated by reference and
made a part of this Registration Statement
(a) Incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 40 filed with the
Commission via EDGAR on April 15, 1996.
(b) Incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 41 filed with the
Commission via EDGAR on October 15, 1996
Item 25. Persons Controlled by or under Common Control with Registrant
None (CIF, CSIF, CHYSF)
All of the outstanding shares of CTMGF representing
all of the interests in the series on the date
Registrant's Registration Statement becomes effective,
will be held by Colonial Management Associates, Inc.
Item 26. Number of Holders of Securities
(1) (2)
Title of Class Number of Record Holders as of
March 31, 1997
Shares of beneficial interest 23,659 Class A recordholders (CHYSF)
Shares of beneficial interest 17,559 Class B recordholders (CHYSF)
Shares of beneficial interest 408 Class D recordholders (CHYSF)
Shares of beneficial interest 7,681 Class A recordholders (CIF)
Shares of beneficial interest 2,621 Class B recordholders (CIF)
Shares of beneficial interest 43,822 Class A recordholders (CSIF)
Shares of beneficial interest 38,244 Class B recordholders (CSIF)
Shares of beneficial interest 259 Class A recordholders (CTMGF)
Shares of beneficial interest 331 Class B recordholders (CTMGF)
Shares of beneficial interest 29 Class D recordholders (CTMGF)
Shares of beneficial interest 9 Class E recordholders (CTMGF)
Shares of beneficial interest 1 Class F recordholders (CTMGF)
Shares of beneficial interest 41 Class G recordholders (CTMGF)
Shares of beneficial interest 14 Class H recordholders (CTMGF)
Item 27. Indemnification
See Article VIII of Amendment No. 3 to the Agreement and Declaration
of Trust filed as Exhibit 1 hereto.
Item 28. Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser
The following sets forth business and other
connections of each director and officer of Colonial
Management Associates, Inc. (see next page):
ITEM 28.
- --------
Registrant's investment adviser/administrator, Colonial Management
Associates, Inc., is registered as an investment adviser under the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940 (1940 Act). Colonial Advisory Services, Inc. (CASI), an
affiliate of Colonial Management Associates, Inc., is also registered as an
investment adviser under the 1940 Act. As of the end of its fiscal year,
December 31, 1996, CASI had one institutional, corporate or other account under
management or supervision, the market value of which was approximately $42.0
million. As of the end of its fiscal year, December 31, 1996, Colonial
Management Associates, Inc. was the investment adviser, sub-adviser and/or
administrator to 49 Colonial mutual funds, the market value of which investment
companies was approximately $17,165.0 million. Colonial Investment Services,
Inc., a subsidiary of Colonial Management Associates, Inc., is the principal
underwriter and the national distributor of all of the funds in the Colonial
Mutual Funds complex, including the Registrant.
The following sets forth the business and other connections of each
director and officer of Colonial Management Associates, Inc.:
(1) (2) (3) (4)
Name and principal
business
addresses* Affiliation
of officers and with Period is through 12/31/96. Other
directors of investment business, profession, vocation or
investment adviser adviser employment connection Affiliation
- ------------------ ---------- -------------------------------- -----------
Babbitt, Debra V.P.
Andersen, Peter V.P.
Archer, Joseph A. V.P.
Berliant, Allan V.P.
Bertocci, Bruno V.P. Stein Roe Global Capital Mngmt. Principal
Boatman, Bonny E. Dir.; Colonial Advisory Services, Inc. Exec. V.P.
Sr.V.P.;
IPC Mbr.
Campbell, Kimberly V.P.
Carnabucci,
Dominick V.P.
Carroll, Sheila A. Sr.V.P.;
Dir.
Citrone, Frank V.P.
Cogger, Harold W. Dir.; The Colonial Group, Inc. Dir.;
Chairman; Chrm.
IPC Mbr.; Colonial Trusts I through VII Pres.
Exe. Cmte. Colonial High Income
Mbr. Municipal Trust Pres.
Colonial InterMarket Income
Trust I Pres.
Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund Pres.
Colonial Investment Grade
Municipal Trust Pres.
Colonial Municipal Income
Trust Pres.
LFC Utilities Trust Pres.
Liberty Financial Exec V.P.;
Companies, Inc. Dir.
Stein Roe & Farnham Dir.
Incorporated
Conlin, Nancy V.P.; Colonial Investors Service
Asst. Center, Inc. Asst. Clerk
Sec.; The Colonial Group, Inc. Asst. Clerk
Asst Colonial Advisory Services,
Clerk and Inc. Asst. Clerk
Counsel Colonial Investment Services,
Inc. Asst. Clerk
Colonial Trusts I through VII Asst. Sec.
Colonial High Income
Municipal Trust Asst. Sec.
Colonial InterMarket Income
Trust I Asst. Sec.
Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund Asst. Sec.
Colonial Investment Grade
Municipal Trust Asst. Sec.
Colonial Municipal Income
Trust Asst. Sec.
Daniszewski, V.P. Colonial Investment Services,
Joseph J. Inc. V.P.
DiSilva, Linda V.P. Colonial Advisory Services, Compliance
IPC Mbr. Inc. Officer
Ericson, Carl C. Dir; Sr. Colonial Intermediate High
V.P. Income Fund V.P.
IPC Mbr. Colonial Advisory Services,
Inc. Exec. V.P.
Evans, C. Frazier Dir.; Colonial Investment Services,
Sr.V.P. Inc. Sr. V.P.
Feingold, Andrea S. V.P. Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund V.P.
Colonial Advisory Services,
Inc. Sr. V.P.
Feloney, Joseph L. V.P. Colonial Investment Services,
Inc. A.V.P.
Finnemore, V.P. Colonial Advisory Services,
Leslie W. Inc. Sr. V.P.
Franklin, Sr. V.P.
Fred J.
Gauger, Richard V.P.
Gerokoulis, V.P. Colonial Investment Services,
Stephen A. Inc. Sr. V.P.
Gibson, Stephen E. Dir.; Pres.; The Colonial Group, Inc. Dir.;
CEO; Exec. Pres.; CEO;
Cmte. Mbr. Exec. Cmte.
Mbr.
Colonial Investment Services, Dir.; Chm.
Inc.
Colonial Advisory Services, Dir.; Chm.
Inc.
Colonial Investors Service Dir.; Chm.
Center, Inc.
Harasimowicz, V.P. Colonial Investment Services,
Stephen Inc. V.P.
Harris, David V.P. Stein Roe Global Capital Mngmt Principal
Hartford, Brian V.P.
Haynie, James P. V.P. Colonial Advisory Services,
Inc. Sr. V.P.
Hill, William V.P.
Jacoby, Timothy J. Sr. V.P. Colonial Trusts I through VII Treasr.,CFO
Colonial High Income
Municipal Trust Treasr.,CFO
Colonial InterMarket Income
Trust I Treasr.,CFO
Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund Treasr.,CFO
Colonial Investment Grade
Municipal Trust Treasr.,CFO
Colonial Municipal Income
Trust Treasr.,CFO
LFC Utilities Trust Treasr.,CFO
Johnson, Gordon V.P.
Kimball, Erik V.P.
Koonce, Michael H. V.P.; Colonial Trusts I through VII Asst. Sec.
Asst. Colonial High Income
Sec.; Municipal Trust Asst. Sec.
Asst. Colonial InterMarket Income
Clerk & Trust I Asst. Sec.
Counsel Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund Asst. Sec.
Colonial Investment Grade
Municipal Trust Asst. Sec.
Colonial Municipal Income
Trust Asst. Sec.
Colonial Investment Services,
Inc. Asst. Clerk
Colonial Investors Service
Center, Inc. Asst. Clerk
The Colonial Group, Inc. Asst. Clerk
Colonial Advisory Services,
Inc. Asst. Clerk
Lennon, John E. V.P. Colonial Advisory Services,
Inc. V.P.
Lenzi, Sharon V.P.
Loring, William C. V.P.
Lydecker, Peter L. V.P.; Colonial Trusts I through VII Controller;CAO
Asst. Colonial High Income
Treasurer Municipal Trust Controller;CAO
Colonial InterMarket Income
Trust I Controller;CAO
Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund Controller;CAO
Colonial Investment Grade
Municipal Trust Controller;CAO
Colonial Municipal Income
Trust Controller;CAO
LFC Utilities Trust Controller;CAO
MacKinnon, Dir.;
Donald S. Sr.V.P.
Newman, Maureen V.P.
O'Neill, Charles A. Sr.V.P.; Colonial Investment Services,
Dir. Inc. Exec. V.P.
Ostrander, Laura V.P.
Peters, Helen F. Dir.; Colonial Advisory Services, Dir. Pres.,
Sr.V.P.; Inc. CEO
IPC Mbr.
Peterson, Ann T. V.P. Colonial Advisory Services,
Inc. V.P.
Rao, Gita V.P.
Reading, John V.P.
Rega, Michael V.P.
Rie, Daniel Sr.V.P.; Colonial Advisory Services,
IPC Mbr.; Inc. Exec. V.P.
Dir.
Scoon, Davey S. Dir.; Colonial Advisory Services,
Exe.V.P.; Inc. Dir.
IPC Mbr.; Colonial High Income
Exec. Comm. Municipal Trust V.P.
Mbr. Colonial InterMarket Income
Trust I V.P.
Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund V.P.
Colonial Investment Grade
Municipal Trust V.P.
Colonial Municipal Income
Trust V.P.
Colonial Trusts I through VII V.P.
LFC Utilities Trust V.P.
Colonial Investors Service Dir; Pres.
Center, Inc.
The Colonial Group, Inc. COO; Ex. V.P.
Colonial Investment Services,
Inc. Director
Seibel, Sandra L. V.P.
Spanos, Gregory Sr. V.P.
Stern, Arthur O. Exe.V.P.; Colonial Advisory Services,
Dir.; Inc. Clerk, Dir.
Sec.; Colonial High Income
Clrk. & Municipal Trust Secretary
Gnrl. Colonial InterMarket Income
Counsel; Trust I Secretary
IPC Mbr. Colonial Intermediate High
Income Fund Secretary
Colonial Investment Grade
Municipal Trust Secretary
Colonial Municipal Income
Trust Secretary
Colonial Trusts I through VII Secretary
LFC Utilities Trust Secretary
Colonial Investors Service
Center, Inc. Clerk
The Colonial Group, Inc. Exec. V.P.;
Clerk; General
Counsel
Colonial Investment Services, Dir., Chrmn.
Inc. Counsel; Clrk.
Stevens, Richard V.P. Colonial Advisory Services,
Inc. V.P.
Stoeckle, Mark V.P.
Waas, Robert S. V.P.
Wallace, John V.P.- Corp. Colonial Advisory Services,
Finance and Inc. Controller
Controller
Welsh, Stephen Treasurer The Colonial Group, Inc. Controller,
Chief Acctng.
Officer,
Asst. Treasurer
Colonial Investment Services,
Inc. Treasurer
Colonial Advisory Service,
Inc. Treasurer
Colonial Investors Service
Center, Inc. Controller
Wiley, Peter V.P.
Young, Deborah V.P.
- ------------------------------------------------
*The Principal address of all of the officers and directors of the investment
adviser is One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111.
Item 29 Principal Underwriter
- ------- ---------------------
(a) Colonial Investment Services, Inc. a subsidiary of Colonial
Management Associates, Inc., Registrant's principal
underwriter, also acts in the same capacity to
Colonial Trust II, Colonial Trust III, Colonial Trust IV,
Colonial Trust V, Colonial Trust VI and Colonial Trust
VII; and sponsor for Colony Growth Plans (public offering of which
were discontinued June 14, 1971).
(b) The table below lists each director or officer of the principal
underwriter named in the answer to Item 21.
