FILE NO. 2-66906
FILE NO. 811-3006
================================================================================
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. 43 (X)
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER
THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 (X)
Amendment No. 47 (X)
---------
JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02199-7603
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's Telephone Number, (617) 375-1700
---------
SUSAN S. NEWTON
Vice President and Secretary
John Hancock Advisers, Inc.
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02199
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
---------
APPROXIMATE DATE OF PROPOSED PUBLIC OFFERING:
It is proposed that this filing will become effective:
( ) immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485
( ) on (date) pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485
( ) 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a) of Rule 485
(X) on April 1, 1999 pursuant to paragraph (a) 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>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JOHN HANCOCK
Income Funds
[LOGO] Prospectus
April 1, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission
has not judged whether these funds are good investments or whether the
information in this prospectus is adequate and accurate. Anyone who indicates
otherwise is committing a federal crime.
Bond Fund
Government Income Fund
High Yield Bond Fund
Intermediate Maturity
Government Fund
Strategic Income Fund
[LOGO] JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS
A Global Investment Management Firm
101 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02199-7603
<PAGE>
Contents
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A fund-by-fund summary Bond Fund 4
of goals, strategies, risks,
performance and expenses. Government Income Fund 6
High Yield Bond Fund 8
Intermediate Maturity Government Fund 10
Strategic Income Fund 12
Policies and instructions for Your account
opening, maintaining and
closing an account in any Choosing a share class 14
income fund. How sales charges are calculated 14
Sales charge reductions and waivers 15
Opening an account 16
Buying shares 17
Selling shares 18
Transaction policies 20
Dividends and account policies 20
Additional investor services 21
Further information on the Fund details
income funds.
Business structure 22
Financial highlights 23
For more information back cover
<PAGE>
Overview
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND INFORMATION KEY
Concise fund-by-fund descriptions begin on the next page. Each description
provides the following information:
[Clip Art] Goal and strategy The fund's particular investment goals and the
strategies it intends to use in pursuing those goals.
[Clip Art] Main risks The major risk factors associated with the fund.
[Clip Art] Past performance The fund's total return, measured year-by-year and
over time.
[Clip Art] Your expenses The overall costs borne by an investor in the fund,
including sales charges and annual expenses.
JOHN HANCOCK INCOME FUNDS
These funds seek current income without sacrificing total return. Some of the
funds also invest for stability of principal. Each fund has its own strategy and
its own risk profile.
WHO MAY WANT TO INVEST
These funds may be appropriate for investors who:
o are seeking a regular stream of income
o are seeking higher potential returns than money market funds and are willing
to accept moderate risk of volatility
o want to diversify their portfolios
o are seeking a mutual fund for the income portion of an asset allocation
portfolio
o are retired or nearing retirement
Income funds may NOT be appropriate if you:
o are investing for maximum return over a long time horizon
o require absolute stability of your principal
RISKS OF MUTUAL FUNDS
Mutual funds are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC
or any other government agency. Because you could lose money by investing in
these funds, be sure to read all risk disclosure carefully before investing.
THE MANAGEMENT FIRM
All John Hancock income funds are managed by John Hancock Advisers, Inc. Founded
in 1968, John Hancock Advisers is a wholly owned subsidiary of John Hancock
Mutual Life Insurance Company and manages more than $30 billion in assets.
3
<PAGE>
Bond Fund
GOAL AND STRATEGY
[Clip Art] The fund seeks to generate a high level of current income consistent
with prudent investment risk. In pursuing this goal, the fund normally invests
in a diversified portfolio of debt securities. These include corporate bonds and
debentures as well as U.S. government and agency securities. Most of these
securities are investment-grade, although the fund may invest up to 25% of
assets in junk bonds rated as low as CC/Ca and their unrated equivalents.
In managing the fund's portfolio, the managers concentrate on sector allocation,
industry allocation and securities selection: deciding which types of bonds and
industries to emphasize at a given time, and then which individual bonds to buy.
When making sector and industry allocations, the managers try to anticipate
shifts in the business cycle, using top-down analysis to determine which sectors
and industries may benefit over the next 12 months.
In choosing individual securities, the managers use bottom-up research to find
securities that appear comparatively undervalued. The managers look at bonds of
all different quality levels and maturities from many different issuers,
potentially including foreign governments and corporations.
The fund intends to keep its exposure to interest rate movements generally in
line with that of the markets it invests in. The fund may use certain
derivatives (investments whose value is based on indices or other securities),
especially in managing its exposure to interest rate risk, although it does not
intend to use them extensively.
In abnormal market conditions, the fund may temporarily invest more than 35% of
assets in investment-grade short-term securities. In these cases, the fund might
not achieve its goal.
================================================================================
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
James K. Ho, CFA
- ---------------------------------------
Executive vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1988
Joined adviser in 1985
Began career in 1977
Anthony A. Goodchild
- ---------------------------------------
Senior vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1998
Joined adviser in 1994
Began career in 1968
Benjamin Matthews
- ---------------------------------------
Vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1995
Joined adviser in 1995
Began career in 1970
PAST PERFORMANCE
[Clip Art] The graph shows how the fund's total return has varied from year to
year, while the table shows performance over time (along with a broad-based
market index for reference). This information may help provide an indication of
the fund's risks and potential rewards. The average annual figures reflect sales
charges; the year-by-year and index figures do not, and would be lower if they
did. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Past performance does not
indicate future results.
[The following table was represented by a bar graph in the printed materials.]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A year-by-year total returns -- calendar years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
12.13% 6.68% 16.59% 8.19% 11.69% -2.74% 19.46% 4.05% 9.64% 7.50%
Best quarter: up 6.57%, second quarter 1995
Worst quarter: down 2.71%, first quarter 1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average annual total returns -- for periods ending 12/31/98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A Class B Class C(1) Index
1 year 2.65% 1.75% -- 3.36%
5 years 6.36% 6.24% -- 7.72%
10 years 8.66% -- -- 9.16%
Index: Lehman Brothers Corporate Bond Index, an unmanaged index of fixed-income
securities that are similar, but not identical, to those in the fund's
portfolio.
(1) Began operations on October 1, 1998.
4
<PAGE>
MAIN RISKS
[Clip Art] The major factors in this fund's performance are interest rates and
credit risk. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall. Generally, an
increase in the fund's average maturity will make it more sensitive to interest
rate risk. There is no limit on the fund's average maturity.
The fund could lose money if any bonds it owns are downgraded in credit rating
or go into default. In general, lower-rated bonds have higher credit risks. If
certain sectors or investments don't perform as the fund expects, it could
underperform its peers or lose money.
To the extent that the fund makes investments with additional risks, those risks
could increase volatility or reduce performance:
o Junk bonds and foreign securities may make the fund more sensitive to market
or economic shifts in the U.S. and abroad.
o If interest rate movements cause the fund's mortgage-related and callable
securities to be paid off substantially earlier or later than expected, the
fund's share price or yield could be hurt.
o In a down market, higher-risk securities and derivatives could become harder
to value or to sell at a fair price.
o Certain derivatives could produce disproportionate gains or losses.
Any U.S. government guarantees on portfolio securities do not apply to these
securities' market value or current yield, or to fund shares.
The fund may trade securities actively, which could increase its transaction
costs (thus lowering performance) and increase your taxable dividends.
================================================================================
YOUR EXPENSES
[Clip Art] Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating
expenses are paid from the fund's assets, and therefore are paid by shareholders
indirectly.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder transaction expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum sales charge (load) on purchases
as a % of purchase price 4.50% none none
Maximum deferred s ales charge (load)
as a % of purchase or sale price,
whichever is less none(1) 5.00% 1.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual operating expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management fee 0.50% 0.50% 0.50%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.30% 1.00% 1.00%
Other expenses 0.28% 0.28% 0.28%
Total fund operating expenses 1.08% 1.78% 1.78%
The hypothetical example below shows what your expenses would be if you invested
$10,000 over the time frames indicated, assuming you reinvested all
distributions and that the average annual return was 5%. The example is for
comparison only, and does not represent the fund's actual expenses and returns,
either past or future.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses Year 1 Year 3 Year 5 Year 10
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A $555 $778 $1,019 $1,708
Class B - with redemption $681 $860 $1,164 $1,908
- without redemption $181 $560 $ 964 $1,908
Class C - with redemption $281 $560 $ 964 $2,095
- without redemption $181 $560 $ 964 $2,095
FUND CODES
Class A
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker JHNBX
CUSIP 410223101
Newspaper BondA
SEC number 811-2402
Class B
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker JHBBX
CUSIP 410223309
Newspaper BondB
SEC number 811-2402
Class C
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker --
CUSIP 410223200
Newspaper --
SEC number 811-2402
(1) Except for investments of $1 million or more; see "How sales charges are
calculated."
5
<PAGE>
Government Income Fund
GOAL AND STRATEGY
[Clip Art] The fund seeks a high level of current income consistent with
preservation of capital. Maintaining a stable share price is a secondary goal.
In pursuing these goals, the fund normally invests at least 80% of assets in
U.S. government and agency securities.
The fund may invest in higher-risk securities, including dollar-denominated
foreign government securities and asset-backed securities. It may also invest up
to 10% of assets in foreign governmental high-yield securities (junk bonds)
rated as low as B and their unrated equivalents.
In managing the fund's portfolio, the managers consider interest rate trends to
determine which types of bonds to emphasize at a given time. The fund typically
favors mortgage-related securities when it anticipates that interest rates will
be relatively stable, and favors U.S. Treasuries at other times. Because
high-yield bonds often respond to market movements differently from US
government bonds, the fund may use them to manage volatility.
The fund intends to keep its exposure to interest rate movements generally in
line with that of the markets it invests in. The fund may use certain
derivatives (investments whose value is based on indices or other securities),
especially in managing its exposure to interest rate risk, although it does not
intend to use them extensively.
In abnormal market conditions, the fund may temporarily invest more than 20% of
assets in high-quality short-term securities. In these cases, the fund might not
achieve its goal.
================================================================================
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Barry H. Evans, CFA
- ---------------------------------------
Senior vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1995
Joined adviser in 1986
Began career in 1986
Dawn Baillie
- ---------------------------------------
Joined team in 1998
Joined adviser in 1985
Began career in 1985
PAST PERFORMANCE
[Clip Art] The graph shows how the fund's total return has varied from year to
year, while the table shows performance over time (along with a broad-based
market index for reference). This information may help provide an indication of
the fund's risks and potential rewards. The average annual figures reflect sales
charges; the year-by-year and index figures do not, and would be lower if they
did. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Past performance does not
indicate future results.
[The following table was represented by a bar graph in the printed materials.]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B year-by-year total returns -- calendar years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
10.55% 6.98% 15.78% 5.30% 7.65% -5.29% 17.71% 1.29% 8.67 % 7.96%
Best quarter: up 6.57%, third quarter 1991
Worst quarter: down 3.52%, first quarter 1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average annual total returns -- for periods ending 12/31/98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A Class B Class C(1) Index
1 year 3.80% 2.96% -- 9.57%
5 years -- 5.49% -- 7.33%
10 years -- 7.40% -- 8.87%
Index: Lehman Brothers Treasury Composite Index, an unmanaged index of
fixed-income securities that are similar, but not identical, to those in the
fund's portfolio.
(1) Began operations on April 1, 1999.
6
<PAGE>
MAIN RISKS
[Clip Art] The major factor in this fund's performance is interest rates. When
interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall. Generally, an increase in the
fund's average maturity will make it more sensitive to interest rate risk. There
is no limit on the fund's average maturity.
A fall in worldwide demand for U.S. government securities could also lower the
prices of these securities.
The fund could lose money if any bonds it owns are downgraded in credit rating
or go into default. In general, lower-rated bonds have higher credit risks. If
certain sectors or investments don't perform as the fund expects, it could
underperform its peers or lose money.
To the extent that the fund makes investments with additional risks, those risks
could increase volatility or reduce performance:
o If interest rate movements cause the fund's mortgage-related and callable
securities to be paid off substantially earlier or later than expected, the
fund's share price or yield could be hurt.
o Junk bonds and foreign securities could make the fund more sensitive to
market or economic shifts in the U.S. and abroad.
o In a down market, higher-risk securities and derivatives could become harder
to value or to sell at a fair price.
o Certain derivatives could produce disproportionate gains or losses.
Any governmental guarantees on portfolio securities do not apply to these
securities' market value or current yield, or to fund shares.
The fund may trade securities actively, which could increase its transaction
costs (thus lowering performance) and increase your taxable dividends.
================================================================================
YOUR EXPENSES
[Clip Art] Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating
expenses are paid from the fund's assets, and therefore are paid by shareholders
indirectly.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder transaction expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum sales charge (load) on purchases
as a % of purchase price 4.50% none none
Maximum deferred sales charge (load)
as a % of purchase or sale price,
whichever is less none(1) 5.00% 1.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual operating expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management fee 0.63% 0.63% 0.63%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00%
Other expenses 0.22% 0.22% 0.22%
Total fund operating expenses 1.10% 1.85% 1.85%
The hypothetical example below shows what your expenses would be if you invested
$10,000 over the time frames indicated, assuming you reinvested all
distributions and that the average annual return was 5%. The example is for
comparison only, and does not represent the fund's actual expenses and returns,
either past or future.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses Year 1 Year 3 Year 5 Year 10
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A $557 $784 $1,029 $1,730
Class B - with redemption $688 $882 $1,201 $1,973
- without redemption $188 $582 $1,001 $1,973
Class C - with redemption $288 $582 $1,001 $2,169
- without redemption $188 $582 $1,001 $2,169
FUND CODES
Class A
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker JHGIX
CUSIP 41014P854
Newspaper GvIncA
SEC number 811-3006
Class B
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker TSGIX
CUSIP 41014P847
Newspaper GvIncB
SEC number 811-3006
Class C
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker --
CUSIP --
Newspaper --
SEC number 811-3006
(1) Except for investments of $1 million or more; see "How sales charges are
calculated."
7
<PAGE>
High Yield Bond Fund
GOAL AND STRATEGY
[Clip Art] The fund seeks to maximize current income without assuming undue
risk. Capital appreciation is a secondary goal. In pursuing these goals, the
fund normally invests at least 65% of assets in U.S. and foreign bonds rated
BBB/Baa or lower and their unrated equivalents. The fund may invest up to 30% of
assets in junk bonds rated CC/Ca and their unrated equivalents.
In managing the fund's portfolio, the managers concentrate on industry
allocation and securities selection: deciding which types of industries to
emphasize at a given time, and then which individual bonds to buy. The managers
use top-down analysis to determine which industries may benefit from current and
future changes in the economy.
In choosing individual securities, the managers use bottom-up research to find
securities that appear comparatively undervalued. The managers look at the
financial condition of the issuers as well as the collateralization and other
features of the securities themselves.
The managers also look at companies' financing cycles to determine which types
of securities (for example, bonds, preferred stocks or common stocks) to favor.
The fund typically invests in a broad range of industries, although it may
invest up to 40% of assets in electric utilities and telecommunications
companies.
The fund may use certain higher-risk investments, including derivatives
(investments whose value is based on indices or other securities) and restricted
or illiquid securities. In addition, the fund may invest up to 20% of net assets
in U.S. and foreign stocks.
In abnormal market conditions, the fund may temporarily invest more than 35% of
assets in investment-grade short-term securities. In these cases, the fund might
not achieve its goal.
================================================================================
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Arthur N. Calavritinos, CFA
- ---------------------------------------
Vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1995
Joined adviser in 1988
Began career in 1986
Frederick L. Cavanaugh, Jr.
- ---------------------------------------
Senior vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1988
Joined adviser in 1986
Began career in 1975
Janet L. Clay, CFA
- ---------------------------------------
Vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1998
Joined adviser in 1995
Began career in 1990
PAST PERFORMANCE
[Clip Art] The graph shows how the fund's total return has varied from year to
year, while the table shows performance over time (along with a broad-based
market index for reference). This information may help provide an indication of
the fund's risks and potential rewards. The average annual figures reflect sales
charges; the year-by-year and index figures do not, and would be lower if they
did. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Past performance does not
indicate future results.
[The following table was represented by a bar graph in the printed materials.]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B year-by-year total returns -- calendar years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
- -5.05% -6.57% 33.84% 13.33% 21.40% -6.06% 14.53% 15.13% 16.88% -11.88%
Best quarter: up 13.37%, first quarter 1991
Worst quarter: down 18.05%, third quarter 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average annual total returns -- for periods ending 12/31/98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A Class B Class C(1) Index
1 year -15.21% -15.89% -- 12.76%
5 years 4.82% 4.75% -- 11.64%
10 years -- 7.53% -- 11.65%
Index: Lehman Brothers High Yield Bond Index, an unmanaged index of fixed-income
securities that are similar, but not identical, to those in the fund's
portfolio.
(1) Began operations on May 1,1998.
8
<PAGE>
Main Risks
[Clip Art] The major factors in the fund's performance are interest rates and
credit risk. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall. Generally, an
increase in the fund's average maturity will make it more sensitive to interest
rate risk. There is no limit on the fund's average maturity.
Credit risk depends largely on the perceived financial health of bond issuers.
In general, lower-rated bonds have higher credit risks. Junk bond prices can
fall on bad news about the economy, an industry or a company. Share price, yield
and total return may fluctuate more than with less aggressive bond funds.
The fund could lose money if any bonds it owns are downgraded in credit rating
or go into default. If certain industries or investments don't perform as the
fund expects, it could underperform its peers or lose money.
To the extent that the fund makes investments with additional risks, those risks
could increase volatility or reduce performance:
o Foreign investments carry additional risks, including potentially unfavorable
currency exchange rates, inadequate or inaccurate financial information and
social or political upheavals.
o If interest rate movements cause the fund's callable securities to be paid
off substantially earlier or later than expected, the fund's share price or
yield could be hurt.
o If the fund concentrates its investments in telecommunications or electric
utilities, its performance could be tied more closely to those industries
than to the market as a whole.
o Stock investments may go down in value due to stock market movements or
negative company or industry events.
o In a down market, higher-risk securities and derivatives could become harder
to value or to sell at a fair price.
o Certain derivatives could produce disproportionate gains or losses.
The fund may trade securities actively, which could increase its transaction
costs (thus lowering performance) and increase your taxable dividends.
================================================================================
YOUR EXPENSES
[Clip Art] Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating
expenses are paid from the fund's assets, and therefore are paid by shareholders
indirectly.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder transaction expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum sales charge (load) on purchases
as a % of purchase price 4.50% none none
Maximum deferred sales charge (load)
as a % of purchase or sale price,
whichever is less none(1) 5.00% 1.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual operating expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management fee 0.52% 0.52% 0.52%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00%
Other expenses 0.20% 0.20% 0.20%
Total fund operating expenses 0.97% 1.72% 1.72%
The hypothetical example below shows what your expenses would be if you invested
$10,000 over the time frames indicated, assuming you reinvested all
distributions and that the average annual return was 5%. The example is for
comparison only, and does not represent the fund's actual expenses and returns,
either past or future.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses Year 1 Year 3 Year 5 Year 10
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A $545 $745 $ 962 $1,586
Class B - with redemption $675 $842 $1,133 $1,830
- without redemption $175 $542 $ 933 $1,830
Class C - with redemption $275 $542 $ 933 $2,030
- without redemption $175 $542 $ 933 $2,030
FUND CODES
Class A
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker JHHBX
CUSIP 41014P839
Newspaper HiYldA
SEC number 811-3006
Class B
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker TSHYX
CUSIP 41014P821
Newspaper HiYldB
SEC number 811-3006
Class C
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker --
CUSIP 41014P813
Newspaper --
SEC number 811-3006
(1) Except for investments of $1 million or more; see "How sales charges are
calculated."
9
<PAGE>
Intermediate Maturity Government Fund
GOAL AND STRATEGY
[Clip Art] The fund seeks a high level of current income consistent
with preservation of capital and maintenance of liquidity. In pursuing this
goal, the fund normally invests at least 80% of assets in U.S. government and
agency securities. Although the fund may invest in bonds of any maturity, it
maintains a dollar-weighted average maturity of between three and ten years. The
fund generally keeps its overall duration between two and five years.
In managing the fund's portfolio, the managers consider interest rate trends to
determine which types of bonds to emphasize at a given time. The managers
typically favor mortgage-related securities when they anticipate that interest
rates will be relatively stable, and favor U.S. Treasuries at other times. The
managers also invest in non-Treasury securities to enhance the fund's current
yields.
The fund may use certain derivatives (investments whose value is based on
indices or other securities), especially in managing its exposure to interest
rate risk. It may also invest up to 20% of assets in asset-backed or corporate
debt securities in the highest credit category (those rated AAA/Aaa and their
unrated equivalents). However, it does not intend to use any of these
investments extensively.
In abnormal market conditions, the fund may temporarily invest more than 20% of
assets in high-quality short-term securities. In these cases, the fund might not
achieve its goal.
================================================================================
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Barry H. Evans, CFA
- ---------------------------------------
Senior vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1995
Joined adviser in 1986
Began career in 1986
Dawn Baillie
- ---------------------------------------
Joined team in 1998
Joined adviser in 1985
Began career in 1985
PAST PERFORMANCE
[Clip Art] The graph shows how the fund's total return has varied from year to
year, while the table shows performance over time (along with broad-based market
indices for reference). This information may help provide an indication of the
fund's risks and potential rewards. The average annual figures reflect sales
charges; the year-by-year and index figures do not, and would be lower if they
did. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Past performance does not
indicate future results.
[The following table was represented by a bar graph in the printed materials.]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A year-by-year total returns -- calendar years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
6.56% 3.95% 1.07% 10.27% 3.32% 8.79% 8.58%
Best quarter: up 4.85%, third quarter 1998
Worst quarter: down 1.35%, first quarter 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average annual total returns -- for periods ending 12/31/98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A Class B Class C(1) Index 1 Index 2
1 year 5.33% 4.77% -- 8.52% 7.72%
5 years 5.70% 5.62% -- 6.22% 6.39%
Life of fund 5.57% 5.32% -- N/A 8.13%
Index 1: Lipper Intermediate U.S. Government Index, an equally weighted
unmanaged index that measures the performance of funds with at least 65% of
their assets in securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its
agencies or instrumentalities, with dollar-weighted average maturities of five
to ten years.
Index 2: Lehman Brothers Government Bond Index, an unmanaged index that measures
the performance of U.S. Treasury bonds and U.S. government agency bonds.
(1) Began operations on April 1, 1999.
10
<PAGE>
Main Risks
[Clip Art] The major factor in this fund's performance is interest rates. When
interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall. Generally, an increase in the
fund's average maturity will make it more sensitive to interest rate risk. There
is no limit on the fund's average maturity.
A fall in worldwide demand for U.S. government securities could also lower the
prices of these securities.
The fund could lose money if any bonds it owns are downgraded in credit rating
or go into default. If certain sectors or investments don't perform as the fund
expects, it could underperform its peers or lose money.
To the extent that the fund makes investments with additional risks, those risks
could increase volatility or reduce performance:
o If interest rate movements cause the fund's mortgage-related and callable
securities to be paid off substantially earlier or later than expected, the
fund's share price or yield could be hurt.
o In a down market, higher-risk securities and derivatives could become harder
to value or to sell at a fair price.
o Certain derivatives could produce disproportionate gains or losses.
Any U.S. government guarantees on portfolio securities do not apply to these
securities' market value or current yield, or to fund shares.
The fund may trade securities actively, which could increase its transaction
costs (thus lowering performance) and increase your taxable dividends.
================================================================================
YOUR EXPENSES
[Clip Art] Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating
expenses are paid from the fund's assets, and therefore are paid by shareholders
indirectly.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder transaction expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum sales charge (load) on purchases
as a % of purchase price 3.00% none none
Maximum deferred sales charge (load)
as a % of purchase or sale price,
whichever is less none(1) 3.00% 1.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual operating expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management fee 0.40% 0.40% 0.40%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00%
Other expenses 0.51% 0.51% 0.51%
Total fund operating expenses 1.16% 1.91% 1.91%
The hypothetical example below shows what your expenses would be if you invested
$10,000 over the time frames indicated, assuming you reinvested all
distributions and that the average annual return was 5%. The example is for
comparison only, and does not represent the fund's actual expenses and returns,
either past or future.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses Year 1 Year 3 Year 5 Year 10
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A $415 $657 $ 919 $1,667
Class B - with redemption $494 $800 $1,032 $1,775
- without redemption $194 $600 $1,032 $1,775
Class C - with redemption $294 $600 $1,032 $2,233
- without redemption $194 $600 $1,032 $2,233
FUND CODES
Class A
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker TAUSX
CUSIP 41014P102
Newspaper IntGvA
SEC number 811-3006
Class B
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker TSUSX
CUSIP 41014P201
Newspaper --
SEC number 811-3006
Class C
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker --
CUSIP --
Newspaper --
SEC number 811-3006
(1) Except for investments of $1 million or more; see "How sales charges are
calculated."
11
<PAGE>
Strategic Income Fund
GOAL AND STRATEGY
[Clip Art] The fund seeks a high level of current income. In pursuingthis goal,
the fund invests primarily in the following types of securities:
o foreign government and corporate debt securities from developed and emerging
markets
o U.S. government and agency securities
o U.S. junk bonds rated as low as CC/Ca and their unrated equivalents
The fund generally intends to keep its average credit quality in the
investment-grade range.
In managing the fund's portfolio, the managers use top-down analysis to allocate
assets among the three major sectors mentioned above. Although it could invest
all assets in one sector, it generally expects to remain diversified among all
three.
Within the foreign sector, the managers use a combination of bottom-up research
and macroeconomic analysis to select individual securities from a range of
regions, countries and industries. These securities may be rated as low as CC/Ca
and their unrated equivalents.
Within the U.S. government sector, the fund selects investments primarily for
current yield and total return.
Within the junk bond sector, the fund uses bottom-up research to select
individual securities from a wide range of industries.
The fund may use certain higher-risk investments, including derivatives
(investments whose value is based on indices or other securities) and restricted
or illiquid securities. In addition, the fund may invest up to 10% of net assets
in U.S. or foreign stocks.
In abnormal market conditions, the fund may temporarily invest extensively in
investment-grade short- term securities. In these cases, the fund might not
achieve its goal.
================================================================================
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Frederick L. Cavanaugh, Jr.
- ---------------------------------------
Senior vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1986
Joined adviser in 1986
Began career in 1975
Arthur N. Calavritinos, CFA
- ---------------------------------------
Vice president of adviser
Joined team in 1995
Joined adviser in 1988
Began career in 1986
PAST PERFORMANCE
[Clip Art] The graph shows how the fund's total return has varied from year to
year, while the table shows performance over time (along with a broad-based
market index for reference). This information may help provide an indication of
the fund's risks and potential rewards. The average annual figures reflect sales
charges; the year-by-year and index figures do not, and would be lower if they
did. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Past performance does not
indicate future results.
[The following table was represented by a bar graph in the printed materials.]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A year-by-year total returns -- calendar years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
- -0.41% -9.83% 33.58% 7.68% 13.93% -3.02% 18.73% 11.63% 12.67% 5.41%
Best quarter: up 15.09%, first quarter 1991
Worst quarter: down 6.68%, third quarter 1990
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average annual total returns -- for periods ending 12/31/98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A Class B Class C(1) Index
1 year 0.61% 0.29% -- 7.87%
5 years 7.83% 6.27% -- 6.67%
10 years 7.94% -- -- 8.34%
Index: Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index, an unmanaged index that
measures the performance of U.S. government bonds, U.S. corporate bonds and
Yankee bonds.
(1) Began operations on May 1,1998.
12
<PAGE>
Main Risks
[Clip Art] The fund's risk profile depends on its sector allocation. In general,
investors should expect fluctuations in share price, yield and total return that
are above average for bond funds.
When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall. Generally, an increase in
the fund's average maturity will make it more sensitive to interest rate risk.
There is no limit on the fund's average maturity.
A fall in worldwide demand for U.S. government securities could lower the prices
of these securities. The fund could lose money if any bonds it owns are
downgraded in credit rating or go into default. In general, lower-rated bonds
have higher credit risks, and their prices can fall on bad news about the
economy, an industry or a company. If certain allocation strategies or certain
industries or investments don't perform as the fund expects, it could
underperform its peers or lose money.
To the extent that the fund makes investments with additional risks, those risks
could increase volatility or reduce performance:
o Foreign investments carry additional risks, including potentially unfavorable
currency exchange rates, inadequate or inaccurate financial information and
social or political upheavals. These risks are greater in emerging markets.
o If interest rate movements cause the fund's callable securities to be paid
off substantially earlier or later than expected, the fund's share price or
yield could be hurt.
o Stock investments may go down in value due to stock market movements or
negative company or industry events.
o In a down market, higher-risk securities and derivatives could become harder
to value or to sell at a fair price.
o Certain derivatives could produce disproportionate gains or losses.
The fund may trade securities actively, which could increase its transaction
costs (thus lowering performance) and increase your taxable dividends.
================================================================================
YOUR EXPENSES
[Clip Art] Transaction expenses are charged directly to your account. Operating
expenses are paid from the fund's assets, and therefore are paid by shareholders
indirectly.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder transaction expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum sales charge (load) on purchases
as a % of purchase price 4.50% none none
Maximum deferred sales charge (load)
as a % of purchase or sale price,
whichever is less none(1) 5.00% 1.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual operating expenses Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management fee 0.40% 0.40% 0.40%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.30% 1.00% 1.00%
Other expenses 0.22% 0.22% 0.22%
Total fund operating expenses 0.92% 1.62% 1.62%
The hypothetical example below shows what your expenses would be if you invested
$10,000 over the time frames indicated, assuming you reinvested all
distributions and that the average annual return was 5%. The example is for
comparison only, and does not represent the fund's actual expenses and returns,
either past or future.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses Year 1 Year 3 Year 5 Year 10
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A $540 $730 $ 936 $1,530
Class B - with redemption $665 $811 $1,081 $1,733
- without redemption $165 $511 $ 881 $1,733
Class C - with redemption $265 $511 $ 881 $1,922
- without redemption $165 $511 $ 881 $1,922
FUND CODES
Class A
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker JHFIX
CUSIP 410227102
Newspaper StrIncA
SEC number 811-4651
Class B
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker STIBX
CUSIP 410227300
Newspaper StrIncB
SEC number 811-4651
Class C
- ---------------------------------------
Ticker --
CUSIP 410227888
Newspaper --
SEC number 811-4651
(1) Except for investments of $1 million or more; see "How sales charges are
calculated."
13
<PAGE>
Your account
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHOOSING A SHARE CLASS
Each share class has its own cost structure. Each fund has adopted a Rule 12b-1
plan that allows it to pay fees for the sale and distribution of its shares.
Your financial representive can help you decide which share class is best for
you.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o Front-end sales charges, as described at right.
o Distribution and service (12b-1) fees of 0.25% (0.30% for Bond and Strategic
Income).
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o No front-end sales charge; all your money goes to work for you right away.
o Distribution and service (12b-1) fees of 1.00%.
o A deferred sales charge, as described on following page.
o Automatic conversion to Class A shares after either five years (Intermediate
Maturity Government) or eight years (all other funds), thus reducing future
annual expenses.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o No front-end sales charge; all your money goes to work for you right away.
o Distribution and service (12b-1) fees of 1.00%.
o A 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge on shares sold within one year of
purchase.
o No automatic conversion to Class A shares, so annual expenses continue at the
Class C level throughout the life of your investment.
For actual past expenses of each share class, see the fund-by-fund information
earlier in this prospectus.
Because 12b-1 fees are paid on an ongoing basis, Class B and Class C
shareholders could end up paying more expenses over the long term than if they
had paid a sales charge.
Investors purchasing $1 million or more of Class B or Class C shares may want to
consider the lower operating expenses of Class A shares.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOW SALES CHARGES ARE CALCULATED
Class A Sales charges are as follows:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales charges - Intermediate Maturity Government
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As a % of As a % of your
Your investment offering price investment
Up to $99,999 3.00% 3.09%
$100,000 - $499,999 2.50% 2.56%
$500,000 - $999,999 2.00% 2.04%
$1,000,000 and over See below
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales charges - all other funds
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As a % of As a % of your
Your investment offering price investment
Up to $99,999 4.50% 4.71%
$100,000 - $249,999 3.75% 3.90%
$250,000 - $499,999 2.75% 2.83%
$500,000 - $999,999 2.00% 2.04%
$1,000,000 and over See below
Investments of $1 million or more Class A shares are available with no front-end
sales charge. However, there is a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any
shares sold within one year of purchase, as follows:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CDSC on $1 million+ investments - all funds
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CDSC on shares
Your investment being sold
First $1M - $4,999,999 1.00%
Next $1 - $5M above that 0.50%
Next $1 or more above that 0.25%
For purposes of this CDSC, all purchases made during a calendar month are
counted as having been made on the last day of that month.
The CDSC is based on the lesser of the original purchase cost or the current
market value of the shares being sold, and is not charged on shares you acquired
by reinvesting your dividends. To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time
you place a request to sell shares we will first sell any shares in your account
that are not subject to a CDSC.
14 YOUR ACCOUNT
<PAGE>
Class B and Class C Shares are offered at their net asset value per share,
without any initial sales charge. However, you may be charged a contingent
deferred sales charge (CDSC) on shares you sell within a certain time after you
bought them, as described in the tables below. There is no CDSC on shares
acquired through reinvestment of dividends. The CDSC is based on the original
purchase cost or the current market value of the shares being sold, whichever is
less. The CDSCs are as follows:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B deferred charges - all funds
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CDSC on Intermediate CDSC on all
Years after Maturity Government other fund shares
purchase shares being sold being sold
1st year 3.00% 5.00%
2nd year 2.00% 4.00%
3rd year 2.00% 3.00%
4th year 1.00% 3.00%
5th year none 2.00%
6th year none 1.00%
After 6 years none none
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C deferred charges - all applicable funds
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years after purchase CDSC
1st year 1.00%
After 1 year none
For purposes of these CDSCs, all purchases made during a calendar month are
counted as having been made on the first day of that month.
CDSC calculations are based on the number of shares involved, not on the value
of your account. To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a
request to sell shares we will first sell any shares in your account that carry
no CDSC. If there are not enough of these to meet your request, we will sell
those shares that have the lowest CDSC.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS AND WAIVERS
Reducing your Class A sales charges There are several ways you can combine
multiple purchases of Class A shares of John Hancock funds to take advantage of
the breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. The first three ways can be
combined in any manner.
o Accumulation Privilege -- lets you add the value of any Class A shares you
already own to the amount of your next Class A investment for purposes of
calculating the sales charge. Retirement plans investing $1 million in Class
B shares may add that value to Class A purchases to calculate charges.
o Letter of Intention -- lets you purchase Class A shares of a fund over a
13-month period and receive the same sales charge as if all shares had been
purchased at once.
o Combination Privilege -- lets you combine Class A shares of multiple funds
for purposes of calculating the sales charge.
To utilize: complete the appropriate section of your application, or contact
your financial representative or Signature Services, or consult the SAI (see the
back cover of this prospectus).
Group Investment Program A group may be treated as a single purchaser under the
accumulation and combination privileges. Each investor has an individual
account, but the group's investments are lumped together for sales charge
purposes, making the investors potentially eligible for reduced sales charges.
There is no charge, no obligation to invest (although initial investments must
total at least $250), and individual investors may close their accounts at any
time.
To utilize: contact your financial representative or Signature Services to find
out how to qualify, or consult the SAI (see the back cover of this prospectus).
CDSC waivers As long as Signature Services is notified at the time you sell, the
CDSC for each share class will generally be waived in the following cases:
o to make payments through certain systematic withdrawal plans
o to make certain distributions from a retirement plan
o because of shareholder death or disability
o to purchase a John Hancock Declaration annuity
To utilize: if you think you may be eligible for a CDSC waiver, contact your
financial representative or Signature Services, or consult the SAI (see the back
cover of this prospectus).
YOUR ACCOUNT 15
<PAGE>
Reinstatement privilege If you sell shares of a John Hancock fund, you may
reinvest some or all of the proceeds in the same share class of any John Hancock
fund within 120 days without a sales charge, as long as Signature Services is
notified before you reinvest. If you paid a CDSC when you sold your shares, you
will be credited with the amount of the CDSC. All accounts involved must have
the same registration.
To utilize: contact your financial representative or Signature Services.
Waivers for certain investors Class A shares may be offered without front-end
sales charges or CDSCs to various individuals and institutions, including:
o selling brokers and their employees and sales representatives
o financial representatives utilizing fund shares in fee-based investment
products under signed agreement with John Hancock Funds
o fund trustees and other individuals who are affiliated with these or other
John Hancock funds
o individuals transferring assets from an employee benefit plan into a John
Hancock fund
o certain insurance company contract holders (one-year CDSC usually applies)
o participants in certain retirement plans with at least 100 eligible employees
(one-year CDSC applies)
To utilize: if you think you may be eligible for a sales charge waiver, contact
Signature Services or consult the SAI (see the back cover of this prospectus).
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPENING AN ACCOUNT
1 Read this prospectus carefully.
2 Determine how much you want to invest. The minimum initial investments for
the John Hancock funds are as follows:
o non-retirement account: $1,000
o retirement account: $250
o group investments: $250
o Monthly Automatic Accumulation Plan (MAAP): $25 to open; you must invest
at least $25 a month
o fee-based clients of selling brokers who placed at least $2 billion in
John Hancock funds: $250
3 Complete the appropriate parts of the account application, carefully
following the instructions. If you have questions, please contact your
financial representative or call Signature Services at 1-800-225-5291.
4 Complete the appropriate parts of the account privileges application. By
applying for privileges now, you can avoid the delay and inconvenience of
having to file an additional application if you want to add privileges later.
5 Make your initial investment using the table on the next page. You and your
financial representative can initiate any purchase, exchange or sale of
shares.
16 YOUR ACCOUNT
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Buying shares
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Opening an account Adding to an account
By check
[Clip Art] o Make out a check for the o Make out a check for the
investment amount, payable investment amount payable
to "John Hancock Signature to "John Hancock Signature
Services, Inc." Services, Inc."
o Deliver the check and your o Fill out the detachable
completed application to investment slip from an
your financial account statement. If no
representative, or mail them slip is available, include
to Signature Services a note specifying the fund
(address below). name, your share class,
your account number and the
name(s) in which the
account is registered.
o Deliver the check and your
investment slip or note to
your financial
representative, or mail them
to Signature Services
(address below).
By exchange
[Clip Art] o Call your financial o Call your financial
representative or Signature representative or Signature
Services to request an Services to request an
exchange. exchange.
By wire
[Clip Art] o Deliver your completed o Instruct your bank to wire
application to your the amount of your
financial representative, investment to:
or mail it to Signature First Signature Bank
Services. & Trust
Account # 900000260
o Obtain your account number Routing # 211475000
by calling your financial
representative or Signature Specify the fund name, your
Services. share class, your account
number and the name(s) in
o Instruct your bank to wire which the account is
the amount of your registered. Your bank may
investment to: charge a fee to wire funds.
First Signature Bank
& Trust
Account # 900000260
Routing # 211475000
Specify the fund name, your
choice of share class, the new
account number and the name(s)
in which the account is
registered. Your bank may
charge a fee to wire funds.
By phone
[Clip Art] See "By wire" and "By exchange." o Verify that your bank or
credit union is a member of
the Automated Clearing
House (ACH) system.
o Complete the
"Invest-By-Phone" and "Bank
Information" sections on
your account application.
o Call Signature Services to
verify that these features
are in place on your
account.
o Tell the Signature Services
representative the fund
name, your share class,
your account number, the
name(s) in which the
account is registered and
the amount of your
investment.
- ----------------------------------------
Address:
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
1 John Hancock Way, Suite 1000
Boston, MA 02217-1000
Phone Number: 1-800-225-5291
Or contact your financial representative
for instructions and assistance.
- ----------------------------------------
To open or add to an account using the Monthly Automatic
Accumulation Program, see "Additional investor services."
YOUR ACCOUNT 17
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Selling shares
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Designed for To sell some or all of your shares
By letter
[Clip Art] o Accounts of any type. o Write a letter of
instruction or complete a
o Sales of any amount. stock power indicating the
fund name, your share
class, your account number,
the name(s) in which the
account is registered and
the dollar value or number
of shares you wish to sell.
o Include all signatures and
any additional documents
that may be required (see
next page).
o Mail the materials to
Signature Services.
o A check will be mailed to
the name(s) and address in
which the account is
registered, or otherwise
according to your letter of
instruction.
By phone
[Clip Art] o Most accounts. o For automated service 24
hours a day using your
o Sales of up to $100,000. touch-tone phone, call the
EASI-Line at 1-800-338-8080.
o To place your order, call
your financial representative
or call Signature Services
between 8 A.M. and 4 P.M.
Eastern Time on most business
days.
By wire or electronic funds transfer (EFT)
[Clip Art] o Requests by letter to sell o To verify that the
any amount (accounts of any telephone redemption
type). privilege is in place on an
account, or to request the
o Requests by phone to sell form to add it to an
up to $100,000 (accounts existing account, call
with telephone redemption Signature Services.
privileges).
o Amounts of $1,000 or more
will be wired on the next
business day. A $4 fee will
be deducted from your
account.
o Amounts of less than $1,000
may be sent by EFT or by
check. Funds from EFT
transactions are generally
available by the second
business day. Your bank may
charge a fee for this
service.
By exchange
[Clip Art] o Accounts of any type. o Obtain a current prospectus
for the fund into which you
o Sales of any amount. are exchanging by calling
your financial
representative or Signature
Services.
o Call your financial
representative or Signature
Services to request an
exchange.
By check
[Clip Art] o Government Income, o Request checkwriting on your
Intermediate Maturity account application.
Government,
and Strategic Income only. o Verify that the shares to be
sold were purchased more than
o Any account with 10 days earlier or were
checkwriting privileges. purchased by wire.
o Sales of over $100. o Write a check for any amount
over $100.
18 YOUR ACCOUNT
<PAGE>
Selling shares in writing In certain circumstances, you will need to make your
request to sell shares in writing. You may need to include additional items with
your request, as shown in the table below. You may also need to include a
signature guarantee, which protects you against fraudulent orders. You will need
a signature guarantee if:
o your address of record has changed within the past 30 days
o you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares
o you are requesting payment other than by a check mailed to the address of
record and payable to the registered owner(s)
You will need to obtain your signature guarantee from a member of the Signature
Guarantee Medallion Program. Most brokers and securities dealers are members of
this program. A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seller Requirements for written requests
[Clip Art]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Owners of individual, joint, sole o Letter of instruction.
proprietorship, UGMA/UTMA (custodial
accounts for minors) or general o On the letter, the signatures and
partner accounts. titles of all persons authorized to
sign for the account, exactly as
the account is registered.
o Signature guarantee if applicable
(see above).
Owners of corporate or association o Letter of instruction.
accounts.
o Corporate resolution, certified
within the past 12 months.
o On the letter and the resolution,
the signature of the person(s)
authorized to sign for the account.
o Signature guarantee if applicable
(see above).
Owners or trustees of trust accounts. o Letter of instruction.
o On the letter, the signature(s) of
the trustee(s).
o Provide a copy of the trust
document certified within the past
12 months.
o Signature guarantee if applicable
(see above).
Joint tenancy shareholders with rights o Letter of instruction signed by
of survivorship whose co-tenants are surviving tenant.
deceased.
o Copy of death certificate.
o Signature guarantee if applicable
(see above).
Executors of shareholder estates. o Letter of instruction signed by
executor.
o Copy of order appointing executor,
certified within the past 12
months.
o Signature guarantee if applicable
(see above).
Administrators, conservators, o Call 1-800-225-5291 for
guardians and other sellers or account instructions.
types not listed above.
- ----------------------------------------
Address:
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
1 John Hancock Way, Suite 1000
Boston, MA 02217-1000
Phone Number: 1-800-225-5291
Or contact your financial representative
for instructions and assistance.
- ----------------------------------------
To sell shares through a systematic withdrawal plan, see
"Additional investor services."
YOUR ACCOUNT 19
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TRANSACTION POLICIES
Valuation of shares The net asset value per share (NAV) for each fund and class
is determined each business day at the close of regular trading on the New York
Stock Exchange (typically 4 P.M. Eastern Time). The funds use market prices in
valuing portfolio securities, but may use fair-value estimates if reliable
market prices are unavailable.
Buy and sell prices When you buy shares, you pay the NAV plus any applicable
sales charges, as described earlier. When you sell shares, you receive the NAV
minus any applicable deferred sales charges.
Execution of requests Each fund is open on those days when the New York Stock
Exchange is open, typically Monday through Friday. Buy and sell requests are
executed at the next NAV to be calculated after your request is accepted by
Signature Services.
At times of peak activity, it may be difficult to place requests by phone.
During these times, consider using EASI-Line or sending your request in writing.
In unusual circumstances, any fund may temporarily suspend the processing of
sell requests, or may postpone payment of proceeds for up to three business days
or longer, as allowed by federal securities laws.
Telephone transactions For your protection, telephone requests may be recorded
in order to verify their accuracy. Also for your protection, telephone
transactions are not permitted on accounts whose names or addresses have changed
within the past 30 days. Proceeds from telephone transactions can only be mailed
to the address of record.
Exchanges You may exchange shares of one John Hancock fund for shares of the
same class of any other, generally without paying any additional sales charges.
The registration for both accounts involved must be identical. Class B and Class
C shares will continue to age from the original date and will retain the same
CDSC rate as they had before the exchange, except that the rate will change to
the new fund's rate if that rate is higher. A CDSC rate that has increased will
drop again with a future exchange into a fund with a lower rate.
To protect the interests of other investors in the fund, a fund may cancel the
exchange privileges of any parties that, in the opinion of the fund, are using
market timing strategies or making more than seven exchanges per owner or
controlling party per calendar year. A fund may also refuse any exchange order.
A fund may change or cancel its exchange policies at any time, upon 60 days'
notice to its shareholders.
Certificated shares Most shares are electronically recorded. If you wish to have
certificates for your shares, please write to Signature Services. Certificated
shares can only be sold by returning the certificates to Signature Services,
along with a letter of instruction or a stock power and a signature guarantee.
Sales in advance of purchase payments When you place a request to sell shares
for which the purchase money has not yet been collected, the request will be
executed in a timely fashion, but the fund will not release the proceeds to you
until your purchase payment clears. This may take up to ten business days after
the purchase.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIVIDENDS AND ACCOUNT POLICIES
Account statements In general, you will receive account statements as follows:
o after every transaction (except a dividend reinvestment) that affects your
account balance
o after any changes of name or address of the registered owner(s)
o in all other circumstances, every quarter
Every year you should also receive, if applicable, a Form 1099 tax information
statement, mailed by January 31.
Dividends The funds generally declare dividends daily and pay them monthly.
Capital gains, if any, are distributed annually, typically after the end of a
fund's fiscal year. Most of these funds' dividends are income dividends. Your
dividends begin accruing the day after the fund receives payment and continue
through the day your shares are actually sold.
Dividend reinvestments Most investors have their dividends reinvested in
additional shares of the same fund and class. If you choose this option, or if
you do not indicate any choice, your dividends will be reinvested on the
dividend record date. Alternatively, you can choose to have a check for your
dividends mailed to you. However, if the check is not deliverable, your
dividends will be reinvested.
20 YOUR ACCOUNT
<PAGE>
Taxability of dividends Dividends you receive from a fund, whether reinvested or
taken as cash, are generally considered taxable. Dividends from a fund's
short-term capital gains are taxable as ordinary income. Dividends from a fund's
long-term capital gains are taxable at a lower rate. Whether gains are
short-term or long-term depends on the fund's holding period. Some dividends
paid in January may be taxable as if they had been paid the previous December.
The Form 1099 that is mailed to you every January details your dividends and
their federal tax category, although you should verify your tax liability with
your tax professional.
Taxability of transactions Any time you sell or exchange shares, it is
considered a taxable event for you. Depending on the purchase price and the sale
price of the shares you sell or exchange, you may have a gain or a loss on the
transaction. You are responsible for any tax liabilities generated by your
transactions.
Small accounts (non-retirement only) If you draw down a non-retirement account
so that its total value is less than $1,000, you may be asked to purchase more
shares within 30 days. If you do not take action, your fund may close out your
account and mail you the proceeds. Alternatively, Signature Services may charge
you $10 a year to maintain your account. You will not be charged a CDSC if your
account is closed for this reason, and your account will not be closed if its
drop in value is due to fund performance or the effects of sales charges.
Year 2000 compliance The adviser and the funds' service providers are taking
steps to address any year 2000-related computer problems. However, there is some
risk that these problems could disrupt the funds' operations or financial
markets generally.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ADDITIONAL INVESTOR SERVICES
Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program (MAAP) MAAP lets you set up regular
investments from your paycheck or bank account to the John Hancock fund(s) of
your choice. You determine the frequency and amount of your investments, and you
can terminate your program at any time. To establish:
o Complete the appropriate parts of your account application.
o If you are using MAAP to open an account, make out a check ($25 minimum) for
your first investment amount payable to "John Hancock Signature Services,
Inc." Deliver your check and application to your financial representative or
Signature Services.
Systematic withdrawal plan This plan may be used for routine bill payments or
periodic withdrawals from your account. To establish:
o Make sure you have at least $5,000 worth of shares in your account.
o Make sure you are not planning to invest more money in this account (buying
shares during a period when you are also selling shares of the same fund is
not advantageous to you, because of sales charges).
o Specify the payee(s). The payee may be yourself or any other party, and there
is no limit to the number of payees you may have, as long as they are all on
the same payment schedule.
o Determine the schedule: monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, annually or in
certain selected months.
o Fill out the relevant part of the account application. To add a systematic
withdrawal plan to an existing account, contact your financial representative
or Signature Services.
Retirement plans John Hancock Funds offers a range of retirement plans,
including traditional, Roth and Education IRAs, SIMPLE plans, SEPs, 401(k) plans
and other pension and profit-sharing plans. Using these plans, you can invest in
any John Hancock fund (except tax-free income funds) with a low minimum
investment of $250 or, for some group plans, no minimum investment at all. To
find out more, call Signature Services at 1-800-225-5291.
YOUR ACCOUNT 21
<PAGE>
Fund details
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BUSINESS STRUCTURE
The diagram below shows the basic business structure used by the John Hancock
income funds. Each fund's board of trustees oversees the fund's business
activities and retains the services of the various firms that carry out the
fund's operations.
The trustees of the Government Income, High Yield Bond and Intermediate Maturity
Government funds have the power to change these funds' respective investment
goals without shareholder approval.
Management fees The management fees paid to the investment adviser by the John
Hancock income funds last year are as follows:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fund % of net assets
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bond 0.50%
Government Income 0.64%
High Yield Bond 0.52%
Intermediate Maturity Government 0.40%
Strategic Income 0.40%
[The following information was represented as a flow chart in the printed
material.]
-----------------
Shareholders
-----------------
Distribution and
shareholder services
-------------------------------------------------
Financial services firms and
their representatives
Advise current and prospective share-
holders on their fund investments, often
in the context of an overall financial plan.
-------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------
Principal distributor
John Hancock Funds, Inc.
Markets the funds and distributes shares
through selling brokers, financial planners
and other financial representatives.
-------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------
Transfer agent
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
Handles shareholder services, including record-
keeping and statements, distribution of dividends
and processing of buy and sell requests.
------------------------------------------------------
Asset
management
------------------------------------
Investment adviser
John Hancock Advisers, Inc.
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02199-7603
Manages the funds' business and
investment activities.
------------------------------------
------------------------------------
Custodian
Investors Bank & Trust Co.
Holds the funds' assets, settles all
portfolio trades and collects most of
the valuation data required for
calculating each fund's NAV.
------------------------------------
------------------------------------
Trustees
Oversee the funds' activities.
------------------------------------
22 FUND DETAILS
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
These tables detail the performance of each fund's share classes, including
total return information showing how much an investment in the fund has
increased or decreased each year.
Bond Fund
Figures audited by ____________________.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 12/93 12/94 12/95 12/96
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $15.29 $15.53 $13.90 $15.40
Net investment income (loss) 1.14 1.12 1.12 1.09
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and financial futures contracts 0.62 (1.55) 1.50 (0.50)
Total from investment operations 1.76 (0.43) 2.62 0.59
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (1.14) (1.12) (1.12) (1.09)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments
sold and financial futures contracts (0.38) (0.08) -- --
Total distributions (1.52) (1.20) (1.12) (1.09)
Net asset value, end of period $15.53 $13.90 $15.40 $14.90
Total investment return at net asset value(3) (%) 11.80 (2.75) 19.40 4.11
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 1,505,754 1,326,058 1,535,204 1,416,116
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.41 1.26 1.13 1.14
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 7.18 7.74 7.58 7.32
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 107 85 103(6) 123
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 5/97(1) 5/98 11/98(8)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $14.90 $14.78
Net investment income (loss) 0.44 1.05(2)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and financial futures contracts (0.12) 0.47
Total from investment operations 0.32 1.52
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.44) (1.05)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments
sold and financial futures contracts -- --
Total distributions (0.44) (1.05)
Net asset value, end of period $14.78 $15.25
Total investment return at net asset value(3) (%) 2.22(4) 10.54
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 1,361,924 1,327,728
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.11(5) 1.08
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 7.38(5) 6.90
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 58 198
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 12/93(7) 12/94 12/95 12/96
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $15.90 $15.52 $13.90 $15.40
Net investment income (loss) 0.11 1.04 1.02 0.98
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and financial futures contracts -- (1.54) 1.50 (0.50)
Total from investment operations 0.11 (0.50) 2.52 0.48
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.11) (1.04) (1.02) (0.98)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments
sold and financial futures contracts (0.38) (0.08) -- --
Total distributions (0.49) (1.12) (1.02) (0.98)
Net asset value, end of period $15.52 $13.90 $15.40 $14.90
Total investment return at net asset value(3) (%) 0.90(4) (3.13) 18.66 3.38
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 4,125 40,299 98,739 134,112
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.63(5) 1.78 1.75 1.84
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 0.57(5) 7.30 6.87 6.62
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 107 85 103(6) 123
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 5/97(1) 5/98 11/98(8)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $14.90 $14.78
Net investment income (loss) 0.40 0.95(2)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and financial futures contracts (0.12) 0.47
Total from investment operations 0.28 1.42
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.40) (0.95)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments
sold and financial futures contracts -- --
Total distributions (0.40) (0.95)
Net asset value, end of period $14.78 $15.25
Total investment return at net asset value(3) (%) 1.93(4) 9.78
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 132,885 165,983
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.81(5) 1.78
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 6.68(5) 6.18
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 58 198
</TABLE>
(1) Effective May 31, 1997, the fiscal year end changed from December 31 to May
31.