(1) (2) (3)
Name and Principal Position and Offices Positions and
Business Address* with Principal Offices with
Underwriter Registrant
- ------------------ ------------------- --------------
Babbitt, Debra V.P. and None
Comp. Officer
Ballou, Rich Regional V.P. None
Balzano, Christine R. V.P. None
Bartsokas, David Regional V.P. None
Chrzanowski, Regional V.P. None
Daniel
Clapp, Elizabeth A. V.P. None
Crossfield, Andrew Regional V.P. None
Daniszewski, V.P. None
Joseph J.
Davey, Cynthia Regional Sr. V.P. None
Desilets, Marian V.P. None
Donovan, John Regional V.P. None
Eckelman, Bryan Sr. V.P. None
Emerson, Kim P. Regional V.P. None
Erickson, Cynthia G. V.P. None
Evans, C. Frazier Sr. V.P. None
Feldman, David Regional V.P. None
Gerokoulis, Sr. V.P. None
Stephen A.
Gibson, Stephen E. Director; Chairman None
of the Board
Goldberg, Matthew Regional V.P. None
Harasimowicz, V.P. None
Stephen
Hodgkins, Joseph Sr. Regional V.P. None
Iudice, Jr., Philip Treasurer and CFO None
Karagiannis, Sr. V.P. None
Marilyn
Kelley, Terry M. Regional V.P. None
Kelson, David W. Sr. V.P. None
Lloyd, Judith H. Sr. V.P. None
Moberly, Ann R. Regional Sr. V.P. None
Morner, Patrick V.P. None
O'Neill, Charles A. Exec. V.P. None
O'Shea, Kevin Sr. V.P. None
Prescott, Peter Regional V.P. None
Reed, Christopher B. Sr. Regional V.P. None
Scarlott, Rebecca V.P. None
Scoon, Davey Director V.P.
Scott, Michael W. Sr. V.P. None
Spanos, Gregory J. Sr. V.P. None
Stern, Arthur O. Clerk and Secretary
Counsel, Dir.
Sutton, R. Andrew Regional V.P. None
VanEtten, Keith H. V.P. None
Villanova, Paul Regional V.P. None
Wallace, John V.P. None
Welsh, Stephen Treasurer Asst. Treasurer
Wess, Valerie Regional V.P. None
Young, Deborah V.P. None
- --------------------------
* The address for each individual is One Financial Center, Boston, MA
02111.
<PAGE>
Item 30. Location of Accounts and Records
Persons maintaining physical possession of accounts, books and other documents
required to be maintained by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940
and the Rules thereunder include Registrant's Secretary; Registrant's investment
adviser and/or administrator, Colonial Management Associates, Inc.; Registrant's
principal underwriter, Colonial Investment Services, Inc.; Registrant's transfer
and dividend disbursing agent, Colonial Investors Service Center, Inc.; and the
Registrant's custodian, Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company. The custodian's
address is One Boston Place, Boston, MA 02108-2624.
Item 31. Management Services
See Item 5, Part A and Item 16, Part B
Item 32. Undertakings
Not Applicable (CHYSF, CIF, CSIF)
The Registrant, with respect to Colonial Tax Managed
Growth Fund, undertakes to file a post-effective
amendment, including financial statements which need
not be certified, within 4 to 6 months from the
effective date of this Registration Statement under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Item 32. Undertakings
(a) Not applicable
(b) The Registrant hereby undertakes to promptly
call a meeting of shareholders for the purpose
of voting upon the question of removal of any
trustee or trustees when requested in writing
to do so by the record holders of not less
than 10 per cent of the Registrant's
outstanding shares and to assist its
shareholders in the communicating with other
shareholders in accordance with the
requirements of Section 16(c) of the
Investment Company Act of 1940.
(c) The Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish
each person to whom a prospectus is delivered
a copy of the Registrant's series' latest
annual report to shareholders upon request and
without charge.
<PAGE>
******************
NOTICE
A copy of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust, as amended, of Colonial Trust
I is on file with the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
and notice is hereby given that the instrument has been executed on behalf of
the Trust by an officer of the Trust as an officer and by its Trustees as
trustees and not individually and the obligations of or arising out of this
instrument are not binding upon any of the Trustees, officers or shareholders
individually but are binding only upon the assets and property of the Trust.
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment
Company Act of 1940, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the
requirements for effectiveness of the Registration Statement pursuant to Rule
485(b) and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 42 to its
Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Post-Effective
Amendment No. 24 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, to be signed in this
City of Boston, and The Commonwealth of Massachusetts on this 22nd day of
April, 1997.
COLONIAL TRUST I
By:HAROLD W. COGGER
Harold W. Cogger, President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Post-Effective
Amendment has been signed below by the following persons in their capacities and
on the date indicated.
SIGNATURES TITLE DATE
HAROLD W. COGGER President April 22, 1997
Harold W. Cogger
TIMOTHY J. JACOBY Treasurer and Chief Financial April 22, 1997
- ----------------- Officer
Timothy J. Jacoby
PETER L. LYDECKER Controller and Chief Accounting April 22, 1997
- ----------------- Officer
Peter L. Lydecker
<PAGE>
/s/ROBERT J. BIRNBAUM* Trustee
Robert J. Birnbaum
/s/TOM BLEASDALE* Trustee
Tom Bleasdale
/s/LORA S. COLLINS* Trustee
Lora S. Collins
/s/JAMES E. GRINNELL* Trustee
James E. Grinnell
/s/WILLIAM D. IRELAND, JR. * Trustee */s/ MICHAEL H. KOONCE
William D. Ireland, Jr. Michael H. Koonce
Attorney-in-fact
For each Trustee
April 22, 1997
/s/RICHARD W. LOWRY* Trustee
Richard W. Lowry
/s/WILLIAM E. MAYER* Trustee
William E. Mayer
/s/JAMES L. MOODY, JR. * Trustee
James L. Moody, Jr.
/s/JOHN J. NEUHAUSER* Trustee
John J. Neuhauser
/s/GEORGE L. SHINN* Trustee
George L. Shinn
/s/ROBERT L. SULLIVAN* Trustee
Robert L. Sullivan
/s/SINCLAIR WEEKS, JR. * Trustee
Sinclair Weeks, Jr.
<PAGE>
Exhibit Index
Exhibit
1. Amendment No. 3 to the Agreement and Delcaration of Trust
8.(c) Form of Customer, Safekeeping and Procedural Agreements
10.(a) Opinion and Consent of Counsel (CHYSF, CTMGF)
10.(b) Opinion and Consent of Counsel (CIF)
10.(c) Opinion and Consent of Counsel (CSIF)
11. Consent of Independent Accountants (CSIF, CIF, CHYSF)
17.(a) Financial Data Schedule (Class A)(CHYSF)
17.(b) Financial Data Schedule (Class B)(CHYSF)
17.(c) Financial Data Schedule (Class D) (CHYSF)
17.(d) Financial Data Schedule (Class A)(CIF)
17.(e) Financial Data Schedule (Class B)(CIF)
17.(f) Financial Data Schedule (Class A)(CSIF)
17.(g) Financial Data Schedule (Class B)(CSIF)
AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE
AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST
OF COLONIAL TRUST I
AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST made at Boston, Massachusetts, this
15th day of November, 1991 by the Trustees hereunder, and by the holders of
shares of beneficial interest to be issued hereunder as hereinafter provided.
WITNESSETH that
WHEREAS, this Trust has been formed to carry on the business of an
investment company; and
WHEREAS, the Trustees have agreed to manage all property coming into
their hands as trustees of a Massachusetts business trust in accordance with the
provisions hereinafter set forth.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Trustees hereby declare that they will hold all
cash, securities and other assets, which they may from time to time acquire in
any manner as Trustees hereunder, IN TRUST to manage and dispose of the same
upon the following terms and conditions for the pro rata benefit of the holders
from time to time of Shares in this Trust as hereinafter set forth.
ARTICLE I
NAME AND DEFINITIONS
Name
Section 1. This Trust shall be known as Colonial Trust I and the
Trustees shall conduct the business of the Trust under that name or any other
name as they may from time to time determine.
Definitions
Section 2. Whenever used herein, unless otherwise required by the
context or specifically provided:
(a) The "Trust" refers to the Massachusetts business trust established
by this Agreement and Declaration of Trust, as amended from time to time;
(b) "Trustees" refers to the Trustees of the Trust named herein or
elected in accordance with Article IV;
(c) "Shares" means the equal proportionate transferable units of
interest into which the beneficial interest in the Trust shall be divided from
time to time or, if more than one series of Shares is authorized by the
Trustees, the equal proportionate units into which each series of Shares shall
be divided from time to time or, if more than one class of Shares of any series
is authorized by the Trustees, the equal proportionate units into which each
class of such series of Shares shall be divided from time to time;
(d) "Shareholder" means a record owner of Shares;
(e) The "1940 Act" refers to the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the
Rules and Regulations thereunder, all as amended from time to time;
(f) The terms "Affiliated Person," "Assignment," "Commission,"
"Interested Person," "Principal Underwriter" and "Majority Shareholder Vote"
(the 67% or 50% requirement of the third sentence of Section 2(a)(42) of the
1940 Act, whichever may be applicable) shall have the meanings given them in the
1940 Act;
(g) "Declaration of Trust" shall mean this Agreement and Declaration
of Trust as amended or restated from time to time; and
(h) "By-Laws" shall mean the By-Laws of the Trust as amended
from time to time.
ARTICLE II
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Trust is to provide investors a managed investment
primarily in securities, commodities and debt instruments.
ARTICLE III
SHARES
Division of Beneficial Interest
Section 1. The Shares of the Trust shall be issued in one or more series
as the Trustees may, without Shareholder approval, authorize. The Trustees may,
without Shareholder approval, divide the Shares of any series into two or more
classes, Shares of each such class having such preferences or special or
relative rights or privileges (including conversion rights, if any) as the
Trustees may determine and as are not inconsistent with any provision of this
Declaration of Trust. Each series shall be preferred over all other series in
respect of the assets allocated to that series. The beneficial interest in each
series shall at all times be divided into Shares, without par value, each of
which shall, except as the Trustees may otherwise authorize in the case of any
series that is divided into two or more classes, represent an equal
proportionate interest in the series with each other Share of the same series,
none having priority or preference over another. The number of Shares authorized
shall be unlimited, and the Shares so authorized may be represented in part by
fractional shares. The Trustees may from time to time divide or combine the
Shares of any series or class into a greater or lesser number without thereby
changing the proportionate beneficial interests in the series or class.
Ownership of Shares
Section 2. The ownership of Shares shall be recorded on the books of the
Trust or its transfer or similar agent. No certificates certifying the ownership
of Shares shall be issued except as the Trustees may otherwise determine from
time to time. The Trustees may make such rules as they consider appropriate for
the issuance of Share certificates, the transfer of Shares and similar matters.
The record books of the trust as kept by the Trust or any transfer or similar
agent of the Trust, as the case may be, shall be conclusive as to who are the
Shareholders of each series and class and as to the number of Shares of each
series and class held from time to time by each Shareholder.
Investments in the Trust; Assets of the Series
Section 3. The Trustees shall accept investments in the Trust from such
persons and on such terms and, subject to any requirements of law, for such
consideration, which may consist of cash or tangible or intangible property or a
combination thereof, as they from time to time authorize.
All consideration received by the Trust for the issue or sale of Shares
of each series, together with all income, earnings, profits and proceeds
thereof, including any proceeds derived from the sale, exchange or liquidation
thereof, and any funds or payments derived from reinvestment of such proceeds in
whatever form the same may be, shall irrevocably belong to the series of Shares
with respect to which the same were received by the Trust for all purposes,
subject only to the rights of creditors, and shall be so handled upon the books
of account of the Trust and are herein referred to as "assets of" such series.