(2) Based on the average of the shares outstanding at the end of each month.
(3) Assumes dividend reinvestment and does not reflect the effect of sales
charges.
(4) Not annualized.
(5) Annualized.
(6) Portfolio turnover rate excludes merger activity. (7) Class B shares began
operations on November 23, 1993.
(8) Unaudited.
FUND DETAILS 23
<PAGE>
Government Income Fund
Figures audited by __________________.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 10/94(1) 10/95(2) 10/96
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $8.85 $8.75 $9.32
Net investment income (loss) 0.06 0.72 0.65(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (0.10) 0.57 (0.25)
Total from investment operations (0.04) 1.29 0.40
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.06) (0.72) (0.65)
Net asset value, end of period $8.75 $9.32 $9.07
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) (0.45)(6,7) 15.32(7) 4.49
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(5) (%) (0.46)(6) 15.28 --
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 223 470,569 396,323
Ratio of expenses to average net assets(7) (%) 0.12(6) 1.19 1.17
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets(7) (%) 0.71(6) 7.38 7.10
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 92 102(9) 106
Debt outstanding at end of period (000s omitted)(10) ($) -- -- --
Average daily debt outstanding during the period (000s omitted)(10) ($) 349 N/A N/A
Average monthly shares outstanding during the period (000s omitted) 28,696 N/A N/A
Average daily debt outstanding per share during the period(10) ($) 0.01 N/A N/A
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 5/97(3) 5/98 11/98(11)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $9.07 $8.93
Net investment income (loss) 0.37(4) 0.62(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (0.14) 0.32
Total from investment operations 0.23 0.94
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.37) (0.62)
Net asset value, end of period $8.93 $9.25
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 2.57(6) 10.82
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(5) (%) -- --
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 359,758 339,572
Ratio of expenses to average net assets(7) (%) 1.13(8) 1.10
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets(7) (%) 7.06(8) 6.79
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 129 106
Debt outstanding at end of period (000s omitted)(10) ($) -- --
Average daily debt outstanding during the period (000s omitted)(10) ($) N/A N/A
Average monthly shares outstanding during the period (000s omitted) N/A N/A
Average daily debt outstanding per share during the period(10) ($) N/A N/A
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 10/93 10/94 10/95(2) 10/96
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $9.83 $10.05 $8.75 $9.32
Net investment income (loss) 0.70 0.65 0.65 0.58(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 0.24 (1.28) 0.57 (0.24)
Total from investment operations 0.94 (0.63) 1.22 0.34
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.72) (0.65) (0.65) (0.58)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- (0.02) -- --
Total distributions (0.72) (0.67) (0.65) (0.58)
Net asset value, end of period $10.05 $8.75 $9.32 $9.08
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 9.86(7) (6.42)(7) 14.49(7) 3.84
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 9.85 (6.43) 14.47 --
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 293,413 241,061 226,954 178,124
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 2.00(7) 1.93(7) 1.89(7) 1.90
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 7.06(7) 6.98(7) 7.26(7) 6.37
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 138 92 102(9) 106
Debt outstanding at end of period (000s omitted)(10) ($) -- -- -- --
Average daily debt outstanding during the period (000s omitted)(10) ($) 503 349 N/A N/A
Average monthly shares outstanding during the period (000s omitted) 26,378 28,696 N/A N/A
Average daily debt outstanding per share during the period(10) ($) 0.02 0.01 N/A N/A
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 5/97(3) 5/98 11/98(11)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $9.08 $8.93
Net investment income (loss) 0.33(4) 0.55(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (0.15) 0.32
Total from investment operations 0.18 0.87
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.33) (0.55)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- --
Total distributions (0.33) (0.55)
Net asset value, end of period $8.93 $9.25
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 2.02(6) 10.01
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(5) (%) -- --
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 153,390 117,830
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.86(8) 1.85
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 6.32(8) 6.05
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 129 106
Debt outstanding at end of period (000s omitted)(10) ($) -- --
Average daily debt outstanding during the period (000s omitted)(10) ($) N/A N/A
Average monthly shares outstanding during the period (000s omitted) N/A N/A
Average daily debt outstanding per share during the period(10) ($) N/A N/A
</TABLE>
(1) Class A shares began operations on September 30, 1994.
(2) On December 22, 1994, John Hancock Advisers, Inc. became the investment
adviser of the fund.
(3) Effective May 31, 1997, the fiscal year end changed from October 31 to May
31.
(4) Based on the average of the shares outstanding at the end of each month.
(5) Assumes dividend reinvestment and does not reflect the effect of sales
charges.
(6) Not annualized.
(7) Excludes interest expense, which equalled 0.01% and 0.04% for Class A for
the years ended October 31, 1994, and 1995 respectively, and 0.01%, 0.01%
and 0.02% for Class B for the years ended October 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995,
respectively.
(8) Annualized.
(9) Portfolio turnover rate excludes merger activity.
(10) Debt outstanding consists of reverse repurchase agreements entered into
during the year.
(11) Unaudited.
24 FUND DETAILS
<PAGE>
High Yield Bond Fund
Figures audited by __________________.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 10/93(1) 10/94 10/95(2) 10/96
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $8.10 $8.23 $7.33 $7.20
Net investment income (loss) 0.33 0.80(4) 0.72 0.76(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 0.09 (0.83) (0.12) 0.35
Total from investment operations 0.42 (0.03) 0.60 1.11
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.29) (0.82) (0.73) (0.76)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- (0.05) -- --
Total distributions (0.29) (0.87) (0.73) (0.76)
Net asset value, end of period $8.23 $7.33 $7.20 $7.55
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 4.96(6) (0.59) 8.83 16.06
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 2,344 11,696 26,452 52,792
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 0.91(7) 1.16 1.16 1.10
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 12.89(7) 10.14 10.23 10.31
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 204 153 98 113
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 5/97(3) 5/98 11/98(9)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.55 $7.87
Net investment income (loss) 0.45 0.78(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 0.32 0.51
Total from investment operations 0.77 1.29
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.45) (0.78)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- (0.12)
Total distributions (0.45) (0.90)
Net asset value, end of period $7.87 $8.26
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 10.54(6) 17.03
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 97,925 273,277
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.05(7) 0.97
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 10.19(7) 9.33
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 78 100
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 10/93 10/94 10/95(2) 10/96
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.43 $8.23 $7.33 $7.20
Net investment income (loss) 0.80 0.74(4) 0.67 0.70(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 0.75 (0.83) (0.13) 0.35
Total from investment operations 1.55 (0.09) 0.54 1.05
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.75) (0.76) (0.67) (0.70)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- (0.05) -- --
Total distributions (0.75) (0.81) (0.67) (0.70)
Net asset value, end of period $8.23 $7.33 $7.20 $7.55
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 21.76 (1.33) 7.97 15.24
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 154,214 160,739 180,586 242,944
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 2.08 1.91 1.89 1.82
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 10.07 9.39 9.42 9.49
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 204 153 98 113
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 5/97(3) 5/98 11/98(9)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.55 $7.87
Net investment income (loss) 0.42 0.71(4)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 0.32 0.51
Total from investment operations 0.74 1.22
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.42) (0.71)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- (0.12)
Total distributions (0.42) (0.83)
Net asset value, end of period $7.87 $8.26
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) 10.06(6) 16.16
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 379,024 798,170
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.80(7) 1.72
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 9.45(7) 8.62
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 78 100
</TABLE>
FUND DETAILS 25
<PAGE>
High Yield Bond Fund continued
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C - period ended: 5/98(8) 11/98(9)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $8.45
Net investment income (loss)(4) 0.06
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (0.19)
Total from investment operations (0.13)
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.06)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold --
Total distributions (0.06)
Net asset value, end of period $8.26
Total investment return at net asset value(5) (%) (1.59)(6)
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 3,195
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.72(7)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 6.70(7)
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 100
</TABLE>
(1) Class A shares began operations on June 30, 1993.
(2) On December 22, 1994, John Hancock Advisers, Inc. became the investment
adviser of the fund.
(3) Effective May 31, 1997, the fiscal year end changed from October 31 to May
31.
(4) Based on the average of the shares outstanding at the end of each month.
(5) Assumes dividend reinvestment and does not reflect the effect of sales
charges.
(6) Not annualized.
(7) Annualized.
(8) Class C shares began operations on May 1, 1998.
(9) Unaudited.
26 FUND DETAILS
<PAGE>
Intermediate Maturity Government Fund
Figures audited by __________________.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 3/94 3/95(1) 3/96 3/97
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $10.05 $9.89 $9.79 $9.69
Net investment income (loss) 0.41 0.49 0.62 0.67
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (0.16) (0.11) (0.08) (0.25)
Total from investment operations 0.25 0.38 0.54 0.42
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.41) (0.48) (0.64) (0.66)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- -- -- (0.08)
Total distributions (0.41) (0.48) (0.64) (0.74)
Net asset value, end of period $9.89 $9.79 $9.69 $9.37
Total investment return at net asset value(4) (%) 2.51 3.98 5.60 4.56
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(4,5) (%) 2.27 3.43 4.83 4.19
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 24,310 12,950 29,024 22,043
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 0.75(7) 0.80(7) 0.75(7) 0.75
Ratio of adjusted expenses to average net assets(9) (%) 0.99(7) 1.35(7) 1.45(7) 1.12
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 4.09 4.91 6.49 6.99
Ratio of adjusted net investment income (loss) to average assets(9) (%) 3.85 4.36 5.79 6.62
Fee reduction per share(3) ($) 0.02 0.05 0.07 0.04
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 244 341 423(10) 427
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 5/97(2) 5/98 11/98(11)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $9.37 $9.46
Net investment income (loss) 0.11(3) 0.62(3)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 0.09 0.26
Total from investment operations 0.20 0.88
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.11) (0.62)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- --
Total distributions (0.11) (0.62)
Net asset value, end of period $9.46 $9.72
Total investment return at net asset value(4) (%) 2.13(6) 9.56
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(4,5) (%) 1.93(6) 9.49
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 22,755 163,358
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 0.75(8) 1.09
Ratio of adjusted expenses to average net assets(9) (%) 1.92(8) 1.16
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 7.07(8) 6.43
Ratio of adjusted net investment income (loss) to average assets(9) (%) 5.90(8) 6.36
Fee reduction per share(3) ($) 0.02 0.01
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 77 250(10)
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 3/94 3/95(1) 3/96 3/97
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $10.05 $9.89 $9.79 $9.69
Net investment income (loss) 0.34 0.43 0.57 0.60
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (0.16) (0.11) (0.10) (0.24)
Total from investment operations 0.18 0.32 0.47 0.36
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.34) (0.42) (0.57) (0.60)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- -- -- (0.08)
Total distributions (0.34) (0.42) (0.57) (0.68)
Net asset value, end of period $9.89 $9.79 $9.69 $9.37
Total investment return at net asset value(4) (%) 1.85 3.33 4.92 3.84
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(4,5) (%) 1.61 2.78 4.15 3.47
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 11,626 9,506 8,532 6,779
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.40(7) 1.45(7) 1.40(7) 1.43
Ratio of adjusted expenses to average net assets(9) (%) 1.64(7) 2.00(7) 2.10(7) 1.80
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 3.44 4.26 5.80 6.30
Ratio of adjusted net investment income (loss) to average net assets(9) (%) 3.20 3.71 5.10 5.93
Fee reduction per share(3) ($) 0.02 0.05 0.07 0.04
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 244 341 423(10) 427
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 5/97(2) 5/98 11/98(11)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $9.37 $9.46
Net investment income (loss) 0.10(3) 0.55(3)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 0.09 0.26
Total from investment operations 0.19 0.81
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.10) (0.55)
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- --
Total distributions (0.10) (0.55)
Net asset value, end of period $9.46 $9.72
Total investment return at net asset value(4) (%) 2.01(6) 8.74
Total adjusted investment return at net asset value(4,5) (%) 1.81(6) 8.67
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 6,451 19,113
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.50(8) 1.84
Ratio of adjusted expenses to average net assets(9) (%) 2.67(8) 1.91
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 6.04(8) 5.66
Ratio of adjusted net investment income (loss) to average net assets(9) (%) 4.87(8) 5.59
Fee reduction per share(3) ($) 0.02 0.01
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 77 250(10)
</TABLE>
(1) On December 22, 1994, John Hancock Advisers, Inc. became the investment
adviser of the fund.
(2) Effective May 31, 1997, the fiscal year end changed from March 31 to May
31.
(3) Based on the average of the shares outstanding at the end of each month.
(4) Assumes dividend reinvestment and does not reflect the effect of sales
charges.
(5) An estimated total return calculation that does not take into consideration
fee reductions by the adviser during the periods shown.
(6) Not annualized.
(7) Beginning on December 31, 1991 (commencement of operations) through March
31, 1995, the expenses used in the ratios represented the expenses of the
fund plus expenses incurred indirectly from John Hancock Adjustable U.S.
Government Fund (the "Portfolio"), the mutual fund in which the fund
invested all of its assets. The expenses used in the ratios for the fiscal
year ended March 31, 1996 include the expenses of the Portfolio through
September 22, 1995.
(8) Annualized.
(9) Unreimbursed, without fee reduction.
(10) Portfolio turnover rate excludes merger activity.
(11) Unaudited.
FUND DETAILS 27
<PAGE>
Strategic Income Fund
Figures audited by ___________________________.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A - period ended: 5/94 5/95 5/96 5/97 5/98 11/98(8)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.55 $7.17 $7.15 $7.27 $7.54
Net investment income (loss) 0.68 0.64 0.66(1) 0.64(1) 0.64(1)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments,
foreign currency transactions and financial futures contracts (0.33) (0.02) 0.12 0.27 0.34
Total from investment operations 0.35 0.62 0.78 0.91 0.98
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.58) (0.55) (0.66) (0.64) (0.64)
Distributions in excess of net investment income (0.05) -- -- -- --
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- -- -- -- (0.04)
Distributions from capital paid-in (0.10) (0.09) -- -- --
Total distributions (0.73) (0.64) (0.66) (0.64) (0.68)
Net asset value, end of period $7.17 $7.15 $7.27 $7.54 $7.84
Total investment return at net asset value(2) (%) 4.54 9.33 11.37 12.99 13.43
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 335,261 327,876 369,127 416,916 489,375
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.32 1.09 1.03 1.00 0.92
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 8.71 9.24 9.13 8.61 8.20
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 91 55 78 132 112
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B - period ended: 5/94(3) 5/95 5/96 5/97 5/98 11/98(8)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.58 $7.17 $7.15 $7.27 $7.54
Net investment income (loss) 0.40 0.60(1) 0.61(1) 0.59 0.59(1)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments,
foreign currency transactions and financial futures contracts (0.41) (0.02) 0.12 0.27 0.34
Total from investment operations (0.01) 0.58 0.73 0.86 0.93
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.32) (0.52) (0.61) (0.59) (0.59)
Distributions in excess of net investment income (0.03) -- -- -- --
Distributions from net realized gain on investments sold -- -- -- -- (0.04)
Distributions from capital paid-in (0.05) (0.08) -- -- --
Total distributions (0.40) (0.60) (0.61) (0.59) (0.63)
Net asset value, end of period $7.17 $7.15 $7.27 $7.54 $7.84
Total investment return at net asset value(2) (%) (0.22)(4) 8.58 10.61 12.21 12.64
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 77,691 134,527 206,751 328,487 473,428
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.91(5) 1.76 1.73 1.70 1.62
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 8.12(5) 8.55 8.42 7.90 7.50
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 91 55 78 132 112
</TABLE>
28 FUND DETAILS
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C - period ended: 5/98(6) 11/98(8)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Per share operating performance
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.87
Net investment income (loss) 0.05(1)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments,
foreign currency transactions and financial futures contracts (0.03)(7)
Total from investment operations 0.02
Less distributions:
Dividends from net investment income (0.05)
Net asset value, end of period $7.84
Total investment return at net asset value(2) (%) 0.23(4)
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (000s omitted) ($) 601
Ratio of expenses to average net assets (%) 1.62(5)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (%) 7.34(5)
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 112
</TABLE>
(1) Based on the average of the shares outstanding at the end of each month.
(2) Assumes dividend reinvestment and does not reflect the effect of sales
charges.
(3) Class B shares began operations on October 4, 1993.
(4) Not annualized.
(5) Annualized.
(6) Class C shares began operations on May 1, 1998.
(7) The amount shown for a share outstanding does not correspond with the
aggregate net gain (loss) on investments for the period ended May 31, 1998,
due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of fund shares in relation to
fluctuating market values of the fund's investments.
(8) Unaudited.
FUND DETAILS 29
<PAGE>
For more information
Two documents are available that offer further information on John Hancock
income funds:
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
Includes financial statements, a discussion of the market conditions and
investment strategies that significantly affected performance, as well as the
auditors' report (in annual report only).
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (SAI)
The SAI contains more detailed information on all aspects of the funds. The
current annual report is included in the SAI.
A current SAI has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is
incorporated by reference into (is legally a part of) this prospectus.
To request a free copy of the current annual/semiannual report or the SAI,
please contact John Hancock:
By mail:
John Hancock Signature
Services, Inc.
1 John Hancock Way, Suite 1000
Boston, MA02217-1000
By phone: 1-800-225-5291
By EASI-Line: 1-800-338-8080
By TDD: 1-800-544-6713
On the Internet: www.jhancock.com/funds
Or you may view or obtain these documents from the SEC:
In person: at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, DC
By phone: 1-800-SEC-0330
By mail: Public Reference Section Securities and Exchange Commission Washington,
DC 20549-6009 (duplicating fee required)
On the Internet: www.sec.gov
[LOGO] JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS
A Global Investment Management Firm
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
02199-7603
(C) 1998 John Hancock Funds, Inc.
INCPN 4/99
John Hancock(R)
<PAGE>
JOHN HANCOCK GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND
Class A, Class B and Class C Shares
Statement Of Additional Information
April 1, 1999
This Statement of Additional Information provides information about John Hancock
Government Income Fund (the "Fund"), in addition to the information that is
contained in the combined Income Funds' Prospectus dated April 1, 1999 (the
"Prospectus"). The Fund is a diversified series of John Hancock Bond Trust (the
"Trust").
This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus. It should be read
in conjunction with the Prospectus, a copy of which can be obtained free of
charge by writing or telephoning:
John Hancock Signature Services Inc.
1 John Hancock Way, Suite 1000
Boston, Massachusetts 02217-1000
1-800-225-5291
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Organization of the Fund .................................................. 2
Investment Objective and Policies ......................................... 2
Investment Restrictions ................................................... 18
Those Responsible for Management .......................................... 21
Investment Advisory and Other Services .................................... 30
Distribution Contracts .................................................... 32
Sales Compensation ........................................................ 34
Net Asset Value ........................................................... 35
Initial Sales Charge on Class A Shares .................................... 36
Deferred Sales Charge on Class B and Class C Shares ....................... 39
Special Redemptions ....................................................... 43
Additional Services and Programs .......................................... 43
Description of the Fund's Shares .......................................... 45
Tax Status ................................................................ 46
Calculation of Performance ................................................ 51
Brokerage Allocation ...................................................... 53
Transfer Agent Services .................................................. 54
Custody of Portfolio ...................................................... 55
Independent Auditors ...................................................... 55
Appendix A- Description of Investment Risk ................................ A-1
Appendix B-Description of Bond Ratings .................................... B-1
Financial Statements ...................................................... F-1
1
<PAGE>
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUND
The Fund is a series of the Trust, an open-end investment management company
organized as a Massachusetts business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth
of Massachusetts. Prior to December 22, 1994, the Fund was called Transamerica
Government Income Fund. Prior to August 30, 1996, the Fund was a series of John
Hancock Series, Inc., a Maryland corporation.
John Hancock Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") is the Fund's investment adviser.
The Adviser is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of John Hancock Mutual Life
Insurance Company (the "Life Company"), a Massachusetts life insurance company
chartered in 1862, with national headquarters at John Hancock Place, Boston,
Massachusetts.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The following information supplements the discussion of the Fund's investment
objectives and policies discussed in the Prospectus. Appendix A contains further
information describing investment risks. The investment objective of the Fund is
non-fundamental. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment
objective.
The Fund's investment objective is to earn a high level of current income
consistent with preservation of capital by investing primarily in securities
that are issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities. The Fund may seek to enhance its
current return and may seek to hedge against changes in interest rates by
engaging in transactions involving options (subject to certain limits), futures
and options on futures.
The Fund expects that under normal market conditions, it will invest a least 80%
of its total assets in U.S. Government securities (and related repurchase
agreements and forward commitments) which include:
1. Obligations issued by the U.S. Treasury differing only in their
interest rates, maturities and times of issuance:
(a) U.S. Treasury bills with a maturity of one year or less;
(b) U.S. Treasury notes with maturities of one to ten years; or
(c) U.S. Treasury bonds generally with maturities greater than ten years;
and
2. Obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies
or instrumentalities which may be supported by:
(a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government (e.g., direct
pass-through certificates of the Government National Mortgage
Association ("Ginnie Mae"));
(b) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Government (e.g.,
securities of the Federal Home Loan banks); or
(c) the credit of the instrumentality (e.g., bonds issued by Federal
National Mortgage Association.)
2
<PAGE>
The Adviser will attempt to minimize excessive fluctuations in net asset value
per share, so at times the highest yielding government securities then available
may not be selected for investment if, in the view of the Adviser, future
interest rate movements could result in depreciation of value of such
securities. The Fund may take full advantage of the entire range of maturities
of U.S. Government securities and may adjust the dollar-weighted average
maturity of its portfolio from time to time based in large part on the Adviser's
expectation as to future changes in interest rates.
As to the balance of the Fund's assets, where consistent with the investment
objective, the Fund may:
1. invest in U.S. dollar denominated securities issued or guaranteed by
foreign governments which are considered stable by the Adviser, or any of the
political subdivisions, instrumentalities, authorities or agencies of these
governments. These securities generally will be rated within the four highest
rating categories by a nationally recognized rating organization (e.g. Standard
& Poor's Rating Group ("S&P") or Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's")) or
if not so rated, determined to be of equivalent quality in the opinion of the
Adviser; provided that the Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in
securities which may be rated B or better by a nationally recognized rating
organization.
2. invest in other "asset backed securities" which are not included as
"government asset backed": securities and are rated in one of the two highest
rating categories by a nationally recognized credit rating organization or if
not so rated, determined to be of equivalent investment quality in the opinion
the Adviser;
3. engage in hedging transactions, including options, interest rate
futures contracts and options thereon, subject to certain limitations described
below;
4. enter into repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements and
invest in when issued securities and restricted securities, subject to certain
limitations described below;
5. invest in (for liquidity purposes) high quality, short-term debt
securities with remaining maturities of one year or less ("money market
instruments") such as certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, corporate
debt securities, commercial paper and related repurchase agreements.
Government Securities. The Fund may invest in U.S. Government securities, which
are obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government and its agencies,
authorities or instrumentalities. Certain U.S. Government securities, including
U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds, and Government National Mortgage
Association certificates ("Ginnie Maes"), are supported by the full faith and
credit of the United States. Certain other U.S. Government securities, issued or
guaranteed by Federal agencies or government sponsored enterprises, are not
supported by the full faith and credit of the United States, but may be
supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury. These
securities include obligations of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation
("Freddie Macs"), and obligations supported by the credit of the
instrumentality, such as Federal National Mortgage Association Bonds ("Fannie
Maes").
Custodial Receipts. The Fund may acquire custodial receipts for U.S. government
securities. Custodial receipts evidence ownership of future interest payments,
principal payments or both, and include Treasury Receipts, Treasury Investors
Growth Receipts ("TIGRs"), and Certificates of Accrual on Treasury Securities
("CATS"). Custodial receipts are not considered U.S.
government securities.
3
<PAGE>
Bank and Corporate Obligations. The Fund may invest in commercial paper.
Commercial paper represents short-term unsecured promissory notes issued in
bearer form by banks or bank holding companies, corporations and finance
companies. The commercial paper purchased by the Fund consists of direct U.S.
dollar denominated obligations of domestic or foreign issuers. Bank obligations
in which the Fund may invest include certificates of deposit, bankers'
acceptances and fixed time deposits. Certificates of deposit are negotiable
certificates issued against funds deposited in a commercial bank for a definite
period of time and earning a specified return.
Bankers' acceptances are negotiable drafts or bills of exchange, normally drawn
by an importer or exporter to pay for specific merchandise, which are "accepted"
by a bank, meaning, in effect, that the bank unconditionally agrees to pay the
face value of the instrument on maturity. Fixed time deposits are bank
obligations payable at a stated maturity date and bearing interest at a fixed
rate. Fixed time deposits may be withdrawn on demand by the investor, but may be
subject to early withdrawal penalties which vary depending upon market
conditions and the remaining maturity of the obligation. There are no
contractual restrictions on the right to transfer a beneficial interest in a
fixed time deposit to a third party, although there is no market for such
deposits. Bank notes and bankers' acceptances rank junior to domestic deposit
liabilities of the bank and pari passu with other senior, unsecured obligations
of the bank. Bank notes are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation or any other insurer. Deposit notes are insured by the Federal
Deposit Insurance Corporation only to the extent of $100,000 per depositor per
bank.
Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Fund may invest in mortgage pass-through
certificates and multiple-class pass-through securities, such as real estate
mortgage investment conduits REMIC, CMOs and stripped mortgage-backed securities
("SMBS"), and other types of "Mortgage-Backed Securities" that may be available
in the future.
Guaranteed Mortgage Pass-Through Securities. Guaranteed mortgage pass-through
securities represent participation interests in pools of residential mortgage
loans and are issued by U.S. Governmental or private lenders and guaranteed by
the U.S. Government or one of its agencies or instrumentalities, including but
not limited to Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae and Freddie Macs.
Multiple-Class Pass-Through Securities and Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
CMOs and REMIC pass-through or participation certificates may be issued by,
among others, U.S. Government agencies and instrumentalities as well as private
lenders. CMOs and REMIC certificates are issued in multiple classes and the
principal of and interest on the mortgage assets may be allocated among the
several classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates in various ways. Each class of
CMOs or REMIC certificates, often referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a
specific adjustable or fixed interest rate and must be fully retired no later
than its final distribution date. Generally, interest is paid or accrues on all
classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates on a monthly basis.
Typically, CMOs are collateralized by Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac
certificates but also may be collateralized by other mortgage assets such as
whole loans or private mortgage pass-through securities. Debt service on CMOs is
provided from payments of principal and interest on collateral of mortgaged
assets and any reinvestment income thereon.
A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment under the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and invests in certain mortgages
primarily secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments.
Investors may purchase "regular" or "residual"
4
<PAGE>
interests in REMICs, although the Fund does not intend, absent a change in
current tax law, to invest in residual interests.
Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities. SMBS are derivative multiple-class
mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two classes that
receive different proportions of interest and principal distributions on a pool
of mortgage assets. A typical SMBS will have one class receiving some of the
interest and most of the principal, while the other class will receive most of
the interest and the remaining principal. In the most extreme case, one class
will receive all of the interest (the "interest only" class) while the other
class will receive all of the principal (the "principal only" class). The yields
and market risk of interest only and principal only SMBS, respectively, may be
more volatile than those of other fixed income securities. The staff of the SEC
considers privately issued SMBS to be illiquid.
Structured or Hybrid Notes. The Fund may invest in "structured" or "hybrid"
notes. The distinguishing feature of a structured or hybrid note is that the
amount of interest and/or principal payable on the note is based on the
performance of a benchmark asset or market other than fixed income securities or
interest rates. Examples of these benchmarks include stock prices, currency
exchange rates and physical commodity prices. Investing in a structured note
allows the Fund to gain exposure to the benchmark market while fixing the
maximum loss that the Fund may experience in the event that market does not
perform as expected. Depending on the terms of the note, the Fund may forego all
or part of the interest and principal that would be payable on a comparable
conventional note; the Fund's loss cannot exceed this foregone interest and/or
principal. An investment in structured or hybrid notes involves risks similar to
those associated with a direct investment in the benchmark asset.
Risk Factors Associated with Mortgage-Backed Securities. Investing in
Mortgage-Backed Securities involves certain risks, including the failure of a
counter-party to meet its commitments, adverse interest rate changes and the
effects of prepayments on mortgage cash flows. In addition, investing in the
lowest tranche of CMOs and REMIC certificates involves risks similar to those
associated with investing in equity securities. Further, the yield
characteristics of Mortgage-Backed Securities differ from those of traditional
fixed income securities. The major differences typically include more frequent
interest and principal payments (usually monthly), the adjustability of interest
rates, and the possibility that prepayments of principal may be made
substantially earlier than their final distribution dates.
Prepayment rates are influenced by changes in current interest rates and a
variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors and cannot be
predicted with certainty. Both adjustable rate mortgage loans and fixed rate
mortgage loans may be subject to a greater rate of principal prepayments in a
declining interest rate environment and to a lesser rate of principal
prepayments in an increasing interest rate environment. Under certain interest
rate and prepayment rate scenarios, the Fund may fail to recoup fully its
investment in Mortgage-Backed Securities notwithstanding any direct or indirect
governmental, agency or other guarantee. When the Fund reinvests amounts
representing payments and unscheduled prepayments of principal, it may receive a
rate of interest that is lower than the rate on existing adjustable rate
mortgage pass-through securities. Thus, Mortgage-Backed Securities, and
adjustable rate mortgage pass-through securities in particular, may be less
effective than other types of U.S. Government securities as a means of "locking
in" interest rates.
Conversely, in a rising interest rate environment, a declining prepayment rate
will extend the average life of many Mortgage-Backed Securities. This
possibility is often referred to as extension
5
<PAGE>
risk. Extending the average life of a Mortgage-Backed Security increases the
risk of depreciation due to future increases in market interest rates.
Risk Associated with Specific Types of Derivative Debt. Different types of
derivative debt securities are subject to different combinations of prepayment,
extension and/or interest rate risk. Conventional mortgage pass-through
securities and sequential pay CMOs are subject to all of these risks, but are
typically not leveraged. Thus, the magnitude of exposure may be less than for
more leveraged Mortgage-Backed Securities.
The risk of early prepayments is the primary risk associated with interest only
debt securities ("IOs"), super floaters, other leveraged floating rate
instruments and Mortgage-Backed Securities purchased at a premium to their par
value. In some instances, early prepayments may result in a complete loss of
investment in certain of these securities. The primary risks associated with
certain other derivative debt securities are the potential extension of average
life and/or depreciation due to rising interest rates.
These securities include floating rate securities based on the Cost of Funds
Index ("COFI floaters"), other "lagging rate" floating rate securities, floating
rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate ("capped floaters"),
Mortgage-Backed Securities purchased at a discount, leveraged inverse floating
rate securities ("inverse floaters"), principal only debt securities ("POs"),
certain residual or support tranches of CMOs and index amortizing notes. Index
amortizing notes are not Mortgage-Backed Securities, but are subject to
extension risk resulting from the issuer's failure to exercise its option to
call or redeem the notes before their stated maturity date. Leveraged inverse
IOs combine several elements of the Mortgage-Backed Securities described above
and thus present an especially intense combination of prepayment, extension and
interest rate risks.
Planned amortization class ("PAC") and target amortization class ("TAC") CMO
bonds involve less exposure to prepayment, extension and interest rate risk than
other Mortgage-Backed Securities, provided that prepayment rates remain within
expected prepayment ranges or "collars." To the extent that prepayment rates
remain within these prepayment ranges, the residual or support tranches of PAC
and TAC CMOs assume the extra prepayment, extension and interest rate risk
associated with the underlying mortgage assets.
Other types of floating rate derivative debt securities present more complex
types of interest rate risks. For example, range floaters are subject to the
risk that the coupon will be reduced to below market rates if a designated
interest rate floats outside of a specified interest rate band or collar. Dual
index or yield curve floaters are subject to depreciation in the event of an
unfavorable change in the spread between two designated interest rates. X-reset
floaters have a coupon that remains fixed for more than one accrual period.
Thus, the type of risk involved in these securities depends on the terms of each
individual X-reset floater.
Inverse Floating Rate Securities. The Fund may invest in inverse floating rate
securities. The interest rate on an inverse floating rate security resets in the
opposite direction from the market rate of interest to which the inverse
floating rate security is indexed. An inverse floating rate security may be
considered to be leveraged to the extent that its interest rate varies by a
multiple of the index rate of interest. A higher degree of leverage in the
inverse floating rate security is associated with greater volatility in the
market value of such security.
The inverse floating rate securities that the Fund may invest in include but are
not limited to, an inverse floating rate class of a government agency issued CMO
and a government agency issued
6
<PAGE>
yield curve note. Typically, an inverse floating rate class of a CMO is one of
two components created from the cash flows from a pool of fixed rate mortgages.
The other component is a floating rate security in which the amount of interest
payable varies directly with a market interest rate index. A yield curve note is
a fixed income security that bears interest at a floating rate that is reset
periodically based on an interest rate benchmark. The interest rate resets on a
yield curve note in the opposite direction from the interest rate benchmark.
Mortgage "Dollar Roll" Transactions. The Fund may enter into mortgage "dollar
roll" transactions with selected banks and broker-dealers pursuant to which the
Fund sells Mortgage-Backed Securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase
substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified
future date. The Fund will only enter into covered rolls. A "covered roll" is a
specific type of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash position or a
cash equivalent security position which matures on or before the forward
settlement date of the dollar roll transaction. Covered rolls are not treated as
a borrowing or other senior security and will be excluded from the calculation
of the Fund's borrowing and other senior securities. For financial reporting and
tax purposes, the Fund treats mortgage dollar rolls as two separate
transactions; one involving the purchase of a security and a separate
transaction involving a sale. The Fund currently does not intend to enter into
mortgage rolls that are accounted for as financing.
Pay-In-Kind, Delayed and Zero Coupon Bonds. The Fund may invest in pay-in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon bonds. These are securities issued at a discount from
their face value because interest payments are typically postponed until
maturity. The amount of the discount rate varies depending on factors including
the time remaining until maturity, prevailing interest rates, the security's
liquidity and the issuer's credit quality. These securities also may take the
form of debt securities that have been stripped of their interest payments. A
portion of the discount with respect to stripped tax-exempt securities or their
coupons may be taxable. The market prices of pay-in-kind, delayed and zero
coupon bonds generally are more volatile than the market prices of
interest-bearing securities and are likely to respond to a greater degree to
changes in interest rates than interest-bearing securities having similar
maturities and credit quality. The Fund's investments in pay-in-kind, delayed
and zero coupon bonds may require the Fund to sell certain of its portfolio
securities to generate sufficient cash to satisfy certain income distribution
requirements. See "Tax Status." At times when the Fund invests in pay-in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon bonds, it will not be pursuing its primary objective of
maximizing current income.
Indexed Securities. The Fund may invest in indexed securities, including
floating rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate ("capped
floaters") and leveraged inverse floating rate securities ("inverse floaters")
(up to 10% of the Fund's total assets). The interest rate or, in some cases, the
principal payable at the maturity of an indexed security may change positively
or inversely in relation to one or more interest rates, financial indices or
other financial indicators ("reference prices"). An indexed security may be
leveraged to the extent that the magnitude of any change in the interest rate or
principal payable on an indexed security is a multiple of the change in the
reference price. Thus, indexed securities may decline in value due to adverse
market changes in interest rates or other reference prices.
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars. As one way of managing its exposure to
different types of investments, the Fund may enter into interest rate swaps and
other types of swap agreements such as caps, collars and floors. In a typical
interest rate swap, one party agrees to make regular payments equal to a
floating interest rate times a "notional principal amount," in return for
payments equal to a fixed rate times the same amount, for a specified period of
time. Swaps may also depend on other prices or rates, such as the value of an
index or mortgage prepayment rates.
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In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only
under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the
other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to
receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate exceeds an
agreed-upon level, while the seller of an interest rate floor is obligated to
make payment to the extent that a specified interest rate falls below an
agreed-upon level. An interest rate collar combines elements of buying a cap and
selling a floor.
Swap agreements will tend to shift the Fund's investment exposure from one type
of investment to another. For example, if the Fund agreed to exchange payments
in dollars for payments in a foreign currency, the swap agreement would tend to
decrease the Fund's exposure to U.S. interest rates and increase its exposure to
foreign currency and interest rates. Caps and floors have an effect similar to
buying or writing options. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may
increase or decrease the overall volatility of the Fund's investments and its
share price and yield.
Swap agreements are sophisticated hedging instruments that typically involve a
small investment of cash relative to the magnitude of risks assumed. As a
result, swaps can be highly volatile and may have a considerable impact on the
Fund's performance. Swap agreements are subject to risks related to the
counterparty's ability to perform, and may decline in value if the
counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates. The Fund may also suffer losses if
it is unable to terminate outstanding swap agreements or reduce its exposure
through offsetting transactions. The Fund will maintain in a segregated account
with its custodian, cash or liquid securities equal to the net amount, if any,
of the excess of the Fund's obligations over its entitlements with respect to
swap, cap, collar or floor transactions.
Asset-Backed Securities. The Fund may invest a portion of their assets in
asset-backed securities. Asset backed securities, like Ginnie Mae certificates,
are securities which represent a participation in or are secured by and payable
from, a stream of payments generated by particular assets, most often a pool of
assets similar to one another. Types of other asset backed securities include
automobile receivable securities, credit card receivable securities and mortgage
backed securities such as collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and real
estate mortgage investment conduits ("REMICs").
Asset-backed securities are often subject to more rapid repayment than their
stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of
prepayments of principal on the underlying loans. During periods of declining
interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be
expected to accelerate. Accordingly, the Fund's ability to maintain positions in
such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such
securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns
of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest
rates at that time.
Credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors on such
receivables are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal
consumer credit laws, many of which give such debtors the right to set-off
certain amounts owed on the credit cards, thereby reducing the balance due.
Automobile receivables generally are secured, but by automobiles rather than
residential real property. Most issuers of automobile receivables permit the
loan servicers to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the
servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that
the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the
asset-backed securities. In addition, because of the large number of vehicles
involved in a typical issuance and technical requirements under state laws, the
trustee for the holders of the automobile receivables
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may not have a proper security interest in the underlying automobiles.
Therefore, there is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on
repossessed collateral may not be available to support payments on these
securities.
Lower Rated High Yield Debt Obligations. The Fund may invest in high yielding,
fixed income securities rated below investment grade (e.g., rated below Baa by
Moody's or below BBB by S&P), sometimes referred to as junk bonds. No more than
10% of the Fund's total assets may be invested in these securities, and the Fund
may not invest in securities rated lower than B by a nationally recognized
rating organization. Ratings are based largely on the historical financial
condition of the issuer. Consequently, the rating assigned to any particular
security is not necessarily a reflection of the issuer's current financial
condition, which may be better or worse than the rating would indicate.
See Appendix B to this Statement of Additional Information which describes the
characteristics of corporate bonds in the various rating categories.
Debt obligations rated in the lower ratings categories, or which are unrated,
involve greater volatility of price and risk of loss of principal and income. In
addition, lower ratings reflect a greater possibility of an adverse change in
financial condition affecting the ability of the issuer to make payments of
interest and principal. The high yield fixed income market is relatively new and
its growth occurred during a period of economic expansion. The market has not
yet been fully tested by an economic recession.
The market price and liquidity of lower rated fixed income securities generally
respond to short term corporate and market developments to a greater extent than
do the price and liquidity of higher rated securities because such developments
are perceived to have a more direct relationship to the ability of an issuer of
such lower rated securities to meet its ongoing debt obligations.
Reduced volume and liquidity in the high yield bond market or the reduced
availability of market quotations will make it more difficult to dispose of the
bonds and to value accurately the Fund's assets. The reduced availability of
reliable, objective data may increase the Fund's reliance on management's
judgment in valuing high yield bonds. In addition, the Fund's investments in
high yield securities may be susceptible to adverse publicity and investor
perceptions, whether or not justified by fundamental factors. The Fund's
investments, and consequently its net asset value, will be subject to the market
fluctuations and risks inherent in all securities.
Brady Bonds. The Fund may invest up to 10% of total assets in Brady Bonds and
other sovereign debt securities of countries that have restructured or are in
the process of restructuring sovereign debt pursuant to the Brady Plan. Brady
Bonds are debt securities described as part of a restructuring plan created by
U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor
nations to restructure their outstanding external indebtedness (generally,
commercial bank debt). In restructuring its external debt under the Brady Plan
framework, a debtor nation negotiates with its existing bank lenders as well as
multilateral institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary
Fund (the "IMF"). The Brady Plan facilitate the exchange of commercial bank debt
for newly issued debt (known as Brady Bonds). The World Bank and the IMF provide
funds pursuant to loan agreements or other arrangements which enable the debtor
nation to collateralize the new Brady Bonds or to repurchase outstanding bank
debt at a discount. Under these arrangements IMF debtor nations are required to
implement domestic monetary and fiscal reforms. These reforms have included the
liberalization of trade and foreign investment, the privatization of state-owned
enterprises and the setting of targets for public spending and borrowing. These
policies and programs promote the debtor country's ability to service its
external obligations
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and promote its economic growth and development. The Brady Plan only sets forth
general guiding principles for economic reform and debt reduction, emphasizing
that solutions must be negotiated on a case-by-case basis between debtor nations
and their creditors. The Adviser believes that economic reforms undertaken by
countries in connection with the issuance of Brady Bonds make the debt of
countries which have issued or have announced plans to issue Brady Bonds an
attractive opportunity for investment.
Brady Bonds have recently been issued by Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Costa
Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Jordan, Mexico, Nigeria, Poland, the
Philippines, Uruguay and Venezuela and may be issued by other countries. Over
$130 billion in principal amount of Brady Bonds have been issued to date, the
largest portion having been issued by Argentina and Brazil. Brady Bonds may
involve a high degree of risk, may be in default or present the risk of default.
As of January 1, 1997, the Funds are not aware of the occurrence of any payment
defaults on Brady Bonds. Investors should recognize however, that Brady Bonds
have been issued only recently, and, accordingly, they do not have along payment
history. Agreements implemented under the Brady Plan to date are designed to
achieve debt and debt-service reduction through specific options negotiated by a
debtor nation with its creditors. As a result, the financial packages offered by
each country differ. The types of options have included the exchange of
outstanding commercial bank debt for bonds issued at 100% of face value of such
debt, bonds issued at a discount of face value of such debt, bonds bearing an
interest rate which increases over time and bonds issued in exchange for the
advancement of new money by existing lenders. Certain Brady Bonds have been
collateralized as to principal due at maturity by U.S. Treasury zero coupon
bonds with a maturity equal to the final maturity of such Brady Bonds, although
the collateral is not available to investors until the final maturity of the
Brady Bonds. Collateral purchases are financed by the IMF, the World Bank and
the debtor nations' reserves. In addition, the first two or three interest
payments on certain types of Brady Bonds may be collateralized by cash or
securities agreed upon by creditors. Although Brady Bonds may be collateralized
by U.S. Government securities, repayment of principal and interest is not
guaranteed by the U.S. Government.
Ratings as Investment Criteria In general, the ratings of Moody's and S&P
represent the opinions of these agencies as to the quality of the securities
which they rate. It should be emphasized however, that ratings are relative and
subjective and are not absolute standards of quality. These rating will be used
by the Fund as initial criteria for the selection of portfolio securities. Among
the factors which will be considered are the long-term ability of the issuer to
pay principal and interest and general economic trends. Appendix B contains
further information concerning the rating of Moody's and S&P and their
significance. Subsequent to its purchase by the Fund, an issue of securities may
cease to be rated, or its rating may be reduced below the minimum required for
purchase by the Fund. Neither of these events will require the sale of the
securities by the Fund.
Subsequent to its purchase by the Fund, an issue of securities may cease to be
rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum required for purchase by
the Fund. Neither of these events will require the sale of the securities by the
Fund, but the Adviser will consider the event in its determination of whether
the Fund should continue to hold the securities.
Investments in Foreign Securities. The Fund may invest in U.S. dollar
denominated securities of foreign governments. These securities will generally
be rated within the four highest rating categories by a nationally recognized
rating organization S&P or Moody's or if not so rated, determined to be of
equivalent quality in the opinion of the Adviser; provided that the Fund may
invest up to 10% of its total assets in securities which may be rated B or
better by a nationally recognized rating organization.
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Risks of Foreign Securities. Investments in foreign securities may involve a
greater degree of risk than those in domestic securities. There is generally
less publicly available information about foreign companies in the form of
reports and ratings similar to those that are published about issuers in the
United States. Also, foreign issuers are generally not subject to uniform
accounting, auditing and financial reporting requirements comparable to those
applicable to United States issuers.
Because foreign securities may be denominated in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar, changes in foreign currency exchange rates will affect the Fund's net
asset value, the value of dividends and interest earned, gains and losses
realized on the sale of securities, and any net investment income and gains that
the Fund distributes to shareholders. Securities transactions undertaken in some
foreign markets may not be settled promptly, so that the Fund's investments on
foreign exchanges may be less liquid and subject to the risk of fluctuating
currency exchange rates pending settlement.
Foreign securities will be purchased in the best available market, whether
through over-the-counter markets or exchanges located in the countries where
principal offices of the issuers are located. Foreign securities markets are
generally not as developed or efficient as those in the United States. While
growing in volume, they usually have substantially less volume than the New York
Stock Exchange, and securities of some foreign issuers are less liquid and more
volatile than securities of comparable United States issuers. Fixed commissions
on foreign exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on United
States exchanges, although the Fund will endeavor to achieve the most favorable
net results on its portfolio transactions. There is generally less government
supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers and listed issuers
than in the United States.
With respect to certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of adverse
changes in investment or exchange control regulations, expropriation,
nationalization or confiscatory taxation, limitations on the removal of funds or
other assets of the Fund, political or social instability, or diplomatic
developments which could affect United States investments in those countries.
Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from
the United States economy in terms of growth of gross national product, rate of
inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of
payments position.
The dividends in some cases, capital gains, and interest payable on certain of
the Fund's foreign portfolio securities may be subject to foreign withholding or
other foreign taxes, thus reducing the net amount of income or gains available
for distribution to the Fund's shareholders.
Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements. In a
repurchase agreement the Fund buys a security for a relatively short period
(usually not more than 7 days) subject to the obligation to sell it back to the
issuer at a fixed time and price plus accrued interest. The Fund will enter into
repurchase agreements only with member banks of the Federal Reserve System and
with "primary dealers" in U.S. Government securities. The Adviser will
continuously monitor the creditworthiness of the parties with whom the Fund
enters into repurchase agreements.
The Fund has established a procedure providing that the securities serving as
collateral for each repurchase agreement must be delivered to the Fund's
custodian either physically or in book-entry form and that the collateral must
be marked to market daily to ensure that each repurchase agreement is fully
collateralized at all times. In the event of bankruptcy or other default by a
seller of a repurchase agreement, the Fund could experience delays in
liquidating the underlying securities during the period in which the Fund seeks
to enforce its rights thereto, possible subnormal levels of
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<PAGE>
income, a decline in value of the underlying securities or lack of access to
income during this period, and the expense of enforcing its rights.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may also enter into reverse repurchase
agreements which involve the sale of government securities held in its portfolio
to a bank with an agreement that the Fund will buy back the securities at a
fixed future date at a fixed price plus an agreed amount of "interest" which may
be reflected in the repurchase price. Reverse repurchase agreements are
considered to be borrowings by the Fund. Reverse repurchase agreements involve
the risk that the market value of securities purchased by the Fund with proceeds
of the transaction may decline below the repurchase price of the securities sold
by the Fund which it is obligated to repurchase. The Fund will also continue to
be subject to the risk of a decline in the market value of the securities sold
under the agreements because it will reacquire those securities upon effecting
their repurchase. To minimize various risks associated with reverse repurchase
agreements, the Fund will establish a separate account consisting of liquid
securities, of any type or maturity, in an amount at least equal to the
repurchase prices of the securities (plus any accrued interest thereon) under
such agreements. The Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements and
other borrowings exceeding in the aggregate more than 33 1/3% of the market
value of its total assets. The Fund will not make additional investments while
borrowings (including reverse repurchase agreements) are in excess of 5% of the
Fund's total assets. The Fund will enter into reverse repurchase agreements only
with federally insured banks or savings and loan associations which are approved
in advance as being creditworthy by the Trustees. Under procedures established
by the Trustees, the Adviser will monitor the creditworthiness of the banks
involved.
Restricted Securities. The Fund may purchase securities that are not registered
("restricted securities") under the Securities Act of 1933 ("1933 Act"),
including commercial paper issued in reliance on section 4(2) of the 1933 Act
and securities offered and sold to "qualified institutional buyers" under Rule
144A under the 1933 Act. The Fund will not invest more than 10% of its total
assets in illiquid investments, based upon a continuing review of the trading
markets for specific Section 4(2) paper or Rule 144A securities, that they are
liquid, they will not be subject to the 10% limit on illiquid investments. The
Trustees may adopt guidelines and delegate to the Adviser the daily function of
determining and monitoring the liquidity of restricted securities. The Trustees,
however, will retain sufficient oversight and be ultimately responsible for the
determinations. The Trustees will carefully monitor the Fund's investments in
these securities, focusing on such important factors, among others, as
valuation, liquidity and availability of information. This investment practice
could have the effect of increasing the level of illiquidity in the Fund if
qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing
these restricted securities.
Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Currency. The Fund may purchase
and write (sell) call and put options on any securities in which it may invest,
on any securities index based on securities in which it may invest. These
options may be listed on national domestic securities exchanges or foreign
securities exchanges or traded in the over-the-counter market. The Fund may
write covered put and call options and purchase put and call options to enhance
total return, as a substitute for the purchase or sale of securities or to
protect against declines in the value of portfolio securities and against
increases in the cost of securities to be acquired.
Writing Covered Options. A call option on securities or currency written by the
Fund obligates the Fund to sell specified securities or currency to the holder
of the option at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before
the expiration date. A put option on securities or currency written by the Fund
obligates the Fund to purchase specified securities or currency from the option
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<PAGE>
holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the
expiration date. Options on securities indices are similar to options on
securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash
settlement payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of
securities. In addition, securities index options are designed to reflect price
fluctuations in a group of securities or segment of the securities market rather
than price fluctuations in a single security. Writing covered call options may
deprive the Fund of the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market
price of the securities or foreign currency assets in its portfolio. Writing
covered put options may deprive the Fund of the opportunity to profit from a
decrease in the market price of the securities or foreign currency assets to be
acquired for its portfolio.
All call and put options written by the Fund are covered. A written call option
or put option may be covered by (i) maintaining cash or liquid securities,
either of which may be quoted or denominated in any currency, in a segregated
account with a value at least equal to the Fund's obligation under the option,
(ii) entering into an offsetting forward commitment and/or (iii) purchasing an
offsetting option or any other option which, by virtue of its exercise price or
otherwise, reduces the Fund's net exposure on its written option position. A
written call option on securities is typically covered by maintaining the
securities that are subject to the option in a segregated account. The Fund may
cover call options on a securities index by owning securities whose price
changes are expected to be similar to those of the underlying index.
The Fund may terminate its obligations under an exchange traded call or put
option by purchasing an option identical to the one it has written. Obligations
under over-the-counter options may be terminated only by entering into an
offsetting transaction with the counterparty to such option. Such purchases are
referred to as "closing purchase transactions."
Purchasing Options. The Fund would normally purchase call options in
anticipation of an increase, or put options in anticipation of a decrease
("protective puts"), in the market value of securities. The Fund may also sell
call and put options to close out its purchased options.
The purchase of a call option would entitle the Fund, in return for the premium
paid, to purchase specified securities or currency at a specified price during
the option period. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain on the purchase of a
call option if, during the option period, the value of such securities or
currency exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and
transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on
the purchase of the call option.
The purchase of a put option would entitle the Fund, in exchange for the premium
paid, to sell specified securities or currency at a specified price during the
option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed to offset or hedge
against a decline in the market value of the Fund's portfolio securities. Put
options may also be purchased by the Fund for the purpose of affirmatively
benefiting from a decline in the price of securities or currencies which it does
not own. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period,
the value of the underlying securities or currency decreased below the exercise
price sufficiently to cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise the
Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option.