No Preemptive Rights
Section 4. Shareholders shall have no preemptive or other right to
receive, purchase or subscribe for any additional Shares or other securities
issued by the Trust.
Status of Shares and Limitation of Personal Liability
Section 5. Shares shall be deemed to be personal property giving only
the rights provided in this instrument. Every Shareholder by virtue of having
become a Shareholder shall be held to have expressly assented and agreed to the
terms hereof and to have become a party hereto. The death of a Shareholder
during the continuance of the Trust shall not operate to terminate the same nor
entitle the representative of any deceased Shareholder to an accounting or to
take any action in a court or elsewhere against the Trust or the Trustees, but
only to the rights of said decedent under this Trust. Ownership of Shares shall
not entitle the Shareholder to any title in or to the whole or any part of the
Trust property or right to call for a partition or division of the same or for
an accounting, nor shall the ownership of Shares constitute the Shareholders
partners. Neither the Trust nor the Trustees, nor any officer, employee or agent
of the Trust, shall have any power to bind personally any Shareholder, nor
except as specifically provided herein to call upon any Shareholder for the
payment of any sum of money or assessment whatsoever other than such as the
Shareholder may at any time personally agree to pay.
ARTICLE IV
THE TRUSTEES
Election
Section 1. The number of Trustees shall be fixed by the Trustees, except
that, subsequent to any sale of Shares pursuant to a public offering, there
shall be not less than three Trustees. Any vacancies occurring in the Board of
Trustees may be filled by the Trustees if, immediately after filling any such
vacancy, at least two-thirds of the Trustees then holding office shall have been
elected to such office by the Shareholders. In the event that at any time less
than a majority of the Trustees then holding office were elected to such office
by the Shareholders, the Trustees shall call a meeting of Shareholders for the
purpose of electing Trustees. Each Trustee elected by the Shareholders or by the
Trustees shall serve until the next meeting of Shareholders called for the
purpose of electing Trustees and until the election and qualification of his or
her successor, or until he or she sooner dies, resigns or is removed. The
initial Trustees, each of whom shall serve until the first meeting of
Shareholders at which Trustees are elected and until his or her successor is
elected and qualified, or until he or she sooner dies, resigns or is removed,
shall be John A. McNeice, Jr. and such other persons as the Trustee or Trustees
then in office shall, prior to any sale of Shares pursuant to a public offering,
appoint. By vote of a majority of the Trustees then in office, the Trustees may
remove a Trustee with or without cause. At any meeting called for the purpose, a
Trustee may be removed, with or without cause, by vote of the holders of
two-thirds of the outstanding Shares.
Effect of Death, Resignation, etc. of a Trustee
Section 2. The death, declination, resignation, retirement, removal or
incapacity of the Trustees, or any one of them, shall not operate to annul the
Trust or to revoke any existing agency created pursuant to the terms of this
Declaration of Trust.
Powers
Section 3. Subject to the provisions of this Declaration of Trust, the
business of the Trust shall be managed by the Trustees, and they shall have all
powers necessary or convenient to carry out that responsibility. Without
limiting the foregoing, the Trustees may adopt By-Laws not inconsistent with
this Declaration of Trust providing for the conduct of the business of the Trust
and may amend and repeal them to the extent that such By-Laws do not reserve
that right to the Shareholders; they may fill vacancies in their number,
including vacancies resulting from increases in their number, and may elect and
remove such officers and appoint and terminate such agents as they consider
appropriate; they may appoint from their own number, and terminate, any one or
more committees consisting of two or more Trustees, including an executive
committee which may, when the Trustees are not in session, exercise some or all
of the power and authority of the Trustees as the Trustees may determine; they
may appoint an advisory board, the members of which shall not be Trustees and
need not be Shareholders; they may employ one or more custodians of the assets
of the Trust and may authorize such custodians to employ subcustodians and to
deposit all or any part of such assets in a system or systems for the central
handling of securities, retain a transfer agent or a Shareholder services agent,
or both, provide for the distribution of Shares by the Trust, through one or
more principal underwriters or otherwise, set record dates for the determination
of Shareholders with respect to various matters, and in general delegate such
authority as they consider desirable to any officer of the Trust, to any
committee of the Trustees and to any agent or employee of the Trust or to any
such custodian or underwriter.
Without limiting the foregoing, the Trustees shall have power and
authority:
(a) To invest and reinvest cash, and to hold cash uninvested;
(b) To sell, exchange, lend, pledge, mortgage, hypothecate, write
options on and lease any or all of the assets of the Trust;
(c) To vote or give assent, or exercise any rights of ownership, with
respect to stock or other securities or property; and to execute and deliver
proxies or powers of attorney to such person or persons as the Trustees shall
deem proper, granting to such person or persons such power and discretion with
relation to securities or property as the Trustees shall deem proper;
(d) To exercise powers and rights of subscription or otherwise which
in any manner arise out of ownership of securities;
(e) To hold any security or property in a form not indicating any trust,
whether in bearer, unregistered or other negotiable form, or in the name of the
Trustees or of the Trust or in the name of a custodian, subcustodian or other
depository or a nominee or nominees or otherwise;
(f) Subject to the provisions of Article III, Section 3, to allocate
assets, liabilities and expenses of the Trust to a particular series of Shares
or to apportion the same among two or more series, provided that any liabilities
or expenses incurred by a particular series of Shares shall be payable solely
out of the assets of that series; and to the extent necessary or appropriate to
give effect to the preferences and special or relative rights and privileges of
any classes of Shares, to allocate assets, liabilities, income and expenses of a
series to a particular class of Shares of that series or to apportion the same
among two or more classes of Shares of that series;
(g) To consent to or participate in any plan for the reorganization,
consolidation or merger of any corporation or issuer, any security of which is
or was held in the Trust; to consent to any contract, lease, mortgage, purchase
or sale of property by such corporation or issuer, and to pay calls or
subscriptions with respect to any security held in the Trust;
(h) To join with other security holders in acting through a committee,
depository, voting trustee or otherwise, and in that connection to deposit any
security with, or transfer any security to, any such committee, depository or
trustee, and to delegate to them such power and authority with relation to any
security (whether or not so deposited or transferred) as the Trustees shall deem
proper, and to agree to pay, and to pay, such portion of the expenses and
compensation of such committee, depositary or trustee as the Trustees shall deem
proper;
(i) To compromise, arbitrate or otherwise adjust claims in favor of or
against the Trust on any matter in controversy, including but not limited to
claims for taxes;
(j) To enter into joint ventures, general or limited partnerships
and any other combinations or associations;
(k) To borrow funds;
(l) To endorse or guarantee the payment of any notes or other
obligations of any person; to make contracts of guaranty or suretyship, or
otherwise assume liability for payment thereof; and to mortgage and pledge the
Trust property or any part thereof to secure any of or all of such obligations;
(m) To purchase and pay for entirely out of Trust property such
insurance as they may deem necessary or appropriate for the conduct of the
business, including, without limitation, insurance policies insuring the assets
of the Trust and payment of distributions and principal on its portfolio
investments, and insurance policies insuring the Shareholders, Trustees,
officers, employees, agents, investment advisers or managers, principal
underwriters or independent contractors of the Trust individually against all
claims and liabilities of every nature arising by reason of holding, being or
having held any such office or position, or by reason of any action alleged to
have been taken or omitted by any such person as Shareholder, Trustee, officer,
employee, agent, investment adviser or manager, principal underwriter or
independent contractor, including any action taken or omitted that may be
determined to constitute negligence, whether or not the Trust would have the
power to indemnify such person against such liability; and
(n) To pay pensions for faithful service, as deemed appropriate by the
Trustees, and to adopt, establish and carry out pension, profit-sharing, share
bonus, share purchase, savings, thrift and other retirement, incentive and
benefit plans, trusts and provisions, including the purchasing of life insurance
and annuity contracts as a means of providing such retirement and other
benefits, for any or all of the Trustees, officers, employees and agents of the
Trust.
The Trustees shall not in any way be bound or limited by any present or
future law or custom in regard to investments by Trustees. Except as otherwise
provided herein or from time to time in the By-Laws, any action to be taken by
the Trustees may be taken by a majority of the Trustees present at a meeting of
the Trustees (a quorum being present), within or without Massachusetts,
including any meeting held by means of a conference telephone or other
communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the
meeting can hear each other at the same time, and participation by such means
shall constitute presence in person at a meeting, or by written consents of a
majority of the Trustees then in office.
Payment of Expenses by Trust
Section 4. The Trustees are authorized to pay or to cause to be paid out
of the principal or income of the Trust, or partly out of principal and partly
out of income, as they deem fair, all expenses, fees, charges, taxes and
liabilities incurred or arising in connection with the Trust, or in connection
with the management thereof, including, but not limited to, the Trustees'
compensation and such expenses and charges for the services of the Trust's
officers, employees, investment adviser or manager, principal underwriter,
auditor, counsel, custodian, transfer agent, Shareholder services agent and such
other agents or independent contractors, and such other expenses and charges, as
the Trustees may deem necessary or proper to incur, provided, however, that all
expenses, fees, charges, taxes and liabilities incurred or arising in connection
with a particular series of Shares, as determined by the Trustees, shall be
payable solely out of the assets of that series.
Ownership of Assets of the Trust
Section 5. Title to all of the assets of each series of Shares and of
the Trust shall at all times be considered as vested in the Trustees.
Advisory, Management and Distribution
Section 6. Subject to a favorable Majority Shareholder Vote, the
Trustees may, at any time and from time to time, contract for exclusive or
nonexclusive advisory and/or management services with Colonial Management
Associates, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation, or any other corporation, trust,
association or other organization (the "Adviser"), every such contract to comply
with such requirements and restrictions as may be set forth in the By-Laws; and
any such contract may contain such other terms interpretive of or in addition to
said requirements and restrictions as the Trustees may determine, including,
without limitation, authority to determine from time to time what investments
shall be purchased, held, sold or exchanged and what portion, if any, of the
assets of the Trust shall be held uninvested, and to make changes in the Trust's
investments. The Trustees may also, at any time and from time to time, contract
with the Adviser or any other corporation, trust, association or other
organization, appointing it exclusive or nonexclusive distributor or principal
underwriter for the Shares, every such contract to comply with such requirements
and restrictions as may be set forth in the By-Laws; and any such contract may
contain such other terms interpretive of or in addition to said requirements and
restrictions as the Trustees may determine.
The fact that:
(i) any of the Shareholders, Trustees or officers of the Trust is a
shareholder, director, officer, partner, trustee, employee, manager, adviser,
principal underwriter or distributor or agent of or for any corporation, trust,
association or other organization, or of or for any parent or affiliate of any
organization, with which an advisory or management contract, or principal
underwriter's or distributor's contract, or transfer, shareholder services or
other agency contract may have been or may hereafter be made, or that any
organization, or any parent or affiliate thereof, is a Shareholders or has an
interest in the Trust, or that
(ii) any corporation, trust, association or other organization with
which an advisory or management contract or principal underwriter's or
distributor's contract, or transfer, Shareholder services or other agency
contract may have been or may hereafter be made also has an advisory or
management contract, or principal underwriter's or distributor's contract, or
transfer, shareholder services or other agency contract with one or more other
corporations, trusts, associations or other organizations, or has other business
or interests shall not affect the validity of any such contract or disqualify
any Shareholder, Trustee or officer of the Trust from voting upon or executing
the same or create any liability or accountability to the Trust or its
Shareholders.