Gains and losses on the purchase of put options may be offset by countervailing
changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio securities.
The Fund's options transactions will be subject to limitations established by
each of the exchanges, boards of trade or other trading facilities on which such
options are traded. These limitations govern the maximum number of options in
each class which may be written or purchased by a single investor or group of
investors acting in concert, regardless of whether the options are written
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<PAGE>
or purchased on the same or different exchanges, boards of trade or other
trading facilities or are held or written in one or more accounts or through one
or more brokers. Thus, the number of options which the Fund may write or
purchase may be affected by options written or purchased by other investment
advisory clients of the Adviser. An exchange, board of trade or other trading
facility may order the liquidation of positions found to be in excess of these
limits, and it may impose certain other sanctions.
Risks Associated with Options Transactions. There is no assurance that a liquid
secondary market on a domestic or foreign options exchange will exist for any
particular exchange-traded option or at any particular time. If the Fund is
unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to covered options
it has written, the Fund will not be able to sell the underlying securities or
currencies or dispose of assets held in a segregated account until the options
expire or are exercised. Similarly, if the Fund is unable to effect a closing
sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it would have to
exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction
costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities or currencies.
Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the
following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain 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
options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal
operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or the Options
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 options
(or a particular class or series of options). If trading were discontinued, the
secondary market on that exchange (or in that class or series of options) would
cease to exist. However, outstanding options on that exchange that had been
issued by the Options Clearing Corporation as a result of trades on that
exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
The Fund's ability to terminate over-the-counter options is more limited than
with exchange-traded options and may involve the risk that broker-dealers
participating in such transactions will not fulfill their obligations. The
Adviser will determine the liquidity of each over-the-counter option in
accordance with guidelines adopted by the Trustees.
The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which
involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with
ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The successful use of options
depends in part on the Adviser's ability to predict future price fluctuations
and, for hedging transactions, the degree of correlation between the options and
securities or currency markets.
Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. To seek to increase total
return or hedge against changes in interest rates and securities prices. The
Fund may purchase and sell various kinds of futures contracts, and purchase and
write call and put options on these futures contracts. The Fund may also enter
into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to any of these
contracts and options. The futures contracts may be based on various securities
(such as U.S. Government securities), securities indices, and any other
financial instruments and indices. All futures contracts entered into by the
Fund are traded on U.S. or foreign exchanges or boards of trade that are
licensed, regulated or approved by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission
("CFTC").
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<PAGE>
Futures Contracts. A futures contract may generally be described as an agreement
between two parties to buy and sell particular financial instruments or
currencies for an agreed price during a designated month (or to deliver the
final cash settlement price, in the case of a contract relating to an index or
otherwise not calling for physical delivery at the end of trading in the
contract).
Positions taken in the futures markets are not normally held to maturity but are
instead liquidated through offsetting transactions which may result in a profit
or a loss. While futures contracts on securities or currency will usually be
liquidated in this manner, the Fund may instead make, or take, delivery of the
underlying securities or currency whenever it appears economically advantageous
to do so. A clearing corporation associated with the exchange on which futures
contracts are traded guarantees that, if still open, the sale or purchase will
be performed on the settlement date.
Hedging and Other Strategies. Hedging is an attempt to establish with more
certainty than would otherwise be possible the effective price or rate of return
on portfolio securities or securities that the Fund proposes to acquire. When
interest rates are rising or securities prices are falling, the Fund can seek to
offset a decline in the value of its current portfolio securities through the
sale of futures contracts. When interest rates are falling or securities prices
are rising, the Fund, through the purchase of futures contracts, can attempt to
secure better rates or prices than might later be available in the market when
it effects anticipated purchases.
The Fund may, for example, take a "short" position in the futures market by
selling futures contracts in an attempt to hedge against an anticipated rise in
interest rates or a decline in market prices. Such futures contracts may include
contracts for the future delivery of securities held by the Fund or securities
with characteristics similar to those of the Fund's portfolio securities.
If, in the opinion of the Adviser, there is a sufficient degree of correlation
between price trends for the Fund's portfolio securities and futures contracts
based on other financial instruments, securities indices or other indices, the
Fund may also enter into such futures contracts as part of its hedging strategy.
Although under some circumstances prices of securities in the Fund's portfolio
may be more or less volatile than prices of such futures contracts, the Adviser
will attempt to estimate the extent of this volatility difference based on
historical patterns and compensate for any differential by having the Fund enter
into a greater or lesser number of futures contracts or by attempting to achieve
only a partial hedge against price changes affecting the Fund's portfolio
securities.
When a short hedging position is successful, any depreciation in the value of
portfolio securities will be substantially offset by appreciation in the value
of the futures position. On the other hand, any unanticipated appreciation in
the value of the Fund's portfolio securities would be substantially offset by a
decline in the value of the futures position.
On other occasions, the Fund may take a "long" position by purchasing futures
contracts. This would be done, for example, when the Fund anticipates the
subsequent purchase of particular securities when it has the necessary cash, but
expects the prices or currency exchange rates then available in the applicable
market to be less favorable than prices that are currently available. The Fund
may also purchase futures contracts as a substitute for transactions in
securities to alter the investment characteristics of or currency exposure
associated with portfolio securities or to gain or increase its exposure to a
particular securities market or currency.
Options on Futures Contracts. The Fund may purchase and write options on futures
for the same purposes as its transactions in futures contracts. The purchase of
put and call options on futures contracts will give the Fund the right (but not
the obligation) for a specified price to sell or to
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<PAGE>
purchase, respectively, the underlying futures contract at any time during the
option period. As the purchaser of an option on a futures contract, the Fund
obtains the benefit of the futures position if prices move in a favorable
direction but limits its risk of loss in the event of an unfavorable price
movement to the loss of the premium and transaction costs.
The writing of a call option on a futures contract generates a premium which may
partially offset a decline in the value of the Fund's assets. By writing a call
option, the Fund becomes obligated, in exchange for the premium (upon exercise
of the option) to sell a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may
have a value higher than the exercise price. Conversely, the writing of a put
option on a futures contract generates a premium which may partially offset an
increase in the price of securities that the Fund intends to purchase. However,
the Fund becomes obligated (upon exercise of the option) to purchase a futures
contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value lower than the
exercise price. The loss incurred by the Fund in writing options on futures is
potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received.
The holder or writer of an option on a futures contract may terminate its
position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option of the same series. There
is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected. The Fund's
ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to
the development and maintenance of a liquid market.
Other Considerations. The Fund will engage in futures and related options
transactions either for bona fide hedging purposes or to seek to increase total
return as permitted by the CFTC. To the extent that the Fund is using futures
and related options for hedging purposes, futures contracts will be sold to
protect against a decline in the price of securities (or the currency in which
they are quoted or denominated) that the Fund owns or futures contracts will be
purchased to protect the Fund against an increase in the price of securities it
intends to purchase. The Fund will determine that the price fluctuations in the
futures contracts and options on futures used for hedging purposes are
substantially related to price fluctuations in securities held by the Fund or
securities or instruments which it expects to purchase. As evidence of its
hedging intent, the Fund expects that on 75% or more of the occasions on which
it takes a long futures or option position (involving the purchase of futures
contracts), the Fund will have purchased, or will be in the process of
purchasing, equivalent amounts of related securities in the cash market at the
time when the futures or option position is closed out. However, in particular
cases, when it is economically advantageous for the Fund to do so, a long
futures position may be terminated or an option may expire without the
corresponding purchase of securities or other assets.
To the extent that the Fund engages in nonhedging transactions in futures
contracts and options on futures, the aggregate initial margin and premiums
required to establish these nonhedging positions will not exceed 5% of the net
asset value of the Fund's portfolio, after taking into account unrealized
profits and losses on any such positions and excluding the amount by which such
options were in-the-money at the time of purchase.
Transactions in futures contracts and options on futures involve brokerage
costs, require margin deposits and, in the case of contracts and options
obligating the Fund to purchase securities or currencies, require the Fund to
establish a segregated account consisting of cash or liquid securities in an
amount equal to the underlying value of such contracts and options.
While transactions in futures contracts and options on futures may reduce
certain risks, these transactions themselves entail certain other risks. For
example, unanticipated changes in interest
16
<PAGE>
rates or securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in a poorer
overall performance for the Fund than if it had not entered into any futures
contracts or options transactions.
Perfect correlation between the Fund's futures positions and portfolio positions
will be impossible to achieve. In the event of an imperfect correlation between
a futures position and a portfolio position which is intended to be protected,
the desired protection may not be obtained and the Fund may be exposed to risk
of loss. In addition, it is not possible to hedge fully or protect against
currency fluctuations affecting the value of securities denominated in foreign
currencies because the value of such securities is likely to fluctuate as a
result of independent factors not related to currency fluctuations.
Some futures contracts or options on futures may become illiquid under adverse
market conditions. In addition, during periods of market volatility, a commodity
exchange may suspend or limit trading in a futures contract or related option,
which may make the instrument temporarily illiquid and difficult to price.
Commodity exchanges may also establish daily limits on the amount that the price
of a futures contract or related option can vary from the previous day's
settlement price. Once the daily limit is reached, no trades may be made that
day at a price beyond the limit. This may prevent the Fund from closing out
positions and limiting its losses.
Lending of Securities. The Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers,
dealers, and financial institutions if the loan is collateralized by cash or
U.S. Government securities according to applicable regulatory requirements. The
Fund may reinvest any cash collateral in short-term securities and money markets
funds. When the Fund lends portfolio securities, there is a risk that the
borrower may fail to return the securities involved in the transaction. As a
result, the Fund may incur a loss or, in the event of the borrower's bankruptcy,
the Fund may be delayed in or prevented from liquidating the collateral. It is a
fundamental policy of the Fund not to lend portfolio securities having a total
value exceeding 30% of its total assets.
Rights and Warrants. The Fund may purchase warrants and rights which are
securities permitting, but not obligating, their holder to purchase the
underlying securities at a predetermined price subject to the Fund's Fundamental
Investment Restriction. Generally, warrants and stock purchase rights do not
carry with them the right to receive dividends or exercise voting rights with
respect to the underlying securities, and they do not represent any rights in
the assets of the issuer. As a result, an investment in warrants and rights may
be considered to entail greater investment risk than certain other types of
investments. In addition, the value of warrant and rights does not necessarily
change with the value of the underlying securities, and they cease to have value
if they are not exercised on or prior to their expiration date. Investment in
warrants and rights increases the potential profit or loss to be realized from
the investment of a given amount of the Fund's assets as compared with investing
the same amount in the underlying stock.
Forward Commitment and When-Issued Securities. The Fund may purchase securities
on a when-issued or forward commitment basis. "When-issued" refers to securities
whose terms are available and for which a market exists, but which have not been
issued. The Fund will engage in when-issued transactions with respect to
securities purchased for its portfolio in order to obtain what is considered to
be an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. For
when-issued transactions, no payment is made until delivery is due, often a
month or more after the purchase. In a forward commitment transaction, the Fund
contracts to purchase securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond
customary settlement time.
17
<PAGE>
When the Fund engages in forward commitment and when-issued transactions, it
relies on the seller to consummate the transaction. The failure of the issuer or
seller to consummate the transaction may result in the Fund losing the
opportunity to obtain a price and yield considered to be advantageous. The
purchase of securities on a when-issued and forward commitment basis also
involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines
prior to the settlement date.
On the date the Fund enters into an agreement to purchase securities on a
when-issued or forward commitment basis, the Fund will segregate in a separate
account cash or liquid securities, of any type or maturity, equal in value to
the Fund's commitment. These assets will be valued daily at market, and
additional cash or securities will be segregated in a separate account to the
extent that the total value of the assets in the account declines below the
amount of the when-issued commitments. Alternatively, the Fund may enter into
offsetting contracts for the forward sale of other securities that it owns.
Short-Term Trading and Portfolio Turnover. Short-term trading means the purchase
and subsequent sale of a security after it has been held for a relatively brief
period of time. The Fund may engage in short-term trading in response to stock
market conditions, changes in interest rates or other economic trends and
developments, or to take advantage of yield disparities between various fixed
income securities in order to realize capital gains or improve income.
Short-term trading may have the effect of increasing portfolio turnover rate. A
high rate of portfolio turnover (100% or greater) involves correspondingly
greater brokerage transaction expenses and may make it more difficult for the
Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company for federal income tax
purposes. The Fund's portfolio turnover rate is set forth in the table under the
caption "Financial Highlights" in the Prospectus.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions will
not be changed without the approval of a majority of the Fund's outstanding
voting securities which, as used in the Prospectus and this Statement of
Additional Information, means the approval by the lesser of (1) the holders of
67% or more of the Fund's shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of
the Fund's outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at that meeting
or (2) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares.
The Fund may not:
(1) Borrow money in an amount in excess of 33-1/3% of its total assets, and then
only as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes (except that
it may enter into a reverse repurchase agreement within the limits described in
the Prospectus or this Statement of Additional Information), or pledge, mortgage
or hypothecate an amount of its assets (taken at market value) in excess of 15%
of its total assets, in each case taken at the lower of cost or market value.
For the purpose of this restriction, collateral arrangements with respect to
options, futures contracts, options on futures contracts and collateral
arrangements with respect to initial and variation margins are not considered a
pledge of assets.
(2) Underwrite securities issued by other persons except insofar as the Fund may
technically be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933 in selling
a portfolio security.
18
<PAGE>
(3) Purchase or retain real estate (including limited partnership interests but
excluding securities of companies, such as real estate investment trusts, which
deal in real estate or interests therein and securities secured by real estate),
or mineral leases, commodities or commodity contracts (except contracts for the
future delivery of fixed income securities, stock index and currency futures and
options on such futures) in the ordinary course of its business. The Fund
reserves the freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate or mineral
leases, commodities or commodity contracts acquired as a result of the ownership
of securities.
(4) Invest in direct participation interests in oil, gas or other mineral
exploration or development programs.
(5) Make loans to other persons except by the purchase of obligations in which
the Fund is authorized to invest and by entering into repurchase agreements;
provided that the Fund may lend its portfolio securities not in excess of 30% of
its total assets (taken at market value). Not more than 10% of the Fund's total
assets (taken at market value) will be subject to repurchase agreements maturing
in more than seven days. For these purposes the purchase of all or a portion of
an issue of debt securities shall not be considered the making of a loan.
(6) Purchase the securities of any issuer if such purchase, at the time thereof,
would cause more than 5% of its total assets (taken at market value) to be
invested in the securities of such issuer, other than securities issued or
guaranteed by the United States or any state or political subdivision thereof,
or any political subdivision of any such state, or any agency or instrumentality
of the United States, any state or political subdivision thereof, or any
political subdivision of any such state. In applying these limitations, a
guarantee of a security will not be considered a security of the guarantor,
provided that the value of all securities issued or guaranteed by that
guarantor, and owned by the Fund, does not exceed 10% of the Fund's total
assets. In determining the issuer of a security, each state and each political
subdivision agency, and instrumentality of each state and each multi-state
agency of which such state is a member is a separate issuer. Where securities
are backed only by assets and revenues of a particular instrumentality, facility
or subdivision, such entity is considered the issuer.
(7) Invest in companies for the purpose of exercising control or management.
(8) Purchase or retain in its portfolio any securities issued by an issuer any
of whose officers, directors, trustees or security holders is an officer or
Trustee of such Fund, or is a member, partner, officer or Director of the
Adviser, if after the purchase of the securities of such issuer by the Fund one
or more of such persons owns beneficially more than 1/2 of 1% of the shares or
securities, or both, all taken at market value, of such issuer, and such persons
owning more than 1/2 of 1% of such shares or securities together own
beneficially more than 5% of such shares or securities, or both, all taken at
market value.
(9) Purchase any securities or evidences of interest therein on margin, except
that the Fund may obtain such short-term credit as may be necessary for the
clearance of purchases and sales of securities and the Fund may make deposits on
margin in connection with futures contracts and related options.
(10) Sell any security which the Fund does not own unless by virtue of its
ownership of other securities it has at the time of sale a right to obtain
securities without payment of further consideration equivalent in kind and
amount to the securities sold and provided that if such right is conditional the
sale is made upon equivalent conditions.
19
<PAGE>
(11) Knowingly invest in securities which are subject to legal or contractual
restrictions on resale or for which there is no readily available market (e.g.,
trading in the security is suspended or market makers do not exist or will not
entertain bids or offers), except for repurchase agreements, if, as a result
thereof more than 10% of the Fund's total assets (taken at market value) would
be so invested.
(12) Issue any senior security (as that term is defined in the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "Investment Company Act") if such issuance is
specifically prohibited by the Investment Company Act or the rules and
regulations promulgated thereunder. For the purpose of this restriction,
collateral arrangements with respect to options, futures contracts and options
on futures contracts and collateral arrangements with respect to initial and
variation margins are not deemed to be the issuance of a senior security.
(13) The Fund may not invest more than 25% of its total assets (taken at market
value) in the securities of issuers engaged in any one industry. Obligations
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies and
instrumentalities are not subject to the foregoing 25% limitation. In addition,
for purposes of this limitation, determinations of what constitutes an industry
are made in accordance with specific industry codes set forth in the Standard
Industrial Classification Manual and without considering groups of industries
(e.g., all utilities, to be an industry).
(14) Purchase securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities) if such
purchase, at the time thereof, would cause the Fund to hold more than 10% of any
class of securities of such issuer. For this purpose, all indebtedness of an
issuer shall be deemed a single class and all preferred stock of an issuer shall
be deemed a single class.
Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions
are designated as non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees without
shareholder approval.
(1) The Fund may not purchase a security if, as a result, (i) more than 10% of
the Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of other investment
companies, (ii) the Fund would hold more than 3% of the total outstanding voting
securities of any one investment company, or (iii) more than 5% of the Fund's
total assets would be invested in the securities of any one investment company.
These limitations do not apply to (a) the investment of cash collateral,
received by the Fund in connection with lending of the Fund's portfolio
securities, in the securities of open-end investment companies or (b) the
purchase of shares of any investment company in connection with a merger,
consolidation, reorganization or purchase of substantially all of the assets of
another investment company. Subject to the above percentage limitations, the
Fund may, in connection with the John Hancock Group of Funds Deferred
Compensation Plan for Independent Trustees/Directors, purchase securities of
other investment companies within the John Hancock Group of Funds.
If a percentage restriction or rating restriction on investment or utilization
of assets is adhered to at the time an investment is made or assets are so
utilized, a later change in percentage resulting from changes in the value of
the Fund's portfolio securities or a later change in the rating of a portfolio
security will not be considered a violation of policy.
20
<PAGE>
THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGEMENT
The business of the Fund is managed by its Trustees who elect officers who are
responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Fund and who execute policies
formulated by the Trustees. Several of the officers and Trustees of the Fund are
also Officers and Directors of the Adviser or Officers and Directors of the
Fund's principal distributor, John Hancock Funds, Inc. ("John Hancock Funds").
21
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Edward J. Boudreau, Jr. * Trustee, Chairman and Chairman, Director and
101 Huntington Avenue Chief Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer,
Boston, MA 02199 (1, 2) the Adviser; Chairman,
October 1944 Director and Chief
Executive Officer, The
Berkeley Financial Group,
Inc. ("The Berkeley
Group"); Chairman and
Director, NM Capital
Management, Inc. ("NM
Capital"), John Hancock
Advisers International
Limited ("Advisers
International") and
Sovereign Asset Management
Corporation ("SAMCorp");
Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer, John
Hancock Funds, Inc. ("John
Hancock Funds"); Chairman,
First Signature Bank and
Trust Company; Director,
John Hancock Insurance
Agency, Inc. ("Insurance
Agency, Inc."), John
Hancock Advisers
International (Ireland)
Limited ("International
Ireland"), John Hancock
Capital Corporation and
New England/Canada
Business Council; Member,
Investment Company
Institute Board of
Governors; Director, Asia
Strategic Growth Fund,
Inc.; Trustee, Museum of
Science; Director, John
Hancock Freedom Securities
Corporation (until
September 1996); Director,
John Hancock Signature
Services, Inc. ("Signature
Services") (until January
1997).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
22
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Stephen L. Brown* Trustee Chairman and Chief
John Hancock Place Executive Officer, John
P.O. Box 111 Hancock Life Insurance
Boston, MA 02117 Company; Director, the
July 1937 Adviser; Trustee, The
Berkeley Group.
James F. Carlin Trustee Chairman and CEO, Carlin
233 West Central Street Consolidated, Inc.
Natick, MA 01760 (management/investments);
April 1940 Director, Arbella Mutual
Insurance Company
(insurance), Health Plan
Services, Inc.,
Massachusetts Health and
Education Tax Exempt
Trust, Flagship
Healthcare, Inc., Carlin
Insurance Agency, Inc.,
West Insurance Agency,
Inc. (until May 1995), Uno
Restaurant Corp.;
Chairman, Massachusetts
Board of Higher Education
(since 1995).
William H. Cunningham Trustee Chancellor, University
601 Colorado Street of Texas System and
O'Henry Hall former President of the
Austin, TX 78701 University of Texas,
January 1944 Austin, Texas; Lee Hage
and Joseph D. Jamail
Regents Chair of Free
Enterprise; Director,
LaQuinta Motor Inns, Inc.
(hotel management
company); Director,
Jefferson-Pilot
Corporation (diversified
life insurance company)
and LBJ Foundation Board
(education foundation);
Advisory Director, Texas
Commerce Bank - Austin.
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
23
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Ronald R. Dion Trustee President and Chief
250 Boylston Street Executive Officer, R.M.
Boston, MA 02116 Bradley & Co., Inc.;
March 1946 Director, The New
England Council and
Massachusetts Roundtable;
Trustee, North Shore
Medical Center and a
corporator of the Eastern
Bank; Trustee, Emmanuel
College.
Harold R. Hiser, Jr. Trustee Executive Vice
123 Highland Avenue President,
Short Hill, NJ 07078 Schering-Plough
October 1931 Corporation
(pharmaceuticals)
(retired 1996).
Anne C. Hodsdon * Trustee and President President, Chief
101 Huntington Avenue (1,2) Operating Officer and
Boston, MA 02199 Director, the Adviser,
August 1953 The Berkeley Group;
Executive Vice President
and Director, John
Hancock Funds; Director,
Advisers International,
Insurance Agency, Inc.
and International
Ireland; President and
Director, SAMCorp. and
NM Capital; Executive
Vice President, the
Adviser (until December
1994); Director,
Signature Services
(until January 1997).
Charles L. Ladner Trustee Senior Vice President
UGI Corporation and Chief Financial
P.O. Box 858 Officer, UGI Corporation
Valley Forge, PA 19482 (Public Utility Holding
February 1938 Company); Vice President
and Director for
AmeriGas, Inc.;
Director, EnergyNorth,
Inc. (until 1992).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
24
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Leo E. Linbeck, Jr. Trustee Chairman, President,
3810 W. Alabama Chief Executive Officer
Houston, TX 77027 and Director, Linbeck
August 1934 Corporation (a holding
company engaged in various
phases of the construction
industry and warehousing
interests); Former
Chairman, Federal Reserve
Bank of Dallas (1992,
1993); Chairman of the
Board, Linbeck
Construction Corporation;
Director, Duke Energy
Corporation (a diversified
energy company), Daniel
Industries, Inc.
(manufacturer of gas
measuring products and
energy related equipment),
GeoQuest International
Holdings, Inc. (a
geophysical consulting
firm); Director, Greater
Houston Partnership.
Steven R. Pruchansky Trustee (1) Director and President,
4327 Enterprise Avenue Mast Holdings, Inc.
Naples, FL 34104 (since 1991); Director,
August 1944 First Signature Bank &
Trust Company (until
August 1991); Director,
Mast Realty Trust (until
1994); President,
Maxwell Building Corp.
(until 1991).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
25
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Richard S. Scipione * Trustee (1) General Counsel, John
John Hancock Place Hancock Life Company;
P.O. Box 111 Director, the Adviser,
Boston, MA 02117 Advisers International,
August 1937 John Hancock Funds,
Signator Investors,
Inc., Insurance Agency,
Inc., John Hancock
Subsidiaries, Inc.,
SAMCorp. and NM Capital;
Director, The Berkeley
Group; Director, JH
Networking Insurance
Agency, Inc.; Director,
Signature Services
(until January 1997).
Norman H. Smith Trustee Lieutenant General,
243 Mt. Oriole Lane United States Marine
Linden, VA 22642 Corps; Deputy Chief of
March 1933 Staff for Manpower and
Reserve Affairs,
Headquarters Marine Corps;
Commanding General III
Marine Expeditionary
Force/3rd Marine Division
(retired 1991).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
26
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
John P. Toolan Trustee Director, The Smith
13 Chadwell Place Barney Muni Bond Funds,
Morristown, NJ 07960 The Smith Barney Tax-Free
September 1930 Money Funds, Inc.,
Vantage Money Market Funds
(mutual funds), The
Inefficient-Market Fund,
Inc. (closed-end investment
company) and Smith Barney
Trust Company of Florida;
Chairman, Smith Barney
Trust Company (retired
December, 1991); Director,
Smith Barney, Inc., Mutual
Management Company and
Smith Barney Advisers, Inc.
(investment advisers)
(retired 1991); Senior
Executive Vice President,
Director and member of the
Executive Committee, Smith
Barney, Harris Upham & Co.,
Incorporated (investment
bankers) (until 1991).
Osbert M. Hood Senior Vice President Senior Vice President ,
101 Huntington Avenue and Chief Financial Chief Financial Officer
Boston, MA 02199 Officer and Treasurer, the
August 1952 Adviser, the Berkeley
Group and John Hancock
Funds, Inc.; Vice President
and Chief Financial
Officer, John Hancock
Mutual Life Insurance
Company Retail Sector
(until 1997).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
27
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
John A. Morin Vice President Vice President and
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary, the Adviser,
Boston, MA 02199 The Berkeley Group,
July 1950 Signature Services, John
Hancock Funds, NM Capital
and SAMCorp.; Clerk,
Insurance Agency, Inc.;
Counsel, John Hancock
Mutual Life Insurance
Company (until February
1996), and Vice President
of John Hancock
Distributors, Inc. (until
April 1994).
Susan S. Newton Vice President and Vice President, the
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary Adviser; John Hancock
Boston, MA 02199 Funds, Signature
March 1950 Services and The
Berkeley Group; Vice
President, John Hancock
Distributors, Inc.
(until April 1994).
James J. Stokowski Vice President, Treasurer Vice President, the
101 Huntington Avenue and Chief Accounting Adviser.
Boston, MA 02199 Officer
November 1946
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
All of the officers listed are officers or employees of the Adviser or
affiliated companies. Some of the Trustees and officers may also be officers
and/or Directors and/or Trustees of one or more of the other funds for which the
Adviser serves as investment adviser.
28
<PAGE>
As of January 6, 1999 the officers and Trustees of the Fund as a group
beneficially owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. As of
that date, the following shareholders were the only record holders that
beneficially owned of 5% or more of the outstanding shares of the Fund:
Percentage of Total
Name and Outstanding Shares
Address of Shareholder Class of Shares of the Class of the Fund
- ---------------------- --------------- ------------------------
MLPF&S B 20.25%
Sole Benefit of Its Customers
Attn: Fund Administration 974U0
4800 Deerlake Drive East 2nd Floor
Jacksonville FL 32246-6484
The following tables provide information regarding the compensation paid by the
Fund and the other investment companies in the John Hancock Fund Complex to the
Independent Trustees for their services for the Fund's most recently completed
fiscal year. Messrs. Boudreau and Scipione and Ms. Hodsdon, each a
non-Independent Trustee, and each of the officers of the Fund are interested
persons of the Adviser, are compensated by the Adviser and/or its affiliates and
receive no compensation from the Fund for their services.
Total Compensation from
Aggregate Compensation all Funds in John Hancock
Trustees from the Fund (1) Fund Complex to Trustees(2)
- -------- ----------------- ---------------------------
James F. Carlin $ 3,607 $ 74,000
William H. Cunningham* 3,607 74,000
Charles F. Fretz 2,978 74,250
Harold R. Hiser, Jr.* 3,442 74,000
Charles L. Ladner 3,673 74,250
Leo E. Linbeck, Jr. 3,607 74,250
Patricia P. McCarter* 2,445 74,250
Steven R. Pruchansky* 3,752 77,250
Norman H. Smith* 3,721 77,250
John P. Toolan* 3,673 74,250
------- ---------
Total $34,505 $ 747,750
(1) Compensation for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998.
(2) The total compensation paid by the John Hancock Fund Complex to the
Independent Trustees as of the calendar year ended December 31, 1997. As
of this date, there were sixty-seven funds in the John Hancock Funds
Complex with each of these Independent Trustees serving on thirty-two
funds.
As of December 31, 1997, the value of the aggregate deferred compensation
from all funds in the John Hancock Funds Complex for Mr. Cunningham was
$220,106, for Mr. Hiser was $103,868, for Ms. McCarter was $159,075, for Mr.
Pruchansky was $68,102, for Mr. Smith was
29
<PAGE>
$70,607 and for Mr. Toolan was $281,131 under the John Hancock Group of Funds
Deferred Compensation Plan for Independent Trustees.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER SERVICES
The Adviser, located at 101 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02199-7603,
was organized in 1968 and has more than $30 billion in assets under management
in its capacity as investment adviser to the Fund and the other mutual funds and
publicly traded investment companies in the John Hancock group of funds, having
a combined total of over 1,400,000 shareholders. The Adviser is an affiliate of
the Life Company, one of the most recognized and respected financial
institutions in the nation. With total assets under management of more than $100
billion, the Life Company is one of the ten largest life insurance companies in
the United States, and carries a high rating from Standard & Poor's and A.M.
Best. Founded in 1862, the Life Company has been serving clients for over 130
years.
The Fund has entered into an investment management contract (the "Advisory
Agreement") with the Adviser which was approved by the Fund's shareholders.
Pursuant to the Advisory Agreements, the Adviser will: (a) furnish continuously
an investment program for the Fund and determine, subject to the overall
supervision and review of the Trustees, which investments should be purchased,
held, sold or exchanged and (b) provide supervision over all aspects of the
Fund's operations except those which are delegated to a custodian, transfer
agent or other agent.
The Fund bears all cost of its organization and operation, including but not
limited to expenses of preparing, printing and mailing all shareholders'
reports, notices, prospectuses, proxy statements and reports to regulatory
agencies; expenses relating to the issuance, registration and qualification of
shares; government fees; interest charges; expenses of furnishing to
shareholders their account statements; taxes; expenses of redeeming shares;
brokerage and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio
securities transactions; expenses pursuant to the Fund's plan of distribution;
fees and expenses of custodian including those for keeping books and accounts,
maintaining a committed line of credit, and calculating the net asset value of
shares; fees and expenses of transfer agents and dividend disbursing agents;
legal, accounting, financial, management, tax and auditing fees and expenses of
the Fund (including and allocable portion of the cost of the Adviser's employees
rendering such services to the Fund); the compensation and expenses of Trustees
who are not other wise affiliated with the Trust, the Adviser or any of their
affiliates; expenses of Trustees' and shareholders' meeting; trade association
memberships; insurance premiums; and any extraordinary expenses.
As compensation for its services under the Advisory Agreements, the Fund pays
the Adviser monthly a fee based on a stated percentage of the average of the
daily net assets of the Fund as follows:
Fee
Average Daily Net Assets (Annual Rate)
- ------------------------ -------------
First $200 million 0.650%
Next $300 million 0.625%
Over $500 million 0.600%
From time to time, the Adviser may reduce its fee or make other arrangements to
limit the Fund's expenses to a specified percentage of average daily net assets.
The Adviser retains the right to
30
<PAGE>
reimpose a fee and recover any other payments to the extent that, at the end of
any fiscal year, the Fund's annual expenses fall below this limit.
Securities held by the Fund may also be held by other funds or investment
advisory clients for which the Adviser or its affiliates provide investment
advice. Because of different investment objectives or other factors, a
particular security may be bought for one or more funds or clients when one or
more are selling the same security. If opportunities for purchase or sale of
securities by the Adviser for the Fund or for other funds or clients for which
the Adviser renders investment advice arise for consideration at or about the
same time, transactions in such securities will be made, insofar as feasible,
for the Fund or clients in a manner deemed equitable to all of them. To the
extent that transactions on behalf of more than one client of the Adviser or its
affiliates may increase the demand for securities being purchased or the supply
of securities being sold, there may be an adverse effect on price.
Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is not liable for any error of
judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund in connection
with the matters to which their respective contracts relate, except a loss
resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of
the Adviser in the performance of its duties or from its reckless disregard of
the obligations and duties under the Advisory Agreement.
Under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund may use the name "John Hancock" or any
name derived from or similar to it only for as long as the Advisory Agreement or
any extension, renewal or amendment thereof remains in effect. If the Fund's
Advisory Agreement is no longer in effect, the Fund (to the extent that it
lawfully can) will cease to use such name or any other name indicating that it
is advised by or otherwise connected with the Adviser. In addition, the Adviser
or the Life Company may grant the non-exclusive right to use the name "John
Hancock" or any similar name to any other corporation or entity, including but
not limited to any investment company of which the Life Company or any
subsidiary or affiliate thereof or any successor to the business of any
subsidiary or affiliate thereof shall be the investment adviser.
The continuation of the Advisory Agreement and Distribution Agreement was
approved by all of the Trustees. The Advisory Agreement and the Distribution
Agreement discussed below will continue in effect from year to year, provided
that its continuance is approved annually both (i) by the holders of a majority
of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust or by the Trustees, and (ii)
by a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Agreement, or
"interested persons" of any such parties. Both Agreements may be terminated on
60 days written notice by any party or by a vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the Fund and will terminate automatically if
assigned.
The Advisory fees payable by the Fund to the Adviser, were as follows:
12/22/94-10/31/95 $1,612,806
11/1/95-10/31/96 $3,952,669
11/1/96-5/31/97 $1,999,643
6/1/97-5/31/98 $3,155,183
Administrative Services Agreement. The Fund previously was a party to an
administrative services agreement (the "Services Agreement") with Transamerica
Fund Management Company ("TFMC"), pursuant to which TFMC performed bookkeeping
and accounting services and functions, including preparing and maintaining
various accounting books, records and other documents and keeping such
31
<PAGE>
general ledgers and portfolio accounts as are reasonably necessary for the
operation of the Fund. Other administrative services included communications in
response to shareholder inquiries and certain printing expenses of various
financial reports. In addition, such staff and office space, facilities and
equipment was provided as necessary to provide administrative services to the
Fund. The Services Agreement was amended in connection with the appointment of
the Adviser as adviser to the Fund to permit services under the Agreement to be
provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Services Agreement
was terminated during the 1995 fiscal year.
The amount of $16,694 for the Fund reflects the total of administrative services
fees paid to the Adviser for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
Accounting and Legal Services Agreement. The Trust, on behalf the Fund, is a
party to an Accounting and Legal Services Agreement with the Adviser. Pursuant
to this agreement, the Adviser provides the Fund with certain tax, accounting
and legal services. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1996, the Fund paid
the Adviser $96,304 for services under this agreement. For the period from
November 1, 1996 to May 31, 1997, the Fund paid the Adviser $59,313 for services
under this agreement. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid the
Adviser $88,284 under this agreement.
In order to avoid conflicts with portfolio trades for the Fund, the Adviser and
the Fund have adopted extensive restrictions on personal securities trading by
personnel of the Adviser and its affiliates. Some of these restrictions are:
pre-clearance for all personal trades and a ban on the purchase of initial
public offerings, as well as contributions to specified charities of profits on
securities held for less than 91 days. These restrictions are a continuation of
the basic principle that the interests of the Fund and its shareholders come
first.
DISTRIBUTION CONTRACTS
The Fund has a Distribution Agreement with John Hancock Funds. Under the
agreement, John Hancock Funds is obligated to use its best efforts to sell
shares of each class of the Fund. Shares of the Fund are also sold by selected
broker-dealers (the "Selling Brokers") which have entered into selling agency
agreements with John Hancock Funds. John Hancock Funds accepts orders for the
purchase of the shares of the Fund that are continually offered at net asset
value next determined, plus any applicable sales charge, if any. In connection
with the sale of Fund shares, John Hancock Funds and Selling Brokers receive
compensation from a sales charge imposed, in the case of Class A shares, at the
time of sale. In the case of Class B or Class C shares, the broker receives
compensation immediately but John Hancock Funds is compensated on a deferred
basis.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995, 1996, for the period from November
1, 1996 to May 31, 1997 and for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the
following amounts reflect (a) the total underwriting commissions for sales of
the Fund's Class A shares and (b) the portion of such amount retained by John
Hancock Funds. The remainder of the underwriting commissions were reallowed to
Selling Brokers.
10/31/1995 (a) $ 35,314 and (b) $ 6,442
10/31/1996 (a) $515,753 and (b) $ 65,449
11/1/96-5/31/97 (a) $105,964 and (b) $115,430
6/1/97-5/31/98 (a) $176,340 and (b) $ 20,547
32
<PAGE>
The Fund's Trustees adopted Distribution Plans with respect to each class of
shares (the "Plans") pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of
1940. Under the Plans, the Fund will pay distribution and service fees at an
aggregate annual rate of up to 0.25% for Class A shares and 1.00% for Class B
and Class C shares, of the Fund's average daily net assets attributable to
shares of that class. However, the service fee will not exceed 0.25% of the
Fund's average daily net assets attributable to each class of shares. The
distribution fees will be used to reimburse John Hancock Funds for its
distribution expenses, including but not limited to: (i) initial and ongoing
sales compensation to Selling Brokers and others (including affiliates of John
Hancock Funds) engaged in the sale of Fund shares; (ii) marketing, promotional
and overhead expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of Fund
shares; and (iii) with respect to Class B and Class C shares only, interest
expenses on unreimbursed distribution expenses. The service fees will by used to
compensate Selling Brokers and others for providing personal and account
maintenance services to shareholders. In the event that John Hancock Funds is
not fully reimbursed for payments or expenses under the Class A Plan, these
expenses will not be carried beyond twelve months from the date they were
incurred. Unreimbursed expenses under the Class B and Class C Plans will be
carried forward together with interest on the balance of these unreimbursed
expenses. The Fund does not treat unreimbursed expenses under Class B and Class
C Plans as a liability of the Fund, because the Trustees may terminate the Class
B and/or Class C Plans at any time. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998 an
aggregate of $12,062,593 of distribution expenses or 8.40% of the average net
assets of the Fund's Class B shares was not reimbursed or recovered by John
Hancock Funds through the receipt of deferred sales charges or Rules 12b-1 fees
in prior periods. Class C shares of the Fund did not commence operations until
April 1, 1999; therefore there are no unreimbursed expenses to report.
The Plans were approved by a majority of the voting securities of the Fund. The
Plans and all amendments were approved by the Trustees, including a majority of
the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Fund and who have no direct
or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plans ( the "Independent
Trustees"), by votes cast in person at meetings called for the purpose of voting
on such Plans.
Pursuant to the Plans, at least quarterly, John Hancock Funds provide the Fund
with a written report of the amounts expended under the Plans and the purpose
for which these expenditures were made. The Trustees review these reports on a
quarterly basis to determine their continued appropriateness.
The Plans provide that they will continue in effect only so long as their
continuance is approved at least annually by a majority of both the Trustees and
Independent Trustees. The Plans provide that they may be terminated without
penalty, (a) by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees, (b) by a vote of
a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares of the applicable class upon 60
days' written notice to John Hancock Funds, and (c) automatically in the event
of assignment. Each of the Plans further provides that it may not be amended to
increase the maximum amount of the fees for the services described therein
without the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class of the
applicable Fund which has voting rights to that Plan. Each of the Plans provide
that no material amendment to the Plan will be effective unless it is approved
by a vote of a majority of the Trustees and the Independent Trustees of the
Fund. The holders of Class A, Class B and Class C shares have exclusive voting
rights with respect to the Plan applicable to their respective class of shares.
In adopting the Plans, the Trustees concluded that, in their judgment, these is
a reasonable likelihood that the Plans will benefit the holders of the
applicable class of shares of the Fund.
Amounts paid to John Hancock Funds by any class of shares of the Fund will not
be used to pay the expenses incurred with respect to any other class of shares
of the Fund; provided, however, that
33
<PAGE>
expenses attributable to the Fund as a whole will be allocated, to the extent
permitted by law, according to a formula based upon gross sales dollars and/or
average daily net assets of each such class, as may be approved from time to
time by vote of a majority of Trustees. From time to time, the Fund may
participate in joint distribution activities with other Funds and the costs of
those activities will be borne by the Fund in proportion to the relative net
asset value of the participating Funds.
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid John Hancock Funds the
following amounts of expenses in connection with their services. Class C shares
did not commence operations until April 1, 1999; therefore, there are not
expenses to report.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Expense Items
-------------
Printing and Interest,
Mailing of Compensation to Expenses of Carrying or
Prospectuses to Selling John Hancock Other Finance
Advertising New Shareholders Brokers Funds Charges
----------- ---------------- ------- ----- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Class A $14,308 $1,954 $188,804 $24,236 $0
Class B $ 9,863 $1,536 $ 86,654 $16,580 $0
</TABLE>
SALES COMPENSATION
As part of their business strategies, each of the John Hancock funds, along with
John Hancock Funds, pay compensation to financial services firms that sell the
funds' shares. These firms typically pass along a portion of this compensation
to your financial representative.
Compensation payments originate from two sources: from sales charges and from
12b-1 fees that are paid out of the funds' assets. The sales charges and 12b-1
fees paid by investors are detailed in the prospectus and under "Distribution
Contracts" in this Statement of Additional Information. The portions of these
expenses that are reallowed to financial services firms are shown on the next
page.
Whenever you make an investment in the Fund, the financial services firm
receives either a reallowance from the initial sales charge or a commission, as
described below. The firm also receives the first year's service fee at this
time. Beginning with the second year after an investment is made, the financial
services firm receives an annual service fee of 0.25% of its total eligible net
assets. This fee is paid quarterly in arrears.
Financial services firms selling large amounts of fund shares may receive extra
compensation. This compensation, which John Hancock Funds pays out of its own
resources, may include asset retention fees as well as reimbursement for
marketing expenses.
34
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Sales charge Maximum First year
paid by investors Reallowance Service fee Maximum
(% of offering or commission (% of net total compensation (1)
Class A Investments price) (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
- ------------------- ------ --------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Up to $99,999 4.50% 3.76% 0.25% 4.00%
$100,000 - $249,999 3.75% 3.01% 0.25% 4.00%
$250,000 - $499,999 2.75% 2.06% 0.25% 2.30%
$500,000 - $999,999 2.00% 1.51% 0.25% 1.75%
Regular investments of $1 million
or more
First $1M - $4,999,999 -- 0.75% 0.25% 1.00%
Next $1M - $5M above that -- 0.25% 0.25% 0.50% (2)
Next $1 or more above that -- 0.00% 0.25% 0.25% (2)
<CAPTION>
Maximum First year
Reallowance Service fee Maximum total
or commission (% of net Compensation
Class B investments (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
- ------------------- --------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
All amounts 3.75% 0.25% 4.00%
<CAPTION>
Maximum First year
reallowance service fee Maximum
or commission (% of net total compensation
Class C investments (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
- ------------------- --------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
All amounts 0.75% 0.25% 1.00%
</TABLE>
(1) Reallowance/commission percentages and service fee percentages are
calculated from different amounts, and therefore may not equal total
compensation percentages if combined using simple addition.
(2) For Group Investment Program sales, the maxim total compensation for
investments of $1 million or more is 1.00% of the offering price (one year CDSC
of 1.00% applies for each sale.)
CDSC revenues collected by John Hancock Funds may be used to pay commissions
when there is no initial sales charge.
NET ASSET VALUE
For purposes of calculating the net asset value ("NAV") of the shares of the
Fund, the following procedures are utilized wherever applicable.
35
<PAGE>
Debt investment securities are valued on the basis of valuations furnished by a
principal market maker or a pricing service, both of which generally utilize
electronic data processing techniques to determine valuations for normal
institutional size trading units of debt securities without exclusive reliance
upon quoted prices.
Equity securities traded on a principal exchange or NASDAQ National Market
Issues are generally valued at last sale price on the day of valuation.
Securities in the aforementioned category for which no sales are reported and
other securities traded over-the-counter are generally valued at the mean
between the current closing bid and asked prices.
Short-term debt investments which have a remaining maturity of 60 days or less
are generally valued at amortized cost which approximates market value. If
market quotations are not readily available or if in the opinion of the Adviser
any quotation or price is not representative of true market value, the fair
value of the security may be determined in good faith in accordance with
procedures approved by the Trustees.
Foreign securities are valued on the basis of quotations from the primary market
in which they are traded. Any assets or liabilities expressed in terms of
foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars by the custodian bank based
on London currency exchange quotations as of 5:00 p.m., London time (12:00 noon,
New York time) on the date of any determination of the Fund's NAV. If quotations
are not readily available, or the value has been materially affected by the
events occurring after closing of a foreign market, assets are valued by a
method that Trustees believe accurately reflects fair value.
The NAV for each class of the Fund is determined each business day at the close
of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern
Time) by dividing a class net assets by the number of its shares outstanding. On
any day an international market is closed and the New York Stock Exchange is
open, any foreign securities will be valued at the prior day's close with the
current day's exchange rate. Trading of foreign securities may take place on
Saturdays and U.S. business holidays on which the Fund's NAV is not calculated.
Consequently, the Fund's portfolio securities may trade and the NAV of the
Fund's redeemable securities may be significantly affected on days when a
shareholder has no access to the Fund.
INITIAL SALES CHARGE ON CLASS A SHARES
Shares of the Fund are offered at a price equal to their net asset value plus a
sales charge which, at the option of the purchaser, may be imposed either at the
time of purchase (the "initial sales charge alternative") or on a contingent
deferred basis (the "deferred sales charge alternative"). Share certificates
will not be issued unless requested by the shareholder in writing, and then only
will be issued for full shares. The Trustees of the Fund reserve the right to
change or waive the Fund's minimum investment requirements and to reject any
order to purchase shares (including purchase by exchange) when in the judgment
of the Adviser such rejection is in the Fund's best interest.
The sales charges applicable to purchases of Class A shares of the Fund are
described in the Prospectus. Methods of obtaining reduced sales charges referred
to generally in the Prospectus are described in detail below. In calculating the
sales charge applicable to current purchases of Class A shares, the investor is
entitled to accumulate current purchases with the greater of the current value
(at offering price) of the Class A shares of the Fund, owned by the investor, or
if John Hancock Signature Services, Inc. ("Signature Services") is notified by
the investor's dealer or the investor at the time of the purchase, the cost of
the Class A shares owned.
36
<PAGE>
Without Sales Charge. Class A shares may be offered without a front-end sales
charge or contingent deferred sales chares ("CDSC") to various individuals and
institutions as follows:
o A Trustee or officer of the Trust; a Director or officer of the Adviser
and its affiliates or Selling Brokers; employees or sales representatives
of any of the foregoing; retired officers, employees or Directors of any
of the foregoing; a member of the immediate family (spouse, children,
grandchildren, mother, father, sister, brother, mother-in-law,
father-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, niece, nephew, grandparents
and same sex domestic partner) of any of the foregoing, or any fund,
pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan of the individuals described
above.
o A broker, dealer, financial planner, consultant or registered investment
advisor that has entered into a signed agreement with John Hancock Funds
providing specifically for the use of Fund shares in fee-based investment
products or services made available to their clients.
o A former participant in an employee benefit plan with John Hancock funds,
when he or she withdraws from his or her plan and transfers any or all of
his or her plan distributions directly to the Fund.
o A member of a class action lawsuit against insurance companies who is
investing settlement proceeds.
o Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch servicing programs, if the
Plan has more than $3 million in assets or 500 eligible employees at the
date the Plan Sponsor signs the Merrill Lynch Recordkeeping Service
Agreement. See your Merrill Lynch financial consultant for further
information.
o Retirement plans investing through the PruArray Program sponsored by
Prudential Securities.
o Pension plans transferring assets from a John Hancock variable annuity
contract to the Fund pursuant to an exemptive application approved by the
Securities Exchange Commission.
o Existing full service clients of the Life Company who were group annuity
contract holders as of September 1, 1994, and participant directed
retirement plans with at least 100 eligible employees at the inception of
the Fund account. Each of these investors may purchase Class A shares with
no initial sales charge. However, if the shares are redeemed within 12
months after the end of the calendar year in which the purchase was made,
a CDSC will be imposed at the following rate:
Amount Invested CDSC Rate
--------------- ---------
$1 to $4,999,999 1.00%
Next $5 million to $9,999,999 0.50%
Amounts of $10 million and over 0.25%
Class A shares may also be purchased without an initial sales charge in
connection with certain liquidation, merger or acquisition transactions
involving other investment companies or personal holding companies.
37
<PAGE>
Combination Privilege. In calculating the sales charge applicable to purchases
of Class A shares made at one time, the purchases will be combined to reduce
sales charges if made by (a) an individual, his or her spouse and their children
under the age of 21, purchasing securities for his or their own account, (b) a
trustee or other fiduciary purchasing for a single trust, estate or fiduciary
account and (c) groups which qualify for the Group Investment Program (see
below). Further information about combined purchases, including certain
restrictions on combined group purchases, is available from Signature Services
or a Selling Broker's representative.
Accumulation Privilege. Investors (including investors combining purchases) who
are already Class A shareholders may also obtain the benefit of the reduced
sales charge by taking into account not only the amount being invested but also
the investor's purchase price or current value of the Class A shares of all John
Hancock funds which carry a sales charge already held by such person. Class A
shares of John Hancock money market funds will only be eligible for the
accumulation privilege if the investor has previously paid a sales charge on the
amount of those shares. Retirement plan investors may include the value of Class
B shares if class B shares held are greater than $1 million. Retirement plans
must notify Signature Services to utilize.
Group Investment Program. Under the Combination and Accumulation Privileges, all
members of a group may combine their individual purchases of Class A shares to
potentially qualify for breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. This feature
is provided to any group which (1) has been in existence for more than six
months, (2) has a legitimate purpose other than the purchase of mutual fund
shares at a discount for its members, (3) utilizes salary deduction or similar
group methods of payment, and (4) agrees to allow sales materials of the fund in
its mailings to members at a reduced or no cost to John Hancock Funds.
Letter of Intention. Reduced sales charges are also applicable to investments
made pursuant to a Letter of Intention (the "LOI"), which should be read
carefully prior to its execution by an investor. The Fund offers two options
regarding the specified period for making investments under the LOI. All
investors have the option of making their investments over a specified period of
thirteen (13) months. Investors who are using the Fund as a funding medium for a
retirement plan, however, may opt to make the necessary investments called for
by the LOI over a forty-eight (48) month period. These retirement plans include
traditional, Roth and Education IRAs, SEP, SARSEP, 401(k), 403(b) (including
TSAs), SIMPLE IRA, SIMPLE 401(k), Money Purchase Pension, Profit Sharing and
Section 457 plans. Non-qualified and qualified retirement plan investments
cannot be combined to satisfy an LOI of 48 months. Such an investment (including
accumulations and combinations but not including reinvested dividends) must
aggregate $100,000 or more invested during the specified period from the date of
the LOI or from a date within ninety (90) days prior thereto, upon written
request to Signature Services. The sales charge applicable to all amounts
invested under the LOI is computed as if the aggregate amount intended to be
invested had been invested immediately. If such aggregate amount is not actually
invested, the difference in the sales charge actually paid and the sales charge
payable had the LOI not been in effect is due from the investor. However, for
the purchases actually made with the specified period (either 13 or 48 months),
the sales charge applicable will not be higher than that which would have been
applied (including accumulations and combinations) had the LOI been for the
amount actually invested.
The LOI authorizes Signature Services to hold in escrow sufficient Class A
shares (approximately 5% of the aggregate) to make up any difference in sales
charges on the amount intended to be invested and the amount actually invested,
until such investment is completed within the specified period, at which time
the escrow shares will be released. If the total investment specified in the LOI
38
<PAGE>
is not completed, the Class A shares held in escrow may be redeemed and the
proceeds used as required to pay such sales charges as may be due. By signing
the LOI, the investor authorizes Signature Services to act as his
attorney-in-fact to redeem any escrowed Class A shares and adjust the sales
charge, if necessary. A LOI does not constitute a binding commitment by an
investor to purchase, or by the Fund to sell, any additional shares and may be
terminated at any time.
DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON CLASS B AND CLASS C SHARES
Investments in Class B and Class C shares are purchased at net asset value per
share without the imposition of an initial sales charge so that the Fund will
receive the full amount of the purchase payment.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. Class B and Class C shares which are redeemed
within six years or one year of purchase, respectively, will be subject to a
CDSC at the rates set forth in the Prospectus as a percentage of the dollar
amount subject to the CDSC. The charge will be assessed on an amount equal to
the lesser of the current market value or the original purchase cost of the
Class B or Class C shares being redeemed. No CDSC will be imposed on increases
in account value above the initial purchase prices, including all shares derived
from reinvestment of dividends or capital gains distributions.
Class B shares are not available to full-service retirement plans administered
by Signature Services or the Life Company that had more than 100 eligible
employees at the inception of the Fund account.
The amount of the CDSC, if any, will vary depending on the number of years from
the time of payment for the purchase of Class B shares until the time of
redemption of such shares. Solely for purposes of determining the number of
years from the time of any payment for the purchase of both Class B and Class C
shares, all payments during a month will be aggregated and deemed to have been
made on the first day of the month.
In determining whether a CDSC applies to a redemption, the calculation will be
determined in a manner that results in the lowest possible rate being charged.
It will be assumed that your redemption comes first from shares you have held
beyond the six-year CDSC redemption period for Class B or one year CDSC
redemption period for Class C or those you acquired through dividend and capital
gain reinvestment, and next from the shares you have held the longest during the
six-year period for Class B shares. For this purpose, the amount of any increase
in a share's value above its initial purchase price is not regarded as a share
exempt from CDSC. Thus, when a share that has appreciated in value is redeemed
during the CDSC period, a CDSC is assessed only on its initial purchase price.
When requesting a redemption for a specific dollar amount, please indicate if
you require the proceeds to equal the dollar amount requested. If not indicated,
only the specified dollar amount will be redeemed from your account and the
proceeds will be less any applicable CDSC.
Example:
You have purchased 100 shares at $10 per share. The second year after your
purchase, your investment's net asset value per share has increased by $2 to
$12, and you have gained 10 additional shares through dividend reinvestment. If
you redeem 50 shares at this time your CDSC will be calculated as follows:
39
<PAGE>
o Proceeds of 50 shares redeemed at $12 per shares (50 x 12) $600.00
o*Minus Appreciation ($12 - $10) x 100 shares (200.00)
o Minus proceeds of 10 shares not subject to CDSC
(dividend reinvestment) (120.00)
-------
o Amount subject to CDSC $280.00
*The appreciation is based on all 100 shares in the lot not just the
shares being redeemed.
Proceeds from the CDSC are paid to John Hancock Funds and are used in whole or
in part by John Hancock Funds to defray its expenses related to providing
distribution-related services to the Fund in connection with the sale of the
Class B and Class C shares, such as the payment of compensation to select
Selling Brokers for selling Class B and Class C shares. The combination of the
CDSC and the distribution and service fees facilitates the ability of the Fund
to sell the Class B and Class C shares without a sales charge being deducted at
the time of the purchase.
Waiver of Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. The CDSC will be waived on
redemptions of Class B and Class C shares and of Class A shares that are subject
to a CDSC, unless indicated otherwise, in the circumstances defined below:
For all account types:
* Redemptions made pursuant to the Fund's right to liquidate your account if
you own shares worth less than $1,000.
* Redemptions made under certain liquidation, merger or acquisition
transactions involving other investment companies or personal holding
companies.
* Redemptions due to death or disability. (Does not apply to trust accounts
unless trust is being dissolved.)
* Redemptions made under the Reinstatement Privilege, as described in "Sales
Charge Reductions and Waivers" in the Prospectus.
* Redemptions where the proceeds are used to purchase a John Hancock
Declaration Variable annuity.
* Redemptions of Class B (but not Class C) shares made under a periodic
withdrawal plan, or redemptions for fees charged by planners or advisors
for advisory services, as long as your annual redemptions do not exceed
12% of your account value, including reinvested dividends, at the time you
established your periodic withdrawal plan and 12% of the value of
subsequent investments (less redemptions) in that account at the time you
notify Signature Services. (Please note that this waiver does not apply to
periodic withdrawal plan redemptions of Class A or Class C shares that are
subject to a CDSC.)
* Redemptions by Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch servicing
programs, if the Plan has less than $3 million in assets or 500 eligible
employees at the date the Plan Sponsor signs the Merrill Lynch
Recordkeeping Service Agreement. See your Merrill Lynch financial
consultant for further information.
40
<PAGE>
* Redemptions of Class A shares by retirement plans that invested through
the PruArray Program sponsored by Prudential Securities.
For Retirement Accounts (such as traditional, Roth and Education IRAs, SIMPLE
IRA, SIMPLE 401(k), Rollover IRA, TSA, 457, 403(b), 401(k), Money Purchase
Pension Plan, Profit-Sharing Plan and other plans as described in the Internal
Revenue Code) unless otherwise noted.
* Redemptions made to effect mandatory or life expectancy distributions
under the Internal Revenue Code.
* Returns of excess contributions made to these plans.
* Redemptions made to effect distributions to participants or beneficiaries
from employer sponsored retirement plans under sections 401(a) (such as
Money Purchase Pension Plans and Profit-Sharing/401(k) Plans, 457 and 408
(SEPs and SIMPLE IRAs) of the Internal Revenue Code.
* Redemptions from certain IRA and retirement plans that purchased shares
prior to October 1, 1992 and certain IRA plans that purchased shares prior
to May 15, 1995.
Please see matrix for reference.
41
<PAGE>
CDSC Waiver Matrix for Class B and Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of 401 (a) 403 (b) 457 IRA, IRA Non-retirement
Distribution Plan (401 Rollover
(k), MPP,
PSP)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Death or Waived Waived Waived Waived Waived
Disability
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Over 70 1/2 Waived Waived Waived Waived 12% of
for account
mandatory value
distributions annually in
or 12% of periodic
account payments
value
annually
in
periodic
payments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Between 59 1/2 Waived Waived Waived Waived 12% of
and 70 1/2 for Life account
Expectancy value
or 12% of annually in
account periodic
value payments
annually
in
periodic
payments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 59 1/2 Waived for Waived for Waived for Waived 12% of
(Class B only) annuity annuity annuity for account
payments payments payments annuity value
(72t) or (72t) or (72t) or payments annually in
12% of 12% of 12% of (72t) or periodic
account account account 12% of payments
value value value account
annually in annually annually value
periodic in in annually
payments periodic periodic in
payments payments periodic
payments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loans Waived Waived N/A N/A N/A
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Termination Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived N/A
of Plan
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hardships Waived Waived Waived N/A N/A
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return of Waived Waived Waived Waived N/A
Excess
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you qualify for a CDSC waiver under one of these situations, you must notify
Signature Services at the time you make your redemption. The waiver will be
granted once Signature Services has confirmed that you are entitled to the
waiver.
42
<PAGE>
SPECIAL REDEMPTIONS
Although it would not normally do so, the Fund has the right to pay the
redemption price of shares of the Fund in whole or in part in portfolio
securities as prescribed by the Trustees. When the shareholder sells portfolio
securities received in this fashion, the shareholder will incur a brokerage
charge. Any such security would be valued for the purpose of making such payment
at the same value as used in determining the Fund's net asset value. The Fund
has elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under
that rule, the Fund must redeem their shares for cash except to the extent to
that the redemption payments to any shareholder during any 90-day period would
exceed the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Fund's net asset value at the
beginning of such period.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS
Exchange Privilege. The Fund permits exchanges of shares of any class of the
Fund for shares of the same class in any other John Hancock fund offering that
class.
Exchanges between funds with shares that are not subject to a CDSC are based on
their respective net asset values. No sales charge or transaction charge is
imposed. Shares of the Fund which are subject to a CDSC may be exchanged into
shares of any of the other John Hancock funds that are subject to a CDSC without
incurring the CDSC; however, the shares acquired in an exchange will be subject
to the CDSC schedule of the shares acquired if and when such shares are redeemed
(except that shares exchanged into John Hancock Short-Term Strategic Income Fund
and John Hancock Intermediate Maturity Government Fund will retain the exchanged
fund's CDSC schedule). For purposes of computing the CDSC payable upon
redemption of shares acquired in an exchange, the holding period of the original
shares is added to the holding period of the shares acquired in an exchange.
If a shareholder exchanges Class B shares purchased prior to January 1, 1994
(except John Hancock Short-Term Strategic Income Fund) for Class B shares of any
other John Hancock fund, the acquired shares will continue to be subject to the
CDSC schedule that was in effect when the exchanged shares were purchased.
The Fund reserves the right to require that previously exchanged shares (and
reinvested dividends) be in the Fund for 90 days before a shareholder is
permitted a new exchange.
The Fund may refuse any exchange order. The Fund may change or cancel its
exchange policies at any time, upon 60 days' notice to its shareholders.
An exchange of shares is treated as a redemption of shares of one fund and the
purchase of shares of another for Federal Income Tax purposes. An exchange may
result in a taxable gain or loss. See "TAX STATUS".
Systematic Withdrawal Plan. The Fund permits the establishment of a Systematic
Withdrawal Plan. Payments under this plan represent proceeds from the redemption
of shares of the Fund. Since the redemption price of the shares of the Fund may
be more or less than the shareholder's cost, depending upon the market value of
the securities owned by the Fund at the time of redemption, the distribution of
cash pursuant to this plan may result in realization of gain or loss for
purposes of Federal, state and local income taxes. The maintenance of a
Systematic Withdrawal Plan
43
<PAGE>
concurrently with purchases of additional shares of the Fund could be
disadvantageous to a shareholder because of the initial sales charge payable on
such purchases of Class A shares and the CDSC imposed on redemptions of Class B
and Class C shares and because redemptions are taxable events. Therefore, a
shareholder should not purchase shares at the same time a Systematic Withdrawal
Plan is in effect. The Fund reserve the right to modify or discontinue the
Systematic Withdrawal Plan of any shareholder on 30 days' prior written notice
to such shareholder, or to discontinue the availability of such plan in the
future. The shareholder may terminate the plan at any time by giving proper
notice to Signature Services.
Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program ("MAAP"). The program is explained in the
Prospectus. The program, as it relates to automatic investment checks, is
subject to the following conditions:
The investments will be drawn on or about the day of the month indicated.
The privilege of making investments through the MAAP may be revoked by Signature
Services without prior notice if any investment is not honored by the
shareholder's bank. The bank shall be under no obligation to notify the
shareholder as to the non-payment of any checks.
The program may be discontinued by the shareholder either by calling Signature
Services or upon written notice to Signature Services which is received at least
five (5) business days prior to the order date of any investment.
Reinstatement and Reinvestment Privilege. If Signature Services is notified
prior to reinvestment, a shareholder who has redeemed the Fund's shares may,
within 120 days after the date of redemption, reinvest without payment of a
sales charge any part of the redemption proceeds in shares of the same class of
the Fund or another John Hancock fund, subject to the minimum investment limit
of that fund. The proceeds from the redemption of Class A shares may be
reinvested at net asset value without paying a sales charge in Class A shares of
any John Hancock fund. If a CDSC was paid upon a redemption, a shareholder may
reinvest the proceeds from this redemption at net asset value in additional
shares of the class from which the redemption was made. The shareholder's
account will be credited with the amount of any CDSC charged upon the prior
redemption and the new shares will continue to be subject to the CDSC. The
holding period of the shares acquired through reinvestment will, for purposes of
computing the CDSC payable upon a subsequent redemption, include the holding
period of the redeemed shares.
To protect the interests of other investors in the Fund, the Fund may cancel the
reinvestment privilege of any parties that, in the opinion of the Fund, are
using market timing strategies or making more than seven exchanges per owner or
controlling party per calendar year. Also, the Fund may refuse any reinvestment
request.
The Fund may change or cancel its reinvestment policies at any time.
A redemption or exchange of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for Federal
income tax purposes even if the reinvestment privilege is exercised, and any
gain or loss realized by a shareholder on the redemption or other disposition of
Fund shares will be treated for tax purposes as described under the caption "TAX
STATUS".
44
<PAGE>
Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch's servicing programs:
Class A shares are available at net asset value for plans with $3 million in
plan assets or 500 eligible employees at the date the Plan Sponsor signs the
Merrill Lynch Recordkeeping Service Agreement. If the plan does not meet either
of these limits, Class A shares are not available.
For participating retirement plans investing in Class B shares, shares will
convert to Class A shares after eight years, or sooner if the plan attains
assets of $5 million (by means of a CDSC-free redemption/purchase at net asset
value).
DESCRIPTION OF THE FUND'S SHARES
The Trustees of the Trust are responsible for the management and supervision of
the Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited
number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest of the Fund without
par value. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the authority to
create and classify shares of beneficial interest in separate series and in one
or more classes, without further action by shareholders. The Trustees have also
authorized shares of this Fund and one other series and the issuance of three
classes of shares of the Fund, designated as Class A, Class B and Class C.
Additional series may be added in the future.
The shares of each class of the Fund represent an equal proportionate interest
in the aggregate net assets attributable to the classes of the Fund. Holders of
each class of shares have certain exclusive voting rights on matters relating to
their respective distribution plans. The different classes of the Fund may bear
different expenses relating to the cost of holding shareholder meetings
necessitated by the exclusive voting rights of any class of shares.
Dividends paid by the Fund, if any, with respect to each class of shares will be
calculated in the same manner, at the same time and on the same day and will be
in the same amount, except for differences resulting from the facts that (i) the
distribution and service fees relating to each class of shares will be borne
exclusively by that class, (ii) Class B and Class C shares will pay higher
distribution and service fees than Class A shares and (iii) each class of shares
will bear any class expenses properly allocable to that class of shares, subject
to the conditions the Internal Revenue Service imposes with respect to the
multiple-class structures. Similarly, the net asset value per share may vary
depending on which class of shares are purchased. No interest will be paid on
uncashed dividend or redemption checks.
In the event of liquidation, shareholders of each class are entitled to share
pro rata in the net assets of the Fund available for distribution to these
shareholders. Shares entitle their holders to one vote per share, are freely
transferable and have no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights. When
issued, shares are fully paid and non-assessable, except as set forth below.
Unless otherwise required by the Investment Company Act or the Declaration of
Trust, the Fund has no intention of holding annual meetings of shareholders.
Fund shareholders may remove a Trustee by the affirmative vote of at least
two-thirds of the Trust's outstanding shares and the Trustees shall promptly
call a meeting for such purpose when requested to do so in writing by the record
holders of not less than 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
Shareholders may, under certain circumstances, communicate with other
shareholders in connection with requesting a special meeting of shareholders.
However, at any time that less than in a majority of the Trustees holding
45
<PAGE>
office were elected by the shareholders, the Trustees will call a special
meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust could,
under certain circumstances, be held personally liable for acts or obligations
of the trust. However, the Trust's Declaration of Trust contains an express
disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts, obligations and affairs of the
Trust. The Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification out of the
Trust's assets for all losses and expenses of any shareholder held personally
liable by reason of being or having been a shareholder. The Declaration of Trust
also provides that no series of the Trust shall be liable for the liabilities of
any other series. Furthermore, no fund included in the Prospectus shall be
liable for the liabilities of any other John Hancock fund. Liability is
therefore limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself would be unable to
meet its obligations, and the possibility of this occurrence is remote.
The Fund reserves the right to reject any application which conflicts with the
Fund's internal policies or the policies of any regulatory authority. John
Hancock Funds does not accept starter, credit card or third party checks. All
checks returned by the post office as undeliverable will be reinvested at net
asset value in the fund or funds from which a redemption was made or dividend
paid. Information provided on the account application may be used by the Fund to
verify the accuracy of the information or for background or financial history
purposes. A joint account will be administered as a joint tenancy with right of
survivorship, unless the joint owners notify Signature Services of a different
intent. A shareholder's account is governed by the laws of The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. For telephone transactions, the transfer agent will take measures
to verify the identity of the caller, such as asking for name, account number,
Social Security or other taxpayer ID number and other relevant information. If
appropriate measures are taken, the transfer agent is not responsible for any
losses that may occur to any account due to an unauthorized telephone call. Also
for your protection telephone transactions are not permitted on accounts whose
names or addresses have changed within the past 30 days. Proceeds from telephone
transactions can only be mailed to the address of record.
Selling activities for the Fund may not take place outside the U.S. exempt with
U.S. military bases, APO addresses and U.S. diplomats. Brokers of record on
Non-U.S. investors' accounts with foreign mailing addresses are required to
certify that all sales activities have occurred, and in the future will occur,
only in the U.S. A Foreign corporation may purchase shares of the Fund only if
it has a U.S. mailing address.
TAX STATUS
Each series of the Trust, including the Fund is treated as a separate entity for
tax purposes. The Fund has qualified and elected to be treated as a "regulated
investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the "Code"), and intends to continue to so qualify for each taxable
year. As such and by complying with the applicable provisions of the Code
regarding the sources of its income, the timing of its distributions, and the
diversification of its assets, the Fund will not be subject to Federal income
tax on taxable income (including net realized capital gains) which is
distributed to shareholders in accordance with the timing requirements of the
Code.
The Fund will be subject to a 4% non-deductible Federal excise tax on certain
amounts not distributed (and not treated as having been distributed) on a timely
basis in accordance with annual
46
<PAGE>
minimum distribution requirements. The Fund intends under normal circumstances
to seek to avoid or minimize liability for such tax.
Distributions from the Fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits
("E&P") will be taxable under the Code for investors who are subject to tax. If
these distributions are paid from the Fund's "investment company taxable
income," they will be taxable as ordinary income; and if they are paid from the
Fund's "net capital gain," they will be taxable as capital gain. (Net capital
gain is the excess (if any) of net long-term capital gain over net short-term
capital loss, and investment company taxable income is all taxable income and
capital gains, other than those gains and losses included in computing net
capital gain, after reduction by deductible expenses). Some distributions may be
paid to shareholders as if they had been received on December 31 of the previous
year. The tax treatment described above will apply without regard to whether
distributions are received in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the
Fund.
Distributions, if any, in excess of E&P will constitute a return of capital
under the Code, which will first reduce an investor's federal tax basis in Fund
shares and then, to the extent such basis is exceeded, will generally give rise
to capital gains. Shareholders who have chosen automatic reinvestment of their
distributions will have a federal tax basis in each share received pursuant to
such a reinvestment equal to the amount of cash they would have received had
they elected to receive the distribution in cash, divided by the number of
shares received in the reinvestment.
The Fund may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign
countries with respect to its investments in foreign securities. Some tax
conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or eliminate such
taxes. Investors may be entitled to claim U.S. foreign tax credits or deductions
with respect to such taxes, subject to certain provisions and limitations
contained in the Code, if the Fund so elects. If more than 50% of the value of
the Fund's total assets at the close of any taxable year consists of stock or
securities of foreign corporations, the Fund may file an election with the
Internal Revenue Service pursuant to which shareholders of the Fund will be
required to (i) include in ordinary gross income (in addition to taxable
dividends and distributions actually received) their pro rata shares of
qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund even though not actually received by
them, and (ii) treat such respective pro rata portions as qualified foreign
taxes paid by them. The Fund probably will not satisfy this 50% requirement.
If the Fund makes this election, shareholders may then deduct such pro rata
portions of qualified foreign taxes in computing their taxable incomes, or,
alternatively, use them as foreign tax credits, subject to applicable
limitations, against their U.S. Federal income taxes. Shareholders who do not
itemize deductions for Federal income tax purposes will not, however, be able to
deduct their pro rata portion of qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund,
although such shareholders will be required to include their share of such taxes
in gross income. Shareholders who claim a foreign tax credit for such foreign
taxes may be required to treat a portion of dividends received from the Fund as
a separate category of income for purposes of computing the limitations on the
foreign tax credit. Tax-exempt shareholders will ordinarily not benefit from
this election. Each year (if any) that the Fund files the election described
above, its shareholders will be notified of the amount of (i) each shareholder's
pro rata share of qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund and (ii) the portion
of Fund dividends which represents income from each foreign country. The Fund
that cannot or does not make this election may deduct such taxes in determining
the amount it has available for distribution to shareholders, and shareholders
will not, in this event, include these foreign taxes in their income, nor will
they be entitled to any tax deductions or credits with respect to such taxes.
47
<PAGE>
The amount of the Fund's net realized capital gains, if any, in any given year
will vary depending upon the Adviser's current investment strategy and whether
the Adviser believes it to be in the best interest of the Fund to dispose of
portfolio securities or enter into options or futures transactions that will
generate capital gains. At the time of an investor's purchase of Fund shares, a
portion of the purchase price is often attributable to realized or unrealized
appreciation in the Fund's portfolio. Consequently, subsequent distributions
from such appreciation may be taxable to such investor even if the net asset
value of the investor's shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced
below the investor's cost for such shares, and the distributions in reality
represent a return of a portion of the purchase price.
Upon a redemption or other disposition of shares of the Fund (including by
exercise of the exchange privilege) in a transaction that is treated as a sale
for tax purposes, a shareholder may realize a taxable gain or loss depending
upon the amount of the proceeds and the investor's basis in his shares. Any gain
or loss will be treated as capital gain or loss if the shares are capital assets
in the shareholder's hands. A sales charge paid in purchasing shares of the Fund
cannot be taken into account for purposes of determining gain or loss on the
redemption or exchange of such shares within 90 days after their purchase to the
extent shares of the Fund or another John Hancock fund are subsequently acquired
without payment of a sales charge pursuant to the reinvestment or exchange
privilege. Such disregarded load will result in an increase in the shareholder's
tax basis in the shares subsequently acquired. Also, any loss realized on a
redemption or exchange may be disallowed to the extent the shares disposed of
are replaced with other shares of the same Fund within a period of 61 days
beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the shares are disposed of,
such as pursuant to automatic dividend reinvestments. In such a case, the basis
of the shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss
realized upon the redemption of shares with a tax holding period of six months
or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any amounts
treated as distributions of long-term capital gain with respect to such shares.
Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers regarding their particular
circumstances to determine whether a disposition of Fund shares is properly
treated as a sale for tax purposes, as is assumed in the foregoing discussion.
Although its present intention is to distribute, at least annually, all net
capital gain, if any, the Fund reserves the right to retain and reinvest all or
any portion of the excess, as computed for Federal income tax purposes, of net
long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss in any year. The Fund
will not in any event distribute net capital gain realized in any year to the
extent that a capital loss is carried forward from prior years against such
gain. To the extent such excess was retained and not exhausted by the
carryforward of prior years' capital losses, it would be subject to Federal
income tax in the hands of the Fund. Upon proper designation by the Fund, each
shareholder would be treated for Federal income tax purposes as if the Fund had
distributed to him on the last day of its taxable year his pro rata share of
such excess, and he had paid his pro rata share of the taxes paid by the Fund
and reinvested the remainder in the Fund. Accordingly, each shareholder would
(a) include his pro rata share of such excess as capital gain income in his
return for his taxable year in which the last day of such Fund's taxable year
falls, (b) be entitled either to a tax credit on his return for, or to a refund
of, his pro rata share of the taxes paid by such Fund, and (c) be entitled to
increase the adjusted tax basis for his shares in such Fund by the difference
between his pro rata share of such excess and his pro rata share of such taxes.
For Federal income tax purposes, the Fund is generally permitted to carry
forward a net capital loss in any year to offset its own net capital gains, if
any, during the eight years following the year of the loss. To the extent
subsequent net capital gains are offset by such losses, they would not result in
Federal income tax liability to the Fund and, as noted above, would not be
distributed as such to
48
<PAGE>
shareholders. The Fund has $18,749,417 of capital loss carryforwards, available
to the extent provided by regulations, to offset future net realized capital
gains. These carryforwards expire at various amounts and times from 2002 through
2006.
The Fund is required to accrue income on any debt securities that have more than
a de minimis amount of original issue discount (or debt securities acquired at a
market discount, if the Fund elects to include market discount in income
currently) prior to the receipt of the corresponding cash payments. The mark to
market or constructive sales rules applicable to certain options, futures and
forward contracts may also require the Fund to recognize income or gain without
a concurrent receipt of cash. However, the Fund must distribute to shareholders
for each taxable year substantially all of its net income and net capital gains,
including such income or gain, to qualify as a regulated investment company and
avoid liability for any federal income or excise tax. Therefore, the Fund may
have to dispose of its portfolio securities under disadvantageous circumstances
to generate cash, or borrow cash, to satisfy these distribution requirements.
A state income (and possibly local income and/or intangible property) tax
exemption is generally available to the extent (if any) the Fund's distributions
are derived from interest on (or, in the case of intangible property taxes, the
value of its assets is attributable to) certain U.S. Government obligations,
provided in some states that certain thresholds for holdings of such obligations
and/or reporting requirements are satisfied. The Fund will not seek to satisfy
any threshold or reporting requirements that may apply in particular taxing
jurisdictions, although the Fund may in its sole discretion provide relevant
information to shareholders.
The Fund will be required to report to the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS")
all taxable distributions to shareholders, as well as gross proceeds from the
redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in the case of certain exempt
recipients, i.e., corporations and certain other investors distributions to
which are exempt from the information reporting provisions of the Code. Under
the backup withholding provisions of Code Section 3406 and applicable Treasury
regulations, all such reportable distributions and proceeds may be subject to
backup withholding of federal income tax at the rate of 31% in the case of
non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the Fund with their correct taxpayer
identification number and certain certifications required by the IRS or if the
IRS or a broker notifies the Fund that the number furnished by the shareholder
is incorrect or that the shareholder is subject to backup withholding as a
result of failure to report interest or dividend income. The Fund may refuse to
accept an application that does not contain any required taxpayer identification
number or certification that the number provided is correct. If the backup
withholding provisions are applicable, any such distributions and proceeds,
whether taken in cash or reinvested in shares, will be reduced by the amounts
required to be withheld. Any amounts withheld may be credited against a
shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability. Investors should consult their
tax advisers about the applicability of the backup withholding provisions.
The Fund may be required to account for its transactions in forward rolls or
swaps, caps, floors and collars in a manner that, under certain circumstances,
may limit the extent of its participation in such transactions. Additionally,
the Fund may be required to recognize gain, but not loss, if a swap or other
transaction is treated as a constructive sale of an appreciated financial
position in the Fund's portfolio. The Fund may have to sell portfolio securities
under disadvantageous circumstances to generate cash, or borrow cash, to satisfy
these distribution requirements.
Investments in debt obligations that are at risk of or are in default present
special tax issues for the Fund. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues
such as when the Fund may cease to accrue interest, original issue discount, or
market discount, when and to what extent deductions may be
49
<PAGE>
taken for bad debts or worthless securities, how payments received on
obligations in default should be allocated between principal and income, and
whether exchanges of debt obligations in a workout context are taxable. These
and other issues will be addressed by the Fund that holds such obligations in
order to reduce the risk of distributing insufficient income to preserve its
status as a regulated investment company and seek to avoid becoming subject to
Federal income or excise tax.
Limitations imposed by the Code on regulated investment companies like the Fund
may restrict the Fund's ability to enter into options, futures, foreign currency
positions and foreign currency forward transactions.
Certain options, futures and forward foreign currency transactions undertaken by
the Fund may cause such Fund to recognize gains or losses from marking to market
even though its positions have not been sold or terminated and affect the
character as long-term or short-term (or, in the case of certain currency
forwards, options and futures, as ordinary income or loss) and timing of some
capital gains and losses realized by the Fund. Also, certain of the Fund's
losses on its transactions involving options, futures and forward foreign
currency contracts and/or offsetting or successor portfolio positions may be
deferred rather than being taken into account currently in calculating the
Fund's taxable income or gains. Certain of such transactions may also cause the
Fund to dispose of investments sooner than would otherwise have occurred. These
transactions may therefore affect the amount, timing and character of the Fund's
distributions to shareholders. The Fund will take into account the special tax
rules (including consideration of available elections) applicable to options,
futures or forward contracts in order to seek to minimize any potential adverse
tax consequences.
Different tax treatment, including penalties on certain excess contributions and
deferrals, certain pre-retirement and post-retirement distributions and certain
prohibited transactions, is accorded to accounts maintained as qualified
retirement plans. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers for more
information.
The foregoing discussion relates solely to U.S. Federal income tax law as
applicable to U.S. persons (i.e., U.S. citizens or residents and U.S. domestic
corporations, partnerships, trusts or estates) subject to tax under such law.
The discussion does not address special tax rules applicable to certain classes
of investors, such as tax-exempt entities, insurance companies, and financial
institutions. Dividends, capital gain distributions, and ownership of or gains
realized on the redemption (including an exchange) of Fund shares may also be
subject to state and local taxes. Shareholders should consult their own tax
advisers as to the Federal, state or local tax consequences of ownership of
shares of, and receipt of distributions from, the Fund in their particular
circumstances.
Non-U.S. investors not engaged in a U.S. trade or business with which their
investment in a Fund is effectively connected will be subject to U.S. Federal
income tax treatment that is different from that described above. These
investors may be subject to nonresident alien withholding tax at the rate of 30%
(or a lower rate under an applicable tax treaty) on amounts treated as ordinary
dividends from the Fund and, unless an effective IRS Form W-8 or authorized
substitute for Form W-8 is on file, to 31% backup withholding on certain other
payments from the Fund. Non-U.S. investors should consult their tax advisers
regarding such treatment and the application of foreign taxes to an investment
in the Fund.
The Fund is not subject to Massachusetts corporate excise or franchise taxes.
The Fund anticipates that, provided that the Fund qualifies as a regulated
investment company under the Code, it will also not be required to pay any
Massachusetts income tax.
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<PAGE>
CALCULATION OF PERFORMANCE
The Fund may advertise yield, where appropriate. For the 30-day period ended
November 30, 1998, the yields of the Fund's Class A and Class B shares were __%
and __%, respectively. Class C shares commenced operations on April 1, 1999;
therefore, there is not yield to report.
The Fund's yield is computed by dividing net investment income per share
determined for a 30-day period by the maximum offering price per share (which
includes the full sales charge) on the last day of the period, according to the
following standard formula:
Yield = 2 ( [ ( a-b/cd ) + 1 ] ^6 - 1)
Where:
a = dividends and interest earned during the period.
b = net expenses accrued during the period.
c = the average daily number of fund shares outstanding during the
period that would be entitled to receive dividends.
d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period
(NAV where applicable).
Total Return. Average annual total return is determined separately for each
class of shares.
Set forth below are tables showing the performance on a total return basis
(i.e., with all dividends and distributions reinvested) of a hypothetical $1,000
investment in the Class A and Class B shares of the Fund. Class C shares
commenced operations on April 1, 1999; therefore, there is no average annual
total return to report.
Class B Shares
Class A Shares Class A Shares Class B Shares Five Years Class B Shares
One Year Ended 9/30/94* to One Year Ended Ended Ten Years Ended
11/30/98 11/30/98 11/30/98 11/30/98 11/30/98
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
% % % % %
* Commencement of operations.
Total Return. The Fund's total return is computed by finding the average annual
compounded rate of return over the 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year periods that
would equate the initial amount invested to the ending redeemable value
according to the following formula:
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T = ((ERV/P)^(1/n)) - 1
P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000.
T = average annual total return.
n = number of years.
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made
at the beginning of the 1-year and life-of-fund periods.
Because each class has its own charge and fee structure, the classes have
different performance results. In the case of each class, this calculation
assumes the maximum sales charge is included in the initial investment or the
CDSC is applied at the end of the period. This calculation assumes that all
dividends and distributions are reinvested at net asset value on the
reinvestment dates during the period. The "distribution rate" is determined by
annualizing the result of dividing the declared dividends of the Fund during the
period stated by the maximum offering price or net asset value at the end of the
period. Excluding the Fund's sales charge from the distribution rate produces a
higher rate.
In addition to average annual total returns, the Fund may quote unaveraged or
cumulative total returns reflecting the simple change in value of an investment
over a stated period. Cumulative total returns may be quoted as a percentage or
as a dollar amount, and may be calculated for a single investment, a series of
investments, and/or a series of redemptions, over any time period. Total returns
may be quoted with or without taking the Fund's sales charge on Class A shares
or the CDSC on Class B or Class C shares into account. Excluding the Fund's
sales charge on Class A shares and the CDSC on Class B or Class C shares from a
total return calculation produces a higher total return figure.
From time to time, in reports and promotional literature, the Fund's yield and
total return will be compared to indices of mutual funds and bank deposit
vehicles such as Lipper Analytical Services, Inc.'s "Lipper--Fixed Income Fund
Performance Analysis," a monthly publication which tracks net assets, total
return, and yield on fixed income mutual funds in the United States. Ibottson
and Associates, CDA Weisenberger and F.C. Towers are also used for comparison
purposes, as well as the Russell and Wilshire Indices.
Performance rankings and ratings reported periodically in national financial
publications such as MONEY MAGAZINE, FORBES, BUSINESS WEEK, THE WALL STREET
JOURNAL, MICROPAL, INC., MORNINGSTAR, STANGER'S and BARRON'S, etc. will also be
utilized. The Fund's promotional and sales literature may make reference to the
Fund's "beta." Beta reflects the market-related risk of the Fund by showing how
responsive the Fund is to the market.
The performance of the Fund is not fixed or guaranteed. Performance quotations
should not be considered to be representations of performance of the Fund for
any period in the future. The performance of the Fund is a function of many
factors including its earnings, expenses and number of outstanding shares.
Fluctuating market conditions; purchases, sales and maturities of portfolio
securities; sales and redemptions of shares of beneficial interest; and changes
in operating expenses are all examples of items that can increase or decrease
the Fund's performance.
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<PAGE>
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION
Decisions concerning the purchase and sale of portfolio securities and the
allocation of brokerage commissions are made by the Adviser pursuant to
recommendations made by an investment committee of the Adviser, which consists
of officers and directors of the Adviser and affiliates and Trustees who are
interested persons of the Fund. Orders for purchases and sales of securities are
placed in a manner which, in the opinion of the Adviser, will offer the best
price and market for the execution of each such transaction. Purchases from
underwriters of portfolio securities may include a commission or commissions
paid by the issuer and transactions with dealers serving as market makers
reflect a "spread." Debt securities are generally traded on a net basis through
dealers acting for their own account as principals and not as brokers; no
brokerage commissions are payable on these transactions.
In the U.S. and in some other countries, debt securities are traded principally
in the over-the-counter market on a net basis through dealers acting for their
own account and not as brokers. In other countries, both debt and equity
securities are traded on exchanges at fixed commission rates. commissions on
foreign transactions are generally higher than the negotiated commission rates
available in the U.S. There is generally less government supervision and
regulation of foreign stock exchanges and broker-dealers than in the U.S.
The Fund's primary policy is to execute all purchases and sales of portfolio
instruments at the most favorable prices consistent with best execution,
considering all of the costs of the transaction including brokerage commissions.
This policy governs the selection of brokers and dealers and the market in which
a transaction is executed. Consistent with the foregoing primary policy, the
Rules of Fair Practice of the NASD and other policies that the Trustees may
determine, the Adviser may consider sales of shares of the Fund as a factor in
the selection of broker-dealers to execute a Fund's portfolio transactions.
To the extent consistent with the foregoing, the Fund will be governed in the
selection of brokers and dealers, and the negotiation of brokerage commission
rates and dealer spreads, by the reliability and quality of the services,
including primarily the availability and value of research information and to a
lesser extent statistical assistance furnished to the Adviser of the Fund, and
their value and expected contribution to the performance of the Fund. It is not
possible to place a dollar value on information and services to be received from
brokers and dealers, since it is only supplementary to the research efforts of
the Adviser. The receipt of research information is not expected to reduce
significantly the expenses of the Adviser. The research information and
statistical assistance furnished by brokers and dealers may benefit the Life
Company or other advisory clients of the Adviser, and conversely, brokerage
commissions and spreads paid by other advisory clients of the Adviser may result
in research information and statistical assistance beneficial to the Fund. The
Fund will make no commitments to allocate portfolio transactions upon any
prescribed basis. While the Adviser's officers will be primarily responsible for
the allocation of the Fund's brokerage business, the policies and practices of
the Adviser in this regard must be consistent with the foregoing and at all
times be subject to review by the Trustees.
The negotiated brokerage commissions of the Fund are as follows:
(a) $25,004 for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, (b) $59,080 for the period
from November 1, 1996 to May 31, 1997 (c) $135,622 for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1996; and (d) $15,814 for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995.
53
<PAGE>
As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Fund
may pay to a broker which provides brokerage and research services to the Fund
an amount of disclosed commission in excess of the commission which another
broker would have charged for effecting that transaction. This practice is
subject to a good faith determination by the Trustees that the price is
reasonable in light of the services provided and to policies that the Trustees
may adopt from time to time. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund
did not pay any commissions to compensate brokers for research services such as
industry, economic and company reviews and evaluations of securities.
The Adviser's indirect parent, the Life Company is the indirect sole shareholder
of Signator Investors, Inc., a broker dealer ("Signator" or "Affiliated
Broker"). Pursuant to procedures determined by the Trustees and consistent with
the above policy of obtaining best net results, the Fund may execute portfolio
transactions with or through Affiliated Brokers. For the fiscal years ended
October 31, 1995 and 1996, the Fund paid no brokerage commission to any
Affiliated Broker. For the period from November 1, 1996 to May 31, 1997, the
Fund paid no brokerage commissions to any Affiliated Broker. For the fiscal year
ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid no brokerage commissions to any Affiliated
Broker.
Signator may act as broker for the Fund on exchange transactions, subject,
however, to the general policy of the Fund set forth above and the procedures
adopted by the Trustees pursuant to the Investment Company Act. Commissions paid
to an Affiliated Broker must be at least as favorable as those which the
Trustees believe to be contemporaneously charged by other brokers in connection
with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or
sold. A transaction would not be placed with an Affiliated Broker if the Fund
would have to pay a commission rate less favorable than the Affiliated Broker's
contemporaneous charges for comparable transactions for its other most favored,
but unaffiliated, customers, except for accounts for which the Affiliated Broker
acts as a clearing broker for another brokerage firm, and any customers of the
Affiliated Broker not comparable to the Fund as determined by a majority of the
Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined in the Investment Company
Act) of the Fund, the Adviser or the Affiliated Broker. Because the Adviser,
which is affiliated with the Affiliated Broker, has, as an investment adviser to
the Fund, the obligation to provide investment management services, which
includes elements of research and related investment skills, such research and
related skills will not be used by the Affiliated Brokers as a basis for
negotiating commissions at a rate higher than that determined in accordance with
the above criteria.
Other investment advisory clients advised by the Adviser may also invest in the
same securities as the Fund. When these clients buy or sell the same securities
at substantially the same time, the Adviser may average the transactions as to
price and allocate the amount of available investments in a manner which the
Adviser believes to be equitable to each client, including the Fund. In some
instances, this investment procedure may adversely affect the price paid or
received by the Fund or the size of the position obtainable for it. On the other
hand, to the extent permitted by law, the Advisers may aggregate securities to
be sold or purchased for the Fund with those to be sold or purchased for other
clients managed by it in order to obtain best execution.
TRANSFER AGENT SERVICES
John Hancock Signature Services Inc., 1 Hancock Way, Suite 1000, Boston, MA
02217-1000, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of the Life Company, is the
transfer and dividend paying agent for the Fund. The Fund pays Signature
Services an annual fee of $20.00 for each Class A shareholder
54
<PAGE>
account, $22.50 for each Class B shareholder account and $20.50 for each Class C
shareholder account. The Fund also pays certain out-of-pocket expenses and these
expenses are aggregated and charged to the Fund and allocated to each class on
the basis of their relative net asset values.
CUSTODY OF PORTFOLIO
Portfolio securities of the Fund are held pursuant to a custodian agreement
between the Fund and Investors Bank & Trust Company, 200 Clarendon Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02116. Under the custodian agreement, Investors Bank &
Trust Company performs custody, portfolio and fund accounting services.
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
__________________, 200 Clarendon Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116, has been
selected as the independent auditors of the Fund. The financial statements of
the Fund included in the Prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information
as of the Fund's fiscal year ended May 31, 1998 have been audited by ___________
for the periods indicated in their report, appearing elsewhere herein, and are
included in reliance upon such report given upon the authority of such firm as
experts in accounting and auditing.
55
<PAGE>
APPENDIX-A
MORE ABOUT RISK
A fund's risk profile is largely defined by the fund's principal securities and
investment practices. You may find the most concise description of the fund's
risk profile in the prospectus.
A fund is permitted to utilize -- within limits established by the trustees --
certain other securities and investment practices that have higher risks and
opportunities associated with them. To the extent that the fund utilizes these
securities or practices, its overall performance may be affected, either
positively or negatively. On the following pages are brief definitions of
certain associated risks with them, with examples of related securities and
investment practices included in brackets. See the "Investment Objectives and
Policies" and "Investment Restrictions" sections of this Statement of Additional
Information for a description of this Fund's investment policies. The fund
follows certain policies that may reduce these risks.
As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the fund will earn income or
show a positive total return over any period of time -- days, months or years.
TYPES OF INVESTMENT RISK
Correlation risk The risk that changes in the value of a hedging instrument will
not match those of the asset being hedged (hedging is the use of one investment
to offset the effects of another investment). Incomplete correlation can result
in unanticipated risks. (e.g., currency contracts, futures and related options,
options on securities and indices, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Credit risk The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a
contract, will default or otherwise become unable to honor a financial
obligation. (e.g., non-investment-grade debt securities, borrowing; reverse
repurchase agreements, covered mortgage dollar roll transactions, repurchase
agreements, securities lending, brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon debt securities, asset-backed securities,
mortgage-backed securities, participation interest, options on securities,
structured securities and swaps, caps floors and collars).
Currency risk The risk that fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S.
dollar and foreign currencies may negatively affect an investment. Adverse
changes in exchange rates may erode or reverse any gains produced by foreign
currency-denominated investments, and may widen any losses.(e.g., foreign debt
securities, currency contracts, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Extension risk The risk that an unexpected rise in interest rates will extend
the life of a mortgage-backed security beyond the expected prepayment time,
typically reducing the security's value.(e.g. mortgage-backed securities and
structured securities).
Interest rate risk The risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest
rates. With fixed-rate securities, a rise in interest rates typically causes a
fall in values, while a fall in rates typically causes a rise in values. (e.g.,
non-investment-grade debt securities, covered mortgage dollar roll transactions,
brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind, delayed and zero coupon debt
securities,
A-1
<PAGE>
asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, participation interest,
swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Leverage risk Associated with securities or practices (such as borrowing) that
multiply small index or market movements into large changes in value. (e.g.
borrowing; reverse repurchase agreements, covered mortgage dollar roll
transactions, when-issued securities and forward commitments, currency
contracts, financial futures and options; securities and index options,
structured securities, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
o Hedged When a derivative (a security whose value is based on another
security or index) is used as a hedge against an opposite position that
the fund also holds, any loss generated by the derivative should be
substantially offset by gains on the hedged investment, and vice versa.
While hedging can reduce or eliminate losses, it can also reduce or
eliminate gains.
o Speculative To the extent that a derivative is not used as a hedge, the
fund is directly exposed to the risks of that derivative. Gains or losses
from speculative positions in a derivative may be substantially greater
than the derivative's original cost.
Liquidity risk The risk that certain securities may be difficult or impossible
to sell at the time and the price that the seller would like. The seller may
have to lower the price, sell other securities instead, or forego an investment
opportunity, any of which could have a negative effect on fund management or
performance. (e.g. non-investment-grade debt securities, restricted and illiquid
securities, mortgage-backed securities, participation interest, currency
contracts, futures and related options; securities and index options, structured
securities, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Management risk The risk that a strategy used by a fund's management may fail to
produce the intended result. Common to all mutual funds.
Market risk The risk that the market value of a security may move up and down,
sometimes rapidly and unpredictably. Market risk may affect a single issuer, an
industry, a sector of the bond market or the market as a whole. Common to all
stocks and bonds and the mutual funds that invest in them. (e.g. covered
mortgage dollar roll transactions, short-term trading, when-issued securities
and forward commitments, brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind, delayed
and zero coupon debt securities, restricted and illiquid securities, rights and
warrants, financial futures and options; and securities and index options,
structured securities).
Natural event risk The risk of losses attributable to natural disasters, crop
failures and similar events.
Opportunity risk The risk of missing out on an investment opportunity because
the assets necessary to take advantage of it are tied up in less advantageous
investments.(e.g. covered mortgage dollar roll transactions, when-issued
securities and forward commitments, currency contracts, financial futures and
options; securities and securities and index options).
Political risk The risk of losses attributable to government or political
actions, from changes in tax or trade statutes to governmental collapse and war.
(e.g., brady bonds and foreign debt securities).
A-2
<PAGE>
Prepayment risk The risk that unanticipated prepayments may occur during periods
of falling interest rates, reducing the value of mortgage-backed securities.
(e.g., mortgage backed securities).
Valuation risk The risk that a fund has valued certain of its securities at a
higher price than it can sell them for. (e.g., non-investment-grade debt
securities, participation interest, structured securities, swaps, caps, floors
and collars).
A-3
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
The ratings of Moody's Investors Service, Inc. and Standard & Poor's Ratings
Group represent their opinions as to the quality of various debt instruments
they undertake to rate. It should be emphasized that ratings are not absolute
standards of quality. Consequently, debt instruments with the same maturity,
coupon and rating may have different yields while debt instruments of the same
maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the same yield.
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC.
Aaa: Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They carry
the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt
edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable
margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely
to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the
fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa: Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high grade
bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection
may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuations 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.
A: Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present which
suggest a susceptibility to impairment at some time in the future.
Baa: Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations, i.e.,
they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba: Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
B: Bonds which are rated B generally lack the characteristics of 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 which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest.
Ca: Bonds which are rated Ca represented obligations which are speculative in a
high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
B-1
<PAGE>
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP
AAA: Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
AA: Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
and differs from the highest rated issues only in small degree.
A: Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal,
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB: Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest
and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
BB, B: Debt rated BB, and B is 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 of speculation. While such debt will
likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by
large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
CCC: Debt rated 'CCC' has a currently identifiable vulnerability to default, and
is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to meet
timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the event of adverse
business, financial or economic conditions, it is not likely to have the
capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The 'CCC' rating category is also
used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied
'B' or 'B-' rating.
CC: The rating 'CC' is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior debt
that is assigned an actual or implied 'CCC' rating.
FITCH INVESTORS SERVICE ("Fitch")
AAA, AA, A, BBB - Bonds rated AAA are considered to be investment grade and of
the highest quality. The obligor has an extraordinary ability to pay interest
and repay principal, which is unlikely to be affected by reasonably foreseeable
events. Bonds rated AA are considered to be investment grade and of high
quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal, while very
strong, is somewhat less than for AAA rated securities or more subject to
possible change over the term of the issue. Bonds rated A are considered to be
investment grade and of good 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 bonds with higher
ratings. Bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of
satisfactory quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal
is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and
circumstances, however, are more likely to weaken this ability than bonds with
higher ratings.
B-2
<PAGE>
TAX-EXEMPT NOTE RATINGS
Moody's - MIG-1 and MIG-2. Notes rated MIG-1 are judged to be of the best
quality, enjoying strong protection from established cash flow or funds for
their services or from established and broad-based access to the market for
refinancing or both. Notes rated MIG-2 are judged to be of high quality with
ample margins of protection, though not as large as MIG-1.
S&P - SP-1 and SP-2. SP-1 denotes a very strong or strong capacity to pay
principal and interest. Issues determined to possess overwhelming safety
characteristics are given a plus (+) designation (SP-1+). SP-2 denotes a
satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest.
Fitch - FIN-1 and FIN-2. Notes assigned FIN-1 are regarded as having the
strongest degree of assurance for timely payment. A plus symbol may be used to
indicate relative standing. Notes assigned FIN-2 reflect a degree of assurance
for timely payment only slightly less in degree than the highest category.
CORPORATE AND TAX-EXEMPT COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
Moody's - Commercial Paper ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to
repay punctually promissory obligations not having an original maturity in
excess of nine months. Prime-1, indicates highest quality repayment capacity of
rated issue and Prime-2 indicates higher quality.
S&P - Commercial Paper ratings are a current assessment of the likelihood of
timely payment of debts having an original maturity of no more than 365 days.
Issues rated A have the greatest capacity for a timely payment and the
designation 1, 2 and 3 indicates the relative degree of safety. Issues rated
"A-1+" are those with an "overwhelming degree of credit protection."
Fitch - Commercial Paper ratings reflect current appraisal of the degree of
assurance of timely payment. F-1 issues are regarded as having the strongest
degree of assurance for timely payment. (+) is used to designate the relative
position of an issuer within the rating category. F-2 issues reflect an
assurance of timely payment only slightly less in degree than the strongest
issues. The symbol (LOC) may follow either category and indicates that a letter
of credit issued by a commercial bank is attached to the commercial paper note.
Other Considerations - The ratings of S&P, Moody's, and Fitch represent their
respective opinions of the quality of the municipal securities they undertake to
rate. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are not
absolute standards of quality. Consequently, municipal securities with the same
maturity, coupon and ratings may have different yields and municipal securities
of the same maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the same yield.
B-3
<PAGE>
JOHN HANCOCK HIGH YIELD BOND FUND
Class A, Class B and Class C Shares
Statement Of Additional Information
April 1, 1999
This Statement of Additional Information provides information about John Hancock
High Yield Bond Fund (the "Fund"), in addition to the information that is
contained in the combined Income Funds' Prospectus dated April 1, 1999 (the
"Prospectus"). The Fund is a diversified series of John Hancock Bond Trust (the
"Trust").
This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus. It should be read
in conjunction with the Prospectus, a copy of which can be obtained free of
charge by writing or telephoning:
John Hancock Signature Services Inc.
1 John Hancock Way, Suite 1000
Boston, Massachusetts 02217-1000
1-800-225-5291
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Organization of the Fund .................................................. 2
Investment Objective and Policies ......................................... 2
Investment Restrictions ................................................... 20
Those Responsible for Management .......................................... 22
Investment Advisory and Other Services .................................... 31
Distribution Contracts .................................................... 34
Sales Compensation ........................................................ 36
Net Asset Value ........................................................... 37
Initial Sales Charge on Class A Shares .................................... 38
Deferred Sales Charge on Class B and Class C Shares ....................... 41
Special Redemptions ....................................................... 45
Additional Services and Programs .......................................... 45
Description of the Fund's Shares .......................................... 47
Tax Status ................................................................ 48
Calculation of Performance ................................................ 53
Brokerage Allocation ...................................................... 55
Transfer Agent Services .................................................. 57
Custody of Portfolio ...................................................... 57
Independent Auditors ...................................................... 57
Appendix A- Description of Investment Risk ................................ A-1
Appendix B-Description of Bond Ratings .................................... B-1
Financial Statements ...................................................... F-1
1
<PAGE>
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUND
The Fund is a series of the Trust, an open-end investment management company
organized as a Massachusetts business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth
of Massachusetts. Prior to December 22, 1994, the Fund was called Transamerica
High Yield Bond Fund. Prior to August 30, 1996, the Fund was a series of John
Hancock Series, Inc., a Maryland corporation.
John Hancock Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") is the Fund's investment adviser.
The Adviser is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of John Hancock Mutual Life
Insurance Company (the "Life Company"), a Massachusetts life insurance company
chartered in 1862 ,with national headquarters at John Hancock Place, Boston,
Massachusetts.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The following information supplements the discussion of the Fund's investment
objective and policies discussed in the Prospectus. Appendix A contains further
information describing investment risks. The investment objective of the Fund is
non-fundamental. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment
objective.
The Fund's primary investment objective is to maximize current income without
assuming undue risk by investing in a diversified portfolio consisting primarily
of lower-rated, high yielding, fixed income securities, such as: domestic and
foreign corporate bonds; debentures and notes; convertible securities; preferred
stocks; and domestic and foreign government obligations. As a secondary
objective, the Fund seeks capital appreciation, but only when it is consistent
with the primary objective of maximizing current income. The Fund's investment
objectives may not be changed without 30 days' prior written notice to
shareholders.
Under normal market conditions, at least 65% of the Fund's total assets may be
invested in bonds or debentures rated "Baa" or lower by Moody's, or "BBB" or
lower by S&P; however, no more than 30% of the Fund's total assets may be
invested in securities that are rated as low as "CC" by S&P or "Ca" by Moody's.
Unrated securities will also be considered for investment by the Fund when the
Adviser believes that the issuer's financial condition, or the protection
afforded by the terms of the securities themselves, limits the risk to the Fund
to a degree comparable to that of rated securities consistent with the Fund's
objectives and policies.
The Fund's investments in debt securities may include zero coupon bonds and
payment-in-kind bonds. Zero coupon bonds are issued at a significant discount
from their principal amount in lieu of paying interest periodically.
Payment-in-kind bonds allow the issuer, at its option, to make current interest
payments on the bonds either in cash or in additional bonds. The market prices
of zero coupon and payment-in-kind bonds are affected to a greater extent by
interest rate changes, and thereby tend to be more volatile than securities
which pay interest periodically and in cash. The Fund accrues income on these
securities for tax and accounting purposes, and this income is required to be
distributed to shareholders. Because no cash is received at the time income
accrues on these securities, the Fund may be forced to liquidate other
investments to make distributions. At times when the Fund invests in zero-coupon
and payment-in-kind bonds, it will not be pursuing its primary objective of
maximizing current income.
2
<PAGE>
Although the Fund intends to maintain investment emphasis on debt securities of
domestic issuers, the Fund may invest without limitation in debt securities of
foreign issuers, including those issued by supranational entities such as the
World Bank. The Fund may also purchase debt securities issued in an any country
developed or undeveloped. Investments in securities of issuers in
non-industrialized countries generally involve more risk and may be considered
speculative. The Fund may also enter into forward foreign currency exchange
contracts for the purchase or sale of foreign currency for hedging purposes. The
risks of foreign investments should be carefully considered by investors.
Included among domestic debt securities eligible for purchase by the Fund are
adjustable and variable or floating rate securities, mortgage related securities
(including stripped securities, collateralized mortgage obligations and
multi-class pass-through securities), asset-backed securities and callable
bonds. Callable bonds have a provision permitting the issuer, at its option to
"call" or redeem the bonds. If an issuer were to redeem bonds held by the Fund
during a time of declining interest rates, the Fund might not be able to
reinvest the proceeds in bonds providing the same coupon return as the bonds
redeemed.