ARTICLE V
SHAREHOLDERS' VOTING POWERS AND MEETINGS
Voting Powers
Section 1. The Shareholders shall have power to vote only (i) for the
election of Trustees as provided in Article IV, Section 1, (ii) with respect to
any Adviser as provided in Article IV, Section 6, (iii) with respect to any
termination of this Trust to the extent and as provided in Article IX, Section
4, (iv) with respect to any amendment of this Declaration of Trust to the extent
and as provided in Article IX, Section 7, (v) to the same extent as the
stockholders of a Massachusetts business corporation as to whether or not a
court action, proceeding or claim should not be brought or maintained
derivatively or as a class action on behalf of the Trust or the Shareholders,
and (vi) with respect to such additional matters relating to the Trust as may be
required by law, this Declaration of Trust, the By-Laws or any registration of
the Trust with the Securities and Exchange Commission (or any successor agency)
or any state, or as the Trustees may consider necessary or desirable. Each whole
Share shall be entitled to one vote as to any matter on which it is entitled to
vote and each fractional Share shall be entitled to a proportionate fractional
vote. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Declaration of Trust, on any
matter submitted to a vote of Shareholders, all Shares of the Trust then
entitled to vote shall be voted in the aggregate as a single class without
regard to series or class; except (1) when required by the 1940 Act or when the
Trustees shall have determined that the matter affects one or more series or
classes materially differently, Shares shall be voted by individual series or
class; and (2) when the Trustees have determined that the matter affects only
the interests of one or more series or classes, then only Shareholders of such
series or classes shall be entitled to vote thereon. There shall be no
cumulative voting in the election of Trustees. Shares may be voted in person or
by proxy. A proxy with respect to Shares held in the name of two or more persons
shall be valid if executed by any one of them unless at or prior to exercise of
the proxy the Trust receives a specific written notice to the contrary from any
one of them. A proxy purporting to be executed by or on behalf of a Shareholder
shall be deemed valid unless challenged at or prior to its exercise and the
burden of proving invalidity shall rest on the challenger. Until Shares are
issued, the Trustees may exercise all rights of Shareholders and may take any
action required by law, this Declaration of Trust or the By-Laws to be taken by
Shareholders.
Voting Power and Meetings
Section 2. Meetings of Shareholders of the Trust or of any series or
class may be called by the Trustees or such other person or persons as may be
specified in the By-Laws and held from time to time for the purpose of taking
action upon any matter requiring the vote or the authority of the Shareholders
of the Trust or any series or class as herein provided or upon any other matter
deemed by the Trustees to be necessary or desirable. Meetings of Shareholders of
the Trust or of any series or class shall be called by the Trustees or such
other person or persons as may be specified in the By-Laws upon written
application. The Shareholders shall be entitled to at least seven days' written
notice of any meeting of the Shareholders.
Quorum and Required Vote
Section 3. Thirty percent (30%) of the Shares entitled to vote shall be
a quorum for the transaction of business at a Shareholders' meeting, except that
where any provision of law or of this Declaration of Trust permits or requires
that holders of any series or class shall vote as a series or class, then thirty
percent (30%) of the aggregate number of Shares of that series or class entitled
to vote shall be necessary to constitute a quorum for the transaction of
business by that series or class. Any lesser number, however, shall be
sufficient for adjournments. Any adjourned session or sessions may be held
within a reasonable time after the date set for the original meeting without the
necessity of further notice. Except when a larger vote is required by any
provision of this Declaration of Trust or the By-Laws, a majority of the Shares
voted shall decide any questions and a plurality shall elect a Trustee, provided
that where any provision of law or of this Declaration of Trust permits or
requires that the holders of any series or class shall vote as a series or
class, then a majority of the Shares of that series or class vote on the matter
(or a plurality with respect to the election of a Trustee) shall decide that
matter insofar as that series or class is concerned.
Action by Written Consent
Section 4. Any action taken by Shareholders may be taken without a
meeting if a majority of Shareholder entitled to vote on the matter (or such
larger proportion thereof as shall be required by any express provision of this
Declaration of Trust or the By-Laws) consent to the action in writing and such
written consents are filed with the records of the meetings of Shareholders.
Such consent shall be treated for all purposes as a vote taken at a meeting of
Shareholders.
Additional Provisions
Section 5. The By-Laws may include further provisions for Shareholders'
votes and meetings and related matters.
<PAGE>
ARTICLE VI
DISTRIBUTIONS, REDEMPTIONS AND REPURCHASES,
AND DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
Distributions
Section 1. The Trustees may, but need not, each year distribute to the
Shareholders of each series or class such income and gains, accrued or realized,
as the Trustees may determine, after providing for actual and accrued expenses
and liabilities (including such reserves as the Trustees may establish)
determined in accordance with good accounting practices. The Trustees shall have
full discretion to determine which items shall be treated as income and which
items as capital and their determination shall be binding upon the Shareholders.
Distributions of each year's income of each series, if any be made, may be made
in one or more payments, which shall be in Shares, in cash or otherwise and on a
date or dates and as of a record date or dates determined by the Trustees. At
any time and from time to time in their discretion, the Trustees may distribute
to the Shareholders of any one or more series or classes as of a record date or
dates determined by the Trustees, in Shares, in cash or otherwise, all or part
of any gains realized on the sale or disposition of property of the series or
otherwise, or all or part of any other principal of the Trust attributable to
the series. In the case of any series not divided into two or more classes of
Shares, each distribution pursuant to this Section 1 shall be made ratably
according to the number of Shares of the series held by the several Shareholders
on the applicable record date thereof, provided that no distribution need be
made on Shares purchased pursuant to orders received, or for which payment is
made, after such time or times as the Trustees may determine. In the case of any
series divided into two or more classes, each distribution pursuant to this
Section 1 may be made in whole or in such parts as the Trustees may determine to
the Shareholders of any one or more classes, and the distribution to the
Shareholders of any class shall be made ratably according to the number of
Shares of the class (but need not be made ratably according to the number of
Shares of the series, considered without regard to class) held by the several
Shareholders on the record date thereof, provided that no distribution need be
made on Shares purchased pursuant to orders received, or for which payment is
made, after such time or times as the Trustees may determine. Any such
distribution paid in Shares will be paid at the net asset value thereof as
determined in accordance with Section 7 of this Article VI.
Redemptions and Repurchases
Section 2. Any holder of Shares of the Trust may be presentation of a
written request, together with his or her certificates, if any, for such Shares,
in proper form for transfer, at the office of the Trust or at a principal office
of a transfer agent appointed by the Trust, redeem his or her Shares for the net
asset value thereof determined and computed in accordance with the provisions of
this Section 2 and the provisions of Section 7 of this Article VI.
Upon receipt by the Trust or its transfer agent of such written request
for redemption of Shares, such Shares shall be redeemed at the net asset value
per share of the appropriate series next determined after such Shares are
tendered in proper order for transfer to the Trust or determined as of such
other time fixed by the Trustees as may be permitted or required by the 1940
Act, provided that no such tender shall be required in the case of Shares for
which a certificate or certificates have not been issued, and in such case such
Shares shall be redeemed at the net asset value per share of the appropriate
series next determined after such request has been received or determined at
such other time fixed by the Trustees as may be permitted or required by the
1940 Act.
The obligation of the Trust to redeem its Shares of each series or class
as set forth above in this Section 2 shall be subject to the conditions that
during any time of emergency, as hereinafter defined, such obligation may be
suspended by the Trust by or under authority of the Trustees for such period or
periods during such time of emergency as shall be determined by or under
authority of the Trustees. If there is such a suspension, any Shareholder may
withdraw any demand for redemption and any tender of Shares which has been
received by the Trust during any such period and any tender of Shares, the
applicable net asset value of which would but for such suspension be calculated
as of a time during such period. Upon such withdrawal, the Trust shall return to
the Shareholder the certificates therefor, if any. For the purposes of any such
suspension, "time of emergency" shall mean, either with respect to all Shares or
any series of Shares, any period during which:
(a) the New York Stock Exchange is closed other than for customary
weekend and holiday closings; or
(b) the Trustees or authorized officers of the Trust shall have
determined, in compliance with any applicable rules and regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission, either that trading on the New York Stock
Exchange is restricted, or that an emergency exists as a result of which (i)
disposal of the Trust of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or
(ii) it is not reasonably practicable for the Trust fairly to determine the
current value of its net assets; or
(c) the suspension or postponement of such obligations is permitted
by order of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Trust may also purchase, repurchase or redeem Shares in accordance
with such other methods, upon such other terms and subject to such other
conditions as the Trustees may from time to time authorize at a price not
exceeding the net asset value of such Shares in effect when the purchase or
repurchase or any contract to purchase or repurchase is made.
Payment in Kind
Section 3. Subject to any generally applicable limitation imposed by the
Trustees, any payment on redemption of Shares may, if authorized by the
Trustees, be made wholly or partly in kind, instead of in cash. Such payment in
kind shall be made by distributing securities or other property constituting, in
the opinion of the Trustees, a fair representation of the various types of
securities and other property then held by the series of Shares being redeemed
(but not necessarily involving a portion of each of the series' holdings) and
taken at their value used in determining the net asset value of the Shares in
respect of which payment is made.
Redemptions at the Option of the Trust
Section 4. The Trust shall have the right at its option and at any time
to redeem Shares of any Shareholder at the net asset value thereof as determined
in accordance with Section 7 of Article VI of this Declaration of Trust: (i) if
at such time such Shareholder owns fewer Shares than, or Shares having an
aggregate net asset value of less than, an amount determined from time to time
by the Trustees; or (ii) to the extent that such Shareholder owns Shares of a
particular series of Shares equal to or in excess of a percentage of the
outstanding Shares of that series (determined without regard to class)
determined from time to time by the Trustees; or (iii) to the extent that such
Shareholder owns Shares of the Trust representing a percentage equal to or in
excess of such percentage of the aggregate number of outstanding Shares of the
Trust or the aggregate net asset value of the Trust determined from time to time
by the Trustees.
Dividends, Distributions, Redemptions and Repurchases
Section 5. No dividend or distribution (including, without limitation,
any distribution paid upon termination of the Trust or of any series) with
respect to, nor any redemption or repurchase of, the Shares of any series (or of
any class) shall be effected by the Trust other than from the assets of such
series (or of the series of which such class is a part).
Additional Provisions Relating to Redemptions and Repurchases
Section 6. The completion of redemption of Shares shall constitute a
full discharge of the Trust and the Trustees with respect to such shares, and
the Trustees may require that any certificate or certificates issued by the
Trust to evidence the ownership of such Shares shall be surrendered to the
Trustees for cancellation or notation.
Determination of Net Asset Value
Section 7. The term "net asset value" of the Shares of each series or
class shall mean: (i) the value of all the assets of such series or class; (ii)
less the total liabilities of such series or class; (iii) divided by the number
of Shares of such series or class outstanding, in each case at the time of each
determination. The "number of Shares of such series or class outstanding" for
the purposes of such computation shall be exclusive of any Shares of such series
or class to be redeemed and not then redeemed as to which the redemption price
has been determined, but shall include Shares of such series or class presented
for repurchase and not then repurchased and Shares of such series or class to be
redeemed and not then redeemed as to which the redemption price has not been
determined and Shares of such series or class the sale of which has been
confirmed. Any fractions involved in the computation of net asset value per
share shall be adjusted to the nearer cent unless the Trustees shall determine
to adjust such fractions to a fraction of a cent.
The Trustees, or any officer or officers or agent of this Trust
designated for the purpose by the Trustees, shall determine the net asset value
of the Shares of each series or class, and the Trustees shall fix the times as
of which the net asset value of the Shares of each series or class shall be
determined and shall fix the periods during which any such net asset value shall
be effective as to sales, redemptions and repurchases of, and other transactions
in, the Shares of such series or class, except as such times and periods for any
such transaction may be fixed by other provisions of this Declaration of Trust
or by the By-Laws.
In valuing the portfolio investments of any series or class for
determination of net asset value per share of such series or class, securities
for which market quotations are readily available shall be valued at prices
which, in the opinion of the Trustees, or any officer or officers or agent of
the Trust designated for the purpose by the Trustees, most nearly represent the
market value of such securities, which may, but need not, be the most recent bid
price obtained from one or more of the market makers for such securities; other
securities and assets shall be valued at fair value as determined by or pursuant
to the direction of the Trustees. Notwithstanding the foregoing, short-term debt
obligations, commercial paper and repurchase agreements may be, but need not be,
valued on the basis of quoted yields for securities of comparable maturity,
quality and type, or on the basis of amortized cost. In determination of net
asset value of any series or class, dividends receivable and accounts receivable
for investments sold and for Shares sold shall be stated at the amounts to be
received therefor; and income receivable accrued daily on bonds and notes owned
shall be stated at the amount to be received. Any other assets shall be stated
at fair value as determined by the Trustees or such officer, officers or agent
pursuant to the Trustees' authority, except that no value shall be assigned to
good will, furniture, lists, reports, statistics or other noncurrent assets
other than real estate. Liabilities of any series or class for accounts payable
for investments purchased and for Shares tendered for redemption and not then
redeemed as to which the redemption price has been determined shall be stated at
the amounts payable therefor. In determining the net asset value of any series
or class, the person or persons making such determination on behalf of the Trust
may include in liabilities such reserves, estimated accrued expenses and
contingencies as such person or persons may in its, his or their best judgment
deem fair and reasonable under the circumstances. Any income dividends and gains
distributions payable by the Trust shall be deducted as of such time or times on
the record date therefor as the Trustees shall determine.
The manner of determining the net assets of any series or class or of
determining the net asset value of the Shares of any series or class may from
time to time be altered as necessary or desirable in the judgment of the
Trustees to conform to any other method prescribed or permitted by any
applicable law or regulation.
Determinations under this Section 7 made in good faith and in accordance
with the provisions of the 1940 Act shall be binding on all parties concerned.
ARTICLE VII
COMPENSATION AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY OF TRUSTEES
Compensation
Section 1. The Trustees as such shall be entitled to reasonable
compensation from the Trust; they may fix the amount of their compensation.
Nothing herein shall in any way prevent the employment of any Trustee for
advisory, management, legal, accounting, investment banking or other services
and payment for the same by the Trust.
Limitation of Liability
Section 2. The Trustees shall not be responsible or liable in any event
for any neglect or wrongdoing of any officer, agent, employee, adviser or
principal underwriter of the Trust, nor shall any Trustee be responsible for the
act or omission of any other Trustee, but nothing herein contained shall protect
any Trustee against any liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject
by reason of wilful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless
disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
Every note, bond, contract, instrument, certificate, Share or
undertaking and every other act or thing whatsoever executed or done by or on
behalf of the Trust or the Trustees or any of them in connection with the
Trust shall be conclusively deemed to have been executed or done only in or
with
respect to their or his or her capacity as Trustees
or Trustee, and such Trustees or Trustee
shall not be personally liable thereon.
<PAGE>
ARTICLE VIII
INDEMNIFICATION
Trustees, Officers, etc.
Section 1. The Trust shall indemnify each of its Trustees and officers
(including persons who serve at the Trust's request as directors, officers or
trustees of another organization in which the Trust has any interest as a
shareholder, creditor or otherwise) (hereinafter referred to as a "Covered
Person") against all liabilities and expenses, including but not limited to
amounts paid in satisfaction of judgments, in compromise or as fines and
penalties, and counsel fees reasonably incurred by any Covered Person in
connection with the defense or disposition of any action, suit or other
proceeding, whether civil or criminal, before any court or administrative or
legislative body, in which such Covered Person may be or may have been involved
as a party or otherwise or with which such person may be or may have been
threatened, while in office or thereafter, by reason of being or having been
such a Trustee or officer, except that no Covered Person shall be indemnified
against any liability to the Trust or its Shareholders to which such Covered
Person would otherwise be subject by reason of wilful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of
such Covered Person's office. Expenses, including counsel fees so incurred by
any such Covered Person (but excluding amounts paid in satisfaction of
judgments, in compromise or as fines or penalties), may be paid from time to
time by the Trust in advance of the final disposition of any such action, suit
or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such Covered
Person to repay amounts so paid to the Trust if it is ultimately determined that
indemnification of such expenses is not authorized under this Article, provided
that (a) such Covered Person shall provide security for his undertaking, (b) the
Trust shall be insured against losses arising by reason of such Covered Person's
failure to fulfill his undertaking or (c) a majority of the Trustees who are
disinterested persons and who are not Interested Persons (provided that a
majority of such Trustees then in office act on the matter), or independent
legal counsel in a written opinion, shall determine, based on a review of
readily available facts (but not a full trial-type inquiry), that there is
reason to believe such Covered Person ultimately will be entitled to
indemnification.
Compromise Payment
Section 2. As to any matter disposed of (whether by a compromise
payment, pursuant to a consent decree or otherwise) without an adjudication in a
decision on the merits by a court, or by any other body before which the
proceeding was brought, that such Covered Person is liable to the Trust or its
Shareholders by reason of wilful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or
reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such Covered
Person's office, indemnification shall be provided if (a) approved as in the
best interest of the Trust, after notice that it involves such indemnification,
by at least a majority of the Trustees who are disinterested persons and are not
interested Persons (provided that a majority of such Trustees then in office act
on the matter), upon a determination, based upon a review of readily available
facts (but not a full trial-type inquiry) that such Covered Person is not liable
to the Trust or its Shareholders by reason of wilful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of
such Covered Person's office, or (b) there has been obtained an opinion in
writing of independent legal counsel, based upon a review of readily available
facts (but not a full-trial type inquiry) to the effect that such
indemnification would not protect such Covered Person against any liability to
the Trust to which such Covered Person would otherwise be subject by reason of
wilful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the
duties involved in the conduct of his office. Any approval pursuant to this
Section shall not prevent the recovery from any Covered Person of any amount
paid to such Covered Person in accordance with this Section as indemnification
if such Covered Person is subsequently adjudicated by a court of competent
jurisdiction to have been liable to the Trust or its Shareholders by reason of
wilful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the
duties involved in the conduct of such Covered Person's office.
Indemnification Not Exclusive
Section 3. The right of indemnification hereby provided shall not be
exclusive of or affect any other rights to which any such Covered Person may be
entitled. As used in this Article VIII, the term "Covered Person" shall include
such person's heirs, executors and administrators, and a "disinterested person"
is a person against whom none of the actions, suits or other proceedings in
question or another action, suit or other proceeding on the same or similar
grounds is then or has been pending. Nothing contained in this article shall
affect any rights to indemnification to which personnel of the Trust, other than
Trustees and officers, and other persons may be entitled by contract or
otherwise under law, nor the power of the Trust to purchase and maintain
liability insurance on behalf of such persons.
Shareholders
Section 4. In case any Shareholder or former Shareholder shall be held
to be personally liable solely by reason of his or her being or having been a
Shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other
reason, the Shareholder or former Shareholder (or his or her heirs, executors,
administrators or other legal representatives or, in the case of a corporation
or other entity, its corporate or other general successor) shall be entitled to
be held harmless from and indemnified against all loss and expense arising from
such liability, but only out of the assets of the particular series of shares of
which he or she is or was a Shareholder.
ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
Trustees, Shareholders, etc. Not Personally Liable; Notice
Section 1. All persons extending credit to, contracting with or having
any claim against the Trust or a particular series of Shares shall look only to
the assets of the Trust or the assets of that particular series of Shares for
payment under such credit, contract or claim; and neither the Shareholders nor
the Trustees, nor any of the Trust's officers, employees or agents, whether
past, present or future, shall be personally liable therefor. Nothing in this
Declaration of Trust shall protect any Trustee against any liability to which
such Trustee would otherwise be subject by reason of wilful misfeasance, bad
faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the
conduct of the office of Trustee.
Every note, bond, contract, instrument, certificate or undertaking made
or issued by the Trustees or by any officers or officer shall give notice that
this Declaration of Trust is on file with the Secretary of State of The
Commonwealth of Massachusetts and shall recite that the same was executed or
made by or on behalf of the Trust or by them as Trustees or Trustee or as
officers or officer and not individually and that the obligations of such
instrument are not binding upon any of them or the Shareholders individually but
are binding only upon the assets and property of the Trust, and may contain such
further recital as he or she or they may deem appropriate, but the omission
thereof shall not operate to bind any Trustees or Trustee of officers or officer
or Shareholders or Shareholder individually.
Trustee's Good Faith Action, Expert Advice, No Bond or Surety
Section 2. The exercise by the Trustees of their powers and discretions
hereunder shall be binding upon everyone interested. A Trustee shall be liable
for his or her own wilful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless
disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of the office of Trustee, and
for nothing else, and shall not be liable for errors of judgment or mistakes of
fact or law. The Trustees may take advice of counsel or other experts with
respect to the meaning and operation of this Declaration of Trust, and shall be
under no liability for any act omission in accordance with such advice or for
failing to follow such advice. The Trustees shall not be required to give any
bond as such, nor any surety if a bond is required.
Liability of Third Persons Dealing with Trustees
Section 3. No person dealing with the Trustees shall be bound to make
any inquiry concerning the validity of any transaction made or to be made by the
Trustees or to see to the application of any payments made or property
transferred to the Trust or upon its order.
Duration and Termination of Trust
Section 4. Unless terminated as provided herein, the Trust shall
continue without limitation of time. The Trust may be terminated at any time by
vote of Shareholders holding at least two-thirds of the Shares of each series
entitled to vote or by the Trustees by written notice to the Shareholders. Any
series of Shares may be terminated at any time by vote of Shareholders holding
at least two-thirds of the Shares of such series entitled to vote or by the
Trustees by written notice to the Shareholders of such series.
Upon termination of the Trust or of any one or more series of Shares,
after paying or otherwise providing for all charges, taxes, expenses and
liabilities, whether due or accrued or anticipated as may be determined by the
Trustees, the Trust shall in accordance with such procedures as the Trustees
consider appropriate reduce the remaining assets to distributable form in cash
or shares or other securities, or any combination thereof, and distribute the
proceeds to the Shareholders of the series involved, ratably according to the
number of Shares of such series held by the several Shareholders of such series
on the date of termination, except to the extent otherwise required or permitted
by the preferences and special or relative rights and privileges of any classes
of Shares of that series, provided that any distribution to the Shareholders of
a particular class of Shares shall be made to such Shareholders pro rata in
proportion to the number of Shares of such class held by each of them.
Filing of Copies, References, Headings
Section 5. The original or a copy of this instrument and of each
amendment hereto shall be kept at the office of the Trust where it may be
inspected by any Shareholder. A copy of this instrument and of each amendment
hereto shall be filed by the Trust with the Secretary of State of The
Commonwealth of Massachusetts and with the Clerk of the City of Boston, as well
as any other governmental office where such filing may from time to time be
required. Anyone dealing with the Trust may rely on a certificate by an officer
of the Trust as to whether or not any such amendments have been made and as to
any matters in connection with the Trust hereunder; and, with the same effect as
if it were the original, may rely on a copy certified by an officer of the Trust
to be a copy of this instrument or of any such amendments. In this instrument
and in any such amendment, references to this instrument, and all expressions
such as "herein," "hereof" and "hereunder," shall be deemed to refer to this
instrument as amended or affected by any such amendments. Headings are placed
herein for convenience of reference only and shall not be taken as a part hereof
or control or affect the meaning, construction or effect of this instrument.
This instrument may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which
shall be deemed an original.