To the extent that the Fund does not invest in the securities described above,
the Fund may:
1. invest (for liquidity purposes ) in high quality, short-term debt
securities with remaining maturities of one year or less ("money market
instruments") including government obligations, certificates of deposit,
bankers' acceptances, short-term corporate debt securities, commercial paper and
related repurchase agreements;
2. invest up to 10% of its total assets in municipal obligations,
including municipal bonds issued at a discount, in circumstances where the
Adviser determines that investing in such obligations would facilitate the
Fund's ability to accomplish its investment objectives;
3. lend its portfolio securities, enter into repurchase agreements and
reverse repurchase agreements, purchase restricted and illiquid securities and
purchase securities on a when issued or forward commitment basis;
4. write (sell) covered call and put options and purchase call and put
options on debt securities and securities indices in an effort to increase
current income and for hedging purposes; and
5. purchase and sell interest rate futures contracts on debt securities
and securities index futures contracts, and write and purchase options on these
futures contracts for hedging purposes.
During periods of unusual market conditions when the Adviser believes that
investing for temporary defensive purposes is appropriate, part or all of the
assets of the Fund may be invested in cash or cash equivalents consisting of:
1. obligations of banks (including certificates of deposit, bankers'
acceptances and repurchase agreements ) with assets of $100,000,0000 or more;
2. commercial paper rated within the two highest rating categories of a
nationally recognized rating organization;
3. investment grade short-term notes;
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4. obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its
agencies or instrumentalities; and
5. related repurchase agreements.
Common Stock. The Fund may invest up to 20% of net assets in common stocks of
U.S. and foreign companies. Stock market movements may lower the value of the
Fund's investments in stocks. A company's stock price may also fluctuate
significantly in response to other factors such as disappointing earnings
reports, loss of major customers, litigation or changes in government
regulations affecting the company or its industry. The Fund can invest in
companies of any size including small-capitalization companies, whose stock
prices may be more volatile than those of larger companies.
Government Securities. The Fund may invest in U.S. Government securities, which
are obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government and its agencies,
authorities or instrumentalities. Certain U.S. Government securities, including
U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds, and Government National Mortgage
Association certificates ("Ginnie Maes"), are supported by the full faith and
credit of the United States. Certain other U.S. Government securities, issued or
guaranteed by Federal agencies or government sponsored enterprises, are not
supported by the full faith and credit of the United States, but may be
supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury. These
securities include obligations of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation
("Freddie Macs"), and obligations supported by the credit of the
instrumentality, such as Federal National Mortgage Association Bonds ("Fannie
Maes").
Custodial Receipts. The Fund may acquire custodial receipts for U.S. government
securities. Custodial receipts evidence ownership of future interest payments,
principal payments or both, and include Treasury Receipts, Treasury Investors
Growth Receipts ("TIGRs"), and Certificates of Accrual on Treasury Securities
("CATS"). Custodial receipts are not considered U.S. government securities.
Bank and Corporate Obligations. The Fund may invest in commercial paper.
Commercial paper represents short-term unsecured promissory notes issued in
bearer form by banks or bank holding companies, corporations and finance
companies. The commercial paper purchased by the Fund consists of direct U.S.
dollar denominated obligations of domestic or foreign issuers. Bank obligations
in which the Fund may invest include certificates of deposit, bankers'
acceptances and fixed time deposits. Certificates of deposit are negotiable
certificates issued against funds deposited in a commercial bank for a definite
period of time and earning a specified return.
Bankers' acceptances are negotiable drafts or bills of exchange, normally drawn
by an importer or exporter to pay for specific merchandise, which are "accepted"
by a bank, meaning, in effect, that the bank unconditionally agrees to pay the
face value of the instrument on maturity. Fixed time deposits are bank
obligations payable at a stated maturity date and bearing interest at a fixed
rate. Fixed time deposits may be withdrawn on demand by the investor, but may be
subject to early withdrawal penalties which vary depending upon market
conditions and the remaining maturity of the obligation. There are no
contractual restrictions on the right to transfer a beneficial interest in a
fixed time deposit to a third party, although there is no market for such
deposits. Bank notes and bankers' acceptances rank junior to domestic deposit
liabilities of the bank and pari passu with other senior, unsecured obligations
of the bank. Bank notes are not insured by the Federal Deposit
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Insurance Corporation or any other insurer. Deposit notes are insured by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation only to the extent of $100,000 per
depositor per bank.
Municipal Obligations. The Fund may invest in a variety of municipal obligations
which consist of municipal bonds, municipal notes and municipal commercial
paper.
Municipal Bonds. Municipal bonds are issued to obtain funds for various public
purposes including the construction of a wide range of public facilities such as
airports, highways, bridges, schools, hospitals, housing, mass transportation,
streets and water and sewer works. Other public purposes for which municipal
bonds may be issued include refunding outstanding obligations, obtaining funds
for general operating expenses and obtaining funds to lend to other public
institutions and facilities. In addition, certain types of industrial
development bonds are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to obtain
funds for many types of local, privately operated facilities. Such debt
instruments are considered municipal obligations if the interest paid on them is
exempt from federal income tax. The payment of principal and interest by issuers
of certain obligations purchased by the Fund may be guaranteed by a letter of
credit, note repurchase agreement, insurance or other credit facility agreement
offered by a bank or other financial institution. Such guarantees and the
creditworthiness of guarantors will be considered by the Adviser in determining
whether a municipal obligation meets the Fund's investment quality requirements.
No assurance can be given that a municipality or guarantor will be able to
satisfy the payment of principal or interest on a municipal obligation.
Municipal Notes. Municipal notes are short-term obligations of municipalities,
generally with a maturity ranging from six months to three years. The principal
types of such notes include tax, bond and revenue anticipation notes and project
notes.
Municipal Commercial Paper. Municipal commercial paper is a short-term
obligation of a municipality, generally issued at a discount with a maturity of
less than one year. Such paper is likely to be issued to meet seasonal working
capital needs of a municipality or interim construction financing. Municipal
commercial paper is backed in many cases by letters of credit, lending
agreements, note repurchase agreements or other credit facility agreements
offered by banks and other institutions.
Federal tax legislation enacted in the 1980s placed substantial new restrictions
on the issuance of the bonds described above and in some cases eliminated the
ability of state or local governments to issue municipal obligations for some of
the above purposes. Such restrictions do not affect the Federal income tax
treatment of municipal obligations in which the Fund may invest which were
issued prior to the effective dates of the provisions imposing such
restrictions. The effect of these restrictions may be to reduce the volume of
newly issued municipal obligations.
Issuers of municipal obligations are subject to the provisions of bankruptcy,
insolvency and other laws affecting the rights and remedies of creditors, such
as the Federal Bankruptcy Act, and laws, if any, which may be enacted by
Congress or state legislatures extending the time for payment of principal or
interest, or both, or imposing other constraints upon enforcement of such
obligations. There is also the possibility that as a result of litigation or
other conditions the power or ability of any one or more issuers to pay when due
the principal of and interest on their municipal obligations may be affected.
The yields of municipal bonds depend upon, among other things, general money
market conditions, general conditions of the municipal bond market, size of a
particular offering, the maturity of the
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obligation and rating of the issue. The ratings of S&P, Moody's and Fitch
Investors Service ("Fitch") represent their respective opinions on the quality
of the municipal bonds they undertake to rate. It should be emphasized, however,
that ratings are general and not absolute standards of quality. Consequently,
municipal bonds with the same maturity, coupon and rating may have different
yields and municipal bonds of the same maturity and coupon with different
ratings may have the same yield. See Appendix B for a description of ratings.
Many issuers of securities choose not to have their obligations rated. Although
unrated securities eligible for purchase by the Fund must be determined to be
comparable in quality to securities having certain specified ratings, the market
for unrated securities may not be as broad as for rated securities since many
investors rely on rating organizations for credit appraisal.
Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Fund may invest in mortgage pass-through
certificates and multiple-class pass-through securities, such as real estate
mortgage investment conduits REMIC, CMOs and stripped mortgage-backed securities
("SMBS"), and other types of "Mortgage-Backed Securities" that may be available
in the future.
Guaranteed Mortgage Pass-Through Securities. Guaranteed mortgage pass-through
securities represent participation interests in pools of residential mortgage
loans and are issued by U.S. Governmental or private lenders and guaranteed by
the U.S. Government or one of its agencies or instrumentalities, including but
not limited to Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae and Freddie Macs.
Multiple-Class Pass-Through Securities and Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
CMOs and REMIC pass-through or participation certificates may be issued by,
among others, U.S. Government agencies and instrumentalities as well as private
lenders. CMOs and REMIC certificates are issued in multiple classes and the
principal of and interest on the mortgage assets may be allocated among the
several classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates in various ways. Each class of
CMOs or REMIC certificates, often referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a
specific adjustable or fixed interest rate and must be fully retired no later
than its final distribution date. Generally, interest is paid or accrues on all
classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates on a monthly basis.
Typically, CMOs are collateralized by Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac
certificates but also may be collateralized by other mortgage assets such as
whole loans or private mortgage pass-through securities. Debt service on CMOs is
provided from payments of principal and interest on collateral of mortgaged
assets and any reinvestment income thereon.
A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment under the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and invests in certain mortgages
primarily secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments.
Investors may purchase "regular" or "residual" interests in REMICs, although the
Fund does not intend, absent a change in current tax law, to invest in residual
interests.
Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities. SMBS are derivative multiple-class
mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two classes that
receive different proportions of interest and principal distributions on a pool
of mortgage assets. A typical SMBS will have one class receiving some of the
interest and most of the principal, while the other class will receive most of
the interest and the remaining principal. In the most extreme case, one class
will receive all of the interest (the "interest only" class) while the other
class will receive all of the principal (the "principal only" class). The yields
and market risk of interest only and principal only SMBS, respectively, may be
more volatile than those of other fixed income securities. The staff of the SEC
considers privately issued SMBS to be illiquid.
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Structured or Hybrid Notes. The Fund may invest in "structured" or "hybrid"
notes. The distinguishing feature of a structured or hybrid note is that the
amount of interest and/or principal payable on the note is based on the
performance of a benchmark asset or market other than fixed income securities or
interest rates. Examples of these benchmarks include stock prices, currency
exchange rates and physical commodity prices. Investing in a structured note
allows the Fund to gain exposure to the benchmark market while fixing the
maximum loss that the Fund may experience in the event that market does not
perform as expected. Depending on the terms of the note, the Fund may forego all
or part of the interest and principal that would be payable on a comparable
conventional note; the Fund's loss cannot exceed this foregone interest and/or
principal. An investment in structured or hybrid notes involves risks similar to
those associated with a direct investment in the benchmark asset.
Participation Interests. The Fund may invest in participation interests.
Participation interests, which may take the form of interests in, or assignments
of certain loans, are acquired from banks who have made these loans or are
members of a lending syndicate. The Fund's investments in participation
interests may be subject to its 15% of total assets limitation on investments in
illiquid securities.
Risk Factors Associated with Mortgage-Backed Securities. Investing in
Mortgage-Backed Securities involves certain risks, including the failure of a
counter-party to meet its commitments, adverse interest rate changes and the
effects of prepayments on mortgage cash flows. In addition, investing in the
lowest tranche of CMOs and REMIC certificates involves risks similar to those
associated with investing in equity securities. Further, the yield
characteristics of Mortgage-Backed Securities differ from those of traditional
fixed income securities. The major differences typically include more frequent
interest and principal payments (usually monthly), the adjustability of interest
rates, and the possibility that prepayments of principal may be made
substantially earlier than their final distribution dates.
Prepayment rates are influenced by changes in current interest rates and a
variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors and cannot be
predicted with certainty. Both adjustable rate mortgage loans and fixed rate
mortgage loans may be subject to a greater rate of principal prepayments in a
declining interest rate environment and to a lesser rate of principal
prepayments in an increasing interest rate environment. Under certain interest
rate and prepayment rate scenarios, the Fund may fail to recoup fully its
investment in Mortgage-Backed Securities notwithstanding any direct or indirect
governmental, agency or other guarantee. When the Fund reinvests amounts
representing payments and unscheduled prepayments of principal, it may receive a
rate of interest that is lower than the rate on existing adjustable rate
mortgage pass-through securities. Thus, Mortgage-Backed Securities, and
adjustable rate mortgage pass-through securities in particular, may be less
effective than other types of U.S. Government securities as a means of "locking
in" interest rates.
Conversely, in a rising interest rate environment, a declining prepayment rate
will extend the average life of many Mortgage-Backed Securities. This
possibility is often referred to as extension risk. Extending the average life
of a Mortgage-Backed Security increases the risk of depreciation due to future
increases in market interest rates.
Risk Associated with Specific Types of Derivative Debt. Different types of
derivative debt securities are subject to different combinations of prepayment,
extension and/or interest rate risk. Conventional mortgage pass-through
securities and sequential pay CMOs are subject to all of these
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risks, but are typically not leveraged. Thus, the magnitude of exposure may be
less than for more leveraged Mortgage-Backed Securities.
The risk of early prepayments is the primary risk associated with interest only
debt securities ("IOs"), super floaters, other leveraged floating rate
instruments and Mortgage-Backed Securities purchased at a premium to their par
value. In some instances, early prepayments may result in a complete loss of
investment in certain of these securities. The primary risks associated with
certain other derivative debt securities are the potential extension of average
life and/or depreciation due to rising interest rates.
These securities include floating rate securities based on the Cost of Funds
Index ("COFI floaters"), other "lagging rate" floating rate securities, floating
rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate ("capped floaters"),
Mortgage-Backed Securities purchased at a discount, leveraged inverse floating
rate securities ("inverse floaters"), principal only debt securities ("POs"),
certain residual or support tranches of CMOs and index amortizing notes. Index
amortizing notes are not Mortgage-Backed Securities, but are subject to
extension risk resulting from the issuer's failure to exercise its option to
call or redeem the notes before their stated maturity date. Leveraged inverse
IOs combine several elements of the Mortgage-Backed Securities described above
and thus present an especially intense combination of prepayment, extension and
interest rate risks.
Planned amortization class ("PAC") and target amortization class ("TAC") CMO
bonds involve less exposure to prepayment, extension and interest rate risk than
other Mortgage-Backed Securities, provided that prepayment rates remain within
expected prepayment ranges or "collars." To the extent that prepayment rates
remain within these prepayment ranges, the residual or support tranches of PAC
and TAC CMOs assume the extra prepayment, extension and interest rate risk
associated with the underlying mortgage assets.
Other types of floating rate derivative debt securities present more complex
types of interest rate risks. For example, range floaters are subject to the
risk that the coupon will be reduced to below market rates if a designated
interest rate floats outside of a specified interest rate band or collar. Dual
index or yield curve floaters are subject to depreciation in the event of an
unfavorable change in the spread between two designated interest rates. X-reset
floaters have a coupon that remains fixed for more than one accrual period.
Thus, the type of risk involved in these securities depends on the terms of each
individual X-reset floater.
Convertible Securities. The Fund may invest in convertible securities.
Convertible securities may be converted at either a stated price or stated rate
into underlying shares of common stock of the same issuer. Convertible
securities have general characteristics similar to both fixed income and equity
securities. The market value of convertible securities declines as interest
rates increase, and increases as interest rates decline. In addition, because of
the conversion feature, the market value of convertible securities tends to vary
with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying common stocks and
therefore will also react to variations in the general market for equity
securities. A unique feature of convertible securities is that as the market
price of the underlying common stock declines, convertible securities tend to
trade increasingly on a yield basis, and consequently may not experience market
value declines to the same extent as the underlying common stock. When the
market price of the underlying common stock increases, the prices of the
convertible securities tend to rise as a reflection of the value of the
underlying common stock. While no securities investments are without risk,
investments in convertible securities generally entail less risk than
investments in common stock of the same issuer. However, the issuers of
convertible securities may default on their obligations.
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Mortgage "Dollar Roll" Transactions. The Fund may enter into mortgage "dollar
roll" transactions with selected banks and broker-dealers pursuant to which the
Fund sells Mortgage-Backed Securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase
substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified
future date. The Fund will only enter into covered rolls. A "covered roll" is a
specific type of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash position or a
cash equivalent security position which matures on or before the forward
settlement date of the dollar roll transaction. Covered rolls are not treated as
a borrowing or other senior security and will be excluded from the calculation
of the Fund's borrowing and other senior securities. For financial reporting and
tax purposes, the Fund treats mortgage dollar rolls as two separate
transactions; one involving the purchase of a security and a separate
transaction involving a sale. The Fund does not currently intend to enter into
mortgage rolls that are accounted for as financing.
Pay-In-Kind, Delayed and Zero Coupon Bonds. The Fund may invest in pay-in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon bonds. These are securities issued at a discount from
their face value because interest payments are typically postponed until
maturity. The amount of the discount rate varies depending on factors including
the time remaining until maturity, prevailing interest rates, the security's
liquidity and the issuer's credit quality. These securities also may take the
form of debt securities that have been stripped of their interest payments. A
portion of the discount with respect to stripped tax-exempt securities or their
coupons may be taxable. The market prices of pay-in-kind, delayed and zero
coupon bonds generally are more volatile than the market prices of
interest-bearing securities and are likely to respond to a greater degree to
changes in interest rates than interest-bearing securities having similar
maturities and credit quality. The Fund's investments in pay-in-kind, delayed
and zero coupon bonds may require the Fund to sell certain of its portfolio
securities to generate sufficient cash to satisfy certain income distribution
requirements. See "Tax Status." At times when the Fund invests in pay-in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon bonds, it will not be pursuing its primary objective of
maximizing current income.
Indexed Securities. The Fund may invest in indexed securities, including
floating rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate ("capped
floaters") and leveraged inverse floating rate securities ("inverse floaters")
(up to 10% of the Fund's total assets). The interest rate or, in some cases, the
principal payable at the maturity of an indexed security may change positively
or inversely in relation to one or more interest rates, financial indices or
other financial indicators ("reference prices"). An indexed security may be
leveraged to the extent that the magnitude of any change in the interest rate or
principal payable on an indexed security is a multiple of the change in the
reference price. Thus, indexed securities may decline in value due to adverse
market changes in interest rates or other reference prices.
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars. As one way of managing its exposure to
different types of investments, the Fund may enter into interest rate swaps and
other types of swap agreements such as caps, collars and floors. The Fund may
enter into currency swaps, caps, collars and floors. In a typical interest rate
swap, one party agrees to make regular payments equal to a floating interest
rate times a "notional principal amount," in return for payments equal to a
fixed rate times the same amount, for a specified period of time. If a swap
agreement provides for payment in different currencies, the parties might agree
to exchange the notional principal amount as well. Swaps may also depend on
other prices or rates, such as the value of an index or mortgage prepayment
rates.
In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only
under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the
other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to
receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate
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exceeds an agreed-upon level, while the seller of an interest rate floor is
obligated to make payment to the extent that a specified interest rate falls
below an agreed-upon level. An interest rate collar combines elements of buying
a cap and selling a floor.
Swap agreements will tend to shift the Fund's investment exposure from one type
of investment to another. For example, if the Fund agreed to exchange payments
in dollars for payments in a foreign currency, the swap agreement would tend to
decrease the Fund's exposure to U.S. interest rates and increase its exposure to
foreign currency and interest rates. Caps and floors have an effect similar to
buying or writing options. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may
increase or decrease the overall volatility of the Fund's investments and its
share price and yield.
Swap agreements are sophisticated hedging instruments that typically involve a
small investment of cash relative to the magnitude of risks assumed. As a
result, swaps can be highly volatile and may have a considerable impact on the
Fund's performance. Swap agreements are subject to risks related to the
counterparty's ability to perform, and may decline in value if the
counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates. The Fund may also suffer losses if
it is unable to terminate outstanding swap agreements or reduce its exposure
through offsetting transactions. The Fund will maintain in a segregated account
with its custodian, cash or liquid securities equal to the net amount, if any,
of the excess of the Fund's obligations over its entitlements with respect to
swap, cap, collar or floor transactions.
Asset-Backed Securities. The Fund may invest a portion of their assets in
asset-backed securities. Asset backed securities, like Ginnie Mae certificates,
are securities which represent a participation in or are secured by and payable
from, a stream of payments generated by particular assets, most often a pool of
assets similar to one another. Types of other asset backed securities include
automobile receivable securities, credit card receivable securities and mortgage
backed securities such as collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and real
estate mortgage investment conduits ("REMICs").
Asset-backed securities are often subject to more rapid repayment than their
stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of
prepayments of principal on the underlying loans. During periods of declining
interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be
expected to accelerate. Accordingly, the Fund's ability to maintain positions in
such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such
securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns
of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest
rates at that time.
Credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors on such
receivables are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal
consumer credit laws, many of which give such debtors the right to set-off
certain amounts owed on the credit cards, thereby reducing the balance due.
Automobile receivables generally are secured, but by automobiles rather than
residential real property. Most issuers of automobile receivables permit the
loan servicers to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the
servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that
the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the
asset-backed securities. In addition, because of the large number of vehicles
involved in a typical issuance and technical requirements under state laws, the
trustee for the holders of the automobile receivables may not have a proper
security interest in the underlying automobiles. Therefore, there is the
possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be
available to support payments on these securities.
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Lower Rated High Yield Debt Obligations. The Fund may invest in high yielding,
fixed income securities rated below investment grade (e.g., rated below Baa by
Moody's or below BBB by S&P), sometimes referred to as junk bonds. Ratings are
based largely on the historical financial condition of the issuer. Consequently,
the rating assigned to any particular security is not necessarily a reflection
of the issuer's current financial condition, which may be better or worse than
the rating would indicate.
See Appendix B to this Statement of Additional Information which describes the
characteristics of corporate bonds in the various rating categories. The Fund
may invest in comparable quality unrated securities which, in the opinion of the
Adviser, offer comparable yields and risks to those securities which are rated.
Debt obligations rated in the lower ratings categories, or which are unrated,
involve greater volatility of price and risk of loss of principal and income. In
addition, lower ratings reflect a greater possibility of an adverse change in
financial condition affecting the ability of the issuer to make payments of
interest and principal. The high yield fixed income market is relatively new and
its growth occurred during a period of economic expansion. The market has not
yet been fully tested by an economic recession.
The market price and liquidity of lower rated fixed income securities generally
respond to short term corporate and market developments to a greater extent than
do the price and liquidity of higher rated securities because such developments
are perceived to have a more direct relationship to the ability of an issuer of
such lower rated securities to meet its ongoing debt obligations.
Reduced volume and liquidity in the high yield bond market or the reduced
availability of market quotations will make it more difficult to dispose of the
bonds and to value accurately the Fund's assets. The reduced availability of
reliable, objective data may increase the Fund's reliance on management's
judgment in valuing high yield bonds. In addition, the Fund's investments in
high yield securities may be susceptible to adverse publicity and investor
perceptions, whether or not justified by fundamental factors. The Fund's
investments, and consequently its net asset value, will be subject to the market
fluctuations and risks inherent in all securities.
Ratings as Investment Criteria In general, the ratings of Moody's and S&P
represent the opinions of these agencies as to the quality of the securities
which they rate. It should be emphasized however, that ratings are relative and
subjective and are not absolute standards of quality. These rating will be used
by the Fund as initial criteria for the selection of portfolio securities. Among
the factors which will be considered are the long-term ability of the issuer to
pay principal and interest and general economic trends. Appendix B contains
further information concerning the rating of Moody's and S&P and their
significance. Subsequent to its purchase by the Fund, an issue of securities may
cease to be rated, or its rating may be reduced below the minimum required for
purchase by the Fund. Neither of these events will require the sale of the
securities by the Fund.
Subsequent to its purchase by the Fund, an issue of securities may cease to be
rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum required for purchase by
the Fund. Neither of these events will require the sale of the securities by the
Fund, but the Adviser will consider the event in its determination of whether
the Fund should continue to hold the securities.
Investments in Foreign Securities. The Fund may invest in securities of foreign
issuers, including debt and equity securities of corporate and governmental
issuers in countries with emerging economies or securities markets. The Fund may
also invest in American Depository Receipts
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("ADRs"), European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other securities convertible
into securities of foreign issuers. These securities may not necessarily be
denominated in the same currency as the securities into which they may be
converted but rather in the currency of the market in which they are traded.
ADRs are receipts typically issued by an American bank or trust company which
evidence ownership of underlying securities issued by a foreign corporation.
EDRs are receipts issued in Europe by banks or depositories which evidence a
similar ownership arrangement. Generally, ADRs, in registered form, are designed
for use in U.S. securities markets and EDRs, in bearer form, are designed for
use in European securities markets.
Foreign Currency Transactions. The Fund may engage in foreign currency
transactions. The foreign currency exchange transactions of the Fund may be
conducted on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate for purchasing or
selling currency prevailing in the foreign exchange market. The Fund may enter
into forward foreign currency exchange contracts involving currencies of the
different countries in which it may invest as a hedge against possible
variations in the foreign exchange rate between these currencies. Forward
contracts are agreements to purchase or sell a specified currency at a specified
future date and price set at the time of the contract. Transaction hedging is
the purchase or sale of forward foreign currency contracts with respect to
specific receivables or payables of the Fund accruing in connection with the
purchase and sale of its portfolio securities quoted or denominated in the same
or related foreign currencies. Portfolio hedging is the use of forward foreign
currency contracts to offset portfolio security positions denominated or quoted
in the same or related foreign currencies. The Fund's dealings in forward
foreign currency exchange contracts will be limited to hedging either specified
transactions or portfolio positions. The Fund will not attempt to hedge all of
its foreign portfolio positions.
If the Fund enters into a forward contract requiring it to purchase foreign
currency, its custodian bank will segregate cash or liquid securities, of any
type or maturity, in a separate account of the Fund in an amount necessary to
complete the forward contract. These assets will be valued at market daily and
if the value of the securities in the separate account declines, additional cash
or securities will be placed in the account so that the value of the account
will equal the amount of the Fund's commitment in purchased forward contracts.
Hedging against a decline in the value of currency does not eliminate
fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities or prevent losses if the
prices of these securities decline. These transactions also preclude the
opportunity for gain if the value of the hedged currency rises. Moreover, it may
not be possible for the Fund to hedge against a devaluation that is so generally
anticipated that the Fund is not able to contract to sell the currency at a
price above the devaluation level it anticipates.
The cost to the Fund of engaging in foreign currency exchange transactions
varies with factors such as the currency involved, the length of the contract
period and the prevailing market conditions. Since transactions in foreign
currency are usually conducted on a principal basis, no fees or commissions are
involved.
Risks of Foreign Securities. Investments in foreign securities may involve a
greater degree of risk than those in domestic securities. There is generally
less publicly available information about foreign companies in the form of
reports and ratings similar to those that are published about issuers in the
United States. Also, foreign issuers are generally not subject to uniform
accounting, auditing and financial reporting requirements comparable to those
applicable to United States issuers.
Because foreign securities may be denominated in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar, changes in foreign currency exchange rates will affect the Fund's net
asset value, the value of dividends and
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interest earned, gains and losses realized on the sale of securities, and any
net investment income and gains that the Fund distributes to shareholders.
Securities transactions undertaken in some foreign markets may not be settled
promptly, so that the Fund's investments on foreign exchanges may be less liquid
and subject to the risk of fluctuating currency exchange rates pending
settlement.
Foreign securities will be purchased in the best available market, whether
through over-the-counter markets or exchanges located in the countries where
principal offices of the issuers are located. Foreign securities markets are
generally not as developed or efficient as those in the United States. While
growing in volume, they usually have substantially less volume than the New York
Stock Exchange, and securities of some foreign issuers are less liquid and more
volatile than securities of comparable United States issuers. Fixed commissions
on foreign exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on United
States exchanges, although the Fund will endeavor to achieve the most favorable
net results on its portfolio transactions. There is generally less government
supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers and listed issuers
than in the United States.
With respect to certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of adverse
changes in investment or exchange control regulations, expropriation,
nationalization or confiscatory taxation, limitations on the removal of funds or
other assets of the Fund, political or social instability, or diplomatic
developments which could affect United States investments in those countries.
Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from
the United States economy in terms of growth of gross national product, rate of
inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of
payments position.
The dividends in some cases, capital gains, and interest payable on certain of
the Fund's foreign portfolio securities may be subject to foreign withholding or
other foreign taxes, thus reducing the net amount of income or gains available
for distribution to the Fund's shareholders.
Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements. In a
repurchase agreement the Fund buys a security for a relatively short period
(usually not more than 7 days) subject to the obligation to sell it back to the
issuer at a fixed time and price plus accrued interest. The Fund will enter into
repurchase agreements only with member banks of the Federal Reserve System and
with "primary dealers" in U.S. Government securities. The Adviser will
continuously monitor the creditworthiness of the parties with whom the Fund
enters into repurchase agreements.
The Fund has established a procedure providing that the securities serving as
collateral for each repurchase agreement must be delivered to the Fund's
custodian either physically or in book-entry form and that the collateral must
be marked to market daily to ensure that each repurchase agreement is fully
collateralized at all times. In the event of bankruptcy or other default by a
seller of a repurchase agreement, the Fund could experience delays in
liquidating the underlying securities during the period in which the Fund seeks
to enforce its rights thereto, possible subnormal levels of income, a decline in
value of the underlying securities or lack of access to income during this
period, and the expense of enforcing its rights.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may also enter into reverse repurchase
agreements which involve the sale of government securities held in its portfolio
to a bank with an agreement that the Fund will buy back the securities at a
fixed future date at a fixed price plus an agreed amount of "interest" which may
be reflected in the repurchase price. Reverse repurchase agreements are
considered to be borrowings by the Fund. Reverse repurchase agreements involve
the risk that the market value of securities purchased by the Fund with proceeds
of the transaction
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may decline below the repurchase price of the securities sold by the Fund which
it is obligated to repurchase. The Fund will also continue to be subject to the
risk of a decline in the market value of the securities sold under the
agreements because it will reacquire those securities upon effecting their
repurchase. To minimize various risks associated with reverse repurchase
agreements, the Fund will establish a separate account consisting of liquid
securities, of any type or maturity, in an amount at least equal to the
repurchase prices of the securities (plus any accrued interest thereon) under
such agreements. The Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements and
other borrowings exceeding in the aggregate more than 33 1/3% of the market
value of its total assets. The Fund will enter into reverse repurchase
agreements only with federally insured banks or savings and loan associations
which are approved in advance as being creditworthy by the Trustees. Under
procedures established by the Trustees, the Adviser will monitor the
creditworthiness of the banks involved.
Restricted Securities. The Fund may purchase securities that are not registered
("restricted securities") under the Securities Act of 1933 ("1933 Act"),
including commercial paper issued in reliance on section 4(2) of the 1933 Act
and securities offered and sold to "qualified institutional buyers" under Rule
144A under the 1933 Act. The Fund will not invest more than 15% of its net
assets in illiquid investments. If the Trustees determine, based upon a
continuing review of the trading markets for specific Section 4(2) paper or Rule
144A securities, that they are liquid, they will not be subject to the 15% limit
on illiquid investments. The Trustees may adopt guidelines and delegate to the
Adviser the daily function of determining and monitoring the liquidity of
restricted securities. The Trustees, however, will retain sufficient oversight
and be ultimately responsible for the determinations. The Trustees will
carefully monitor the Fund's investments in these securities, focusing on such
important factors, among others, as valuation, liquidity and availability of
information. This investment practice could have the effect of increasing the
level of illiquidity in the Fund if qualified institutional buyers become for a
time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities.
Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Currency. The Fund may purchase
and write (sell) call and put options on any securities in which it may invest,
on any securities index based on securities in which it may invest or on any
currency in which Fund investments may be denominated. These options may be
listed on national domestic securities exchanges or foreign securities exchanges
or traded in the over-the-counter market. The Fund may write covered put and
call options and purchase put and call options to enhance total return, as a
substitute for the purchase or sale of securities or currency, or to protect
against declines in the value of portfolio securities and against increases in
the cost of securities to be acquired.
Writing Covered Options. A call option on securities or currency written by the
Fund obligates the Fund to sell specified securities or currency to the holder
of the option at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before
the expiration date. A put option on securities or currency written by the Fund
obligates the Fund to purchase specified securities or currency from the option
holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the
expiration date. Options on securities indices are similar to options on
securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash
settlement payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of
securities. In addition, securities index options are designed to reflect price
fluctuations in a group of securities or segment of the securities market rather
than price fluctuations in a single security. Writing covered call options may
deprive the Fund of the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market
price of the securities or foreign currency assets in its portfolio. Writing
covered put options may deprive the Fund of the opportunity to profit from a
decrease in the market price of the securities or foreign currency assets to be
acquired for its portfolio.
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All call and put options written by the Fund are covered. A written call option
or put option may be covered by (i) maintaining cash or liquid securities,
either of which may be quoted or denominated in any currency, in a segregated
account with a value at least equal to the Fund's obligation under the option,
(ii) entering into an offsetting forward commitment and/or (iii) purchasing an
offsetting option or any other option which, by virtue of its exercise price or
otherwise, reduces the Fund's net exposure on its written option position. A
written call option on securities is typically covered by maintaining the
securities that are subject to the option in a segregated account. The Fund may
cover call options on a securities index by owning securities whose price
changes are expected to be similar to those of the underlying index.
The Fund may terminate its obligations under an exchange traded call or put
option by purchasing an option identical to the one it has written. Obligations
under over-the-counter options may be terminated only by entering into an
offsetting transaction with the counterparty to such option. Such purchases are
referred to as "closing purchase transactions."
Purchasing Options. The Fund would normally purchase call options in
anticipation of an increase, or put options in anticipation of a decrease
("protective puts"), in the market value of securities or currencies of the type
in which it may invest. The Fund may also sell call and put options to close out
its purchased options.
The purchase of a call option would entitle the Fund, in return for the premium
paid, to purchase specified securities or currency at a specified price during
the option period. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain on the purchase of a
call option if, during the option period, the value of such securities or
currency exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and
transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on
the purchase of the call option.
The purchase of a put option would entitle the Fund, in exchange for the premium
paid, to sell specified securities or currency at a specified price during the
option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed to offset or hedge
against a decline in the market value of the Fund's portfolio securities or the
currencies in which they are denominated. Put options may also be purchased by
the Fund for the purpose of affirmatively benefiting from a decline in the price
of securities or currencies which it does not own. The Fund would ordinarily
realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying
securities or currency decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to cover
the premium and transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no
gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the
purchase of put options may be offset by countervailing changes in the value of
the Fund's portfolio securities.
The Fund's options transactions will be subject to limitations established by
each of the exchanges, boards of trade or other trading facilities on which such
options are traded. These limitations govern the maximum number of options in
each class which may be written or purchased by a single investor or group of
investors acting in concert, regardless of whether the options are written or
purchased on the same or different exchanges, boards of trade or other trading
facilities or are held or written in one or more accounts or through one or more
brokers. Thus, the number of options which the Fund may write or purchase may be
affected by options written or purchased by other investment advisory clients of
the Adviser. An exchange, board of trade or other trading facility may order the
liquidation of positions found to be in excess of these limits, and it may
impose certain other sanctions.
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Risks Associated with Options Transactions. There is no assurance that a liquid
secondary market on a domestic or foreign options exchange will exist for any
particular exchange-traded option or at any particular time. If the Fund is
unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to covered options
it has written, the Fund will not be able to sell the underlying securities or
currencies or dispose of assets held in a segregated account until the options
expire or are exercised. Similarly, if the Fund is unable to effect a closing
sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it would have to
exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction
costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities or currencies.
Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the
following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain 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
options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal
operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or the Options
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 options
(or a particular class or series of options). If trading were discontinued, the
secondary market on that exchange (or in that class or series of options) would
cease to exist. However, outstanding options on that exchange that had been
issued by the Options Clearing Corporation as a result of trades on that
exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
The Fund's ability to terminate over-the-counter options is more limited than
with exchange-traded options and may involve the risk that broker-dealers
participating in such transactions will not fulfill their obligations. The
Adviser will determine the liquidity of each over-the-counter option in
accordance with guidelines adopted by the Trustees.
The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which
involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with
ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The successful use of options
depends in part on the Adviser's ability to predict future price fluctuations
and, for hedging transactions, the degree of correlation between the options and
securities or currency markets.
Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. To seek to increase total
return or hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency
exchange rates, the Fund may purchase and sell various kinds of futures
contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on these futures
contracts. The Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions
with respect to any of these contracts and options. The futures contracts may be
based on various securities (such as U.S. Government securities), securities
indices, foreign currencies and any other financial instruments and indices. All
futures contracts entered into by the Fund are traded on U.S. or foreign
exchanges or boards of trade that are licensed, regulated or approved by the
Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC").
Futures Contracts. A futures contract may generally be described as an agreement
between two parties to buy and sell particular financial instruments or
currencies for an agreed price during a designated month (or to deliver the
final cash settlement price, in the case of a contract relating to an index or
otherwise not calling for physical delivery at the end of trading in the
contract).
Positions taken in the futures markets are not normally held to maturity but are
instead liquidated through offsetting transactions which may result in a profit
or a loss. While futures contracts on
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securities or currency will usually be liquidated in this manner, the Fund may
instead make, or take, delivery of the underlying securities or currency
whenever it appears economically advantageous to do so. A clearing corporation
associated with the exchange on which futures contracts are traded guarantees
that, if still open, the sale or purchase will be performed on the settlement
date.
Hedging and Other Strategies. Hedging is an attempt to establish with more
certainty than would otherwise be possible the effective price or rate of return
on portfolio securities or securities that a Fund proposes to acquire or the
exchange rate of currencies in which portfolio securities are quoted or
denominated. When interest rates are rising or securities prices are falling,
the Fund can seek to offset a decline in the value of its current portfolio
securities through the sale of futures contracts. When interest rates are
falling or securities prices are rising, the Fund, through the purchase of
futures contracts, can attempt to secure better rates or prices than might later
be available in the market when it effects anticipated purchases. The Fund may
seek to offset anticipated changes in the value of a currency in which its
portfolio securities, or securities that it intends to purchase, are quoted or
denominated by purchasing and selling futures contracts on such currencies.
The Fund may, for example, take a "short" position in the futures market by
selling futures contracts in an attempt to hedge against an anticipated rise in
interest rates or a decline in market prices or foreign currency rates that
would adversely affect the dollar value of the Fund's portfolio securities. Such
futures contracts may include contracts for the future delivery of securities
held by the Fund or securities with characteristics similar to those of the
Fund's portfolio securities. Similarly, the Fund may sell futures contracts on
any currencies in which its portfolio securities are quoted or denominated or in
one currency to hedge against fluctuations in the value of securities
denominated in a different currency if there is an established historical
pattern of correlation between the two currencies.
If, in the opinion of the Adviser, there is a sufficient degree of correlation
between price trends for the Fund's portfolio securities and futures contracts
based on other financial instruments, securities indices or other indices, the
Fund may also enter into such futures contracts as part of its hedging strategy.
Although under some circumstances prices of securities in the Fund's portfolio
may be more or less volatile than prices of such futures contracts, the Adviser
will attempt to estimate the extent of this volatility difference based on
historical patterns and compensate for any differential by having the Fund enter
into a greater or lesser number of futures contracts or by attempting to achieve
only a partial hedge against price changes affecting the Fund's portfolio
securities.
When a short hedging position is successful, any depreciation in the value of
portfolio securities will be substantially offset by appreciation in the value
of the futures position. On the other hand, any unanticipated appreciation in
the value of the Fund's portfolio securities would be substantially offset by a
decline in the value of the futures position.
On other occasions, the Fund may take a "long" position by purchasing futures
contracts. This would be done, for example, when the Fund anticipates the
subsequent purchase of particular securities when it has the necessary cash, but
expects the prices or currency exchange rates then available in the applicable
market to be less favorable than prices that are currently available. The Fund
may also purchase futures contracts as a substitute for transactions in
securities or foreign currency, to alter the investment characteristics of or
currency exposure associated with portfolio securities or to gain or increase
its exposure to a particular securities market or currency.
Options on Futures Contracts. The Fund may purchase and write options on futures
for the same purposes as its transactions in futures contracts. The purchase of
put and call options on futures
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contracts will give the Fund the right (but not the obligation) for a specified
price to sell or to purchase, respectively, the underlying futures contract at
any time during the option period. As the purchaser of an option on a futures
contract, the Fund obtains the benefit of the futures position if prices move in
a favorable direction but limits its risk of loss in the event of an unfavorable
price movement to the loss of the premium and transaction costs.
The writing of a call option on a futures contract generates a premium which may
partially offset a decline in the value of the Fund's assets. By writing a call
option, the Fund becomes obligated, in exchange for the premium (upon exercise
of the option) to sell a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may
have a value higher than the exercise price. Conversely, the writing of a put
option on a futures contract generates a premium which may partially offset an
increase in the price of securities that the Fund intends to purchase. However,
the Fund becomes obligated (upon exercise of the option) to purchase a futures
contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value lower than the
exercise price. The loss incurred by a Fund in writing options on futures is
potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received.
The holder or writer of an option on a futures contract may terminate its
position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option of the same series. There
is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected. The Fund's
ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to
the development and maintenance of a liquid market.
Other Considerations. The Fund will engage in futures and related options
transactions either for bona fide hedging purposes or to seek to increase total
return as permitted by the CFTC. To the extent that the Fund is using futures
and related options for hedging purposes, futures contracts will be sold to
protect against a decline in the price of securities (or the currency in which
they are quoted or denominated) that the Fund owns or futures contracts will be
purchased to protect the Fund against an increase in the price of securities or
the currency in which they are quoted or denominated) it intends to purchase.
The Fund will determine that the price fluctuations in the futures contracts and
options on futures used for hedging purposes are substantially related to price
fluctuations in securities held by the Fund or securities or instruments which
it expects to purchase. As evidence of its hedging intent, the Fund expects that
on 75% or more of the occasions on which it takes a long futures or option
position (involving the purchase of futures contracts), the Fund will have
purchased, or will be in the process of purchasing, equivalent amounts of
related securities or assets of the Fund denominated in the related currency in
the cash market at the time when the futures or option position is closed out.
However, in particular cases, when it is economically advantageous for the Fund
to do so, a long futures position may be terminated or an option may expire
without the corresponding purchase of securities or other assets.
To the extent that the Fund engages in nonhedging transactions in futures
contracts and options on futures, the aggregate initial margin and premiums
required to establish these nonhedging positions will not exceed 5% of the net
asset value of the Fund's portfolio, after taking into account unrealized
profits and losses on any such positions and excluding the amount by which such
options were in-the-money at the time of purchase.
Transactions in futures contracts and options on futures involve brokerage
costs, require margin deposits and, in the case of contracts and options
obligating the Fund to purchase securities or currencies, require the Fund to
establish a segregated account consisting of cash or liquid securities in an
amount equal to the underlying value of such contracts and options.
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While transactions in futures contracts and options on futures may reduce
certain risks, these transactions themselves entail certain other risks. For
example, unanticipated changes in interest rates or securities prices or
currency exchange rates may result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund
than if it had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions.
Perfect correlation between the Fund's futures positions and portfolio positions
will be impossible to achieve. In the event of an imperfect correlation between
a futures position and a portfolio position which is intended to be protected,
the desired protection may not be obtained and the Fund may be exposed to risk
of loss. In addition, it is not possible to hedge fully or protect against
currency fluctuations affecting the value of securities denominated in foreign
currencies because the value of such securities is likely to fluctuate as a
result of independent factors not related to currency fluctuations.
Some futures contracts or options on futures may become illiquid under adverse
market conditions. In addition, during periods of market volatility, a commodity
exchange may suspend or limit trading in a futures contract or related option,
which may make the instrument temporarily illiquid and difficult to price.
Commodity exchanges may also establish daily limits on the amount that the price
of a futures contract or related option can vary from the previous day's
settlement price. Once the daily limit is reached, no trades may be made that
day at a price beyond the limit. This may prevent the Fund from closing out
positions and limiting its losses.
Lending of Securities. The Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers,
dealers, and financial institutions if the loan is collateralized by cash or
U.S. Government securities according to applicable regulatory requirements. The
Fund may reinvest any cash collateral in short-term securities and money markets
funds. When the Fund lends portfolio securities, there is a risk that the
borrower may fail to return the securities involved in the transaction. As a
result, the Fund may incur a loss or, in the event of the borrower's bankruptcy,
the Fund may be delayed in or prevented from liquidating the collateral. It is a
fundamental policy of the Fund not to lend portfolio securities having a total
value exceeding 30% of its total assets.
Rights and Warrants. The Fund may purchase warrants and rights which are
securities permitting, but not obligating, their holder to purchase the
underlying securities at a predetermined price subject to the Fund's Fundamental
Investment Restriction. Generally, warrants and stock purchase rights do not
carry with them the right to receive dividends or exercise voting rights with
respect to the underlying securities, and they do not represent any rights in
the assets of the issuer. As a result, an investment in warrants and rights may
be considered to entail greater investment risk than certain other types of
investments. In addition, the value of warrant and rights does not necessarily
change with the value of the underlying securities, and they cease to have value
if they are not exercised on or prior to their expiration date. Investment in
warrants and rights increases the potential profit or loss to be realized from
the investment of a given amount of the Fund's assets as compared with investing
the same amount in the underlying stock.
Forward Commitment and When-Issued Securities. The Fund may purchase securities
on a when-issued or forward commitment basis. "When-issued" refers to securities
whose terms are available and for which a market exists, but which have not been
issued. The Fund will engage in when-issued transactions with respect to
securities purchased for its portfolio in order to obtain what is considered to
be an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. For
when-issued transactions, no payment is made until delivery is due, often a
month or more after the purchase. In a forward commitment transaction, the Fund
contracts to purchase securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond
customary settlement time.
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When the Fund engages in forward commitment and when-issued transactions, it
relies on the seller to consummate the transaction. The failure of the issuer or
seller to consummate the transaction may result in the Fund losing the
opportunity to obtain a price and yield considered to be advantageous. The
purchase of securities on a when-issued and forward commitment basis also
involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines
prior to the settlement date.
On the date the Fund enters into an agreement to purchase securities on a
when-issued or forward commitment basis, the Fund will segregate in a separate
account cash or liquid securities, of any type or maturity, equal in value to
the Fund's commitment. These assets will be valued daily at market, and
additional cash or securities will be segregated in a separate account to the
extent that the total value of the assets in the account declines below the
amount of the when-issued commitments. Alternatively, the Fund may enter into
offsetting contracts for the forward sale of other securities that it owns.
Short-Term Trading and Portfolio Turnover. Short-term trading means the purchase
and subsequent sale of a security after it has been held for a relatively brief
period of time. The Fund may engage in short-term trading in response to stock
market conditions, changes in interest rates or other economic trends and
developments, or to take advantage of yield disparities between various fixed
income securities in order to realize capital gains or improve income.
Short-term trading may have the effect of increasing portfolio turnover rate. A
high rate of portfolio turnover (100% or greater) involves correspondingly
greater brokerage transaction expenses and may make it more difficult for the
Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company for federal income tax
purposes. The Fund's portfolio turnover rate is set forth in the table under the
caption "Financial Highlights" in the Prospectus.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions will
not be changed without the approval of a majority of the Fund's outstanding
voting securities which, as used in the Prospectus and this Statement of
Additional Information, means the approval by the lesser of (1) the holders of
67% or more of the Fund's shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of
the Fund's outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at that meeting
or (2) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares.
The Fund may not:
1. Borrow money, except: (i) for temporary or short-term purposes or for the
clearance of transactions in amounts not to exceed 33 1/3% of the value
of the fund's total assets (including the amount borrowed) taken at
market value; (ii) in connection with the redemption of fund shares or to
finance failed settlements of portfolio trades without immediately
liquidating portfolio securities or other assets, (iii) in order to
fulfill commitments or plans to purchase additional securities pending
the anticipated sale of other portfolio securities or assets; (iv) in
connection with entering into reverse repurchase agreements and dollar
rolls, but only if after each such borrowing there is asset coverage of
at least 300% as defined in the 1940 Act; and (v) as otherwise permitted
under the 1940 Act. For purposes of this investment restriction, the
deferral of trustees' fees and transactions in short sales, futures
contracts, options on futures contracts, securities or indices and
forward commitment transactions shall not constitute borrowing.
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2. Act as an underwriter, except to the extent that in connection with the
disposition of portfolio securities, the Fund may be deemed to be an
underwriter for purposes of the Securities Act of 1933.
3. Purchase, sell or invest in real estate, but subject to its other
investment policies and restrictions may invest in securities of
companies that deal in real estate or are engaged in the real estate
business. These companies include real estate investment trusts and
securities secured by real estate or interests in real estate. The fund
may hold and sell real estate acquired through default, liquidation or
other distributions of an interest in real estate as a result of the
fund's ownership of securities.
4. Invest in commodities or commodity futures contracts, except for
transactions in financial derivative contracts, such as forward currency
contracts; financial futures contracts and options on financial futures
contracts; options on securities, currencies and financial indices; and
swaps, caps, floors, collars and swaptions.
5. Make loans, except that the fund (1) may lend portfolio securities in
accordance with the fund's investment policies up to 33 1/3% of the
fund's total assets taken at market value, (2) enter into repurchase
agreements, and (3) purchase all or a portion of an issue of publicly
distributed debt securities, bank loan participation interests, bank
certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, debentures or other
securities, whether or not the purchase is made upon the original
issuance of the securities.
6. With respect to 75% of the fund's total assets, the fund may not invest
more than 5% of the fund's total assets in the securities of any single
issuer or own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any
one issuer, in each case other than (i) securities issued or guaranteed by
the U.S. Government, its agencies or its instrumentalities or (ii)
securities of other investment companies.
7. Issue senior securities, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act.
8. Purchase the securities of issuers conducting their principal activity in
the same industry if, immediately after such purchase, the value of its
investments in such industry would equal or exceed 25% of its total assets
taken at market value at the time of such purchase, except that (i) the
fund may invest up to 40% of the value of its total assets in the
securities of issuers engaged in the electric utility and telephone
industries and (ii) this limitation does not apply to investments in
obligations of the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or
instrumentalities. The fund may not concentrate its investments in the
securities of issuers engaged in the electric utility industry or the
telephone industry unless yields available for four consecutive weeks in
the four highest rating categories on new issue bonds in either industry
(issue size of $50 million or more) have averaged greater than the yields
of new issue long-term industrial bonds similarly rated (issue size of $50
million or more) and, in the opinion the adviser, the relative return
available from the electric utility or telephone industry and the relative
risk, marketability, quality and availability of securities of this
industry justifies such an investment.
Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions
are designated as non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees without
shareholder approval.
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1. Purchase a security if, as a result, (i) more than 10% of the fund's
total assets would be invested in the securities of other investment
companies, (ii) the fund would hold more than 3% of the total outstanding
voting securities of any one investment company, or (iii) more than 5% of
the Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of any one
investment company. These limitations do not apply to (a) the investment
of cash collateral, received by the fund in connection with lending of
the fund's portfolio securities, in the securities of open-end investment
companies or (b) the purchase of shares of any investment company in
connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization or purchase of
substantially all of the assets of another investment company. Subject
to the above percentage limitations, the fund may, in connection with the
John Hancock Group of Funds Deferred Compensation Plan for Independent
Trustees/Directors, purchase securities of other investment companies
within the John Hancock Group of Funds.
2. Invest in the securities of an issuer for the purpose of exercising
control or management, but it may do so where it is deemed advisable to
protect or enhance the value of an existing investment.
3. Purchase securities on margin.
4. Invest more than 15% of its net assets in securities which are illiquid.
THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGEMENT
The business of the Fund is managed by its Trustees who elect officers who are
responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Fund and who execute policies
formulated by the Trustees. Several of the officers and Trustees of the Fund are
also Officers and Directors of the Adviser or Officers and Directors of the
Fund's principal distributor, John Hancock Funds, Inc. ("John Hancock Funds").
22
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Edward J. Boudreau, Jr. * Trustee, Chairman and Chairman, Director and
101 Huntington Avenue Chief Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer,
Boston, MA 02199 (1, 2) the Adviser; Chairman,
October 1944 Director and Chief
Executive Officer, The
Berkeley Financial Group,
Inc. ("The Berkeley
Group"); Chairman and
Director, NM Capital
Management, Inc. ("NM
Capital"), John Hancock
Advisers International
Limited ("Advisers
International") and
Sovereign Asset Management
Corporation ("SAMCorp");
Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer, John
Hancock Funds, Inc. ("John
Hancock Funds"); Chairman,
First Signature Bank and
Trust Company; Director,
John Hancock Insurance
Agency, Inc. ("Insurance
Agency, Inc."), John
Hancock Advisers
International (Ireland)
Limited ("International
Ireland"), John Hancock
Capital Corporation and
New England/Canada
Business Council; Member,
Investment Company
Institute Board of
Governors; Director, Asia
Strategic Growth Fund,
Inc.; Trustee, Museum of
Science; Director, John
Hancock Freedom Securities
Corporation (until
September 1996); Director,
John Hancock Signature
Services, Inc. ("Signature
Services") (until January
1997).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
23
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Stephen L. Brown* Trustee Chairman and Chief
John Hancock Place Executive Officer, John
P.O. Box 111 Hancock Life Insurance
Boston, MA 02117 Company; Director, the
July 1937 Adviser; Trustee, The
Berkeley Group.