Applicable Law
Section 6. This Declaration of Trust is made in The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, and it is created under and is to be governed by and construed
and administered according to the laws of said Commonwealth. The Trust shall be
of the type commonly called a Massachusetts business trust, and without limiting
the provisions hereof, the Trust may exercise all powers which are ordinarily
exercised by such a trust.
Amendments
Section 7. This Declaration of Trust may be amended at any time by an
instrument in writing signed by a majority of the then Trustees when authorized
so to do by a vote of Shareholders holding a majority of the Shares entitled to
vote, except that an amendment which shall affect the holders of one or more
series or classes of Shares but not the holders of all outstanding series and
classes shall be authorized by vote of the Shareholders holding a majority of
the Shares entitled to vote of each series and class affected and no vote of
Shareholders of a series or class not affected shall be required. Amendments
having the purpose of changing the name of the Trust or of supplying any
omission, curing any ambiguity or curing, correcting or supplementing any
defective or inconsistent provision contained herein shall not require
authorization by Shareholder vote.
<PAGE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have hereunto set their hands in the
City of Boston, Massachusetts for themselves and their assigns, as of this 15th
day of November, 1991.
/s/ Oliver F. Ames
Oliver F. Ames
/s/ Tom Bleasdale
Tom Bleasdale
/s/ Lora S. Collins
Lora S. Collins
/s/ J. Craig Huff, Jr.
J. Craig Huff, Jr.
/s/ William D. Ireland, Jr.
William D. Ireland, Jr.
/s/ John A. McNeice, Jr.
John A. McNeice, Jr.
/s/ James L. Moody, Jr.
James L. Moody, Jr.
/s/ John J. Neuhauser
John J. Neuhauser
/s/ George L. Shinn
George L. Shinn
/s/ Robert L. Sullivan
Robert L. Sullivan
/s/ Sinclair Weeks, Jr.
Sinclair Weeks, Jr.
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Boston, ss. November 15, 1991
Then personally appeared the above-named Trustees and acknowledged the
foregoing instrument to be their free act and deed, before me,
/s/ Diane M. Joyce
Notary Public
My commission expires: 3-2-95
(Notary's Seal)
ROPES & GRAY
225 FRANKLIN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02110
(617) 423-6100
CABLE ADDRESS "ROPGRALOR" IN WASHINGTON
TELEX NUMBER 940519 1001 TWENTY-SECOND STREET, N.W.
TELECOPY (617) 423-7841 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20037
(202) 429-1600
April 26, 1985
Colonial High Yield Securities Trust
75 Federal Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Gentlemen:
We are furnishing this opinion in connection with the proposed offer and
sale by Colonial High Yield Securities Trust, a Massachusetts business trust
(the "Trust"), of its shares of beneficial interest (the "Shares") pursuant to
Registration Statement No. 2-41251 on Form N-1A under the Securities Act of
1933, which Registration Statement was initially filed by Colonial High Yield
Securities, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation, and which is to be expressly
adopted by the Trust, as the successor in interest to such corporation, in
accordance with procedures approved by the staff of the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
We are familiar with the action taken by the Trustees of the Trust to
authorize the issuance of the Shares. We have examined the Trust's records of
Trustee and shareholder action, its By-Laws and its Agreement and Declaration of
Trust on file at the Office of the Secretary of State of The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. We have examined copies of such Registration Statement, in the
form filed or to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and such
other documents as we deem necessary for the purposes of this opinion.
We assume that upon sale of the Shares the Trust will receive the net asset
value thereof. We also assume that, in connection with any offer and sale of the
Shares, the Trust will take proper steps to effect compliance with applicable
federal and state laws regulating offerings and sales of securities.
Based upon the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the Trust is
authorized to issue an unlimited number of Shares, and that, when the Shares are
issued and sold, they will be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable by
the Trust.
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts
business trust". Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain
circumstances, be
ROPES & GRAY
Colonial High Yield Securities Trust -2- April 25, 1985
held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. However, the Agreement
and Declaration of Trust disclaims shareholder liability for acts or obligations
of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each
agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or
the Trustees. The Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides for
indemnification out of the Trust property for all loss and expense of any
shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. Thus, the
risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder
liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself would be unable
to meet its obligations.
We consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the aforesaid
Registration Statement.
Very truly yours,
ROPES & GRAY
Ropes & Gray
S:\FUNDS\TRUSTI\GENERAL\OPINION.DOC
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS A YEAR END DEC-31-1996
AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS A YEAR END DEC-31-1996
</LEGEND>
<CIK> 0000021832
<NAME> COLONIAL TRUST I
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 1
<NAME> COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS A
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1996
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 898818
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 928263
<RECEIVABLES> 21458
<ASSETS-OTHER> 28
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 949749
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 7814
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1692
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 9506
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 968819
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 75556
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 69210
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 1450
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> (59471)
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 29445
<NET-ASSETS> 940243
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 3746
<INTEREST-INCOME> 82916
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 12967
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 73695
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 22242
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 2536
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 98473
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 43790
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 26664
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 23201
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 2883
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 122270
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 99
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> (74598)
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 5087
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 12967
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 847849
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 6.75
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.625
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.160
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.615)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 6.92
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.20
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0
</TABLE>
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS B YEAR END AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL
HIHG YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS B YEAR END DEC-31-1996
</LEGEND>
<CIK> 0000021832
<NAME> COLONIAL TRUST I
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 1
<NAME> COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS B
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1996
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 898818
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 928263
<RECEIVABLES> 21458
<ASSETS-OTHER> 28
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 949749
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 7814
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1692
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 9506
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 968819
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 59386
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 52043
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 1450
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> (59471)
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 29445
<NET-ASSETS> 940243
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 3746
<INTEREST-INCOME> 82916
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 12967
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 73695
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 22242
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 2536
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 98473
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 30452
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 25190
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 19949
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 2102
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 122270
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 99
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> (74598)
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 5087
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 12967
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 847849
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 6.75
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.574
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.160
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.564)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 6.92
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.95
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS D YEAR END DEC-31-1996
AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTRIETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS D YEAR END DEC-31-1996
</LEGEND>
<CIK> 0000021832
<NAME> COLONIAL TRUST I
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 1
<NAME> COLONIAL HIGH YIELD SECURITIES FUND, CLASS D
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1996
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 898818
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 928263
<RECEIVABLES> 21458
<ASSETS-OTHER> 28
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 949749
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 7814
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1692
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 9506
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 968819
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 875
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 1450
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> (59471)
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 29445
<NET-ASSETS> 940243
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 3746
<INTEREST-INCOME> 82916
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 12967
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 73695
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 22242
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 2536
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 98473
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 199
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1153
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 299
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 21
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 122270
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 99
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> (74598)
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 5087
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 12967
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 847849
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 6.75
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.554
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.130
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.544)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 6.92
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.95
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0
</TABLE>
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL INCOME FUND, CLASS A YEAR END DEC-31-1996 AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BE REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL
INCOME FUND, CLASS A YEAR END DEC-31-1996
</LEGEND>
<CIK> 0000021832
<NAME> COLONIAL TRUST I
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 2
<NAME> COLONIAL INCOME FUND, CLASS A
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1996
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 159154
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 162298
<RECEIVABLES> 3283
<ASSETS-OTHER> 19
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 36
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 165636
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 185
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 185
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 180671
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 20219
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 21671
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 322
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 18711
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 3169
<NET-ASSETS> 165451
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 261
<INTEREST-INCOME> 13732
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 2142
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 11851
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 717
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (7114)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 5454
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 9496
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1428
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (3647)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 767
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> (16586)
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 56
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (19283)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 852
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 2142
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 170273
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 6.640
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.460
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (0.240)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.450)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 6.41
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.1
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL INCOME FUND, CLASS B YEAR END DEC-31-1996 AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL
INCOME FUND, CLASS B YEAR END DEC-31-1996
</LEGEND>
<CIK> 0000021832
<NAME> COLONIAL TRUST I
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 2
<NAME> COLONIAL INCOME FUND, CLASS B
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1996
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 159154
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 162298
<RECEIVABLES> 3283
<ASSETS-OTHER> 19
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 36
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 165636
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 185
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 185
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 180671
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 5577
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 5756
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 322
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 18711
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 3169
<NET-ASSETS> 165451
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 261
<INTEREST-INCOME> 13732
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 2142
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 11851
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 717
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (7114)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 5454
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 2285
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1907
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (2281)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 197
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> (16586)
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 56
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (19283)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 852
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 2142
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 170273
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 6.640
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.412
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (0.240)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.402)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 6.410
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.850
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0
</TABLE>
ROPES & GRAY
225 FRANKLIN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02110
(617) 423-6100
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C>
IN PROVIDENCE TELEX NUMBER 940519 "ROPGRALOR" BSN IN WASHINGTON
30 KENNEDY PLAZA TELEX NUMBER 951273 ROPES GRAY BSN 1001 TWENTY-SECOND STREET, N.W.
PROVIDENCE, RI 08902 TELECOPIERS (617) 423-2377-(617) 423-7841 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20037
(401) 521-5400 INTERNATIONAL: (617) 423-6905 (202) 429-1600
TELECOPIER: (401) 521-0910 TELECOPIER (202) 428-1629
</TABLE>
February 26, 1987
Colonial Income Trust
One Financial Center
Boston, Massachusetts 02111
Gentlemen:
We are furnishing this opinion in connection with the proposed offer and
sale by Colonial Income Trust, a Massachusetts business trust (the "Trust"), of
its shares of beneficial interest (the "Shares") pursuant to Registration
Statement No. 2-34923 on Form N-1A under the Securities Act of 1933, which
Registration Statement was initially filed by Colonial Income Fund, Inc., a
Massachusetts corporation, and which is to be expressly adopted by the Trust, as
the successor in interest to such corporation, in accordance with procedures
approved by the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
We are familiar with the action taken by the initial Trustee of the Trust
to authorize the issuance of the Shares. We have examined the Trust's records of
Trustee action, its By-Laws and its Agreement and Declaration of Trust on file
at the Office of the Secretary of State of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We
have examined copies of such Registration Statement, in the form filed or to be
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and such other documents as
we deem necessary for the purposes of this opinion.
We assume that upon sale of the Shares the Trust will receive the net asset
value thereof. We also assume that, in connection with any offer and sale of the
Shares, the Trust will take proper steps to effect compliance with applicable
federal and state laws regulating offerings and sales of securities.
Based upon the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the Trust is
authorized to issue an unlimited number of Shares, and that, when the Shares are
issued and sold, they will be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable by
the Trust.
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts
business trust". Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain
circumstances, be
<PAGE>
ROPES & GRAY
Colonial Income Trust -2- February 26, 1987
held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. However, the Agreement
and Declaration of Trust disclaims shareholder liability for acts or obligations
of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each
agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or
the Trustees. The Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides for
indemnification out of the Trust property for all loss and expense of any
shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. Thus, the
risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder
liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself would be unable
to meet its obligations.
We consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the aforesaid
Registration Statement.
Very truly yours,
ROPES & GRAY
Ropes & Gray
S:\FUNDS\TRUSTI\GENERAL\OPININ2.DOC
ROPES & GRAY
225 FRANKLIN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02110
(617) 423-6100
CABLE ADDRESS "ROPGRALOR" IN WASHINGTON
TELEX NUMBER 940519 1001 TWENTY-SECOND STREET, N.W.
TELECOPY (617) 423-7841 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20037
(202) 429-1600
March 10, 1983
Colonial Option Income Trust
75 Federal Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Gentlemen:
We are furnishing this opinion in connection with the proposed offer and
sale by Colonial Option Income Trust, a Massachusetts business trust (the
"Trust"), of its shares of beneficial interest (the "Shares") pursuant to
Registration Statement No. 2-58179 on Form N-1A under the Securities Act of
1933, which Registration Statement was initially filed by Colonial Option Income
Fund, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation, and which is to be expressly adopted by
the Trust, as the successor in interest to such corporation, in accordance with
procedures approved by the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
We are familiar with the action taken by Trustees of the Trust to authorize
the issuance of the Shares. We have examined the Trust's records of Trustee and
shareholder action, its By-Laws and its Agreement and Declaration of Trust on
file at the Office of the Secretary of State of The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. We have examined copies of such Registration Statement, in the
form filed or to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and such
other documents as we deem necessary for the purposes of this opinion.
We assume that upon sale of the Shares the Trust will receive the net asset
value thereof. We also assume that, in connection with any offer and sale of the
Shares, the Trust will take proper steps to effect compliance with applicable
federal and state laws regulating offerings and sales of securities.
Based upon the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the Trust is
authorized to issue an unlimited number of Shares, and that, when the Shares are
issued and sold, they will be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable by
the Trust.
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts
business trust". Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain
circumstances, be
ROPES & GRAY
Colonial Option Income Trust -2- March 10, 1983
held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. However, the Agreement
and Declaration of Trust disclaims shareholder liability for acts or obligations
of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each
agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or
the Trustees. The Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides for
indemnification out of the Trust property for all loss and expense of any
shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. Thus, the
risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder
liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself would be unable
to meet its obligations.
We consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the aforesaid
Registration Statement.
Very truly yours,
ROPES & GRAY
Ropes & Gray
S:\FUNDS\TRUSTI\GENERAL\OPININ1.DOC
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Statements of
Additional Information constituting parts of this Post-Effective Amendment No.
42 to the registration statement on Form N-1A (the "Registration Statement") of
our reports dated February 10, 1997, relating to the financial statements and
financial highlights appearing in the December 31, 1996 Annual Report to
Shareholders of Colonial Income Fund, Colonial Strategic Income Fund and
Colonial High Yield Securities Fund, each a series of Colonial Trust I, which
are also incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement. We also
consent to the references to us under the headings "The Fund's Financial
History" in the Prospectuses and "Independent Accountants" in the Statements of
Additional Information.
PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
- --------------------
Price Waterhouse LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
April 18, 1997
CUSTOMER AGREEMENT BETWEEN
MERRILL LYNCH FUTURES INC.
AND EACH TRUST ON BEHALF OF ITSELF OR ITS
SEPARATE PORTFOLIOS AS SET FORTH IN APPENDIX A
(EACH HEREINAFTER REFERRED TO
IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY AS "CUSTOMER")
In consideration of acceptance by Merrill Lynch Futures Inc. ("Merrill") of an
account for each Trust on behalf of itself or its separate portfolios as set
forth in Appendix A (each hereinafter referred to in its individual capacity as
"Customer"), introduced by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc. which is
an affiliated corporation authorized to enter into this agreement and provide
certain services pursuant to the agreement on behalf of Merrill, Merrill and
Customer agree as follows:
1. Customer authorizes Merrill to purchase and sell futures contracts, option
contracts thereon and foreign futures and foreign options (hereinafter referred
to collectively as "Contracts") traded on duly registered boards of trade for
Customer's account in accordance with Customer's oral and written instructions
from persons designated by Customer by resolution of Customer's Board of
Directors, managing Partner, Board of Trustees, or person(s) responsible for
the management of Customer's account, duly certified and delivered to Merrill.
Customer hereby waives any defense that any such instruction was not in writing
as may be required by the Statute of Frauds or any other law, rule or
regulation.
2. Customer shall in connection with Contract transactions pay Merrill (1)
brokerage and commission charges as agreed upon by Merrill and Customer from
time to time, (2) any charges imposed on any transaction undertaken for Customer
by the contract market, exchange or clearinghouse through which it is executed
and any tax or fee imposed on such transactions by any competent authority
or self-regulatory organization, (3) any margin required by Merrill for
Customer due to the variation in value of one or more outstanding Contracts
purchased or sold by Customer ("Variation Margin") in accordance with Paragraph
7 hereof, or as required by Merrill due to an increase in margin
requirements for new or existing positions, and (4) interest and service
charges on any Customer deficit balances at the rates customarily charged by
Merrill, together with Merrill's costs and attorney's fees incurred in
collecting such deficit. Such payments shall be made in Federal funds to
Merrill at such address as Merrill may designate.
3. A detailed statement of all transactions for or on the Customer's behalf
shall be furnished to Customer on a daily and a monthly basis. Such statements
shall be conclusive and binding on the Customer unless the Customer notifies
Merrill of any objection within five business days from the day the Customer
receives such statement; provided however that with respect to monthly
statements only the Customer may make such objection within ten business days.
4. Customer shall timely deposit and maintain in the Safekeeping Account at all
times Initial Margin (including any additional original margin requirements for
Customer's short option positions) ("Initial Margin") for Customer's
account in accordance with the Procedural Agreement. Customer shall timely pay
to Merrill the amount of any additional or Variation Margin with respect to
Customer's open positions on Contracts in accordance with the Procedural
Agreement. If, upon notice given by Merrill as set forth in the Procedural
Agreement, Customer fails to provideadditional or Variation Margin or if
Customer fails to deposit or maintain in the Safekeeping Account the required
Initial Margin, Merrill may without further notice to Customer take any action,
set forth in Paragraphs 12 and 14 hereof.
5. Customer shall make timely delivery of or payment for financial instruments
in compliance with the terms of the Contracts purchased or sold by Customer
through Merrill unless such Contracts have been terminated by an offsetting
purchase or sale prior to the delivery date. Customer shall advise Merrill of
its intentions with respect to the delivery of or payment for such financial
instruments, and Merrill shall be entitled to receive appropriate assurances
with respect thereto.
6. Customer acknowledges that (a) any trading recommendations and market or
other information communicated to Customer by Merrill are incidental to the
conduct of Merrill's business as a futures commission merchant and do not
constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of any offer to buy any
Contracts or instrument that is the subject of any Contract; (b) such
recommendation and information, although based upon information obtained from
sources believed by Merrill to be reliable, may be incomplete, may not be
verified, and may be changed without notice to Customer; and (c) Merrill makes
no representation , warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy or completeness of
any market or other information or trading recommendation furnished to Customer.
Customer understands that officers, employees, or affiliates of Merrill may have
a position in, may intend to, and may, buy or sell, Contracts or instruments
that are the subject of Contracts, including Contracts which are the subject of
information or recommendations furnished to Customer, and that the position or
transactions of any such officer, employee, or affiliate may or may not be
consistent with the recommendations furnished by Merrill to Customer.
7. All transactions by Merrill on Customer's behalf shall be subject to the
applicable constitution, bylaws, rules, regulations, customs, usages, rulings,
and interpretations of the contract market and its clearinghouse on which such
transactions are executed or cleared by Merrill or its agents for Customer's
account, and to all applicable governmental acts and statutes (such as the
Commodity Exchange Act) and to rules and regulations made thereunder; Merrill
shall not be liable to Customer as a result of any action taken by Merrill or
its agents to comply with any such constitution, bylaw, rule, regulation,
custom, usage, ruling, interpretation, act or statue.
8. Merrill shall have no responsibility for delays in the transmission of orders
due to (a) breakdown or failure of transmission or communication facilities, or
(b) any other cause beyond Merrill's control.
9. Merrill shall have no responsibility for compliance by Customer with any law
or regulation governing Customer's conduct as a fiduciary.
10. Merrill shall have no responsibility for compliance by any investment
adviser or commodity trading advisor of Customer with any law or regulation
governing the conduct of such investment adviser or commodity trading advisor as
a fiduciary to Customer.
11. Customer represents that (a) Customer is duly registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and is validly existing and
empowered to enter into this agreement and to effectuate transactions in
financial futures contracts, and options on futures or cash contracts as
contemplated hereby; (b) Customer has reviewed the registration requirements
pertinent to commodity pool operators and commodity trading advisors of the
Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the National Futures Association in
accordance with the requirements of the Commodity Exchange Act and the
regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and has determined that
Customer and any investment adviser or commodity trading advisor of Customer are
in compliance with such requirements to the extent applicable.
12. In the event that (a) Customer shall be dissolved, become insolvent or in
any other way terminate; (b) fail to deposit or maintain Initial Margin or make
payment of additional or Variation Margin, as set forth in Paragraph 4 hereof;
or (c) in the event Merrill reasonably feels that it is necessary for its
protection, Merrill may close out Customer's open Contracts in whole or in part,
sell any or all of Customer's property held by Merrill, buy any securities
or other property for Customer's account, and cancel any outstanding orders
and commitments made by Merrill on behalf of Customer. Subject to
Merrill's obligation to use its best efforts to obtain a fair and reasonable
price, any such sale, purchase, or cancellation may be made at Merrill's
discretion on the contract or other market or through the clearinghouse where
such business is then transacted without advertising the same and without
notice to Customer, and without prior tender, demand or call upon Customer.
Customer shall remain liable for and shall pay to Merrill the amount of any
deficiency resulting from any transaction described above.
13. As used herein, the term insolvent means that (a) an order, judgment or
decree has been entered under the bankruptcy, reorganization, compromise,
arrangement, insolvency, readjustment or debt, dissolution or liquidation or
similar law (herein called the "Bankruptcy Law") or any jurisdiction
adjudicating the Customer insolvent; or (b) the Customer has petitioned or
applied to any tribunal for, or consented to, the appointment of, or taking
possession by, a trustee, receiver, liquidator or similar official, of the
Customer, or commenced a voluntary case under the Bankruptcy Law of the United
States or any proceedings related to the Customer under the Bankruptcy Law of
any other jurisdiction, whether now or hereafter in effect; or (c) any such
petition or application has been filed, or any such proceedings commenced,
against the Customer and the Customer by any act has indicated its approval
thereof, consent thereto or acquiescence therein, or an order for relief has
been entered in an involuntary case against Customer under the Bankruptcy Law of
the United States, as now or hereafter constituted, or an order, judgment or
decree has been entered therein appointing any such trustee, receiver,
liquidator or similar official, or approving the petition in any such
proceedings, and such order, judgment or decree remains unstayed and in effect
for more than 30 days.
14. If at any time Customer fails to deliver to Merrill any property previously
sold by Merrill on Customer's behalf or fails to deliver financial instruments
in compliance with Contracts, Customer authorizes Merrill in its discretion to
borrow or to buy any property necessary to make delivery thereof, and Customer
shall pay Merrill for any cost, loss and damage which Merrill may sustain from
its inability to borrow or buy any such property.
15. All communications to Customer shall be to: (Trust Name), One Financial
Center, Boston, MA 02111, Attention: Julian Daly; with copies to: Colonial
Capital Management, One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111, Attention: Andrea
Martinson; or to such other addresses as Customer may hereafter direct Merrill
in writing to use. All communications to Merrill shall be to: One Financial
Center - 37th Floor, Boston, MA 02111, Attention: John Loughborough; with
copies to: Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc., World Financial
Center, North Tower-Building D, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10281-1314,
Attention: Angelo A. Gibaldi; or at such other addresses as the parties may
designate.
16. This Agreement, the Procedural Agreement and the Safekeeping Agreement
referred to in the Procedural Agreement contain the entire agreement between the
parties and supersede any prior agreements between the parties as to the subject
matter of this Agreement. Subject to Paragraph 7 hereof, no provision of this
Agreement shall in any respect be waived, altered, modified, or amended unless
such waiver, alteration, modification, or amendment be committed to in writing
and signed by Customer and a duly authorized officer of Merrill.
17. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE CONSTRUED ACCORDING TO, AND THE RIGHTS AND
LIABILITIES OF THE PARTIES HERETO SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, THE LAWS OF THE STATE
OF NEW YORK.
18. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of Merrill and Customer and their
respective successors and assigns.