James F. Carlin Trustee Chairman and CEO, Carlin
233 West Central Street Consolidated, Inc.
Natick, MA 01760 (management/investments);
April 1940 Director, Arbella Mutual
Insurance Company
(insurance), Health Plan
Services, Inc.,
Massachusetts Health and
Education Tax Exempt
Trust, Flagship
Healthcare, Inc., Carlin
Insurance Agency, Inc.,
West Insurance Agency,
Inc. (until May 1995), Uno
Restaurant Corp.;
Chairman, Massachusetts
Board of Higher Education
(since 1995).
William H. Cunningham Trustee Chancellor, University
601 Colorado Street of Texas System and
O'Henry Hall former President of the
Austin, TX 78701 University of Texas,
January 1944 Austin, Texas; Lee Hage
and Joseph D. Jamail
Regents Chair of Free
Enterprise; Director,
LaQuinta Motor Inns, Inc.
(hotel management
company); Director,
Jefferson-Pilot
Corporation (diversified
life insurance company)
and LBJ Foundation Board
(education foundation);
Advisory Director, Texas
Commerce Bank - Austin.
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
24
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Ronald R. Dion Trustee President and Chief
250 Boylston Street Executive Officer, R.M.
Boston, MA 02116 Bradley & Co., Inc.;
March 1946 Director, The New
England Council and
Massachusetts Roundtable;
Trustee, North Shore
Medical Center and a
corporator of the Eastern
Bank; Trustee, Emmanuel
College.
Harold R. Hiser, Jr. Trustee Executive Vice
123 Highland Avenue President,
Short Hill, NJ 07078 Schering-Plough
October 1931 Corporation
(pharmaceuticals)
(retired 1996).
Anne C. Hodsdon * Trustee and President President, Chief
101 Huntington Avenue (1,2) Operating Officer and
Boston, MA 02199 Director, the Adviser,
August 1953 The Berkeley Group;
Executive Vice President
and Director, John
Hancock Funds; Director,
Advisers International,
Insurance Agency, Inc.
and International
Ireland; President and
Director, SAMCorp. and
NM Capital; Executive
Vice President, the
Adviser (until December
1994); Director,
Signature Services
(until January 1997).
Charles L. Ladner Trustee Senior Vice President
UGI Corporation and Chief Financial
P.O. Box 858 Officer, UGI Corporation
Valley Forge, PA 19482 (Public Utility Holding
February 1938 Company); Vice President
and Director for
AmeriGas, Inc.;
Director, EnergyNorth,
Inc. (until 1992).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
25
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Leo E. Linbeck, Jr. Trustee Chairman, President,
3810 W. Alabama Chief Executive Officer
Houston, TX 77027 and Director, Linbeck
August 1934 Corporation (a holding
company engaged in various
phases of the construction
industry and warehousing
interests); Former
Chairman, Federal Reserve
Bank of Dallas (1992,
1993); Chairman of the
Board, Linbeck
Construction Corporation;
Director, Duke Energy
Corporation (a diversified
energy company), Daniel
Industries, Inc.
(manufacturer of gas
measuring products and
energy related equipment),
GeoQuest International
Holdings, Inc. (a
geophysical consulting
firm); Director, Greater
Houston Partnership.
Steven R. Pruchansky Trustee (1) Director and President,
4327 Enterprise Avenue Mast Holdings, Inc.
Naples, FL 34104 (since 1991); Director,
August 1944 First Signature Bank &
Trust Company (until
August 1991); Director,
Mast Realty Trust (until
1994); President,
Maxwell Building Corp.
(until 1991).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
26
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Richard S. Scipione * Trustee (1) General Counsel, John
John Hancock Place Hancock Life Company;
P.O. Box 111 Director, the Adviser,
Boston, MA 02117 Advisers International,
August 1937 John Hancock Funds,
Signator Investors,
Inc., Insurance Agency,
Inc., John Hancock
Subsidiaries, Inc.,
SAMCorp. and NM Capital;
Director, The Berkeley
Group; Director, JH
Networking Insurance
Agency, Inc.; Director,
Signature Services
(until January 1997).
Norman H. Smith Trustee Lieutenant General,
243 Mt. Oriole Lane United States Marine
Linden, VA 22642 Corps; Deputy Chief of
March 1933 Staff for Manpower and
Reserve Affairs,
Headquarters Marine Corps;
Commanding General III
Marine Expeditionary
Force/3rd Marine Division
(retired 1991).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
27
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
John P. Toolan Trustee Director, The Smith
13 Chadwell Place Barney Muni Bond Funds,
Morristown, NJ 07960 The Smith Barney Tax-Free
September 1930 Money Funds, Inc.,
Vantage Money Market Funds
(mutual funds), The
Inefficient-Market Fund,
Inc. (closed-end investment
company) and Smith Barney
Trust Company of Florida;
Chairman, Smith Barney
Trust Company (retired
December, 1991); Director,
Smith Barney, Inc., Mutual
Management Company and
Smith Barney Advisers, Inc.
(investment advisers)
(retired 1991); Senior
Executive Vice President,
Director and member of the
Executive Committee, Smith
Barney, Harris Upham & Co.,
Incorporated (investment
bankers) (until 1991).
Osbert M. Hood Senior Vice President Senior Vice President ,
101 Huntington Avenue and Chief Financial Chief Financial Officer
Boston, MA 02199 Officer and Treasurer, the
August 1952 Adviser, the Berkeley
Group and John Hancock
Funds, Inc.; Vice President
and Chief Financial
Officer, John Hancock
Mutual Life Insurance
Company Retail Sector
(until 1997).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
28
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
John A. Morin Vice President Vice President and
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary, the Adviser,
Boston, MA 02199 The Berkeley Group,
July 1950 Signature Services, John
Hancock Funds, NM Capital
and SAMCorp.; Clerk,
Insurance Agency, Inc.;
Counsel, John Hancock
Mutual Life Insurance
Company (until February
1996), and Vice President
of John Hancock
Distributors, Inc. (until
April 1994).
Susan S. Newton Vice President and Vice President, the
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary Adviser; John Hancock
Boston, MA 02199 Funds, Signature
March 1950 Services and The
Berkeley Group; Vice
President, John Hancock
Distributors, Inc.
(until April 1994).
James J. Stokowski Vice President, Treasurer Vice President, the
101 Huntington Avenue and Chief Accounting Adviser.
Boston, MA 02199 Officer
November 1946
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
29
<PAGE>
All of the officers listed are officers or employees of the Adviser or
affiliated companies. Some of the Trustees and officers may also be officers
and/or Directors and/or Trustees of one or more of the other funds for which the
Adviser serves as investment adviser.
As of January 6, 1999 the officers and Trustees of the Fund as a group
beneficially owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. As of
that date, the following shareholders were the only record holders that
beneficially owned 5% or more of the outstanding shares of the Fund:
Percentage of Total
Name and Outstanding Shares
Address of Shareholder Class of Shares Of the Class of the Fund
- ---------------------- --------------- ------------------------
MLPF&S For The Sole Benefit of A 9.99%
Its Customers
Attn: Fund Administration 97BY3
4800 Deerlake Drive East 2nd Floor
Jacksonville FL 32246-6484
MLPFS For The Sole Benefit of B 25.59%
Its Customers
Attn: Fund Administration 973R9
4800 Deerlake Drive East 2nd Floor
Jacksonville FL 32246-6484
MLPFS For The Sole Benefit of C 28.77%
Its Customers
Attn: Fund Administration
4800 Deerlake Drive East 2nd Floor
Jacksonville FL 32246-6484
The following tables provide information regarding the compensation paid by the
Fund and the other investment companies in the John Hancock Fund Complex to the
Independent Trustees for their services for the Fund's most recently completed
fiscal year. Messrs. Boudreau and Scipione and Ms. Hodsdon, each a
non-Independent Trustee, and each of the officers of the Fund are interested
persons of the Adviser, are compensated by the Adviser and/or its affiliates and
receive no compensation from the Fund for their services.
30
<PAGE>
Total Compensation from
Aggregate Compensation all Funds in John Hancock
Trustees from the Fund (1) Fund Complex to Trustees(2)
- -------- ----------------- ---------------------------
James F. Carlin $ 5,557 $ 74,000
William H. Cunningham* 5,557 74,000
Charles F. Fretz 4,592 74,250
Harold R. Hiser, Jr.* 5,197 74,000
Charles L. Ladner 5,687 74,250
Leo E. Linbeck, Jr. 5,557 74,250
Patricia P. McCarter* 3,777 74,250
Steven R. Pruchansky* 5,785 77,250
Norman H. Smith* 5,717 77,250
John P. Toolan* 5,687 74,250
-------- ---------
Total $ 53,115 $ 747,750
(1) Compensation for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998.
(2) The total compensation paid by the John Hancock Fund Complex to the
Independent Trustees as of the calendar year ended December 31, 1997. As
of this date, there were sixty-seven funds in the John Hancock Funds
Complex with each of these Independent Trustees serving on thirty-two
funds.
As of December 31, 1997, the value of the aggregate deferred compensation
from all funds in the John Hancock Funds Complex for Mr. Cunningham was
$220,106, for Mr. Hiser was $103,868, for Ms. McCarter was $159,075, for Mr.
Pruchansky was $68,102, for Mr. Smith was $70,607 and for Mr. Toolan was
$281,133 under the John Hancock Group of Funds Deferred Compensation Plan for
Independent Trustees.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER SERVICES
The Adviser, located at 101 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02199-7603,
was organized in 1968 and has more than $30 billion in assets under management
in its capacity as investment adviser to the Fund and the other mutual funds and
publicly traded investment companies in the John Hancock group of funds, having
a combined total of over 1,400,000 shareholders. The Adviser is an affiliate of
the Life Company, one of the most recognized and respected financial
institutions in the nation. With total assets under management of more than $100
billion, the Life Company is one of the ten largest life insurance companies in
the United States, and carries a high rating from Standard & Poor's and A.M.
Best. Founded in 1862, the Life Company has been serving clients for over 130
years.
The Fund has entered into an investment management contract (the "Advisory
Agreement") with the Adviser which was approved by the Fund's shareholders.
Pursuant to the Advisory Agreements, the Adviser will: (a) furnish continuously
an investment program for the Fund and determine, subject to the overall
supervision and review of the Trustees, which investments should be purchased,
held, sold or exchanged and (b) provide supervision over all aspects of the
Fund's operations except those which are delegated to a custodian, transfer
agent or other agent.
31
<PAGE>
The Fund bears all cost of its organization and operation, including but not
limited to expenses of preparing, printing and mailing all shareholders'
reports, notices, prospectuses, proxy statements and reports to regulatory
agencies; expenses relating to the issuance, registration and qualification of
shares; government fees; interest charges; expenses of furnishing to
shareholders their account statements; taxes; expenses of redeeming shares;
brokerage and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio
securities transactions; expenses pursuant to the Fund's plan of distribution;
fees and expenses of custodian including those for keeping books and accounts,
maintaining a committed line of credit, and calculating the net asset value of
shares; fees and expenses of transfer agents and dividend disbursing agents;
legal, accounting, financial, management, tax and auditing fees and expenses of
the Fund (including and allocable portion of the cost of the Adviser's employees
rendering such services to the Fund); the compensation and expenses of Trustees
who are not otherwise affiliated with the Trust, the Adviser or any of their
affiliates; expenses of Trustees' and shareholders' meeting; trade association
memberships; insurance premiums; and any extraordinary expenses.
As compensation for its services under the Advisory Agreements, the Fund pays
the Adviser monthly a fee based on a stated percentage of the average of the
daily net assets of the Fund as follows:
Fee
Average Daily Net Assets (Annual Rate)
- ------------------------ -------------
First $75 million 0.625%
Next $75 million 0.5625%
Over $150 million 0.500%
From time to time, the Adviser may reduce its fee or make other arrangements to
limit the Fund's expenses to a specified percentage of average daily net assets.
The Adviser retains the right to reimpose a fee and recover any other payments
to the extent that, at the end of any fiscal year, the Fund's annual expenses
fall below this limit.
Securities held by the Fund may also be held by other funds or investment
advisory clients for which the Adviser or its affiliates provide investment
advice. Because of different investment objectives or other factors, a
particular security may be bought for one or more funds or clients when one or
more are selling the same security. If opportunities for purchase or sale of
securities by the Adviser for the Fund or for other funds or clients for which
the Adviser renders investment advice arise for consideration at or about the
same time, transactions in such securities will be made, insofar as feasible,
for the Fund or clients in a manner deemed equitable to all of them. To the
extent that transactions on behalf of more than one client of the Adviser or its
affiliates may increase the demand for securities being purchased or the supply
of securities being sold, there may be an adverse effect on price.
Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is not liable for any error of
judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund in connection
with the matters to which their respective contracts relate, except a loss
resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of
the Adviser in the performance of its duties or from its reckless disregard of
the obligations and duties under the Advisory Agreement.
Under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund may use the name "John Hancock" or any
name derived from or similar to it only for as long as the Advisory Agreement or
any extension, renewal or amendment thereof remains in effect. If the Fund's
Advisory Agreement is no longer in effect, the
32
<PAGE>
Fund (to the extent that it lawfully can) will cease to use such name or any
other name indicating that it is advised by or otherwise connected with the
Adviser. In addition, the Adviser or the Life Company may grant the
non-exclusive right to use the name "John Hancock" or any similar name to any
other corporation or entity, including but not limited to any investment company
of which the Life Company or any subsidiary or affiliate thereof or any
successor to the business of any subsidiary or affiliate thereof shall be the
investment adviser.
The continuation of the Advisory Agreement and Distribution Agreement was
approved by all of the Trustees. The Advisory Agreement and the Distribution
Agreement discussed below will continue in effect from year to year, provided
that its continuance is approved annually both (i) by the holders of a majority
of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust or by the Trustees, and (ii)
by a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Agreement, or
"interested persons" of any such parties. Both Agreements may be terminated on
60 days written notice by any party or by a vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the Fund and will terminate automatically if
assigned.
The Advisory fees payable by the Fund to the Adviser, were as follows:
12/22/94-10/31/95 $ 897,349
11/1/95-10/31/96 $1,326,701
11/1/96-5/31/97 $1,204,001
6/1/97-5/31/98 $3,997,329
Administrative Services Agreement. The Fund previously was a party to an
administrative services agreement (the "Services Agreement") with Transamerica
Fund Management Company ("TFMC"), pursuant to which TFMC performed bookkeeping
and accounting services and functions, including preparing and maintaining
various accounting books, records and other documents and keeping such general
ledgers and portfolio accounts as are reasonably necessary for the operation of
the Fund. Other administrative services included communications in response to
shareholder inquiries and certain printing expenses of various financial
reports. In addition, such staff and office space, facilities and equipment was
provided as necessary to provide administrative services to the Fund. The
Services Agreement was amended in connection with the appointment of the Adviser
as adviser to the Fund to permit services under the Agreement to be provided to
the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Services Agreement was
terminated during the 1995 fiscal year.
The amount of $13,697 for the Fund reflects the total of administrative services
fees paid to the Adviser for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995.
Accounting and Legal Services Agreement. The Trust, on behalf the Fund, is a
party to an Accounting and Legal Services Agreement with the Adviser. Pursuant
to this agreement, the Adviser provides the Fund with certain tax, accounting
and legal services. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1996, The Fund paid
the Adviser $37,927 for services under this agreement. For the period from
November 1, 1996 to May 31, 1997, the Fund paid the Adviser $42,106 for services
under this agreement. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid the
Adviser $136,741 under this agreement.
In order to avoid conflicts with portfolio trades for the Fund, the Adviser and
the Fund have adopted extensive restrictions on personal securities trading by
personnel of the Adviser and its affiliates. Some of these restrictions are:
pre-clearance for all personal trades and a ban on the purchase of
33
<PAGE>
initial public offerings, as well as contributions to specified charities of
profits on securities held for less than 91 days. These restrictions are a
continuation of the basic principle that the interests of the Fund and its
shareholders come first.
DISTRIBUTION CONTRACTS
The Fund has a Distribution Agreement with John Hancock Funds. Under the
agreement, John Hancock Funds is obligated to use its best efforts to sell
shares of each class of the Fund. Shares of the Fund are also sold by selected
broker-dealers (the "Selling Brokers") which have entered into selling agency
agreements with John Hancock Funds. John Hancock Funds accepts orders for the
purchase of the shares of the Fund which are continually offered at net asset
value next determined, plus any applicable sales charge, if any. In connection
with the sale of Fund shares, John Hancock Funds and Selling Brokers receive
compensation from a sales charge imposed, in the case of Class A shares, at the
time of sale. In the case of Class B or Class C shares, the broker receive
compensation immediately but John Hancock Funds is compensated on a deferred
basis.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995, 1996, for the period from November
1, 1996 to May 31, 1997 and for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the
following amounts reflect (a) the total underwriting commissions for sales of
the Fund's Class A shares and (b) the portion of such amount retained by John
Hancock Funds. The remainder of the underwriting commissions were reallowed to
Selling Brokers.
10/31/1995 (a) $ 239,238 and (b) $ 19,285
11/1/95-10/31/1996 (a) $ 696,959 and (b) $ 72,221
11/1/96-5/31/1997 (a) $ 946,242 and (b) $115,430
6/1/97-5/31/198 (a) $4,186,986 and (b) $461,370
The Fund's Trustees adopted Distribution Plans with respect to each class of
shares (the "Plans") pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of
1940. Under the Plans, the Fund will pay distribution and service fees at an
aggregate annual rate of up to 0.25% for Class A shares and 1.00% for Class B
and Class C shares, of the Fund's average daily net assets attributable to
shares of that class. However, the service fee will not exceed 0.25% of the
Fund's average daily net assets attributable to each class of shares. The
distribution fees will be used to reimburse John Hancock Funds for its
distribution expenses, including but not limited to: (i) initial and ongoing
sales compensation to Selling Brokers and others (including affiliates of John
Hancock Funds) engaged in the sale of Fund shares; (ii) marketing, promotional
and overhead expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of the Fund's
shares; and (iii) with respect to Class B and Class C shares only, interest
expenses on unreimbursed distribution expenses. The service fees will by used to
compensate Selling Brokers and others for providing personal and account
maintenance services to shareholders. In the event that John Hancock Funds is
not fully reimbursed for payments or expenses under the Class A Plan, these
expenses will not be carried beyond twelve months from the date they were
incurred. Unreimbursed expenses under the Class B and Class C Plans will be
carried forward together with interest on the balance of these unreimbursed
expenses. The Fund does not treat unreimbursed expenses under Class B and Class
C Plans as a liability of the Fund, because the Trustees may terminate the Class
B and/or Class C Plans at any time. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998 an
aggregate of $13,113,933 of distribution expenses or 2.23% of the average net
assets of the Fund's Class B shares was not reimbursed or recovered by John
Hancock Funds through the receipt of deferred sales charges or Rules 12b-1 fees
in prior periods. Class C shares of the Fund did not commence operations until
May 1, 1998; therefore, there are no unreimbursed expenses to report.
34
<PAGE>
The Plans were approved by a majority of the voting securities of the Fund. The
Plans and all amendments were approved by the Trustees, including a majority of
the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Fund and who have no direct
or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plans ( the "Independent
Trustees"), by votes cast in person at meetings called for the purpose of voting
on such Plans.
Pursuant to the Plans, at least quarterly, John Hancock Funds provide the Fund
with a written report of the amounts expended under the Plans and the purpose
for which these expenditures were made. The Trustees review these reports on a
quarterly basis to determine their continued appropriateness.
The Plans provide that they will continue in effect only so long as their
continuance is approved at least annually by a majority of both the Trustees and
Independent Trustees. The Plans provide that they may be terminated without
penalty, (a) by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees, (b) by a vote of
a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares of the applicable class upon 60
days' written notice to John Hancock Funds, and (c) automatically in the event
of assignment. Each of the Plans further provides that it may not be amended to
increase the maximum amount of the fees for the services described therein
without the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class of the
Fund which has voting rights to that Plan. Each of the Plans provide that no
material amendment to the Plan will be effective unless it is approved by a vote
of a majority of the Trustees and the Independent Trustees of the Fund. The
holders of Class A, Class B and Class C shares have exclusive voting rights with
respect to the Plan applicable to their respective class of shares. In adopting
the Plans, the Trustees concluded that, in their judgment, these is a reasonable
likelihood that the Plans will benefit the holders of the applicable class of
shares of the Fund.
Amounts paid to John Hancock Funds by any class of shares of the Fund will not
be used to pay the expenses incurred with respect to any other class of shares
of the Fund; provided, however, that expenses attributable to the Fund as a
whole will be allocated, to the extent permitted by law, according to a formula
based upon gross sales dollars and/or average daily net assets of each such
class, as may be approved from time to time by vote of a majority of Trustees.
From time to time, the Fund may participate in joint distribution activities
with other Funds and the costs of those activities will be borne by the Fund in
proportion to the relative net asset value of the participating Funds.
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid John Hancock Funds the
following amounts of expenses in connection with their services. Class C shares
of the Fund did not commence operations until May 1, 1998; therefore, there are
no expenses to report.
35
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Expense Items
-------------
Printing and Interest,
Mailing of Compensation to Expenses of Carrying or
Prospectuses to Selling John Hancock Other Finance
Advertising New Shareholders Brokers Funds Charges
----------- ---------------- ------- ----- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Class A $ 100,683 $ 2,832 $ 55,829 $ 295,531 $0
Class B $1,279,619 $32,558 $759,899 $3,819,668 $0
Class C $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $0
</TABLE>
SALES COMPENSATION
As part of their business strategies, each of the John Hancock funds, along with
John Hancock Funds, pay compensation to financial services firms that sell the
funds' shares. These firms typically pass along a portion of this compensation
to your financial representative.
Compensation payments originate from two sources: from sales charges and from
12b-1 fees that are paid out of the funds' assets. The sales charges and 12b-1
fees paid by investors are detailed in the prospectus and under "Distribution
Contracts" in this Statement of Additional Information. The portions of these
expenses that are reallowed to financial services firms are shown on the next
page.
Whenever you make an investment in the Fund, the financial services firm
receives either a reallowance from the initial sales charge or a commission, as
described below. The firm also receives the first year's service fee at this
time. Beginning with the second year after an investment is made, the financial
services firm receives an annual service fee of 0.25% of its total eligible net
assets. This fee is paid quarterly in arrears.
Financial services firms selling large amounts of fund shares may receive extra
compensation. This compensation, which John Hancock Funds pays out of its own
resources, may include asset retention fees as well as reimbursement for
marketing expenses.
36
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Sales charge Maximum First year
paid by investors Reallowance Service fee Maximum
(% of offering or commission (% of net total compensation (1)
Class A Investments price) (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
- ------------------- ------ --------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Up to $99,999 4.50% 3.76% 0.25% 4.00%
$100,000 - $249,999 3.75% 3.01% 0.25% 4.00%
$250,000 - $499,999 2.75% 2.06% 0.25% 2.30%
$500,000 - $999,999 2.00% 1.51% 0.25% 1.75%
Regular investments of $1 million
or more
First $1M - $4,999,999 -- 0.75% 0.25% 1.00%
Next $1M - $5M above that -- 0.25% 0.25% 0.50% (2)
Next $1 or more above that -- 0.00% 0.25% 0.25% (2)
<CAPTION>
Maximum First year
Reallowance Service fee Maximum total
or commission (% of net Compensation
Class B investments (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
- ------------------- --------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
All amounts 3.75% 0.25% 4.00%
<CAPTION>
Maximum First year
reallowance service fee Maximum
or commission (% of net total compensation
Class C investments (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
- ------------------- --------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
All amounts 0.75% 0.25% 1.00%
</TABLE>
(1) Reallowance/commission percentages and service fee percentages are
calculated from different amounts, and therefore may not equal total
compensation percentages if combined using simple addition.
(2) For Group Investment Programs sales, the maximum total compensation for
investments of $1 million or more is 1.00% of the offering price (one year CDSC
of 1.00% applies for each sales).
CDSC revenues collected by John Hancock Funds may be used to pay commissions
when there is no initial sales charge.
NET ASSET VALUE
For purposes of calculating the net asset value ("NAV") of the shares of the
Fund, the following procedures are utilized wherever applicable.
37
<PAGE>
Debt investment securities are valued on the basis of valuations furnished by a
principal market maker or a pricing service, both of which generally utilize
electronic data processing techniques to determine valuations for normal
institutional size trading units of debt securities without exclusive reliance
upon quoted prices.
Equity securities traded on a principal exchange or NASDAQ National Market
Issues are generally valued at last sale price on the day of valuation.
Securities in the aforementioned category for which no sales are reported and
other securities traded over-the-counter are generally valued at the mean
between the current closing bid and asked prices.
Short-term debt investments which have a remaining maturity of 60 days or less
are generally valued at amortized cost which approximates market value. If
market quotations are not readily available or if in the opinion of the Adviser
any quotation or price is not representative of true market value, the fair
value of the security may be determined in good faith in accordance with
procedures approved by the Trustees.
Foreign securities are valued on the basis of quotations from the primary market
in which they are traded. Any assets or liabilities expressed in terms of
foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars by the custodian bank based
on London currency exchange quotations as of 5:00 p.m., London time (12:00 noon,
New York time) on the date of any determination of the Fund's NAV. If quotations
are not readily available, or the value has been materially affected by the
events occurring after closing of a foreign market, assets are valued by a
method that Trustees believe accurately reflects fair value.
The NAV for each class of the Fund is determined each business day at the close
of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern
Time) by dividing a class net assets by the number of its shares outstanding. On
any day an international market is closed and the New York Stock Exchange is
open, any foreign securities will be valued at the prior day's close with the
current day's exchange rate. Trading of foreign securities may take place on
Saturdays and U.S. business holidays on which the Fund's NAV is not calculated.
Consequently, the Fund's portfolio securities may trade and the NAV of the
Fund's redeemable securities may be significantly affected on days when a
shareholder has no access to the Fund.
INITIAL SALES CHARGE ON CLASS A SHARES
Shares of the Fund are offered at a price equal to their net asset value plus a
sales charge which, at the option of the purchaser, may be imposed either at the
time of purchase (the "initial sales charge alternative") or on a contingent
deferred basis (the "deferred sales charge alternative"). Share certificates
will not be issued unless requested by the shareholder in writing, and then only
will be issued for full shares. The Trustees of the Fund reserve the right to
change or waive the Fund's minimum investment requirements and to reject any
order to purchase shares (including purchase by exchange) when in the judgment
of the Adviser such rejection is in the Fund's best interest.
The sales charges applicable to purchases of Class A shares of the Fund are
described in the Prospectus. Methods of obtaining reduced sales charges referred
to generally in the Prospectus are described in detail below. In calculating the
sales charge applicable to current purchases of Class A shares, the investor is
entitled to accumulate current purchases with the greater of the current value
(at offering price) of the Class A shares of the Fund, owned by the investor, or
if John Hancock Signature Services, Inc. ("Signature Services") is notified by
the investor's dealer or the investor at the time of the purchase, the cost of
the Class A shares owned.
38
<PAGE>
Without Sales Charge. Class A shares may be offered without a front-end sales
charge or CDSC to various individuals and institutions as follows:
o A Trustee or officer of the Trust; a Director or officer of the Adviser
and its affiliates or Selling Brokers; employees or sales representatives
of any of the foregoing; retired officers, employees or Directors of any
of the foregoing; a member of the immediate family (spouse, children,
grandchildren, mother, father, sister, brother, mother-in-law,
father-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, niece, nephew, grandparents
and same sex domestic partner) of any of the foregoing, or any fund,
pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan of the individuals described
above.
o A broker, dealer, financial planner, consultant or registered investment
advisor that has entered into a signed agreement with John Hancock Funds
providing specifically for the use of Fund shares in fee-based investment
products or services made available to their clients.
o A former participant in an employee benefit plan with John Hancock funds,
when he or she withdraws from his or her plan and transfers any or all of
his or her plan distributions directly to the Fund.
o A member of a class action lawsuit against insurance companies who is
investing settlement proceeds.
o Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch servicing programs, if the
Plan has more than $3 million in assets or 500 eligible employees at the
date the Plan Sponsor signs the Merrill Lynch Recordkeeping Service
Agreement. See your Merrill Lynch financial consultant for further
information.
o Retirement plans investing through the PruArray Program sponsored by
Prudential Securities.
o Pension plans transferring assets from a John Hancock variable annuity
contract to the Fund pursuant to an exemptive application approved by the
Securities Exchange Commission.
o Existing full service clients of the Life Company who were group annuity
contract holders as of September 1, 1994, and participant directed
retirement plans with at least 100 eligible employees at the inception of
the Fund account. Each of these investors may purchase Class A shares with
no initial sales charge. However, if the shares are redeemed within 12
months after the end of the calendar year in which the purchase was made,
a CDSC will be imposed at the following rate:
Amount Invested CDSC Rate
--------------- ---------
$1 to $4,999,999 1.00%
Next $5 million to $9,999,999 0.50%
Amounts of $10 million and over 0.25%
Class A shares may also be purchased without an initial sales charge in
connection with certain liquidation, merger or acquisition transactions
involving other investment companies or personal holding companies.
39
<PAGE>
Combination Privilege. In calculating the sales charge applicable to purchases
of Class A shares made at one time, the purchases will be combined to reduce
sales charges if made by (a) an individual, his or her spouse and their children
under the age of 21, purchasing securities for his or their own account, (b) a
trustee or other fiduciary purchasing for a single trust, estate or fiduciary
account and (c) groups which qualify for the Group Investment Program (see
below). Further information about combined purchases, including certain
restrictions on combined group purchases, is available from Signature Services
or a Selling Broker's representative.
Accumulation Privilege. Investors (including investors combining purchases) who
are already Class A shareholders may also obtain the benefit of the reduced
sales charge by taking into account not only the amount being invested but also
the investor's purchase price or current value of the Class A shares of all John
Hancock funds which carry a sales charge already held by such person. Class A
shares of John Hancock money market funds will only be eligible for the
accumulation privilege if the investor has previously paid a sales charge on the
amount of those shares. Retirement plan investors may include the value of Class
B shares if class B shares held are greater than $1 million. Retirement plans
must notify Signature Services to utilize.
Group Investment Program. Under the Combination and Accumulation Privileges, all
members of a group may combine their individual purchases of Class A shares to
potentially qualify for breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. This feature
is provided to any group which (1) has been in existence for more than six
months, (2) has a legitimate purpose other than the purchase of mutual fund
shares at a discount for its members, (3) utilizes salary deduction or similar
group methods of payment, and (4) agrees to allow sales materials of the fund in
its mailings to members at a reduced or no cost to John Hancock Funds.
Letter of Intention. Reduced sales charges are also applicable to investments
made pursuant to a Letter of Intention (the "LOI"), which should be read
carefully prior to its execution by an investor. The Fund offers two options
regarding the specified period for making investments under the LOI. All
investors have the option of making their investments over a specified period of
thirteen (13) months. Investors who are using the Fund as a funding medium for a
retirement plan, however, may opt to make the necessary investments called for
by the LOI over a forty-eight (48) month period. These retirement plans include
Traditional, Roth and Education IRAs, SEP, SARSEP, 401(k), 403(b) (including
TSAs), SIMPLE IRA, SIMPLE 401(k), Money Purchase Pension, Profit Sharing and
Section 457 plans. Non-qualified and qualified retirement plan investments
cannot be combined to satisfy an LOI of 48 months. Such an investment (including
accumulations and combinations but not including reinvested dividends) must
aggregate $100,000 or more invested during the specified period from the date of
the LOI or from a date within ninety (90) days prior thereto, upon written
request to Signature Services. The sales charge applicable to all amounts
invested under the LOI is computed as if the aggregate amount intended to be
invested had been invested immediately. If such aggregate amount is not actually
invested, the difference in the sales charge actually paid and the sales charge
payable had the LOI not been in effect is due from the investor. However, for
the purchases actually made with the specified period (either 13 or 48 months),
the sales charge applicable will not be higher than that which would have been
applied (including accumulations and combinations) had the LOI been for the
amount actually invested.
The LOI authorizes Signature Services to hold in escrow sufficient Class A
shares (approximately 5% of the aggregate) to make up any difference in sales
charges on the amount intended to be invested and the amount actually invested,
until such investment is completed within the specified period, at which time
the escrow shares will be released. If the total investment specified in the LOI
40
<PAGE>
is not completed, the Class A shares held in escrow may be redeemed and the
proceeds used as required to pay such sales charges as may be due. By signing
the LOI, the investor authorizes Signature Services to act as his
attorney-in-fact to redeem any escrowed Class A shares and adjust the sales
charge, if necessary. A LOI does not constitute a binding commitment by an
investor to purchase, or by the Fund to sell, any additional shares and may be
terminated at any time.
DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON CLASS B AND CLASS C SHARES
Investments in Class B and Class C shares are purchased at net asset value per
share without the imposition of an initial sales charge so the Fund will receive
the full amount of the purchase payment.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. Class B and Class C shares which are redeemed
within six years or one year of purchase, respectively will be subject to a
contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") at the rates set forth in the
Prospectus as a percentage of the dollar amount subject to the CDSC. The charge
will be assessed on an amount equal to the lesser of the current market value or
the original purchase cost of the Class B or Class C shares being redeemed. No
CDSC will be imposed on increases in account value above the initial purchase
prices, including all shares derived from reinvestment of dividends or capital
gains distributions.
Class B shares are not available to full-service retirement plans administered
by Signature Services or the Life Company that had more than 100 eligible
employees at the inception of the Fund account.
The amount of the CDSC, if any, will vary depending on the number of years from
the time of payment for the purchase of Class B shares until the time of
redemption of such shares. Solely for purposes of determining the number of
years from the time of any payment for the purchase of both Class B and Class C
shares, all payments during a month will be aggregated and deemed to have been
made on the first day of the month.
In determining whether a CDSC applies to a redemption, the calculation will be
determined in a manner that results in the lowest possible rate being charged.
It will be assumed that your redemption comes first from shares you have held
beyond the six-year CDSC redemption period for Class B or one year CDSC
redemption period for Class C, or those you acquired through dividend and
capital gain reinvestment, and next from the shares you have held the longest
during the six-year period for Class B shares. For this purpose, the amount of
any increase in a share's value above its initial purchase price is not regarded
as a share exempt from CDSC. Thus, when a share that has appreciated in value is
redeemed during the CDSC period, a CDSC is assessed only on its initial purchase
price.
When requesting a redemption for a specific dollar amount, please indicate if
you require the proceeds to equal the dollar amount requested. If not indicated,
only the specified dollar amount will be redeemed from your account and the
proceeds will be less any applicable CDSC.
41
<PAGE>
Example:
You have purchased 100 shares at $10 per share. The second year after your
purchase, your investment's net asset value per share has increased by $2 to
$12, and you have gained 10 additional shares through dividend reinvestment. If
you redeem 50 shares at this time your CDSC will be calculated as follows:
o Proceeds of 50 shares redeemed at $12 per shares (50 x 12) $600.00
o*Minus Appreciation ($12 - $10) x 100 shares (200.00)
o Minus proceeds of 10 shares not subject to CDSC
(dividend reinvestment) (120.00)
-------
o Amount subject to CDSC $280.00
*The appreciation is based on all 100 shares in the lot not just the
shares being redeemed.
Proceeds from the CDSC are paid to John Hancock Funds and are used in whole or
in part by John Hancock Funds to defray its expenses related to providing
distribution-related services to the Fund in connection with the sale of the
Class B and Class C shares, such as the payment of compensation to select
Selling Brokers for selling Class B and Class C shares. The combination of the
CDSC and the distribution and service fees facilitates the ability of the Fund
to sell the Class B and Class C shares without a sales charge being deducted at
the time of the purchase.
Waiver of Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. The CDSC will be waived on
redemptions of Class B and Class C shares and of Class A shares that are subject
to a CDSC, unless indicated otherwise, in the circumstances defined below:
For all account types:
* Redemptions made pursuant to the Fund's right to liquidate your account if
you own shares worth less than $1,000.
* Redemptions made under certain liquidation, merger or acquisition
transactions involving other investment companies or personal holding
companies.
* Redemptions due to death or disability. (Does not apply to Trust accounts
unless trust is being dissolved.)
* Redemptions made under the Reinstatement Privilege, as described in "Sales
Charge Reductions and Waivers" in the Prospectus.
* Redemptions where the proceeds are used to purchase a John Hancock
Declaration Variable Annuity.
* Redemptions of Class B (but not Class C) shares made under a periodic
withdrawal plan, or redemptions for fees charged by planners or advisors
for advisory services, as long as your annual redemptions do not exceed
12% of your account value, including reinvested dividends, at the time you
established your periodic withdrawal plan and 12% of the value of
subsequent investments (less redemptions) in that account at the time you
notify Signature Services. (Please note that this waiver does not apply to
periodic withdrawal plan redemptions of Class A or Class C shares that are
subject to a CDSC.)
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<PAGE>
* Redemptions by Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch servicing
programs, if the Plan has less than $3 million in assets or 500 eligible
employees at the date the Plan Sponsor signs the Merrill Lynch
Recordkeeping Service Agreement. See your Merrill Lynch financial
consultant for further information.
* Redemptions of Class A or Class C shares by retirement plans that invested
through the PruArray Program sponsored by Prudential Securities.
For Retirement Accounts (such as Traditional, Roth and Education IRAs, SIMPLE
IRA, SIMPLE 401(k), Rollover IRA, TSA, 457, 403(b), 401(k), Money Purchase
Pension Plan, Profit-Sharing Plan and other plans as described in the Internal
Revenue Code) unless otherwise noted.
* Redemptions made to effect mandatory or life expectancy distributions
under the Internal Revenue Code.
* Returns of excess contributions made to these plans.
* Redemptions made to effect distributions to participants or beneficiaries
from employer sponsored retirement plans under sections 401(a) (such as
Money Purchase Pension Plans and Profit-Sharing/401(k) Plans), 457 and 408
(SEPs and SIMPLE IRAs) of the Internal Revenue Code.
* Redemptions from certain IRA and retirement plans that purchased shares
prior to October 1, 1992 and certain IRA plans that purchased shares prior
to May 15, 1995.
Please see matrix for reference.
43
<PAGE>
CDSC Waiver Matrix for Class B and Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of 401 (a) 403 (b) 457 IRA, IRA Non-retirement
Distribution Plan (401 Rollover
(k), MPP,
PSP)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Death or Waived Waived Waived Waived Waived
Disability
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Over 70 1/2 Waived Waived Waived Waived 12% of
for account
mandatory value
distributions annually in
or 12% of periodic
account payments
value
annually
in
periodic
payments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Between 59 1/2 Waived Waived Waived Waived 12% of
and 70 1/2 for Life account
Expectancy value
or 12% of annually in
account periodic
value payments
annually
in
periodic
payments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 59 1/2 Waived for Waived for Waived for Waived 12% of
(Class B only) annuity annuity annuity for account
payments payments payments annuity value
(72t) or (72t) or (72t) or payments annually in
12% of 12% of 12% of (72t) or periodic
account account account 12% of payments
value value value account
annually in annually annually value
periodic in in annually
payments periodic periodic in
payments payments periodic
payments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loans Waived Waived N/A N/A N/A
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Termination Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived N/A
of Plan
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hardships Waived Waived Waived N/A N/A
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return of Waived Waived Waived Waived N/A
Excess
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you qualify for a CDSC waiver under one of these situations, you must notify
Signature Services at the time you make your redemption. The waiver will be
granted once Signature Services has confirmed that you are entitled to the
waiver.
44
<PAGE>
SPECIAL REDEMPTIONS
Although the Fund would not normally do so, the Fund has the right to pay the
redemption price of shares of the Fund in whole or in part in portfolio
securities as prescribed by the Trustees. When the shareholder sells portfolio
securities received in this fashion, the shareholder will incur a brokerage
charge. Any such security would be valued for the purpose of making such payment
at the same value as used in determining the Fund's net asset value. The Fund
has elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under
that rule, the Fund must redeem their shares for cash except to the extent to
that the redemption payments to any shareholder during any 90-day period would
exceed the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Fund's net asset value at the
beginning of such period.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS
Exchange Privilege. The Fund permits exchanges of shares of any class of the
fund for shares of the same class in any other John Hancock fund offering that
class.
Exchanges between funds with shares that are not subject to a CDSC are based on
their respective net asset values. No sales charge or transaction charge is
imposed. Shares of the Fund which are subject to a CDSC may be exchanged into
shares of any of the other John Hancock funds that are subject to a CDSC without
incurring the CDSC; however, the shares acquired in an exchange will be subject
to the CDSC schedule of the shares acquired if and when such shares are redeemed
(except that shares exchanged into John Hancock Short-Term Strategic Income Fund
and John Hancock Intermediate Maturity Government Fund will retain the exchanged
fund's CDSC schedule). For purposes of computing the CDSC payable upon
redemption of shares acquired in an exchange, the holding period of the original
shares is added to the holding period of the shares acquired in an exchange.
If a shareholder exchanges Class B shares purchased prior to January 1, 1994
(except John Hancock Short-Term Strategic Income Fund) for Class B shares of any
other John Hancock fund, the acquired shares will continue to be subject to the
CDSC schedule that was in effect when the exchanged shares were purchased.
The Fund reserves the right to require that previously exchanged shares (and
reinvested dividends) be in the Fund for 90 days before a shareholder is
permitted a new exchange.
The Fund may refuse any exchange order. The Fund may change or cancel its
exchange policies at any time, upon 60 days' notice to its shareholders.
An exchange of shares is treated as a redemption of shares of one fund and the
purchase of shares of another for Federal Income Tax purposes. An exchange may
result in a taxable gain or loss. See "TAX STATUS".
Systematic Withdrawal Plan. The Fund permits the establishment of a Systematic
Withdrawal Plan. Payments under this plan represent proceeds from the redemption
of shares of the Fund. Since the redemption price of the shares of the Fund may
be more or less than the shareholder's cost, depending upon the market value of
the securities owned by the Fund at the time of redemption, the distribution of
cash pursuant to this plan may result in realization of gain or loss for
purposes of Federal, state and local income taxes. The maintenance of a
Systematic Withdrawal Plan
45
<PAGE>
concurrently with purchases of additional shares of the Fund could be
disadvantageous to a shareholder because of the initial sales charge payable on
such purchases of Class A shares and the CDSC imposed on redemptions of Class B
and Class C shares and because redemptions are taxable events. Therefore, a
shareholder should not purchase shares at the same time a Systematic Withdrawal
Plan is in effect. The Fund reserves the right to modify or discontinue the
Systematic Withdrawal Plan of any shareholder on 30 days' prior written notice
to such shareholder, or to discontinue the availability of such plan in the
future. The shareholder may terminate the plan at any time by giving proper
notice to Signature Services.
Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program ("MAAP"). The program is explained in the
Prospectus. The program, as it relates to automatic investment checks, is
subject to the following conditions:
The investments will be drawn on or about the day of the month indicated.
The privilege of making investments through the MAAP may be revoked by Signature
Services without prior notice if any investment is not honored by the
shareholder's bank. The bank shall be under no obligation to notify the
shareholder as to the non-payment of any checks.
The program may be discontinued by the shareholder either by calling Signature
Services or upon written notice to Signature Services which is received at least
five (5) business days prior to the order date of any investment.
Reinstatement and Reinvestment Privilege. If Signature Services is notified
prior to reinvestment, a shareholder who has redeemed the Fund's shares may,
within 120 days after the date of redemption, reinvest without payment of a
sales charge any part of the redemption proceeds in shares of the same class of
the Fund or another John Hancock fund, subject to the minimum investment limit
of that fund. The proceeds from the redemption of Class A shares may be
reinvested at net asset value without paying a sales charge in Class A shares of
any John Hancock fund. If a CDSC was paid upon a redemption, a shareholder may
reinvest the proceeds from this redemption at net asset value in additional
shares of the class from which the redemption was made. The shareholder's
account will be credited with the amount of any CDSC charged upon the prior
redemption and the new shares will continue to be subject to the CDSC. The
holding period of the shares acquired through reinvestment will, for purposes of
computing the CDSC payable upon a subsequent redemption, include the holding
period of the redeemed shares.
To protect the interests of other investors in the Fund, the Fund may cancel the
reinvestment privilege of any parties that, in the opinion of the Fund, are
using market timing strategies or making more than seven exchanges per owner or
controlling party per calendar year. Also, the Fund may refuse any reinvestment
request.
The Fund may change or cancel its reinvestment policies at any time.
A redemption or exchange of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for Federal
income tax purposes even if the reinvestment privilege is exercised, and any
gain or loss realized by a shareholder on the redemption or other disposition of
Fund shares will be treated for tax purposes as described under the caption "TAX
STATUS".
46
<PAGE>
Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch's servicing programs:
Class A shares are available at net asset value for plans with $3 million in
plan assets or 500 eligible employees at the date the Plan Sponsor signs the
Merrill Lynch Recordkeeping Service Agreement. If the plan does not meet either
of these limits, Class A shares are not available.
For participating retirement plans investing in Class B shares, shares will
convert to Class A shares after eight years, or sooner if the plan attains
assets of $5 million (by means of a CDSC-free redemption/purchase at net asset
value).
DESCRIPTION OF THE FUND'S SHARES
The Trustees of the Trust are responsible for the management and supervision of
the Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited
number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest of the Fund without
par value. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the authority to
create and classify shares of beneficial interest in separate series and in one
or more classes, without further action by shareholders. As of the date of this
Statement of Additional Information, the Trustees have authorized shares of this
Fund and one other series and the issuance of three classes of shares of the
Fund, designated as Class A, Class B and Class C. Additional series may be added
in the future.
The shares of each class of the Fund represent an equal proportionate interest
in the aggregate net assets attributable to the classes of the Fund. Holders of
each class of shares have certain exclusive voting rights on matters relating to
their respective distribution plans. The different classes of the Fund may bear
different expenses relating to the cost of holding shareholder meetings
necessitated by the exclusive voting rights of any class of shares.
Dividends paid by the Fund, if any, with respect to each class of shares will be
calculated in the same manner, at the same time and on the same day and will be
in the same amount, except for differences resulting from the facts that (i) the
distribution and service fees relating to each class will be borne exclusively
by that class, (ii) Class B and Class C shares will pay higher distribution and
service fees than Class A shares and (iii) each class of shares will bear any
class expenses properly allocable to that class of shares, subject to the
conditions the Internal Revenue Service imposes with respect to the
multiple-class structures. Similarly, the net asset value per share may vary
depending on which class of shares are purchased. No interest will be paid on
uncashed dividend or redemption checks.
In the event of liquidation, shareholders of each class are entitled to share
pro rata in the net assets of the Fund available for distribution to these
shareholders. Shares entitle their holders to one vote per share, are freely
transferable and have no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights. When
issued, shares are fully paid and non-assessable, except as set forth below.
Unless otherwise required by the Investment Company Act or the Declaration of
Trust, the Fund has no intention of holding annual meetings of shareholders.
Fund shareholders may remove a Trustee by the affirmative vote of at least
two-thirds of the Trust's outstanding shares and the Trustees shall promptly
call a meeting for such purpose when requested to do so in writing by the record
holders of not less than 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
Shareholders may, under certain circumstances, communicate with other
shareholders in connection with requesting a special meeting of shareholders.
However, at any time that less than in a majority of the Trustees holding
47
<PAGE>
office were elected by the shareholders, the Trustees will call a special
meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust could,
under certain circumstances, be held personally liable for acts or obligations
of the trust. However, the Trust's Declaration of Trust contains an express
disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts, obligations and affairs of the
Trust. The Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification out of the
Trust's assets for all losses and expenses of any shareholder held personally
liable by reason of being or having been a shareholder. The Declaration of Trust
also provides that no series of the Trust shall be liable for the liabilities of
any other series. Furthermore, no fund included in the Prospectus shall be
liable for the liabilities of any other John Hancock fund. Liability is
therefore limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself would be unable to
meet its obligations, and the possibility of this occurrence is remote.
The Fund reserves the right to reject any application which conflicts with the
Fund's internal policies or the policies of any regulatory authority. John
Hancock Funds does not accept starter, credit card or third party checks. All
checks returned by the post office as undeliverable will be reinvested at net
asset value in the fund or funds from which a redemption was made or dividend
paid. Information provided on the account application may be used by the Fund to
verify the accuracy of the information or for background or financial history
purposes. A joint account will be administered as a joint tenancy with right of
survivorship, unless the joint owners notify Signature Services of a different
intent. A shareholder's account is governed by the laws of The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. For telephone transactions, the transfer agent will take measures
to verify the identity of the caller, such as asking for name, account number,
Social Security or other taxpayer ID number and other relevant information. If
appropriate measures are taken, the transfer agent is not responsible for any
losses that may occur to any account due to an unauthorized telephone call. Also
for your protection telephone transactions are not permitted on accounts whose
names or addresses have changed within the past 30 days. Proceeds from telephone
transactions can only be mailed to the address of record.
Selling activities for the Fund may not take place outside the U.S. exempt with
U.S. military bases, APO addresses and U.S. diplomats. Brokers of record on
Non-U.S. investors' accounts with foreign mailing addresses are required to
certify that all sales activities have occurred, and in the future will occur,
only in the U.S. A Foreign corporation may purchase shares of the Fund only if
it has a U.S. mailing address.
TAX STATUS
Each series of the Trust, including the Fund is treated as a separate entity for
tax purposes. The Fund has qualified and elected to be treated as a "regulated
investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the "Code"), and intends to continue to so qualify for each taxable
year. As such and by complying with the applicable provisions of the Code
regarding the sources of its income, the timing of its distributions, and the
diversification of its assets, the Fund will not be subject to Federal income
tax on taxable income (including net realized capital gains) which is
distributed to shareholders in accordance with the timing requirements of the
Code.
The Fund will be subject to a 4% non-deductible Federal excise tax on certain
amounts not distributed (and not treated as having been distributed) on a timely
basis in accordance with annual
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minimum distribution requirements. The Fund intends under normal circumstances
to seek to avoid or minimize liability for such tax.
Distributions from the Fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits
("E&P") will be taxable under the Code for investors who are subject to tax. If
these distributions are paid from the Fund's "investment company taxable
income," they will be taxable as ordinary income; and if they are paid from the
Fund's "net capital gain," they will be taxable as capital gain. (Net capital
gain is the excess (if any) of net long-term capital gain over net short-term
capital loss, and investment company taxable income is all taxable income and
capital gains, other than those gains and losses included in computing net
capital gain, after reduction by deductible expenses). Some distributions may be
paid to shareholders as if they had been received on December 31 of the previous
year. The tax treatment described above will apply without regard to whether
distributions are received in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the
Fund.
Distributions, if any, in excess of E&P will constitute a return of capital
under the Code, which will first reduce an investor's federal tax basis in Fund
shares and then, to the extent such basis is exceeded, will generally give rise
to capital gains. Shareholders who have chosen automatic reinvestment of their
distributions will have a federal tax basis in each share received pursuant to
such a reinvestment equal to the amount of cash they would have received had
they elected to receive the distribution in cash, divided by the number of
shares received in the reinvestment.
Foreign exchange gains and losses realized by the Fund in connection with
certain transactions involving foreign currency-denominated debt securities,
certain foreign currency futures and options, foreign currency forward
contracts, foreign currencies, or payables or receivables denominated in a
foreign currency are subject to Section 988 of the Code, which generally causes
such gains and losses to be treated as ordinary income and losses and may affect
the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders. Transactions
in foreign currencies that are not directly related to the Fund's investment in
stock or securities, possibly including speculative currency positions or
currency derivatives not used for hedging purposes, may increase the amount of
gain it is deemed to recognize from the sale of certain investments or
derivatives held for less than three months, which gain is limited under the
Code to less than 30% of gross income for each taxable year, and could under
future Treasury regulations produce income not among the types of "qualifying
income" from which the Fund must derive at least 90% of its gross income for
each taxable year. If the net foreign exchange loss for a year treated as
ordinary loss under Section 988 were to exceed the Fund's investment company
taxable income computed without regard to such loss but after considering the
post-October loss regulations the resulting overall ordinary loss for such year
would not be deductible by the Fund or its shareholders in future years.
The Fund may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign
countries with respect to its investments in foreign securities. Some tax
conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or eliminate such
taxes. Investors may be entitled to claim U.S. foreign tax credits or deductions
with respect to such taxes, subject to certain provisions and limitations
contained in the Code, if the Fund so elects. If more than 50% of the value of
the Fund's total assets at the close of any taxable year consists of stock or
securities of foreign corporations, the Fund may file an election with the
Internal Revenue Service pursuant to which shareholders of the Fund will be
required to (i) include in ordinary gross income (in addition to taxable
dividends and distributions actually received) their pro rata shares of
qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund even though not actually received by
them, and (ii) treat such respective pro rata portions as qualified foreign
taxes paid by them. The Fund probably will not satisfy this 50% requirement.
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If the Fund makes this election, shareholders may then deduct such pro rata
portions of qualified foreign taxes in computing their taxable incomes, or,
alternatively, use them as foreign tax credits, subject to applicable
limitations, against their U.S. Federal income taxes. Shareholders who do not
itemize deductions for Federal income tax purposes will not, however, be able to
deduct their pro rata portion of qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund,
although such shareholders will be required to include their share of such taxes
in gross income. Shareholders who claim a foreign tax credit for such foreign
taxes may be required to treat a portion of dividends received from the Fund as
a separate category of income for purposes of computing the limitations on the
foreign tax credit. Tax-exempt shareholders will ordinarily not benefit from
this election. Each year (if any) that the Fund files the election described
above, its shareholders will be notified of the amount of (i) each shareholder's
pro rata share of qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund and (ii) the portion
of Fund dividends which represents income from each foreign country. A Fund that
cannot or does not make this election may deduct such taxes in determining the
amount it has available for distribution to shareholders, and shareholders will
not, in this event, include these foreign taxes in their income, nor will they
be entitled to any tax deductions or credits with respect to such taxes.