19. If any term or provision hereof, or the application thereof to any person or
circumstances, shall to any extent be contrary to any contract market, exchange
or government regulation or otherwise invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of
this Agreement or the application of such term or provision to persons or
circumstances other than those as to which it is contrary, invalid, or
unenforceable, shall not be affected thereby, and it shall be enforced to the
fullest extent permitted by regulation and law.
20. The rights and remedies conferred upon the parties hereto shall be
cumulative, and the exercise or waiver of any thereof shall not preclude or
inhibit the exercise of additional rights and remedies.
21. This Agreement is executed on behalf of the Trustees of the Customer as
Trustees and not individually and the obligations of this Agreement are not
binding upon any of the Trustees but are binding upon the assets and property of
the Customer.
22. Customer represents that (a) Customer will promptly notify Merrill in
writing if any of the above representations shall materially change or cease to
be true and correct; (b) Customer has read and understands the Commodity Futures
Trading Commission Risk Disclosure Statement, the Options on Futures Risk
Disclosure Statement (under separate cover), Foreign Futures and Foreign Options
Risk Disclosure Statement and the Margin Disclosure Statement; and (c) no person
or entity has any interest in or control of the account to which entity has any
interest in or control of the account to which this Agreement pertains other
than Customer and the persons designated by Customer as set forth in Paragraph 1
hereof.
23. Customer and Merrill agree to promptly furnish appropriate financial
statements to each other to show any material changes in their financial
positions and to furnish such other information concerning each other as each
may reasonably request.
24. Where the context hereof requires, the singular shall import the plural and
the masculine shall import the feminine and neuter.
25. Merrill shall be entitled to rely on any instruction received from any
person identified in writing to Merrill by Customer and such instruction shall
bind Customer. Customer agrees to hold Merrill harmless against any action taken
by Merrill in reliance upon this provision.
26. This Agreement shall become a binding contract between Customer and Merrill
when signed by both parties.
Duly authorized for each Trust on behalf of itself or its separate portfolios as
set forth in Appendix A
By: Julian Daly
Title: Asst. Secretary
The undersigned Secretary of, or person serving in a similar capacity with
respect to each Trust on behalf of itself or itself or its separate portfolios
as set forth in Appendix A, the Customer which is a party to this Agreement, the
Procedural Agreement and the Safekeeping Agreement, hereby certifies that the
individual whose name appears above as the signatory of this Agreement, the
Procedural Agreement and the Safekeeping Agreement on behalf of the Customer
holds the position with the Customer as identified above and is authorized to
execute this Agreement on behalf of the Customer.
Duly authorized for each Trust on behalf of itself or its separate portfolios as
set forth in Appendix A
By: Ellen Harrington
Title: Asst. Secretary
Approved:
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER, & SMITH, INC
By: John J. Wolfe
Title: Director-DMG
MERRILL LYNCH FUTURES INC.
FUTURES CUSTOMER AGREEMENT
RISK DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
This statement is furnished to you because Regulation 1.55 of the Commodity
Futures Trading Commission requires it.
The risk of loss in trading commodity futures contracts can be substantial. You
should therefore carefully consider whether such trading is suitable for you in
light of your financial condition. In considering whether to trade, you should
be aware of the following:
(1) You may sustain a total loss of the Initial Margin funds and any additional
funds that you deposit with your broker to establish or maintain a position in
the commodity futures market. If the market moves against your position you may
be called upon by your broker to deposit a substantial amount of additional
margin funds, on short notice, in order to maintain your position. If you do not
provide the required funds within the prescribed time, your position may be
liquidated at a loss, and you will be liable for any resulting deficit in your
account.
(2) Under certain market conditions, you may find it difficult or impossible to
liquidate a position. This can occur, for example, when the market makes a
"limit move."
(3) Placing contingent orders, such as a "stop-loss" or "stop-limit" order, will
not necessarily limit your losses to the intended amounts since market
conditions may make it impossible to execute such orders.
(4) A "spread" position may not be less risky than a simple "long" or "short"
position.
(5) The high degree of leverage that is often obtainable in futures trading
because of the small margin requirements can work against you as well as for
you. The use of leverage can lead to large losses as well as gains.
This brief statement cannot, of course, disclose all the risks and other
significant aspects of the commodity markets. You should, therefore, carefully
study futures trading before you trade.
Customer acknowledges that it has received and that it understands the risk
disclosure document provided to it in compliance with Regulation 1.55 of the
Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
Duly authorized for each Trust on behalf of itself or its separate portfolios as
set forth in Appendix A
By: Julian Daly
Title: Asst. Secretary
Date: 6/10/92
PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN ONE COPY TO MERRILL LYNCH FUTURES INC.
RETAIN THE DUPLICATE COPY FOR YOU RECORDS.
MERRILL LYNCH FUTURES INC.
FUTURES CUSTOMER AGREEMENT
COMMODITY OPTIONS RISK DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
Customer acknowledges that it has received (delivered under separate cover) and
that it understands the options risk disclosure statement in compliance with
Regulation 33.7 of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
Duly authorized for each Trust on behalf of itself or its separate portfolios as
set forth in Appendix A
By: Julian Daly
Title: Asst. Secretary
Date: 6/10/92
PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN ONE COPY TO MERRILL LYNCH FUTURES INC.
RETAIN THE DUPLICATE COPY FOR YOU RECORDS
MERRILL LYNCH FUTURES INC.
FUTURES CUSTOMER AGREEMENT
HEDGE AGREEMENT
(To be signed by hedge customers only)
The undersigned represents that all transactions in this account are for hedging
purposes only in accordance with the definition in the requirements of CFTC
Regulation 1.3(z).
These transactions are not for speculation. In the event that the undersigned
intends to enter into any transactions in this account for speculative purposes,
we shall notify Merrill Lynch in writing prior to the entry of such
transactions.
The undersigned is familiar with all laws, rules and regulations concerning
hedging in such contracts.
Duly authorized for each Trust on behalf of itself or its separate portfolios as
set forth in Appendix A
By: Julian Daly
Title: Asst. Secretary
Date: 6/10/92
CFTC Regulation 190.06 requires that in the unlikely event of Merrill Lynch's
bankruptcy, you be given the opportunity to give instructions to the bankruptcy
trustee regarding the disposition of your open futures positions. Unless you
indicate a contrary preference in the space provided below, the trustee would be
authorized to liquidate your open positions, without seeking further
instructions from you.
( ) Customer would prefer to be contacted by the
bankruptcy trustee for instructions regarding the disposition of its open
futures positions.
PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN ONE COPY TO MERRILL LYNCH FUTURES INC.
RETAIN THE DUPLICATE COPY FOR YOU RECORDS.
APPENDIX A
----------
Colonial Trust III
- ------------------
Colonial Federal Securities Fund (formerly CGSPT)
Colonial Trust IV
- -----------------
Colonial High Yield Municipal Fund
Colonial Trust V
- ----------------
Colonial Connecticut Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Investment Grade Municipal Trust
Colonial High Income Municipal Trust
APPENDIX A
----------
Colonial Trust I
- ----------------
Colonial High Yield Securities Fund
Colonial Trust IV
- -----------------
Colonial Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Tax-Exempt Insured Fund
Colonial Trust V
- ----------------
Colonial California Tax-Exempt
Colonial Massachusetts Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Michigan Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Minnesota Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial New York Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Ohio Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Municipal Income Trust
Colonial InterMarket Income Trust I
Appendix A
----------
Colonial Trust V
- ----------------
Colonial Florida Tax-Exempt Fund
AMENDMENT TO PROCEDURAL AGREEMENT AND SAFEKEEPING AGREEMENT
-----------------------------------------------------------
("Collectively "Agreement")
---------------------------
WITNESSETH THAT:
This Amendment dated November 5, 1993 shall serve as an attachment to the
Agreements dated April 12th 1993 by and between United Missouri Bank, N.A.
("Bank"), Merrill Lynch Futures Inc.("Broker"), various Colonial Funds listed on
Appendix A ("Customer").
1) The Appendix to each of the Agreements shall be amended to add the following
Fund:
Colonial Trust V
- ----------------
Colonial North Carolina Tax Exempt Fund
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has caused this Amendment to be
executed in its name and on its behalf by a duly authorized representative as of
the aforementioned day and year.
Broker: Merrill Lynch Futures Inc.
By: John J. Wolfe
Title:
Customer: Colonial North Carolina Tax Exempt Fund
By: Michael H. Koonce
Title: Assistant Secretary
Bank: United Missouri Bank N.A.
By: Patricia Peterson
Title: Sr. Vice President
AMENDMENT TO PROCEDURAL AGREEMENT AND SAFEKEEPING AGREEMENT (Collectively
"Agreements")
WITNESSETH THAT:
This Amendment dated March 7, 1994 shall serve as an attachment to the
Agreements dated April 12th 1993 by and between United Missouri Bank, N.A.
("Bank"), Merrill Lynch Futures Inc. ("Broker"), and various Colonial Funds
listed on Appendix A ("Customer").
1) The Appendix to each of the Agreements shall be amended to add the
following Funds:
Colonial Trust IV
Colonial Intermediate Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Short-Term Tax-Exempt Fund
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has caused this Amendment to be
executed in its name and on its behalf by a duly authorized representative as of
the aforementioned day and year.
Broker: Merrill Lynch Futures Inc.
By: John J. Wolfe
Title:
Customer: Colonial Trust IV on behalf of
Colonial Intermediate Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Short-Term Tax-Exempt Fund
By: Michael H. Koonce
Title: Assistant Secretary
Bank: United Missouri Bank N.A.
By: Patricia A. Peterson
Title: Sr. Vice President
AMENDMENT TO CUSTOMER AGREEMENT
WITNESSETH THAT:
This Amendment dated March 7, 1994 shall serve as an attachment to the
Agreement dated April 12th 1993 by and between Merrill Lynch Futures Inc.
("Broker"), and various Colonial Funds listed on Appendix A ("Customer").
1) The Appendix to the Agreement shall be amended to add the following Funds:
Colonial Trust IV
Colonial Intermediate Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Short-Term Tax-Exempt Fund
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has caused this Amendment to be
executed in its name and on its behalf by a duly authorized representative as of
the aforementioned day and year.
Broker: Merrill Lynch Futures Inc.
By: John J. Wolfe
Title:
Customer: Colonial Trust IV on behalf of
Colonial Intermediate Tax-Exempt Fund
Colonial Short-Term Tax-Exempt Fund
By: Michael H. Koonce
Title: Assistant Secretary
AMENDMENT TO CUSTOMER AGREEMENT
WITNESSETH THAT:
This Amendment dated November 5, 1993 shall serve as an attachment to the
Agreements dated April 12th 1993 by ad between Merrill Lynch Futures Inc.
("Broker") and various Colonial Funds listed on Appendix A ("Customer").
1) The Appendix to each of the Agreements shall be amended to add the
following Fund:
Colonial Trust V
- ----------------
Colonial North Carolina Tax Exempt Fund
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has caused this Amendment to be
executed in its name and on its behalf by a duly authorized representative as of
the aforementioned day and year.
Broker: Merrill Lynch Futures Inc.
By: John J. Wolfe
Title:
Customer: Colonial North Carolina Tax Exempt Fund
By: Michael H. Koonce
Title: Assistant Secretary
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
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THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF COLONIAL STRATEGIC INCOME FUND, CLASS A YEAR END
DEC-31-1996 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL
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<SHARES-REINVESTED> 32115
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<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FINANCIAL
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IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
COLONIAL STRATEGIC INCOME FUND, CLASS B YEAR END DEC-31-1996
</LEGEND>
<CIK> 0000021832
<NAME> COLONIAL TRUST I
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<NUMBER> 3
<NAME> COLONIAL STRATEGIC INCOME FUND, CLASS B
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