The Fund is permitted to acquire stock in foreign corporations. If the Fund
invests in stock (including an option to acquire stock such as is inherent in a
convertible bond) of certain foreign corporations that receive at least 75% of
their annual gross income from passive sources (such as interest, dividends,
certain rents and royalties or capital gain) or hold at least 50% of their
assets in investments producing such passive income ("passive foreign investment
companies"), the Fund could be subject to federal income tax and additional
interest charges on "excess distributions" received from such companies or gain
from the sale of stock in such companies, even if all income or gain actually
received by the Fund is timely distributed to its shareholders. The Fund would
not be able to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for such
a tax. An election may be available to ameliorate these adverse tax
consequences, but any such election could require the Fund to recognize taxable
income or gain without the concurrent receipt of cash. Those investments could
also result in the treatment of associated capital gains as ordinary income. The
Fund may limit and/or manage its holdings in passive foreign investment
companies to minimize its tax liability or maximize its return from these
investments.
The amount of the Fund's net realized capital gains, if any, in any given year
will vary depending upon the Adviser's current investment strategy and whether
the Adviser believes it to be in the best interest of the Fund to dispose of
portfolio securities or enter into options or futures transactions that will
generate capital gains. At the time of an investor's purchase of Fund shares, a
portion of the purchase price is often attributable to realized or unrealized
appreciation in the Fund's portfolio. Consequently, subsequent distributions
from such appreciation may be taxable to such investor even if the net asset
value of the investor's shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced
below the investor's cost for such shares, and the distributions in reality
represent a return of a portion of the purchase price.
Upon a redemption or other disposition of shares of the Fund (including by
exercise of the exchange privilege) in a transaction that is treated as a sale
for tax purposes, a shareholder may realize a taxable gain or loss depending
upon the amount of the proceeds and the investor's basis in his shares. Any gain
or loss will be treated as capital gain or loss if the shares are capital assets
in the shareholder's hands. A sales charge paid in purchasing Class A shares of
the Fund cannot be taken into account for purposes of determining gain or loss
on the redemption or exchange of such shares within 90 days after their purchase
to the extent shares of the Fund or another John Hancock fund are subsequently
acquired without payment of a sales charge pursuant to the reinvestment or
exchange privilege. Such disregarded load will result in an increase in the
shareholder's tax basis in
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the shares subsequently acquired. Also, any loss realized on a redemption or
exchange may be disallowed to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced
with other shares of the same Fund within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days
before and ending 30 days after the shares are disposed of, such as pursuant to
automatic dividend reinvestments. In such a case, the basis of the shares
acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss realized upon
the redemption of shares with a tax holding period of six months or less will be
treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any amounts treated as
distributions of long-term capital gain with respect to such shares.
Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers regarding their particular
circumstances to determine whether a disposition of Fund shares is properly
treated as a sale for tax purposes, as is assumed in the foregoing discussion.
Although its present intention is to distribute, at least annually, all net
capital gain, if any, the Fund reserves the right to retain and reinvest all or
any portion of the excess, as computed for Federal income tax purposes, of net
long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss in any year. The Fund
will not in any event distribute net capital gain realized in any year to the
extent that a capital loss is carried forward from prior years against such
gain. To the extent such excess was retained and not exhausted by the
carryforward of prior years' capital losses, it would be subject to Federal
income tax in the hands of the Fund. Upon proper designation by the Fund, each
shareholder would be treated for Federal income tax purposes as if the Fund had
distributed to him on the last day of its taxable year his pro rata share of
such excess, and he had paid his pro rata share of the taxes paid by the Fund
and reinvested the remainder in the Fund. Accordingly, each shareholder would
(a) include his pro rata share of such excess as long-term capital gain income
in his return for his taxable year in which the last day of such Fund's taxable
year falls, (b) be entitled either to a tax credit on his return for, or to a
refund of, his pro rata share of the taxes paid by such Fund, and (c) be
entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis for his shares in such Fund by the
difference between his pro rata share of such excess and his pro rata share of
such taxes.
For Federal income tax purposes, the Fund is generally permitted to carry
forward a net capital loss in any year to offset its own net capital gains, if
any, during the eight years following the year of the loss. To the extent
subsequent net capital gains are offset by such losses, they would not result in
Federal income tax liability to the Fund and, as noted above, would not be
distributed as such to shareholders. As of May 31, 1998, the Fund has no capital
loss carryforwards.
The Fund is required to accrue income on any debt securities that have more than
a de minimis amount of original issue discount (or debt securities acquired at a
market discount, if the Fund elects to include market discount in income
currently) prior to the receipt of the corresponding cash payments. The mark to
market or constructive sales rules applicable to certain options, futures and
forward contracts may also require the Fund to recognize income or gain without
a concurrent receipt of cash. However, the Fund must distribute to shareholders
for each taxable year substantially all of its net income and net capital gains,
including such income or gain, to qualify as a regulated investment company and
avoid liability for any federal income or excise tax. Therefore, the Fund may
have to dispose of its portfolio securities under disadvantageous circumstances
to generate cash, or borrow cash, to satisfy these distribution requirements.
A state income (and possibly local income and/or intangible property) tax
exemption is generally available to the extent (if any) the Fund's distributions
are derived from interest on (or, in the case of intangible property taxes, the
value of its assets is attributable to) certain U.S. Government obligations,
provided in some states that certain thresholds for holdings of such obligations
and/or reporting requirements are satisfied. The Fund will not seek to satisfy
any threshold or reporting
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requirements that may apply in particular taxing jurisdictions, although the
Fund may in its sole discretion provide relevant information to shareholders.
The Fund will be required to report to the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS")
all taxable distributions to shareholders, as well as gross proceeds from the
redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in the case of certain exempt
recipients, i.e., corporations and certain other investors distributions to
which are exempt from the information reporting provisions of the Code. Under
the backup withholding provisions of Code Section 3406 and applicable Treasury
regulations, all such reportable distributions and proceeds may be subject to
backup withholding of federal income tax at the rate of 31% in the case of
non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the Fund with their correct taxpayer
identification number and certain certifications required by the IRS or if the
IRS or a broker notifies the Fund that the number furnished by the shareholder
is incorrect or that the shareholder is subject to backup withholding as a
result of failure to report interest or dividend income. The Fund may refuse to
accept an application that does not contain any required taxpayer identification
number or certification that the number provided is correct. If the backup
withholding provisions are applicable, any such distributions and proceeds,
whether taken in cash or reinvested in shares, will be reduced by the amounts
required to be withheld. Any amounts withheld may be credited against a
shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability. Investors should consult their
tax advisers about the applicability of the backup withholding provisions.
The Fund may be required to account for its transactions in forward rolls or
swaps, caps, floors and collars in a manner that, under certain circumstances,
may limit the extent of its participation in such transactions. Additionally,
the Fund may be required to recognize gain, but not loss, if a swap or other
transaction is treated as a constructive sale of an appreciated financial
position in the Fund's portfolio. The Fund may have to sell portfolio securities
under disadvantageous circumstances to generate cash, or borrow cash, to satisfy
these distribution requirements.
Investments in debt obligations that are at risk of or are in default present
special tax issues for the Fund. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues
such as when the Fund may cease to accrue interest, original issue discount, or
market discount, when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts
or worthless securities, how payments received on obligations in default should
be allocated between principal and income, and whether exchanges of debt
obligations in a workout context are taxable. These and other issues will be
addressed by the Fund that holds such obligations in order to reduce the risk of
distributing insufficient income to preserve its status as a regulated
investment company and seek to avoid becoming subject to Federal income or
excise tax.
Limitations imposed by the Code on regulated investment companies like the Fund
may restrict the Fund's ability to enter into options, futures, foreign currency
positions and foreign currency forward transactions.
Certain options, futures and forward foreign currency transactions undertaken by
the Fund may cause such Fund to recognize gains or losses from marking to market
even though its positions have not been sold or terminated and affect the
character as long-term or short-term (or, in the case of certain currency
forwards, options and futures, as ordinary income or loss) and timing of some
capital gains and losses realized by the Fund. Also, certain of the Fund's
losses on its transactions involving options, futures and forward foreign
currency contracts and/or offsetting or successor portfolio positions may be
deferred rather than being taken into account currently in calculating the
Fund's taxable income or gains. Certain of such transactions may also cause the
Fund to dispose of investments sooner than would otherwise have occurred. These
transactions may therefore affect the amount, timing and character of the Fund's
distributions to shareholders. The Fund will take
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into account the special tax rules (including consideration of available
elections) applicable to options, futures or forward contracts in order to seek
to minimize any potential adverse tax consequences.
Different tax treatment, including penalties on certain excess contributions and
deferrals, certain pre-retirement and post-retirement distributions and certain
prohibited transactions, is accorded to accounts maintained as qualified
retirement plans. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers for more
information.
The foregoing discussion relates solely to U.S. Federal income tax law as
applicable to U.S. persons (i.e., U.S. citizens or residents and U.S. domestic
corporations, partnerships, trusts or estates) subject to tax under such law.
The discussion does not address special tax rules applicable to certain classes
of investors, such as tax-exempt entities, insurance companies, and financial
institutions. Dividends, capital gain distributions, and ownership of or gains
realized on the redemption (including an exchange) of Fund shares may also be
subject to state and local taxes. Shareholders should consult their own tax
advisers as to the Federal, state or local tax consequences of ownership of
shares of, and receipt of distributions from, the Fund in their particular
circumstances.
Non-U.S. investors not engaged in a U.S. trade or business with which their
investment in the Fund is effectively connected will be subject to U.S. Federal
income tax treatment that is different from that described above. These
investors may be subject to nonresident alien withholding tax at the rate of 30%
(or a lower rate under an applicable tax treaty) on amounts treated as ordinary
dividends from the Fund and, unless an effective IRS Form W-8 or authorized
substitute for Form W-8 is on file, to 31% backup withholding on certain other
payments from the Fund. Non-U.S. investors should consult their tax advisers
regarding such treatment and the application of foreign taxes to an investment
in the Fund.
The Fund is not subject to Massachusetts corporate excise or franchise taxes.
The Fund anticipates that, provided that the Fund qualifies as a regulated
investment company under the Code, it will also not be required to pay any
Massachusetts income tax.
CALCULATION OF PERFORMANCE
The Fund may advertise yield, where appropriate. For the 30-day period ended
November 30, 1998, the yields of the Fund's Class A, Class B and Class C shares
were __%, __% and __%, respectively.
The Fund's yield is computed by dividing net investment income per share
determined for a 30-day period by the maximum offering price per share (which
includes the full sales charge) on the last day of the period, according to the
following standard formula:
Yield = 2 ( [ ( a-b/cd ) + 1 ] ^6 - 1)
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Where:
a = dividends and interest earned during the period.
b = net expenses accrued during the period.
c = the average daily number of fund shares outstanding during the
period that would be entitled to receive dividends.
d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period
(NAV where applicable).
Total Return. Average annual total return is determined separately for each
class of shares.
Set forth below are tables showing the performance on a total return basis
(i.e., with all dividends and distributions reinvested) of a hypothetical $1,000
investment in the Class A and Class B shares of the Fund. Class C shares of the
Fund commenced operations on May 1, 1998; therefore, there is no average annual
total return to report.
Class B Shares
Class A Shares Class A Shares Class B Shares Five Years Class B Shares
One Year Ended 6/30/93* to One Year Ended Ended Ten Years
11/30/98 11/30/98 11/30/98 11/30/98 Ended 11/30/98
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------------
% % % % %
* Commencement of operations.
Total Return. The Fund's total return is computed by finding the average annual
compounded rate of return over the 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year periods that
would equate the initial amount invested to the ending redeemable value
according to the following formula:
T = ((ERV/P)^(1/n)) - 1
P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000.
T = average annual total return.
n = number of years.
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made
at the beginning of the 1-year and life-of-fund periods.
Because each class has its own charge and fee structure, the classes have
different performance results. In the case of each class, this calculation
assumes the maximum sales charge is included in the initial investment or the
CDSC is applied at the end of the period. This calculation assumes that all
dividends and distributions are reinvested at net asset value on the
reinvestment dates during the period. The "distribution rate" is determined by
annualizing the result of dividing the declared dividends of the Fund during the
period stated by the maximum offering price or net asset value at the end of the
period. Excluding the Fund's sales charge from the distribution rate produces a
higher rate.
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In addition to average annual total returns, the Fund may quote unaveraged or
cumulative total returns reflecting the simple change in value of an investment
over a stated period. Cumulative total returns may be quoted as a percentage or
as a dollar amount, and may be calculated for a single investment, a series of
investments, and/or a series of redemptions, over any time period. Total returns
may be quoted with or without taking the Fund's sales charge on Class A shares
or the CDSC on Class B or Class C shares into account. Excluding the Fund's
sales charge on Class A shares and the CDSC on Class B or Class C shares from a
total return calculation produces a higher total return figure.
From time to time, in reports and promotional literature, the Fund's yield and
total return will be compared to indices of mutual funds and bank deposit
vehicles such as Lipper Analytical Services, Inc.'s "Lipper--Fixed Income Fund
Performance Analysis," a monthly publication which tracks net assets, total
return, and yield on fixed income mutual funds in the United States. Ibottson
and Associates, CDA Weisenberger and F.C. Towers are also used for comparison
purposes, as well as the Russell and Wilshire Indices.
Performance rankings and ratings reported periodically in national financial
publications such as MONEY MAGAZINE, FORBES, BUSINESS WEEK, THE WALL STREET
JOURNAL, MICROPAL, INC., MORNINGSTAR, STANGER'S and BARRON'S, etc. will also be
utilized. The Fund's promotional and sales literature may make reference to the
Fund's "beta." Beta reflects the market-related risk of the Fund by showing how
responsive the Fund is to the market.
The performance of the Fund is not fixed or guaranteed. Performance quotations
should not be considered to be representations of performance of the Fund for
any period in the future. The performance of the Fund is a function of many
factors including its earnings, expenses and number of outstanding shares.
Fluctuating market conditions; purchases, sales and maturities of portfolio
securities; sales and redemptions of shares of beneficial interest; and changes
in operating expenses are all examples of items that can increase or decrease
the Fund's performance.
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION
Decisions concerning the purchase and sale of portfolio securities and the
allocation of brokerage commissions are made by the Adviser pursuant to
recommendations made by an investment committee of the Adviser, which consists
of officers and directors of the Adviser and affiliates and Trustees who are
interested persons of the Fund. Orders for purchases and sales of securities are
placed in a manner which, in the opinion of the Adviser, will offer the best
price and market for the execution of each such transaction. Purchases from
underwriters of portfolio securities may include a commission or commissions
paid by the issuer and transactions with dealers serving as market makers
reflect a "spread." Debt securities are generally traded on a net basis through
dealers acting for their own account as principals and not as brokers; no
brokerage commissions are payable on these transactions.
In the U.S. and in some other countries, debt securities are traded principally
in the over-the-counter market on a net basis through dealers acting for their
own account and not as brokers. In other countries, both debt and equity
securities are traded on exchanges at fixed commission rates. commissions on
foreign transactions are generally higher than the negotiated commission rates
available in the U.S. There is generally less government supervision and
regulation of foreign stock exchanges and broker-dealers than in the U.S.
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The Fund's primary policy is to execute all purchases and sales of portfolio
instruments at the most favorable prices consistent with best execution,
considering all of the costs of the transaction including brokerage commissions.
This policy governs the selection of brokers and dealers and the market in which
a transaction is executed. Consistent with the foregoing primary policy, the
Rules of Fair Practice of the NASD and other policies that the Trustees may
determine, the Adviser may consider sales of shares of the Fund as a factor in
the selection of broker-dealers to execute the Fund's portfolio transactions.
To the extent consistent with the foregoing, the Fund will be governed in the
selection of brokers and dealers, and the negotiation of brokerage commission
rates and dealer spreads, by the reliability and quality of the services,
including primarily the availability and value of research information and to a
lesser extent statistical assistance furnished to the Adviser of the Fund, and
their value and expected contribution to the performance of the Fund. It is not
possible to place a dollar value on information and services to be received from
brokers and dealers, since it is only supplementary to the research efforts of
the Adviser. The receipt of research information is not expected to reduce
significantly the expenses of the Adviser. The research information and
statistical assistance furnished by brokers and dealers may benefit the Life
Company or other advisory clients of the Adviser, and conversely, brokerage
commissions and spreads paid by other advisory clients of the Adviser may result
in research information and statistical assistance beneficial to the Fund. The
Fund will make no commitments to allocate portfolio transactions upon any
prescribed basis. While the Adviser's officers will be primarily responsible for
the allocation of the Fund's brokerage business, the policies and practices of
the Adviser in this regard must be consistent with the foregoing and at all
times be subject to review by the Trustees.
The negotiated brokerage commissions of the Fund are as follows:
(a) $356,682 for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, (b) $67,481 for the period
from November 1, 1996 to May 31, 1997 (c) $39,163 for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1996; and (d) $40,228 for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995.
As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Fund
may pay to a broker which provides brokerage and research services to the Fund
an amount of disclosed commission in excess of the commission which another
broker would have charged for effecting that transaction. This practice is
subject to a good faith determination by the Trustees that the price is
reasonable in light of the services provided and to policies that the Trustees
may adopt from time to time. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund
paid $12,630 in commissions to compensate brokers for research services such as
industry, economic and company reviews and evaluations of securities.
The Adviser's indirect parent, the Life Company is the indirect sole shareholder
of Signator Investors, Inc., a broker dealer ("Signator" or "Affiliated
Broker"). Pursuant to procedures determined by the Trustees and consistent with
the above policy of obtaining best net results, the Fund may execute portfolio
transactions with or through Affiliated Brokers. For the fiscal years ended
October 31, 1995 and 1996, the Fund paid no brokerage commission to any
Affiliated Broker. For the period from November 1, 1996 to May 31, 1997, the
Fund paid no brokerage commissions to any Affiliated Broker. For the fiscal year
ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid no brokerage commissions to any Affiliated
Broker.
Signator may act as broker for the Fund on exchange transactions, subject,
however, to the general policy of the Fund set forth above and the procedures
adopted by the Trustees pursuant to the
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Investment Company Act. Commissions paid to an Affiliated Broker must be at
least as favorable as those which the Trustees believe to be contemporaneously
charged by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving
similar securities being purchased or sold. A transaction would not be placed
with an Affiliated Broker if the Fund would have to pay a commission rate less
favorable than the Affiliated Broker's contemporaneous charges for comparable
transactions for its other most favored, but unaffiliated, customers, except for
accounts for which the Affiliated Broker acts as a clearing broker for another
brokerage firm, and any customers of the Affiliated Broker not comparable to the
Fund as determined by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons
(as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the Fund, the Adviser or the
Affiliated Broker. Because the Adviser, which is affiliated with the Affiliated
Broker, has, as an investment adviser to the Fund, the obligation to provide
investment management services, which includes elements of research and related
investment skills, such research and related skills will not be used by the
Affiliated Brokers as a basis for negotiating commissions at a rate higher than
that determined in accordance with the above criteria.
Other investment advisory clients advised by the Adviser may also invest in the
same securities as the Fund. When these clients buy or sell the same securities
at substantially the same time, the Adviser may average the transactions as to
price and allocate the amount of available investments in a manner which the
Adviser believes to be equitable to each client, including the Fund. In some
instances, this investment procedure may adversely affect the price paid or
received by the Fund or the size of the position obtainable for it. On the other
hand, to the extent permitted by law, the Advisers may aggregate securities to
be sold or purchased for the Fund with those to be sold or purchased for other
clients managed by it in order to obtain best execution.
TRANSFER AGENT SERVICES
John Hancock Signature Services Inc., 1 Hancock Way, Suite 1000, Boston, MA
02217-1000, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of the Life Company, is the
transfer and dividend paying agent for the Fund. The Fund pays Signature
Services an annual fee of $20.00 for each Class A shareholder account, $22.50
for each Class B shareholder account and $21.50 for each Class C shareholder
account. The Fund also pays certain out-of-pocket expenses and these expenses
are aggregated and charged to the Fund and allocated to each class on the basis
of their relative net asset values.
CUSTODY OF PORTFOLIO
Portfolio securities of the Fund are held pursuant to a custodian agreement
between the Fund and Investors Bank & Trust Company, 200 Clarendon Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02116. Under the custodian agreement, Investors Bank &
Trust Company performs custody, portfolio and fund accounting services.
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
__________________, 200 Clarendon Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116, has been
selected as the independent auditors of the Fund. The financial statements of
the Fund included in the Prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information
as of the Fund's fiscal year ended May 31, 1998 have been audited by ___________
for the periods indicated in their report, appearing elsewhere herein, and are
included in reliance upon such report given upon the authority of such firm as
experts in accounting and auditing.
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APPENDIX-A
MORE ABOUT RISK
A fund's risk profile is largely defined by the fund's principal securities and
investment practices. You may find the most concise description of the fund's
risk profile in the prospectus.
A fund is permitted to utilize -- within limits established by the trustees --
certain other securities and investment practices that have higher risks and
opportunities associated with them. To the extent that the fund utilizes these
securities or practices, its overall performance may be affected, either
positively or negatively. On the following pages are brief definitions of
certain associated risks with them, with examples of related securities and
investment practices included in brackets. See the "Investment Objectives and
Policies" and "Investment Restrictions" sections of this Statement of Additional
Information for a description of this Fund's investment policies. The fund
follows certain policies that may reduce these risks.
As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the fund will earn income or
show a positive total return over any period of time -- days, months or years.
TYPES OF INVESTMENT RISK
Correlation risk The risk that changes in the value of a hedging instrument will
not match those of the asset being hedged (hedging is the use of one investment
to offset the effects of another investment). Incomplete correlation can result
in unanticipated risks. (e.g., currency contracts, futures and related options,
options on securities and indices, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Credit risk The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a
contract, will default or otherwise become unable to honor a financial
obligation. (e.g., non- investment-grade debt securities, borrowing; reverse
repurchase agreements, covered mortgage dollar roll transactions, repurchase
agreements, securities lending, brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon debt securities, asset-backed securities,
mortgage-backed securities, participation interest, options on securities,
structured securities and swaps, caps floors and collars).
Currency risk The risk that fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S.
dollar and foreign currencies may negatively affect an investment. Adverse
changes in exchange rates may erode or reverse any gains produced by foreign
currency-denominated investments, and may widen any losses.(e.g., foreign debt
securities, currency contracts, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Extension risk The risk that an unexpected rise in interest rates will extend
the life of a mortgage-backed security beyond the expected prepayment time,
typically reducing the security's value.(e.g. mortgage-backed securities and
structured securities).
Interest rate risk The risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest
rates. With fixed-rate securities, a rise in interest rates typically causes a
fall in values, while a fall in rates typically causes a rise in values. (e.g.,
non-investment-grade debt securities, covered mortgage dollar roll transactions,
brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind, delayed and zero coupon debt
securities,
A-1
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asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, participation interest,
swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Leverage risk Associated with securities or practices (such as borrowing) that
multiply small index or market movements into large changes in value. (e.g.
borrowing; reverse repurchase agreements, covered mortgage dollar roll
transactions, when-issued securities and forward commitments, currency
contracts, financial futures and options; securities and index options,
structured securities, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
o Hedged When a derivative (a security whose value is based on another
security or index) is used as a hedge against an opposite position that
the fund also holds, any loss generated by the derivative should be
substantially offset by gains on the hedged investment, and vice versa.
While hedging can reduce or eliminate losses, it can also reduce or
eliminate gains.
o Speculative To the extent that a derivative is not used as a hedge, the
fund is directly exposed to the risks of that derivative. Gains or losses
from speculative positions in a derivative may be substantially greater
than the derivative's original cost.
Liquidity risk The risk that certain securities may be difficult or impossible
to sell at the time and the price that the seller would like. The seller may
have to lower the price, sell other securities instead, or forego an investment
opportunity, any of which could have a negative effect on fund management or
performance. (e.g. non-investment-grade debt securities, restricted and illiquid
securities, mortgage-backed securities, participation interest, currency
contracts, futures and related options; securities and index options, structured
securities, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Management risk The risk that a strategy used by a fund's management may fail to
produce the intended result. Common to all mutual funds.
Market risk The risk that the market value of a security may move up and down,
sometimes rapidly and unpredictably. Market risk may affect a single issuer, an
industry, a sector of the bond market or the market as a whole. Common to all
stocks and bonds and the mutual funds that invest in them. (e.g. covered
mortgage dollar roll transactions, short-term trading, when-issued securities
and forward commitments, brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind, delayed
and zero coupon debt securities, restricted and illiquid securities, rights and
warrants, financial futures and options; and securities and index options,
structured securities).
Natural event risk The risk of losses attributable to natural disasters, crop
failures and similar events.
Opportunity risk The risk of missing out on an investment opportunity because
the assets necessary to take advantage of it are tied up in less advantageous
investments.(e.g. covered mortgage dollar roll transactions, when-issued
securities and forward commitments, currency contracts, financial futures and
options; securities and securities and index options).
Political risk The risk of losses attributable to government or political
actions, from changes in tax or trade statutes to governmental collapse and war.
(e.g., brady bonds and foreign debt securities).
A-2
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Prepayment risk The risk that unanticipated prepayments may occur during periods
of falling interest rates, reducing the value of mortgage-backed securities.
(e.g., mortgage backed securities).
Valuation risk The risk that a fund has valued certain of its securities at a
higher price than it can sell them for. (e.g., non-investment-grade debt
securities, participation interest, structured securities, swaps, caps, floors
and collars).
A-3
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
The ratings of Moody's Investors Service, Inc. and Standard & Poor's Ratings
Group represent their opinions as to the quality of various debt instruments
they undertake to rate. It should be emphasized that ratings are not absolute
standards of quality. Consequently, debt instruments with the same maturity,
coupon and rating may have different yields while debt instruments of the same
maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the same yield.
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC.
Aaa: Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They carry
the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt
edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable
margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely
to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the
fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa: Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high grade
bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection
may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuations 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.
A: Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present which
suggest a susceptibility to impairment at some time in the future.
Baa: Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations, i.e.,
they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba: Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
B: Bonds which are rated B generally lack the characteristics of 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 which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest.
Ca: Bonds which are rated Ca represented obligations which are speculative in a
high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
B-1
<PAGE>
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP
AAA: Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
AA: Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
and differs from the highest rated issues only in small degree.
A: Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal,
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB: Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest
and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
BB, B: Debt rated BB, and B is 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 of speculation. While such debt will
likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by
large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
CCC: Debt rated 'CCC' has a currently identifiable vulnerability to default, and
is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to meet
timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the event of adverse
business, financial or economic conditions, it is not likely to have the
capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The 'CCC' rating category is also
used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied
'B' or 'B-' rating.
CC: The rating 'CC' is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior debt
that is assigned an actual or implied 'CCC' rating.
FITCH INVESTORS SERVICE ("Fitch")
AAA, AA, A, BBB - Bonds rated AAA are considered to be investment grade and of
the highest quality. The obligor has an extraordinary ability to pay interest
and repay principal, which is unlikely to be affected by reasonably foreseeable
events. Bonds rated AA are considered to be investment grade and of high
quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal, while very
strong, is somewhat less than for AAA rated securities or more subject to
possible change over the term of the issue. Bonds rated A are considered to be
investment grade and of good 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 bonds with higher
ratings. Bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of
satisfactory quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal
is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and
circumstances, however, are more likely to weaken this ability than bonds with
higher ratings.
B-2
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TAX-EXEMPT NOTE RATINGS
Moody's - MIG-1 and MIG-2. Notes rated MIG-1 are judged to be of the best
quality, enjoying strong protection from established cash flow or funds for
their services or from established and broad-based access to the market for
refinancing or both. Notes rated MIG-2 are judged to be of high quality with
ample margins of protection, though not as large as MIG-1.
S&P - SP-1 and SP-2. SP-1 denotes a very strong or strong capacity to pay
principal and interest. Issues determined to possess overwhelming safety
characteristics are given a plus (+) designation (SP-1+). SP-2 denotes a
satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest.
Fitch - FIN-1 and FIN-2. Notes assigned FIN-1 are regarded as having the
strongest degree of assurance for timely payment. A plus symbol may be used to
indicate relative standing. Notes assigned FIN-2 reflect a degree of assurance
for timely payment only slightly less in degree than the highest category.
CORPORATE AND TAX-EXEMPT COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
Moody's - Commercial Paper ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to
repay punctually promissory obligations not having an original maturity in
excess of nine months. Prime-1, indicates highest quality repayment capacity of
rated issue and Prime-2 indicates higher quality.
S&P - Commercial Paper ratings are a current assessment of the likelihood of
timely payment of debts having an original maturity of no more than 365 days.
Issues rated A have the greatest capacity for a timely payment and the
designation 1, 2 and 3 indicates the relative degree of safety. Issues rated
"A-1+" are those with an "overwhelming degree of credit protection."
Fitch - Commercial Paper ratings reflect current appraisal of the degree of
assurance of timely payment. F-1 issues are regarded as having the strongest
degree of assurance for timely payment. (+) is used to designate the relative
position of an issuer within the rating category. F-2 issues reflect an
assurance of timely payment only slightly less in degree than the strongest
issues. The symbol (LOC) may follow either category and indicates that a letter
of credit issued by a commercial bank is attached to the commercial paper note.
Other Considerations - The ratings of S&P, Moody's, and Fitch represent their
respective opinions of the quality of the municipal securities they undertake to
rate. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are not
absolute standards of quality. Consequently, municipal securities with the same
maturity, coupon and ratings may have different yields and municipal securities
of the same maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the same yield.
B-3
<PAGE>
JOHN HANCOCK INTERMEDIATE MATURITY GOVERNMENT FUND
Class A, Class B and Class C Shares
Statement Of Additional Information
April 1, 1999
This Statement of Additional Information provides information about the John
Hancock Intermediate Maturity Government Fund (the "Fund"), in addition to the
information that is contained in the combined Income Funds' Prospectus dated
April 1, 1999 (the "Prospectus"). The Fund is a diversified series of John
Hancock Bond Trust (the "Trust").
This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus. It should be read
in conjunction with the Prospectus, a copy of which can be obtained free of
charge by writing or telephoning:
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
1 John Hancock Way, Suite 1000
Boston, Massachusetts 02117-1000
1-800-225-5291
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Organization of the Fund .................................................. 2
Investment Objective and Policies ......................................... 2
Investment Restrictions ................................................... 10
Those Responsible for Management .......................................... 12
Investment Advisory and Other Services .................................... 21
Distribution Contracts .................................................... 24
Sales Compensation ........................................................ 26
Net Asset Value ........................................................... 27
Initial Sales Charge on Class A Shares .................................... 28
Deferred Sales Charge on Class B and Class C Shares ....................... 31
Special Redemptions ....................................................... 35
Additional Services and Programs .......................................... 35
Description of the Fund's Shares .......................................... 37
Tax Status ................................................................ 38
Calculation of Performance ................................................ 42
Brokerage Allocation ...................................................... 43
Transfer Agent Services .................................................. 45
Custody of Portfolio ...................................................... 45
Independent Auditors ...................................................... 46
Appendix A- Description of Investment Risk ................................ A-1
Appendix B-Description of Bond Ratings .................................... B-1
Financial Statements ...................................................... F-1
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<PAGE>
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUND
The Fund is a series of the Trust, an open-end investment management company
organized as a Massachusetts business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth
of Massachusetts. Prior to September 22, 1995, the Fund was called John Hancock
Adjustable U.S. Government Trust. Prior to December 22, 1994, the Fund was
called Transamerica Adjustable U.S. Government Trust.
John Hancock Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") is the Fund's investment adviser.
The Adviser is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of John Hancock Mutual Life
Insurance Company (the "Life Company"), a Massachusetts life insurance company
chartered in 1862, with national headquarters at John Hancock Place, Boston,
Massachusetts.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The following information supplements the discussion of the Fund's investment
objective and policies discussed in the Prospectus. Appendix A contains further
information describing investment risks. The Fund's investment objective is
non-fundamental. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment
objective.
The Fund seeks to earn a high level of current income, consistent with
preservation of capital and maintenance of liquidity. The Fund seeks to achieve
its investment objective by investing primarily in U.S. Government securities,
including mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government
agencies. Since the U.S. Government has never defaulted on its obligations, its
securities are considered unmatched as a safe and reliable income source. The
Fund may also invest in obligations of the Tennessee Valley Authority and the
World Bank and medium-term debt obligations of governmental issuers. Under
normal market conditions, the Fund intends to maintain a weighted average
remaining maturity or average remaining life of three to ten years.
Under normal conditions, at least 80% of the Fund's total assets will be in U.S.
Government securities that consist of the following:
1. U.S. Treasury obligations, which differ only in their interest rates,
maturities and time of issuance, including U.S. Treasury bills (maturity of one
year or less), U.S. Treasury notes (maturity of one to ten years), and U.S.
Treasury bonds (generally maturities greater than ten years); and
2. Obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities which are supported by: (i) the full faith and credit of the
U.S. Government (e.g., securities issued by the Government National Mortgage
Association ("GNMA")), (ii) the right of the issuer to borrow an amount limited
to a specific line of credit from the U.S. Government (e.g., securities of the
Federal Home Loan Bank Board) or (iii) the credit of the instrumentality (e.g.,
bonds issued by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Association ("FHLMC") or Federal
National Mortgage Association ("FNMA").
In general, investments in shorter and intermediate term (three to ten years)
debt securities are less sensitive to interest rate changes and provide more
stability than longer-term (ten years or more) investments. Shares of the Fund
are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
2
<PAGE>
endorsed by, any bank. Also, Fund shares are not federally insured by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board or any other
government agency. All temporary defensive investments are required to be high
quality.
Ratings as Investment Criteria. In general, the ratings of Moody's Investors
Service, Inc. ("Moody's") and Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("S&P") represents
the opinions of these agencies as to the quality of the securities that they
rate. It should be emphasized, however, that such ratings are relative and
subjective and are not absolute standards of quality. These ratings will be used
by the Fund as initial criteria for the selection of portfolio securities. Among
the factors that will be considered are the long-term ability of the issuer to
pay principal and interest and general economic trends. Appendix B contains
further information concerning the ratings of Moody's and S&P and their
significance. Subsequent to its purchase by the Fund, an issue of securities may
cease to be rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum required for
purchase by the Fund. Neither of these events will require the sale of the
securities by the Fund.
Structured Securities. The Fund may invest in structured securities including
notes, bonds or debentures, the value of the principal of and/or interest on
which is to be determined by reference to changes in the value of specific
currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators
(the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. The interest
rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be
increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. The
terms of the structured securities may provide that in certain circumstances no
principal is due at maturity and, therefore, may result in the loss of the
Fund's investment. Structured securities may be positively or negatively
indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may produce an increase or
decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition,
the change in interest rate or the value of the security at maturity may be a
multiple of the change in the value of the Reference. Consequently, structured
securities entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt
obligations. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid and
more difficult to accurately price than less complex fixed income investments.
Mortgage Backed Securities. The Fund may invest in mortgage pass-through
certificates and multiple-class pass-through securities, such as real estate
mortgage investment conduits ("REMIC") pass-through certificates, collateralized
mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"),
and other types of "Mortgage-Backed Securities" that may be available in the
future.
Guaranteed Mortgage Pass-Through Securities. Guaranteed mortgage pass-through
securities represent participation interests in pools of residential mortgage
loans and are issued by U.S. Governmental or private lenders and guaranteed by
the U.S. Government or one of its agencies or instrumentalities, including but
not limited to the Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA"), the
Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") and the Federal Home Loan
Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"). GNMA certificates are guaranteed by the full
faith and credit of the U.S. Government for timely payment of principal and
interest on the certificates. FNMA certificates are guaranteed by FNMA, a
federally chartered and privately owned corporation, for full and timely payment
of principal and interest on the certificates. FHLMC certificates are guaranteed
by FHLMC, a corporate instrumentality of the U.S. Government, for timely payment
of interest and the ultimate collection of all principal of the related mortgage
loans.
3
<PAGE>
Multiple-Class Pass-Through Securities and Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
CMOs and REMIC pass-through or participation certificates may be issued by,
among others, U.S. Government agencies and instrumentalities as well as private
lenders. CMOs and REMIC certificates are issued in multiple classes and the
principal of and interest on the mortgage assets may be allocated among the
several classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates in various ways. Each class of
CMOs or REMIC certificates, often referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a
specific adjustable or fixed interest rate and must be fully retired no later
than its final distribution date. Generally, interest is paid or accrues on all
classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates on a monthly basis.
Typically, CMOs are collateralized by GNMA, FNMA or FHLMC certificates but also
may be collateralized by other mortgage assets such as whole loans or private
mortgage pass-through securities. Debt service on CMOs is provided from payments
of principal and interest on collateral of mortgaged assets and any reinvestment
income thereon.
A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment under the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and invests in certain mortgages
primarily secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments.
Investors may purchase "regular" or "residual" interest in REMICS, although the
Fund does not intend, absent a change in current tax law, to invest in residual
interests.
Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities. SMBS are derivative multiple-class
mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two classes that
receive different proportions of interest and principal distributions on a pool
of mortgage assets. A typical SMBS will have one class receiving some of the
interest and most of the principal, while the other class will receive most of
the interest and the remaining principal. In the most extreme case, one class
will receive all of the interest (the "interest only" class) while the other
class will receive all of the principal (the "principal only" class). The yields
and market risk of interest only and principal only SMBS, respectively, may be
more volatile than those of other fixed income securities. The staff of the
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") considers privately issued SMBS to be
illiquid.
Risk Factors Associated with Mortgage-Backed Securities. Investing in
Mortgage-Backed Securities involves certain risks, including the failure of a
counter-party to meet its commitments, adverse interest rate changes and the
effects of prepayments on mortgage cash flows. In addition, investing in the
lowest tranche of CMOs and REMIC certificates involves risks similar to those
associated with investing in equity securities. Further, the yield
characteristics of Mortgage-Backed Securities differ from those of traditional
fixed-income securities. The major differences typically include more frequent
interest and principal payments (usually monthly), the adjustability of interest
rates, and the possibility that prepayments of principal may be made
substantially earlier than their final distribution dates.
Prepayment rates are influenced by changes in current interest rates and a
variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors and cannot be
predicted with certainty. Both adjustable rate mortgage loans and fixed rate
mortgage loans may be subject to a greater rate of principal prepayments in a
declining interest rate environment and to a lesser rate of principal
prepayments in an increasing interest rate environment. Under certain interest
rate and prepayment rate scenarios, the Fund may fail to recoup fully its
investment in Mortgage-Backed Securities notwithstanding any direct or indirect
governmental, agency or other guarantee. When the Fund reinvests amounts
representing payments and unscheduled prepayments of principal, it may
4
<PAGE>
receive a rate of interest that is lower than the rate on existing adjustable
rate mortgage pass-through securities. Thus, Mortgage-Backed Securities, and
adjustable rate mortgage pass-through securities in particular, may be less
effective than other types of U.S. Government securities as a means of "locking
in" interest rates.
Conversely, in a rising interest rate environment, a declining prepayment rate
will extend the average life of many Mortgage-Backed Securities. This
possibility is often referred to as extension risk. Extending the average life
of a Mortgage-Backed Security increases the risk of depreciation due to future
increases in market interest rates.
Risk Associated With Specific Types of Derivative Debt Securities. Different
types of derivative debt securities are subject to different combinations of
prepayment, extension and/or interest rate risk. Conventional mortgage
pass-through securities and sequential pay CMOs are subject to all of these
risks, but are typically not leveraged. Thus, the magnitude of exposure may be
less than for more leveraged Mortgage-Backed Securities.
Planned amortization class ("PAC") and target amortization class ("TAC") CMO
bonds involve less exposure to prepayment, extension and interest rate risk than
other Mortgage-Backed Securities, provided that prepayment rates remain within
expected prepayment ranges or "collars." To the extent that prepayment rates
remain within these prepayment ranges, the residual or support tranches of PAC
and TAC CMOs assume the extra prepayment, extension and interest rate risk
associated with the underlying mortgage assets.
The risk of early prepayments is the primary risk associated with interest only
debt securities ("IOs"), super floaters, other leveraged floating rate
instruments and Mortgage-Backed Securities purchased at a premium to their par
value. In some instances, early prepayments may result in a complete loss of
investment in certain of these securities. The primary risks associated with
certain other derivative debt securities are the potential extension of average
life and/or depreciation due to rising interest rates.
These securities include floating rate securities based on the Cost of Funds
Index ("COFI floaters"), other "lagging rate" floating rate securities, floating
rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate ("capped floaters"),
Mortgage- Backed Securities purchased at a discount, leveraged inverse floating
rate securities ("inverse floaters"), principal only debt securities ("POs"),
certain residual or support tranches of CMOs and index amortizing notes. Index
amortizing notes are not Mortgage-Backed Securities, but are subject to
extension risk resulting from the issuer's failure to exercise its option to
call or redeem the notes before their stated maturity date. Leveraged inverse
IOs combine several elements of the Mortgage- Backed Securities described above
and thus present an especially intense combination of prepayment, extension and
interest rate risks.
Other types of floating rate derivative debt securities present more complex
types of interest rate risks. For example, range floaters are subject to the
risk that the coupon will be reduced to below market rates if a designated
interest rate floats outside of a specified interest rate band or collar. Dual
index or yield curve floaters are subject to depreciation in the event of an
unfavorable change in the spread between two designated interest rates. X-reset
floaters have a coupon that remains fixed for more than one accrual period.
Thus, the type of risk involved in these securities depends on the terms of each
individual X-reset floater.
5
<PAGE>
Repurchase Agreements. In a repurchase agreement the Fund buys a security for a
relatively short period (usually not more than 7 days) subject to the obligation
to sell it back to the issuer at a fixed time and price, plus accrued interest.
The Fund will enter into repurchase agreements only with member banks of the
Federal Reserve System and with "primary dealers" in U.S. Government securities.
The Adviser will continuously monitor the creditworthiness of the parties with
whom the Fund enters into repurchase agreements.
The Fund has established a procedure providing that the securities serving as
collateral for each repurchase agreement must be delivered to the Fund's
custodian either physically or in book-entry form and that the collateral must
be marked to market daily to ensure that each repurchase agreement is fully
collateralized at all times. In the event of bankruptcy or other default by a
seller of a repurchase agreement, the Fund could experience delays in
liquidating the underlying securities during the period in which the Fund seeks
to enforce its rights thereto, possible subnormal levels of income or lack of
access to income during this period as well as the expense of enforcing its
rights.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may also enter into reverse repurchase
agreements which involve the sale of U.S. Government securities held in its
portfolio to a bank or securities firm with an agreement that the Fund will buy
back the securities at a fixed future date at a fixed price plus an agreed
amount of interest which may be reflected in the repurchase price. Reverse
repurchase agreements are considered to be borrowings by the Fund. The Fund will
use proceeds obtained from the sale of securities pursuant to reverse repurchase
agreements to purchase other investments. The use of borrowed funds to make
investments is a practice known as "leverage," which is considered speculative.
Use of reverse repurchase agreements is an investment technique that is intended
to increase income. Thus, the Fund will enter into a reverse repurchase
agreement only when the Adviser determines that the interest income to be earned
from the investment of the proceeds is greater than the interest expense of the
transaction. However, there is a risk that interest expense will nevertheless
exceed the income earned. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that
the market value of securities purchased by the Fund with proceeds of the
transaction may decline below the repurchase price of the securities sold by the
Fund that it is obligated to repurchase. The Fund will also continue to be
subject to the risk of a decline in the market value of the securities sold
under the agreements because it will reacquire those securities upon effecting
their repurchase. To minimize various risks associated with reverse repurchase
agreements, the Fund will establish a separate account consisting of liquid
securities (plus any accrued interest thereon) under such agreements. In
addition, the Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements or borrow
money, except that as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency
purposes the Fund may borrow from banks in aggregate amounts at any one time
outstanding not exceeding 33 1/3% of the total assets (including the amount
borrowed) of the Fund valued at market and the Fund may not purchase any
securities at any time when borrowings exceed 5% of the total assets of the Fund
(taken at market). Forward commitment transactions shall not constitute
borrowings and interest paid on any borrowings will reduce the Fund's net
investment income. The Fund will enter into reverse repurchase agreements only
with selected registered broker/dealers or with federally insured banks or
savings and loan associations that are approved in advance as being creditworthy
by the Trustees. Under procedures established by the Trustees, the Adviser will
monitor the creditworthiness of the firms involved.
Restricted Securities. The Fund may purchase securities that are not registered
("restricted securities") under the Securities Act of 1933 ("1933 Act"),
including commercial paper issued in reliance on Section 4(2) of the 1933 Act
and securities offered and sold to "qualified institutional
6
<PAGE>
buyers" under Rule 144A under the 1933 Act. The Fund will not invest more than
15% of its net assets in illiquid investments. If the Trustees determine, based
upon a continuing review of the trading markets for specific Section 4(2) paper
or Rule 144A securities, that they are liquid, they will not be subject to the
15% limit on illiquid investments . The Trustees may adopt guidelines and
delegate to the Adviser the daily function of determining the monitoring and
liquidity of restricted securities. The Trustees, however, will retain
sufficient oversight and be ultimately responsible for the determinations. The
Trustees will carefully monitor the Fund's investments in these securities,
focusing on such important factors, among others, as valuation, liquidity and
availability of information. This investment practice could have the effect of
increasing the level of illiquidity in the Fund if qualified institutional
buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities.
Forward Commitment and When-Issued Securities. The Fund may purchase securities
on a when-issued or forward commitment basis. "When-issued" refers to securities
whose terms are available and for which a market exists, but which have not been
issued. The Fund will engage in when-issued transactions with respect to
securities purchased for its portfolio in order to obtain what is considered to
be an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. For
when-issued transactions, no payment is made until delivery is due, often a
month or more after the purchase. In a forward commitment transaction, the Fund
contracts to purchase securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond
customary settlement time.
When the Fund engages in forward commitment and when-issued transactions, it
relies on the seller to consummate the transaction. The failure of the issuer or
seller to consummate the transaction may result in the Fund's losing the
opportunity to obtain a price and yield considered to be advantageous. The
purchase of securities on a when-issued and forward commitment basis also
involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines
prior to the settlement date.
On the date the Fund enters into an agreement to purchase securities on a
when-issued or forward commitment basis, the Fund will segregate in a separate
account cash or liquid securities on any type of maturity, equal in value to the
Fund's commitment. These assets will be valued daily at market, and additional
cash or securities will be segregated in a separate account to the extent that
the total value of the assets in the account declines below the amount of the
when-issued commitments. Alternatively, the Fund may enter into offsetting
contracts for the forward sale of other securities that it owns.
Mortgage "Dollar Roll" Transactions. The Fund may enter into mortgage "dollar
roll" transactions with selected banks and broker-dealers pursuant to which the
Fund sells mortgage-backed securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase
substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified
future date. The Fund will only enter into covered rolls. A "covered roll" is a
specific type of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash position or a
cash equivalent security position that matures on or before the forward
settlement date of the dollar roll transaction. Covered rolls are not treated as
a borrowing or other senior security and will be excluded from the calculation
of the Fund's borrowings and other senior securities. For financial reporting
and tax purposes, the Fund treats mortgage dollar rolls as two separate
transactions; one involving the purchase of a security and a separate
transaction involving a sale. The Fund does not currently intend to enter into
mortgage dollar roll transactions that are accounted for as a financing.
7
<PAGE>
Asset-Backed Securities. The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in
asset-backed securities which are rated in the highest rating category by a
nationally recognized statistical rating organization (e.g., S&P or Moody's) or
if not so rated, of equivalent investment quality in the opinion of the Adviser.
Asset-backed securities are often subject to more rapid repayment than their
stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of
prepayments of principal on the underlying loans. During periods of declining
interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be
expected to accelerate. Accordingly, the Fund's ability to maintain positions in
these securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such
securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns
of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest
rates at that time.
Credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors on such
receivables are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal
consumer credit laws, many of which give such debtors the right to set-off
certain amounts owed on the credit cards, thereby reducing the balance due.
Automobile receivables generally are secured, but by automobiles rather than
residential real property. Most issuers of automobile receivables permit the
loan servicers to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the
servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that
the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the
asset-backed securities. In addition, because of the large number of vehicles
involved in a typical issuance and technical requirements under state laws, the
trustee for the holders of the automobile receivables may not have a proper
security interest in the underlying automobiles. Therefore, there is the
possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be
available to support payments on these securities.
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars. As one way of managing its exposure to
different types of investments, the Fund and may enter into interest rate swaps
and other types of swap agreements such as caps, collars and floors. In a
typical interest rate swap, one party agrees to make regular payments equal to a
floating interest rate times a "notional principal amount," in return for
payments equal to a fixed rate times the same amount, for a specified period of
time. Swaps may also depend on other prices or rates, such as the value of an
index or mortgage prepayment rates.
In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only
under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the
other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to
receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate exceeds an
agreed-upon level, while the seller of an interest rate floor is obligated to
make payments to the extent that a specified interest rate falls below an
agreed-upon level. An interest rate collar combines elements of buying a cap and
selling a floor.
Swap agreements will tend to shift the Fund's investment exposure from one type
of investment to another. Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or
writing options. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or
decrease the overall volatility of a Fund's investments and its share price and
yield.
Swap agreements are sophisticated hedging instruments that typically involve a
small investment of cash relative to the magnitude of risks assumed. As a
result, swaps can be highly volatile and may have a considerable impact on the
Fund's performance. Swap agreements are subject to risks related to the
counterparty's ability to perform, and may decline in value if the
8
<PAGE>
counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates. The Fund may also suffer losses if
it is unable to terminate outstanding swap agreements or reduce its exposure
through offsetting transactions. The Fund will maintain in a segregated account
with its custodian, cash or liquid securities equal to the net amount, if any,
of the excess of the Fund's obligations over its entitlements with respect to
swap, cap, collar or floor transactions.
Pay-In-Kind, Delayed and Zero Coupon Bonds. The Fund may invest in pay-in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon bonds. These are securities issued at a discount from
their face value because interest payments are typically postponed until
maturity. The amount of the discount rate varies depending on factors including
the time remaining until maturity, prevailing interest rates, the security's
liquidity and the issuer's credit quality. These securities also may take the
form of debt securities that have been stripped of their interest payments. A
portion of the discount with respect to stripped tax-exempt securities or their
coupons may be taxable. The market prices in pay-in-kind, delayed and zero
coupon bonds generally are more volatile than the market prices of
interest-bearing securities and are likely to respond to a greater degree to
changes in interest rates than interest-bearing securities having similar
maturities and credit quality. The Fund's investments in pay-in-kind, delayed
and zero coupon bonds may require the Fund to sell certain of its portfolio
securities to generate sufficient cash to satisfy certain income distribution
requirements. See "TAX STATUS."
Lending of Securities. The Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers,
dealers, and financial institutions if the loan is collateralized by cash or
U.S. Government securities according to applicable regulatory requirements. The
Fund may reinvest any cash collateral in short-term securities and money market
funds. When the Fund lends portfolio securities, there is a risk that the
borrower may fail to return the securities involved in the transaction. As a
result, the Fund may incur a loss or, in the event of the borrower's bankruptcy,
the Fund may be delayed in or prevented from liquidating the collateral. It is a
fundamental policy of the Fund not to lend portfolio securities having a total
value exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets.
Rights and Warrants. The Fund may purchase warrants and rights which are
securities permitting, but not obligating, their holder to purchase the
underlying securities at a predetermined price, subject to the Fund's Investment
Restrictions. Generally, warrants and stock purchase rights do not carry with
them the right to receive dividends or exercise voting rights with respect to
the underlying securities, and they do not represent any rights in the assets of
the issuer. As a result, an investment in warrants and rights may be considered
to entail greater investment risk than certain other types of investments. In
addition, the value of warrants and rights does not necessarily change with the
value of the underlying securities, and they cease to have value if they are not
exercised on or prior to their expiration date. Investment in warrants and
rights increases the potential profit or loss to be realized from the investment
of a given amount of the Fund's assets as compared with investing the same
amount in the underlying stock.
Short-Term Trading and Portfolio Turnover. Short-term trading means the purchase
and subsequent sale of a security after it has been held for a relatively brief
period of time. The Fund does not invest for the purpose of seeking short-term
profits. The Fund's investment securities may be changed, however, without
regard to the holding period of these securities (subject to certain tax
restrictions), when the Adviser deems that this action will help achieve the
Fund's objective given a change in an issuer's operations or changes in general
market conditions. Short-term trading may have the effect of increasing
portfolio turnover rate. A high rate of portfolio turnover (100% or greater)
involves correspondingly greater expenses. The Fund's portfolio rate is set
forth in the table under the caption "Financial Highlights" in the Prospectus.
9
<PAGE>
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions will
not be changed without the approval of a majority of the Fund's outstanding
voting securities which, as used in the Prospectus and this Statement of
Additional Information, means the approval by the lesser of (1) the holders of
67% or more of the Fund's shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of
the Fund's outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at that meeting
or (2) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares.
The Fund may not:
1. borrow money, except that as a temporary measure for extraordinary or
emergency purposes the Fund may borrow from banks in aggregate amounts at
any one time outstanding not exceeding 33 1/3% of the total assets
(including the amount borrowed) of the Fund valued at market; and the Fund
may not purchase any securities at any time when borrowings exceed 5% of
the total assets of the Fund (taken at market value). This borrowing
restriction does not prohibit the use of reverse repurchase agreements
(see "Reverse Repurchase Agreements"). For purposes of this investment
restriction, forward commitment transactions shall not constitute
borrowings. Interest paid on any borrowings will reduce the Fund's net
investment income;
2. make short sales of securities or purchase any security on margin, except
that the Fund may obtain such short-term credit as may be necessary for
the clearance of purchases and sales of securities (this restriction does
not apply to securities purchased on a when-issued basis);
3. underwrite securities issued by other persons, except insofar as the Fund
may technically be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933
in selling a security, and except that the Fund may invest all or
substantially all of its assets in another registered investment company
having substantially the same investment objectives as the Fund;
4. make loans to other persons except (a) through the lending of securities
held by the Fund, (b) through the purchase of debt securities in
accordance with the investment policies of the Fund (the entry into
repurchase agreements is not considered a loan for purposes of this
restriction);
5. with respect to 75% of its total assets, purchase the securities of any
one issuer (except securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government
and its agencies or instrumentalities, as to which there are no percentage
limits or restrictions) if immediately after and as a result of such
purchase (a) more than 5% of the value of its assets would be invested in
that issuer, or (b) the Fund would hold more than 10% of the outstanding
voting securities of that issuer, except that the Fund may invest all or
substantially all of its assets in another registered investment company
having substantially the same investment objectives as the Fund;
6. purchase or sell real estate (including limited partnership interests)
other than securities secured by real estate or interests therein
including mortgage-related securities or interests in oil, gas or mineral
leases in the ordinary course of business (the Fund reserves the
10
<PAGE>
freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of
the ownership of securities);
7. invest more than 25% of its total assets in the securities of issuers
whose principal business activities are in the same industry (excluding
obligations of the U.S. Government, its agencies and instrumentalities and
repurchase agreements) except that the Fund may invest all or
substantially all of its assets in another registered investment company
having substantially the same objectives as the Fund;
8. issue any senior security (as that term is defined in the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "Investment Company Act")) if such issuance is
specifically prohibited by the Investment Company Act or the rules and
regulations promulgated thereunder; or
9. invest in securities of any company if, to the knowledge of the Trust, any
officer or director of the Trust or its Adviser owns more than 1/2 of 1%
of the outstanding securities of such company, and all such officers and
directors own in the aggregate more than 5% of the outstanding securities
of such company.
Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions
are designated as non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees without
shareholder approval.
The Fund may not:
(a) invest in companies for the purpose of exercising control or management,
except that the Fund may invest all or substantially all of its assets in
another registered investment company having substantially the same
investment restrictions as the Fund;
(b) purchase a security if, as a result, (i) more than 10% of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in the securities of other investment companies,
(ii) the Fund would hold more than 3% of the total outstanding voting
securities of any one investment company, or (iii) more than 5% of the
Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of any one
investment company. These limitations do not apply to (a) the investment
of cash collateral, received by the Fund in connection with lending the
Fund's portfolio securities, in the securities of open-end investment
companies or (b) the purchase of shares of any investment company in
connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization or purchase of
substantially all of the assets of another investment company. Subject to
the above percentage limitations, the Fund may, in connection with the
John Hancock Group of Funds Deferred Compensation Plan for Independent
Trustees/Directors, purchase securities of other investment companies
within the John Hancock Group of Funds.
(c) invest in commodities, except that the Fund may purchase and sell: forward
commitments, when-issued securities, securities index put or call
warrants, repurchase agreements, options on securities and securities
indices, futures contracts on securities and securities indices and
options on these futures, entered into in accordance with the Fund's
investment policies (the Fund does not currently intend to invest in
options and futures);
(d) invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.
11
<PAGE>
If a percentage restriction on investment or utilization of assets as set forth
above is adhered to at the time an investment is made, a later change in
percentage resulting from changes in the value of the Fund's assets will not be
considered a violation of the restriction.
THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGEMENT
The business of the Fund is managed by the Trustees of the Trust who elect
officers who are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Fund and who
execute policies formulated by the Trustees. Several of the officers and
Trustees of the Trust are also Officers and Directors of the Adviser or Officers
and Directors of the Fund's principal distributor, John Hancock Funds, Inc.
("John Hancock Funds").
12
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Edward J. Boudreau, Jr. * Trustee, Chairman and Chairman, Director
101 Huntington Avenue Chief Executive Officer and Chief Executive
Boston, MA 02199 (1, 2) Officer, the Adviser;
October 1944 Chairman, Director
and Chief Executive Officer,
The Berkeley Financial
Group, Inc. ("The Berkeley
Group"); Chairman and
Director, NM Capital
Management, Inc. ("NM
Capital"), John Hancock
Advisers International
Limited ("Advisers
International") and
Sovereign Asset Management
Corporation ("SAMCorp");
Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer, John Hancock Funds,
Inc. ("John Hancock Funds");
Chairman, First Signature
Bank and Trust Company;
Director, John Hancock
Insurance Agency, Inc.
("Insurance Agency, Inc."),
John Hancock Advisers
International (Ireland)
Limited ("International
Ireland"), John Hancock
Capital Corporation and New
England/Canada Business
Council; Member, Investment
Company Institute Board of
Governors; Director, Asia
Strategic Growth Fund, Inc.;
Trustee, Museum of Science;
Director, John Hancock
Freedom Securities
Corporation (until September
1996); Director, John
Hancock Signature Services,
Inc. ("Signature Services")
(until January 1997).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
13
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Stephen L. Brown* Trustee Chairman and Chief
John Hancock Place Executive Officer,
P.O. Box 111 John Hancock Life
Boston, MA 02117 Insurance Company;
July 1937 Director, the
Adviser; Trustee, The
Berkeley Group.
James F. Carlin Trustee Chairman and CEO,
233 West Central Street Carlin Consolidated, Inc.
Natick, MA 01760 (management/investments);
April 1940 Director, Arbella Mutual
Insurance Company
(insurance), Health Plan
Services, Inc.,
Massachusetts Health and
Education Tax Exempt Trust,
Flagship Healthcare, Inc.,
Carlin Insurance Agency,
Inc., West Insurance Agency,
Inc. (until May 1995), Uno
Restaurant Corp.; Chairman,
Massachusetts Board of
Higher Education (since
1995).
William H. Cunningham Trustee Chancellor, University of
601 Colorado Street Texas System and former
O'Henry Hall President of the University
Austin, TX 78701 of Texas, Austin, Texas;
January 1944 Lee Hage and Joseph D.
Jamail Regents Chair of Free
Enterprise; Director,
LaQuinta Motor Inns, Inc.
(hotel management company);
Director, Jefferson-Pilot
Corporation (diversified
life insurance company) and
LBJ Foundation Board
(education foundation);
Advisory Director, Texas
Commerce Bank - Austin.
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
14
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Ronald R. Dion Trustee President and Chief
250 Boylston Street Executive Officer,
Boston, MA 02116 R.M. Bradley & Co.,
March 1946 Inc.; Director, The
New England Council and
Massachusetts Roundtable;
Trustee, North Shore Medical
Center and a corporator of
the Eastern Bank; Trustee,
Emmanuel College.
Harold R. Hiser, Jr. Trustee Executive Vice President,
123 Highland Avenue Schering-Plough Corporation
Short Hill, NJ 07078 (pharmaceuticals) (retired
October 1931 1996).
Anne C. Hodsdon * Trustee and President President, Chief Operating
101 Huntington Avenue (1,2) Officer and Director,
Boston, MA 02199 the Adviser, The Berkeley
August 1953 Group; Executive Vice
President and Director,
John Hancock Funds;
Director, Advisers
International, Insurance
Agency, Inc. and
International Ireland;
President and Director,
SAMCorp. and NM Capital;
Executive Vice President,
the Adviser (until
December 1994); Director,
Signature Services (until
January 1997).
Charles L. Ladner Trustee Senior Vice President
UGI Corporation and Chief Financial
P.O. Box 858 Officer, UGI Corporation
Valley Forge, PA 19482 (Public Utility Holding
February 1938 Company); Vice President
and Director for AmeriGas,
Inc.; Director, EnergyNorth,
Inc. (until 1992).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
15
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Leo E. Linbeck, Jr. Trustee Chairman, President,
3810 W. Alabama Chief Executive
Houston, TX 77027 Officer and Director,
August 1934 Linbeck Corporation
(a holding company engaged
in various phases of the
construction industry and
warehousing interests);
Former Chairman, Federal
Reserve Bank of Dallas
(1992, 1993); Chairman of
the Board, Linbeck
Construction Corporation;
Director, Duke Energy
Corporation (a diversified
energy company), Daniel
Industries, Inc.
(manufacturer of gas
measuring products and
energy related equipment),
GeoQuest International
Holdings, Inc. (a
geophysical consulting
firm); Director, Greater
Houston Partnership.
Steven R. Pruchansky Trustee (1) Director and President,
4327 Enterprise Avenue Mast Holdings, Inc.
Naples, FL 34104 (since 1991); Director,
August 1944 First Signature Bank
& Trust Company
(until August 1991);
Director, Mast Realty
Trust (until 1994);
President, Maxwell
Building Corp. (until 1991).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
16
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
Richard S. Scipione * Trustee (1) General Counsel, John
John Hancock Place Hancock Life Company;
P.O. Box 111 Director, the Adviser,
Boston, MA 02117 Advisers International, John
August 1937 Hancock Funds, Signator
Investors, Inc., Insurance
Agency, Inc., John Hancock
Subsidiaries, Inc., SAMCorp.
and NM Capital; Director,
The Berkeley Group;
Director, JH Networking
Insurance Agency, Inc.;
Director, Signature Services
(until January 1997).
Norman H. Smith Trustee Lieutenant General,
243 Mt. Oriole Lane United States Marine
Linden, VA 22642 Corps; Deputy Chief
March 1933 of Staff for Manpower
and Reserve Affairs,
Headquarters Marine
Corps; Commanding
General III Marine
Expeditionary
Force/3rd Marine
Division (retired 1991).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
17
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
John P. Toolan Trustee Director, The Smith
13 Chadwell Place Barney Muni Bond
Morristown, NJ 07960 Funds, The Smith
September 1930 Barney Tax-Free Money
Funds, Inc., Vantage Money
Market Funds (mutual funds),
The Inefficient-Market Fund,
Inc. (closed-end investment
company) and Smith Barney
Trust Company of Florida;
Chairman, Smith Barney Trust
Company (retired December,
1991); Director, Smith
Barney, Inc., Mutual
Management Company and Smith
Barney Advisers, Inc.
(investment advisers)
(retired 1991); Senior
Executive Vice President,
Director and member of the
Executive Committee, Smith
Barney, Harris Upham & Co.,
Incorporated (investment
bankers) (until 1991).
Osbert M. Hood Senior Vice President Senior Vice President,
101 Huntington Avenue and Chief Financial Chief Financial Officer and
Boston, MA 02199 Officer Treasurer, the Adviser,
August 1952 the Berkeley Group
and John Hancock Funds,
Inc.; Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer,
John Hancock Mutual Life
Insurance Company Retail
Sector (until 1997).
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
18
<PAGE>
Positions Held Principal Occupation(s)
Name and Address With the Company During the Past Five Years
- ---------------- ---------------- --------------------------
John A. Morin Vice President Vice President and
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary, the
Boston, MA 02199 Adviser, The Berkeley
July 1950 Group, Signature
Services, John Hancock
Funds, NM Capital and
SAMCorp.; Clerk, Insurance
Agency, Inc.; Counsel, John
Hancock Mutual Life
Insurance Company (until
February 1996), and Vice
President of John Hancock
Distributors, Inc. (until
April 1994).
Susan S. Newton Vice President and Vice President, the
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary Adviser; John Hancock
Boston, MA 02199 Funds, Signature
March 1950 Services and The
Berkeley Group; Vice
President, John
Hancock Distributors,
Inc. (until April 1994).
James J. Stokowski Vice President, Vice President, the
101 Huntington Avenue Treasurer and Chief Adviser.
Boston, MA 02199 Accounting Officer
November 1946
- ----------
* Trustee may be deemed to be an "interested person" of the Fund as defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940
(1) Member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may generally
exercise most of the powers of the Board of Trustees.
(2) A member of the Investment Committee of the Adviser.
19
<PAGE>
All of the officers listed are officers or employees of the Adviser or
affiliated companies. Some of the Trustees and officers may also be officers
and/or directors and/or Trustees of one or more of the other funds for which the
Adviser serves as investment adviser.
As January 6, 1999, the officers and Trustees of the Fund as a group
beneficially owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. As of
that date, the following shareholders were the only record holders that
beneficially owned 5% or more of the outstanding shares of the Fund:
Percentage of Total
Name and Outstanding Shares
Address of Shareholder Class of Shares of the Class of the Fund
- ---------------------- --------------- ------------------------
MLPF&S For The Sole A 5.18%
Benefit of Its Customers
Attn: Fund Administration 979E7
4800 Deerlake Drive East 2nd Floor
Jacksonville FL 32246-6484
MLPF&S For The Sole B 59.08%
Benefit of Its Customers
Attn: Fund Administration 979E7
4800 Deerlake Drive East 2nd Floor
Jacksonville FL 32246-6484
The following tables provide information regarding the compensation paid by the
Fund and the other investment companies in the John Hancock Fund Complex to the
Independent Trustees for their services. Messrs. Boudreau and Scipione, and Ms.
Hodsdon, each a non-Independent Trustees, and each of the officers of the Fund
who are interested persons of the Adviser, are compensated by the Adviser and/or
its affiliates and receive no compensation from the Fund for their services.
Total Compensation from
Aggregate Compensation all Funds in John Hancock
Trustees from the Fund (1) Fund Complex to Trustees(2)
- -------- ----------------- ---------------------------
James F. Carlin $ 953 $ 74,000
William H. Cunningham * 953 74,000
Charles F. Fretz 776 74,250
Harold R. Hiser, Jr. * 889 74,000
Charles L. Ladner 978 74,250
Leo E. Linbeck, Jr. 953 74,250
Patricia P. McCarter 627 74,250
Steven R. Pruchansky 983 77,250
Norman H. Smith 971 77,250
John P. Toolan * 978 74,250
------ --------
Total $9,061 $747,750
20
<PAGE>
(1) Compensation for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998.
(2) The total compensation paid by the John Hancock Fund Complex to the
Independent Trustees as of the calendar year ended December 31, 1997. As
of this date, there were sixty-seven funds in the John Hancock Fund
Complex with each of these Independent Trustees serving on thirty-two
funds.
* As of December 31, 1997, the value of the aggregate deferred compensation
from all funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex for Mr. Cunningham was
$220,106 , for Mr. Hiser was $103,868 , for Ms. McCarter was $159,075, for
Mr. Pruchansky was $68,102, for Mr. Smith was $70,607 and for Mr. Toolan
was $281,133 under the John Hancock Deferred Compensation Plan for
Independent Trustees. Mr. Fretz and Ms. McCarter resigned effective
October 1, 1998.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER SERVICES
The Adviser, located at 101 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02199-7603,
was organized in 1968 and has more than $30 billion in assets under management
in its capacity as investment adviser to the Fund and the other mutual funds and
publicly traded investment companies in the John Hancock group of funds, having
a combined total of over 1,400,000 shareholders. The Adviser is an affiliate of
the Life Company, one of the most recognized and respected financial
institutions in the nation. With total assets under management of more than $100
billion, the Life Company is one of the ten largest life insurance companies in
the United States and carries a high rating from Standard & Poor's and A.M.
Best. Founded in 1862, the Life Company has been serving clients for over 130
years.
The Fund has entered into an investment management contract (the "Advisory
Agreement") with the Adviser which was approved by the Fund's shareholders.
Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser will (a) furnish continuously an
investment program for the Fund and determine, subject to the overall
supervision and review of the Trustees, which investments should be purchased,
held, sold or exchanged and (b) provide supervision over all aspects of the
Fund's operations except those which are delegated to a custodian, transfer
agent or other agent.
The Fund bears all costs of its organization and operation, including but not
limited to expenses of preparing, printing and mailing all shareholders'
reports, notices, prospectuses, proxy statements and reports to regulatory
agencies; expenses relating to the issuance, registration and qualification of
shares; government fees; interest charges; expenses of furnishing to
shareholders their account statements; taxes; expenses of redeeming shares;
brokerage and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio
securities transactions; expenses pursuant to the Fund's plan of distribution;
fees and expenses of custodians including those for keeping books and accounts,
maintaining a committed line of credit, and calculating the net asset value of
shares; fees and expenses of transfer agents and dividend disbursing agents;
legal, accounting, financial, management, tax and auditing fees and expenses of
the Fund (including an allocable portion of the cost of the Adviser's employees
rendering such services to the Fund); the compensation and expenses of Trustees
who are not otherwise affiliated with the Trust, the Adviser or any of their
affiliates; expenses of Trustees' and shareholders' meetings; trade association
memberships; insurance premiums; and any extraordinary expenses.
As compensation for its services under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund pays the
Adviser monthly a fee based on a stated percentage, equal on an annual basis to
0.40%, of the average daily net assets of the Fund.
21
<PAGE>
From time to time, the Adviser may reduce its fee or make other arrangements to
limit the Fund's expenses to a specified percentage of average daily net assets.
The Adviser retains the right to reimpose a fee and recover any other payments
to the extent that, at the end of any fiscal year, the Fund's annual expenses
fall below this limit.
Securities held by the Fund may also be held by other funds or investment
advisory clients for which the Adviser or its affiliates provides investment
advice. Because of different investment objectives or other factors, a
particular security may be bought for one or more funds or clients when one or
more are selling the same security. If opportunities for purchase or sale of
securities by the Adviser for the Fund or for other funds or clients, for which
the Adviser renders investment advice arise for consideration at or about the
same time transactions in such securities will be made insofar as feasible, for
the respective funds or clients in a manner deemed equitable to all of them. To
the extent that transactions on behalf of more than one client of the Adviser or
its respective affiliates may increase the demand for securities being purchased
or the supply of securities being sold, there may be an adverse effect on price.
Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is not liable for any error of
judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund in connection
with the matters to which its Advisory Agreement relates, except a loss
resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of
the Adviser in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of the
obligations and duties under the Advisory Agreement.
Under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund may use the name "John Hancock" or any
name derived from or similar to it only for so long as the applicable Advisory
Agreement or any extension, renewal or amendment thereof remains in effect. If
the Fund's Advisory Agreement is no longer in effect, the Fund (to the extent
that it lawfully can) will cease to use such name or any other name indicating
that it is advised by or otherwise connected with the Adviser. In addition, the
Adviser or the Life Company may grant the non-exclusive right to use the name
"John Hancock" or any similar name to any other corporation or entity, including
but not limited to any investment company of which the Life Company or any
subsidiary or affiliate thereof or any successor to the business of any
subsidiary or affiliate thereof shall be the investment adviser.
Under the Fund's master/feeder structure (which was terminated on September 22,
1995 pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Liquidation and Termination dated June
13, 1995) existing for the fiscal years ended March 31, 1995 and 1996 (until
September 22, 1995), the Fund invested all of its assets in Adjustable U.S.
Government Fund (the "Portfolio"). During these years, advisory fees payable by
the Portfolio to Transamercia Fund Management Company ("TFMC'), the Portfolio's
former investment adviser, and borne indirectly by the Fund, amounted to
$107,596 and $0, respectively. For the fiscal years ended March 31, 1995, 1996,
1997, for the period April 1, 1997 to May 31, 1997 and for the fiscal year ended
May 31, 1998, advisory fees paid by the Portfolio to the Adviser and borne
indirectly by the Fund, amounted to $35,865, $137,927, $132,601, $19,526 and
$412,737, respectively. For the years ended March 31, 1995, 1996, 1997 and for
the period April 1, 1997 to May 31, 1997 TFMC (until December 22, 1994), the
Adviser received fees of $0, $0, $10,548 and $0, respectively.
The continuation of the Advisory Agreement and Distribution Agreement was
approved by all of the Trustees. The Advisory Agreement and the Distribution
Agreement will continue in effect from year to year, provided that its
continuance is approved annually both (i) by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the Trust or by the Trustees, and (ii) by
majority
22
<PAGE>
of the Trustees who are not parties to the Agreement or "interested persons" of
any such parties. Both agreements may be terminated on 60 days written notice by
any party or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the
Fund and will terminate automatically if assigned.
Administration Agreement. Pursuant to an administration agreement, dated
December 22, 1994, the Adviser provided the Fund with general office facilities
and supervised the overall administration of the Fund including, among other
responsibilities, the negotiation of contracts and fees with, and the monitoring
of performance and billings of the independent contractors and agents of the
Fund, the preparation and filing of all documents required for compliance by the
Fund with applicable laws and regulations and arranging for the maintenance of
books and records (other than accounting books and records) of the Fund. The
Adviser paid all compensation of the Trustees, officers and employees of the
Fund who were affiliated persons of the Adviser. The administration agreement
terminated in September 1995.
Under the administration agreement, the Adviser would have received from the
Fund, a fee at an annual rate of 0.10% of the Fund's average daily net assets,
subject to the expense limitation provisions described below. For the fiscal
year ended March 31, 1995, administration fees paid by the Fund to TFMC, the
Fund's former administrator would have amounted to $21,511 and the Adviser would
have received $7,171 for the year ended March 31, 1995; however, all such fees
were not imposed pursuant to the fee and expense limitation arrangements then in
effect.
Under the administration agreement, neither the Adviser nor its personnel was
liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any act or omission in
the administration of the Fund except for willful misfeasance, bad faith or
gross negligence in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of
its obligations and duties under the administration agreement.
Administrative Services Agreement. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1995,
the Fund was a party to an administrative services agreement with TFMC (the
"Services Agreement"), pursuant to which TFMC performed bookkeeping and
accounting services and functions, including preparing and maintaining various
accounting books, records and other documents and keeping such general ledgers
and portfolio accounts as are reasonably necessary for the operation of the
Fund. Other administrative services included communications in response to
shareholder inquiries and certain printing expenses of various financial
reports. In addition, such staff and office space, facilities and equipment was
provided as necessary to provide the required administrative services. The
Services Agreement was amended in connection with the appointment of the Adviser
as administrator to the Fund to permit services under the Agreement to be
provided by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Services Agreement was
terminated during the fiscal year ended March 31, 1995.
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1995, the Fund paid to TFMC (pursuant to the
Services Agreement) $9,604 of which $8,164 was paid to TFMC and $1,440 was paid
for certain data processing and pricing information services.
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1995, the Portfolio paid TFMC (pursuant to
the Services Agreement) $24,461 of which $17,704 was paid to TFMC and $6,757 was
paid for certain data processing and pricing information services.
Accounting and Legal Services Agreement. The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, is a
party to an Accounting and Legal Services Agreement with the Adviser. Pursuant
to this Agreement, the
23
<PAGE>
Adviser provides the Fund with certain tax, accounting and legal services. For
the period from April 1, 1997 to May 31, 1997, the Fund paid the Adviser $915
for services under this Agreement. From the effective date of July 1, 1996 to
March 31, 1997, the Fund paid the Adviser $4,508 under this agreement. For the
fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid to the Adviser $18,259 under this
Agreement.
In order to avoid conflicts with portfolio trades for the Fund, the Adviser and
the Fund have adopted extensive restrictions on personal securities trading by
personnel of the Adviser and its affiliates. Some of these restrictions are:
pre-clearance for all personal trades and a ban on the purchase of initial
public offerings, as well as contributions to specified charities of profits on
securities held for less than 91 days. These restrictions are a continuation of
the basic principle that the interests of the Fund and its shareholders come
first.
DISTRIBUTION CONTRACTS
The Fund has a Distribution Agreement with John Hancock Funds. Under the
agreement, John Hancock Funds is obligated to use its best efforts to sell
shares of each class on behalf of the Fund. Shares of the Fund are also sold by
selected broker-dealers (the "Selling Brokers") which have entered into selling
agency agreements with John Hancock Funds. John Hancock Funds accepts orders for
the purchase of the shares of the Fund that are continually offered at net asset
value next determined, plus any applicable sales charge, if any. In connection
with the sale of fund shares, John Hancock Funds and Selling Brokers receive
compensation from a sales charge imposed, in the case of Class A shares, at the
time of sale. In the case of Class B or Class C shares, the broker receives
compensation immediately but John Hancock Funds is compensated on a deferred
basis.
Total underwriting commissions for sales of the Fund's Class A shares for the
fiscal years ended March 31, 1996 and 1997 were $4,976 and $26,470,
respectively, for the period from April 1, 1997 to May 31, 1997 and for the
fiscal year ended May 31, 1998 were $7,357 and $96,964, respectively. Of such
amounts, $0, $6,000, $557 and $13,316, respectively, were retained by John
Hancock Funds in 1996, 1997, for the period from April 1, 1997 to May 31, 1997
and for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998. The remainder of the underwriting
commissions were reallowed to Selling Brokers.
The Fund's Trustees adopted Distribution Plans with respect to each class of
shares (the "Plans"), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of
1940. Under the Plans the Fund will pay distribution and service fees at an
aggregate annual rate of up to 0.25% for Class A shares and 1.00% for Class B
and Class C shares, of the Fund's average daily net assets attributable to
shares of that class. However, the service fee will not exceed 0.25% of the
Fund's average daily net assets attributable to each class of shares. The
distribution fees will be used to reimburse the John Hancock Funds for its
distribution expenses, including but not limited to: (i) initial and ongoing
sales compensation to Selling Brokers and others (including affiliates of the
John Hancock Funds) engaged in the sale of Fund shares; (ii) marketing,
promotional and overhead expenses incurred in connection with the distribution
of Fund shares; and (iii) with respect to Class B and Class C shares only,
interest expenses on unreimbursed distribution expenses. The service fees will
be used to compensate Selling Brokers and others for providing personal and
account maintenance services to shareholders. In the event that John Hancock
Funds is not fully reimbursed for payments or expenses under the Class A Plan,
these expenses will not be carried beyond twelve months from the date they were
incurred. Unreimbursed expenses under the Class B and Class C Plans will be
carried forward together with interest on
24
<PAGE>
the balance of these unreimbursed expenses. The Fund does not treat unreimbursed
expenses under the Class B and Class C Plans as a liability of the Fund, because
the Trustees may terminate the Class B and/or Class C Plans at any time. For the
fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, an aggregate of $626,536 of distribution
expenses or 5.48% of the average net assets of the Class B shares of the Fund,
was not reimbursed or recovered by the John Hancock Funds through the receipt of
deferred sales charges or 12b-1 fees in prior periods. Class C shares of the
Fund did not commence operations until April 1, 1999; therefore, there are no
unreimbursed expenses to report.
The Plans were approved by a majority of the voting securities of the Fund. The
Plans and all amendments were approved by the Trustees, including a majority of
the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Fund and who have no direct
or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plans (the "Independent
Trustees"), by votes cast in person at meetings called for the purpose of voting
on these Plans.
Pursuant to the Plans, at least quarterly, John Hancock Funds provides the Fund
with a written report of the amounts expended under the Plans and the purpose
for which these expenditures were made. The Trustees review these reports on a
quarterly basis to determine their continued appropriateness.
The Plans provide that they will continue in effect only so long as its
continuance is approved at least annually by a majority of both the Trustees and
the Independent Trustees. The Plans provide that they may be terminated without
penalty (a) by a vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees, or (b) by a
vote of a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares of the applicable class in
each case upon 60 days' written notice to John Hancock Funds and (c)
automatically in the event of assignment. The Plans further provide that they
may not be amended to increase the maximum amount of the fees for the services
described therein without the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares
of the class of the Fund which has voting rights with respect to the Plan. Each
Plan provides that no material amendment to the Plans will be effective unless
it is approved by a majority vote of the Trustees and the Independent Trustees
of the Fund. The holders of Class A, Class B and Class C shares have exclusive
voting rights with respect to the Plan applicable to their respective class of
shares. In adopting the Plans, the Trustees concluded that, in their judgment,
there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plans will benefit the holders of the
applicable class of shares of the Fund.
Amounts paid to John Hancock Funds by any class of shares of the Fund will not
be used to pay the expenses incurred with respect to any other class of shares
of the Fund; provided, however, that expenses attributable to the Fund as a
whole will be allocated, to the extent permitted by law, according to a formula
based upon gross sales dollars and/or average daily net assets of each such
class, as may be approved from time to time by vote of a majority of the
Trustees. From time to time, the Fund may participate in joint distribution
activities with other Funds and the costs of those activities will be borne by
each Fund in proportion to the relative net asset value of the participating
Funds.
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the Fund paid John Hancock Funds the
following amounts of expenses in connection with their services for the Fund.
Class C shares of the Fund did not commence operations until April 1, 1999;
therefore, there are no expenses to report.
25
<PAGE>
Expense Items
-------------
Printing and Interest,
Mailing of Expenses of Carrying
Prospectus Compensation John or Other
to New to Selling Hancock Finance
Advertising Shareholders Brokers Funds Charges
----------- ------------ ------- ----- -------
Class A $24,408 $7,203 $159,535 $38,157 $0
Class B $22,894 $5,278 $ 54,987 $31,474 $0
SALES COMPENSATION
As part of their business strategies, each of the John Hancock funds, along with
John Hancock Funds, pay compensation to financial services firms that sell the
funds' shares. These firms typically pass along a portion of this compensation
to your financial representative.
Compensation payments originate from two sources: from sales charges and from
12b-1 fees that are paid out of the funds' assets. The sales charges and 12b-1
fees paid by investors are detailed in the prospectus and under "Distribution
Contracts" in this Statement of Additional Information. The portions of these
expenses that are reallowed to financial services firms are shown on the next
page.
Whenever you make an investment in the fund, the financial services firm
receives either a reallowance from the initial sales charge or a commission, as
described below. The firm also receives the first year's service fee at this
time. Beginning with the second year after an investment is made, the financial
services firm receives an annual service fee of 0.25% of its total eligible net
assets. This fee is paid quarterly in arrears.
Financial services firms selling large amounts of fund shares may receive extra
compensation. This compensation, which John Hancock Funds pays out of its own
resources, may include asset retention fees as well as reimbursement for
marketing expenses.
26
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Sales charge Maximum First year
Paid by investors reallowance Service fee Maximum
(% of offering or commission (% of net total compensation (1)
Class A Investments price) (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
------ --------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Up to $99,999 3.00% 2.26% 0.25% 2.50%
$100,000 - $499,999 2.50% 2.01% 0.25% 2.25%
$500,000 - $999,999 2.00% 1.51% 0.25% 1.75%
Regular investments of $1 million
or more
First $1M - $4,999,999 -- 0.75% 0.25% 1.00%
Next $1M - $5M above that -- 0.25% 0.25% 0.50% (2)
Next $1 or more above that -- 0.00% 0.25% 0.25% (2)
<CAPTION>
First year
Maximum reallowance Service fee Maximum
or commission (% of net total compensation
Class B investments (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
--------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
All amounts 2.25% 0.25% 2.50%
<CAPTION>
Maximum First year
reallowance service fee Maximum
or commission (% of net total compensation
Class C investments (% of offering price) investment) (% of offering price)
--------------------- ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
All amounts 0.75% 0.25% 1.00%
</TABLE>
(1) Reallowance/commission percentages and service fee percentages are
calculated from different amounts, and therefore may not equal total
compensation percentages if combined using simple addition.
(2) For Group Investment Program sales, the maximum total compensation for
investments of $1 million or more is 1.00% of the offering price (one year CDSC
of 1.00% applies for each sale).
CDSC revenues collected by John Hancock Funds may be used to pay commissions
when there is no initial sales charge.
NET ASSET VALUE
For purposes of calculating the net asset value ("NAV") of the Fund's shares,
the following procedures are utilized wherever applicable.
Debt investment securities are valued on the basis of valuations furnished by a
principal market maker or a pricing service, both of which generally utilize
electronic data processing techniques
27
<PAGE>
to determine valuations for normal institutional size trading units of debt
securities without exclusive reliance upon quoted prices.
Short-term debt investments which have a remaining maturity of 60 days or less
are generally valued at amortized cost which approximates market value. If
market quotations are not readily available or if in the opinion of the Adviser
any quotation or price is not representative of true market value, the fair
value of the security may be determined in good faith in accordance with
procedures approved by the Trustees.
Foreign securities are valued on the basis of quotations from the primary market
in which they are traded. Any assets or liabilities expressed in terms of
foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars by the custodian bank based
on London currency exchange quotations as of 5:00 p.m., London time (12:00 noon,
New York time) on the date of any determination of the Fund's NAV. If quotations
are not readily available, or the value has been materially affected by the
events occurring after closing of a foreign market, assets are valued by a
method that Trustees believe accurately reflects fair value.
The NAV for each fund and class is determined each business day at the close of
regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern
Time) by dividing a class's net assets by the number of its shares outstanding.
On any day an international market is closed and the New York Stock Exchange is
open, any foreign securities will be valued at the prior day's close with the
current day's exchange rate. Trading of foreign securities may take place on
Saturdays and U.S. business holidays on which the Fund's NAV is not calculated.
Consequently, the Fund's portfolio securities may trade and the NAV of the
Fund's redeemable securities may be significantly affected on days when a
shareholder has no access to the Fund.
INITIAL SALES CHARGE ON CLASS A SHARES
Shares of the Fund are offered at a price equal to their net asset value plus a
sales charge which, at the option of the purchaser, may be imposed either at the
time of purchase (the "initial sales charge alternative") or on a contingent
deferred basis (the "deferred sales charge alternative"). Share certificates
will not be issued unless requested by the shareholder in writing, and then they
will only be issued for full shares. The Trustees reserve the right to change or
waive the Fund's minimum investment requirements and to reject any order to
purchase shares (including purchase by exchange) when in the judgment of the
Adviser such rejection is in the Fund's best interest.
The sales charges applicable to purchases of Class A shares of the Fund are
described in the Prospectus. Methods of obtaining reduced sales charges referred
to generally in the Prospectus are described in detail below. In calculating the
sales charge applicable to current purchases of Class A shares of the Fund, the
investor is entitled to accumulate current purchases with the greater of the
current value (at offering price) of the Class A shares of the Fund owned by the
investor, or if John Hancock Signature Services, Inc. ("Signature Services") is
notified by the investor's dealer or the investor at the time of the purchase,
the cost of the Class A shares owned.
Without Sales Charge. Class A shares may be offered without a front-end sales
charge or CDSC to various individuals and institutions as follows:
o A Trustee or officer of the Trust; a Director or officer of the Adviser
and its affiliates or Selling Brokers; employees or sales representatives
of any of the foregoing; retired officers, employees or Directors of any
of the foregoing; a member of the immediate
28
<PAGE>
family (spouse, children, grandchildren, mother, father, sister, brother,
mother-in-law, father-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, niece, nephew,
grandparents and same sex domestic partner) of any of the foregoing; or
any fund, pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan for the
individuals described above.
o A broker, dealer, financial planner, consultant or registered investment
advisor that has entered into a signed agreement with John Hancock Funds
providing specifically for the use of Fund shares in fee-based investment
products or services made available to their clients.
o A former participant in an employee benefit plan with John Hancock
funds, when he or she withdraws from his or her plan and transfers any or
all of his or her plan distributions directly to the Fund.
o A member of a class action lawsuit against insurance companies who is
investing settlement proceeds.
o Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch servicing programs, if
the Plan has more than $3 million in assets or 500 eligible employees at
the date the Plan Sponsor signs the Merrill Lynch Recordkeeping Service
Agreement. See your Merrill Lynch financial consultant for further
information.
o Retirement plans investing through the PruArray Program sponsored by
Prudential Securities.
o Pension plans transferring assets from a John Hancock variable annuity
contract to the Fund pursuant to an exemptive application approved by the
Securities Exchange Commission.
o Existing full service clients of the Life Company who were group annuity
contract holders as of September 1, 1994, and participant directed
retirement plans with at least 100 eligible employees at the inception of
the Fund account. Each of these investors may purchase Class A shares with
no initial sales charge. However, if the shares are redeemed within 12
months after the end of the calendar year in which the purchase was made,
a CDSC will be imposed at the following rate:
Amount Invested CDSC Rate
--------------- ---------
$1 to $4,999,999 1.00%
Next $5 million to $9,999,999 0.50%
Amounts of $10 million and over 0.25%
Class A shares may also be purchased without an initial sales charge in
connection with certain liquidation, merger or acquisition transactions
involving other investment companies or personal holding companies.
Combination Privilege. In calculating the sales charge applicable to purchases
of Class A shares made at one time, the purchases will be combined to reduce
sales charges if made by (a) an individual, his or her spouse and their children
under the age of 21, purchasing securities for his or their own account, (b) a
trustee or other fiduciary purchasing for a single trust, estate or
29
<PAGE>
fiduciary account and (c) groups which qualify for the Group Investment Program
(see below). Further information about combined purchases, including certain
restrictions on combined group purchases, is available from Signature Services
or a Selling Broker's representative.
Accumulation Privilege. Investors (including investors combining purchases) who
are already Class A shareholders may also obtain the benefit of the reduced
sales charge by taking into account not only the amount being invested but also
the investor's purchase price or current value of the Class A shares of all John
Hancock funds which carry a sales charge already held by such person. Class A
shares of John Hancock money market funds will only be eligible for the
accumulation privilege if the investor has previously paid a sales charge on the
amount of those shares. Retirement plan investors may include the value of Class
B shares if Class B shares held are greater than $1 million. Retirement plans
must notify Signature Services to utilize.
Group Investment Program. Under the Combination and Accumulation Privileges, all
members of a group may combine their individual purchases of Class A shares to
potentially qualify for breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. This feature
is provided to any group which (1) has been in existence for more than six
months, (2) has a legitimate purpose other than the purchase of mutual fund
shares at a discount for its members, (3) utilizes salary deduction or similar
group methods of payment, and (4) agrees to allow sales materials of the fund in
its mailings to members at a reduced or no cost to John Hancock Funds.
Letter of Intention. Reduced sales charges are also applicable to investments
made pursuant to a Letter of Intention (the "LOI"), which should be read
carefully prior to its execution by an investor. The Fund offers two options
regarding the specified period for making investments under the LOI. All
investors have the option of making their investments over a specified period of
thirteen (13) months. Investors who are using the Fund as a funding medium for a
retirement plan, however, may opt to make the necessary investments called for
by the LOI over a forty-eight (48) month period. These retirement plans include
traditional, Roth and Education IRAs, SEP, SARSEP, 401(k), 403(b), (including
TSAs), SIMPLE IRA, SIMPLE 401(k), Money Purchase Pension, Profit Sharing and
Section 457 plans. Non-qualified and qualified retirement plan investments
cannot be combined to satisfy an LOI of 48 months. Such an investment (including
accumulations and combinations but not including reinvested dividends) must
aggregate $50,000 or more invested during the specified period from the date of
the LOI or from a date within ninety (90) days prior thereto, upon written
request to Signature Services. The sales charge applicable to all amounts
invested under the LOI is computed as if the aggregate amount intended to be
invested had been invested immediately. If such aggregate amount is not actually
invested, the difference in the sales charge actually paid and the sales charge
payable had the LOI not been in effect is due from the investor. However, for
the purchases actually made within the specified period (either 13 or 48
months), the sales charge applicable will not be higher than that which would
have been applied (including accumulations and combinations) had the LOI been
for the amount actually invested.
The LOI authorizes Signature Services to hold in escrow sufficient Class A
shares (approximately 5% of the aggregate) to make up any difference in sales
charges on the amount intended to be invested and the amount actually invested,
until such investment is completed within the specified period, at which time
the escrowed Class A shares will be released. If the total investment specified
in the LOI is not completed, the Class A shares held in escrow may be redeemed
and the proceeds used as required to pay such sales charge as may be due. By
signing the LOI, the investor authorizes Signature Services to act as his or her
attorney-in-fact to redeem any escrowed Class A shares and adjust the sales
charge, if necessary. A LOI does not constitute
30
<PAGE>
a binding commitment by an investor to purchase, or by the Fund to sell, any
additional Class A shares and may be terminated at any time.
DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON CLASS B AND CLASS C SHARES
Investments in Class B and Class C shares are purchased at net asset value per
share without the imposition of an initial sales charge so that the Fund will
receive the full amount of the purchase payment.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. Class B and Class C shares which are redeemed
within four years or one year of purchase, respectively, will be subject to a
contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") at the rates set forth in the
Prospectus as a percentage of the dollar amount subject to the CDSC. The charge
will be assessed on an amount equal to the lesser of the current market value or
the original purchase cost of the Class B or Class C shares being redeemed. No
CDSC will be imposed on increases in account value above the initial purchase
prices, including all shares derived from reinvestment of dividends or capital
gains distributions.
Class B shares are not available to full-service retirement plans administered
by Signature Services or the Life Company that had more than 100 eligible
employees at the inception of the Fund account.
The amount of the CDSC, if any, will vary depending on the number of years from
the time of payment for the purchase of Class B shares until the time of
redemption of such shares. Solely for purposes of determining the number of
years from the time of any payment for the purchases of both Class B and Class C
shares, all payments during a month will be aggregated and deemed to have been
made on the first day of the month.
In determining whether a CDSC applies to a redemption, the calculation will be
determined in a manner that results in the lowest possible rate being charged.
It will be assumed that your redemption comes first from shares you have held
beyond the four-year CDSC redemption period for Class B or one year CDSC
redemption period for Class C, or those you acquired through dividend and
capital gain reinvestment, and next from the shares you have held the longest
during the four-year period for Class B shares. For this purpose, the amount of
any increase in a share's value above its initial purchase price is not regarded
as a share exempt from CDSC. Thus, when a share that has appreciated in value is
redeemed during the CDSC period, a CDSC is assessed only on its initial purchase
price.
When requesting a redemption for a specific dollar amount please indicate if you
require the proceeds to equal the dollar amount requested. If not indicated,
only the specified dollar amount will be redeemed from your account and the
proceeds will be less any applicable CDSC.
Example:
You have purchased 100 shares at $10 per share. The second year after your
purchase, your investment's net asset value per share has increased by $2 to
$12, and you have gained 10 additional shares through dividend reinvestment. If
you redeem 50 shares at this time your CDSC will be calculated as follows:
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<PAGE>
o Proceeds of 50 shares redeemed at $12 per shares (50 x 12) $ 600.00
o*Minus Appreciation ($12 - $10) x 100 shares (200.00)
o Minus proceeds of 10 shares not subject to CDSC (dividend
reinvestment) (120.00)
-------
o Amount subject to CDSC $ 280.00
*The appreciation is based on all 100 shares in the lot not just the
shares being redeemed.
Proceeds from the CDSC are paid to John Hancock Funds and are used in whole or
in part by John Hancock Funds to defray its expenses related to providing
distribution-related services to the Fund in connection with the sale of the
Class B and Class C shares, such as the payment of compensation to select
Selling Brokers for selling Class B and Class C shares. The combination of the
CDSC and the distribution and service fees facilitates the ability of the Fund
to sell the Class B and Class C shares without a sales charge being deducted at
the time of the purchase.
Waiver of Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. The CDSC will be waived on
redemptions of Class B and Class C shares and of Class A shares that are subject
to a CDSC, unless indicated otherwise, in the circumstances defined below:
For all account types:
* Redemptions made pursuant to the Fund's right to liquidate your account if
you own shares worth less than $1,000.
* Redemptions made under certain liquidation, merger or acquisition
transactions involving other investment companies or personal holding
companies.
* Redemptions due to death or disability. (Does not apply to trust accounts
unless trust is being dissolved.)
* Redemptions made under the Reinstatement Privilege, as described in "Sales
Charge Reductions and Waivers" of the Prospectus.
* Redemptions where the proceeds are used to purchase a John Hancock
Declaration Variable annuity.
* Redemptions of Class B (but not Class C) shares made under a periodic
withdrawal plan, or redemptions for fees charged by planners or advisors
for advisory services, as long as your annual redemptions do not exceed
12% of your account value, including reinvested dividends, at the time you
established your periodic withdrawal plan and 12% of the value of
subsequent investments (less redemptions) in that account at the time you
notify Signature Services. (Please note that this waiver does not apply to
periodic withdrawal plan redemptions of Class A or Class C shares that are
subject to a CDSC.)
* Redemptions by Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch servicing
programs, if the Plan has less than $3 million in assets or 500 eligible
employees at the date the Plan Sponsor signs the Merrill Lynch
Recordkeeping Service Agreement. See your Merrill Lynch financial
consultant for further information.
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<PAGE>
* Redemptions of Class A shares by retirement plans that invested through
the PruArray Program sponsored by Prudential Securities.
For Retirement Accounts (such as traditional, Roth and Education IRAs, SIMPLE
IRA, SIMPLE 401(k), Rollover IRA, TSA, 457, 403(b), 401(k), Money Purchase
Pension Plan, Profit-Sharing Plan and other plans as described in the Internal
Revenue Code) unless otherwise noted.
* Redemptions made to effect mandatory or life expectancy distributions
under the Internal Revenue Code.
* Returns of excess contributions made to these plans.
* Redemptions made to effect distributions to participants or beneficiaries
from employer sponsored retirement plans under sections 401(a) (such as
Money Purchase Pension Plans and Profit-Sharing/401(k) Plans), 457 and 408
(SEPs and SIMPLE IRAs) of the Internal Revenue Code.
* Redemptions from certain IRA and retirement plans that purchased shares
prior to October 1, 1992 and certain IRA accounts that purchased shares
prior to May 15, 1995.
Please see matrix for reference.
33
<PAGE>
CDSC Waiver Matrix for Class B and Class C
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of 401 (a) Plan 403 (b) 457 IRA, IRA Non-retirement
Distribution (401 (k), Rollover
MPP, PSP)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Death or Waived Waived Waived Waived Waived
Disability
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Over 70 1/2 Waived Waived Waived Waived for 12% of
mandatory account
distributions value
or 12% of annually in
account periodic
value payments
annually in
periodic
payments
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Between 59 1/2 Waived Waived Waived Waived for 12% of
and 70 1/2 Life account
Expectancy value
or 12% of annually in
account periodic
value payments
annually in
periodic
payments
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 59 1/2 Waived for Waived for Waived for Waived for 12% of
(Class B only) annuity annuity annuity annuity account
payments payments payments payments value
(72t) or 12% (72t) or 12% (72t) or (72t) or annually in
of account of account 12% of 12% of periodic
value value account account payments
annually in annually in value value
periodic periodic annually in annually in
payments payments periodic periodic
payments payments
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loans Waived Waived N/A N/A N/A
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Termination of Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived N/A
Plan
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hardships Waived Waived Waived N/A N/A
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return of Excess Waived Waived Waived Waived N/A
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
If you qualify for a CDSC waiver under one of these situations, you must notify
Signature Services at the time you make your redemption. The waiver will be
granted once Signature Services has confirmed that you are entitled to the
waiver.
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<PAGE>
SPECIAL REDEMPTIONS
Although it would not normally do so, the Fund has the right to pay the
redemption price of shares of the Fund in whole or in part in portfolio
securities as prescribed by the Trustees. When the shareholder sells portfolio
securities received in this fashion, the shareholder will incur a brokerage
charge. Any such securities would be valued for the purposes of making such
payment at the same value as used in determining net asset value. The Fund has
elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under
that rule, the Fund must redeem its shares for cash except to the extent that
the redemption payments to any shareholder during any 90-day period would exceed
the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Fund's net asset value at the beginning of
such period.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS
Exchange Privilege. The Fund permits exchanges of shares of any class of a fund
for shares of the same class in any other John Hancock fund offering that class.
Exchanges between funds with shares that are not subject to a CDSC are based on
their respective net asset values. No sales charge or transaction charge is
imposed. Shares of the Fund which are subject to a CDSC may be exchanged into
shares of any of the other John Hancock funds that are subject to a CDSC without
incurring the CDSC; however, the shares acquired in an exchange will be subject
to the CDSC schedule of the shares acquired if and when such shares are redeemed
(except that shares exchanged into John Hancock Short-Term Strategic Income
Fund, and John Hancock Intermediate Maturity Government Fund will retain the
exchanged fund's CDSC schedule). For purposes of computing the CDSC payable upon
redemption of shares acquired in an exchange, the holding period of the original
shares is added to the holding period of the shares acquired in an exchange.
If a shareholder exchanges Class B shares purchased prior to January 1, 1994
(except John Hancock Short-Term Strategic Income Fund) for Class B shares of any
other John Hancock fund, the acquired shares will continue to be subject to the
CDSC schedule that was in effect when the exchanged shares were purchased.
The Fund reserves the right to require that previously exchanged shares (and
reinvested dividends) be in the Fund for 90 days before a shareholder is
permitted a new exchange.
The Fund may refuse any exchange order. The Fund may change or cancel its
exchange policies at any time, upon 60 days' notice to its shareholders.
An exchange of shares is treated as a redemption of shares of one fund and the
purchase of shares of another for Federal Income Tax purposes. An exchange may
result in a taxable gain or loss. See "TAX STATUS".
Systematic Withdrawal Plan. The Fund permits the establishment of a Systematic
Withdrawal Plan. Payments under this plan represent proceeds arising from the
redemption of Fund shares. Since the redemption price of the Fund shares may be
more or less than the shareholder's cost, depending upon the market value of the
securities owned by the Fund at the time of redemption, the distribution of cash
pursuant to this plan may result in realization of gain or loss for purposes
35
<PAGE>
of Federal, state and local income taxes. The maintenance of a Systematic
Withdrawal Plan concurrently with purchases of additional shares of the Fund
could be disadvantageous to a shareholder because of the initial sales charge
payable on such purchases of Class A shares and the CDSC imposed on redemptions
of Class B and Class C shares and because redemptions are taxable events.
Therefore, a shareholder should not purchase shares at the same time a
Systematic Withdrawal Plan is in effect. The Fund reserves the right to modify
or discontinue the Systematic Withdrawal Plan of any shareholder on 30 days
prior written notice to such shareholder, or to discontinue the availability of
such plan in the future. The shareholder may terminate the plan at any time by
giving proper notice to Signature Services.
Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program ("MAAP"). The program is explained in the
Prospectus. The program, as it relates to automatic investment checks, is
subject to the following conditions:
The investments will be drawn on or about the day of the month indicated.
The privilege of making investments through the MAAP may be revoked by Signature
Services without prior notice if any investment is not honored by the
shareholder's bank. The bank shall be under no obligation to notify the
shareholder as to the non-payment of any checks.
The program may be discontinued by the shareholder either by calling Signature
Services or upon written notice to Signature Services which is received at least
five (5) business days prior to the order date of any investment.
Reinstatement or Reinvestment Privilege. If Signature Services is notified prior
to reinvestment, a shareholder who has redeemed Fund shares may, within 120 days
after the date of redemption, reinvest without payment of a sales charge any
part of the redemption proceeds in shares of the same class of the Fund or
another John Hancock fund, subject to the minimum investment limit of that fund.
The proceeds from the redemption of Class A shares may be reinvested at net
asset value without paying a sales charge in Class A shares of the Fund or in
Class A shares of any John Hancock fund. If a CDSC was paid upon a redemption, a
shareholder may reinvest the proceeds from this redemption at net asset value in
additional shares of the class from which the redemption was made. The
shareholder's account will be credited with the amount of any CDSC charged upon
the prior redemption and the new shares will continue to be subject to the CDSC.
The holding period of the shares acquired through reinvestment will, for
purposes of computing the CDSC payable upon a subsequent redemption, include the
holding period of the redeemed shares.
To protect the interests of other investors in the Fund, the Fund may cancel the
reinvestment privilege of any parties that, in the opinion of the Fund, are
using market timing strategies or making more than seven exchanges per owner or
controlling party per calendar year. Also, the Fund may refuse any reinvestment
request.
The Fund may change or cancel its reinvestment policies at any time.
A redemption or exchange of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for Federal
income tax purposes even if the reinvestment privilege is exercised, and any
gain or loss realized by a shareholder on the redemption or other disposition of
Fund shares will be treated for tax purposes as described under the caption "TAX
STATUS."
36
<PAGE>
Retirement plans participating in Merrill Lynch's servicing programs:
Class A shares are available at net asset value for plans with $3 million in
plan assets or 500 eligible employees at the date the Plan Sponsor signs the
Merrill Lynch Recordkeeping Service Agreement. If the plan does not meet either
of these limits, Class A shares are not available.
For participating retirement plans investing in Class B shares, shares will
convert to Class A shares after eight years, or sooner if the plan attains
assets of $5 million (by means of a CDSC-free redemption/purchase at net asset
value).
DESCRIPTION OF THE FUND'S SHARES
The Trustees of the Trust are responsible for the management and supervision of
the Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited
number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest of the Fund, without
par value. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the authority to
create and classify shares of beneficial interest in separate series, without
further action by shareholders. As of the date of this Statement of Additional
Information, the Trust has two Funds and only one series and the Trustees have
not authorized any additional series of the Fund, although they may do so in the
future. The Declaration of Trust also authorizes the Trustees to classify and
reclassify the shares of the Fund, or any new series of the Trust into one or
more classes. The Trustees have also authorized the issuance of three classes of
shares of the Fund, designated as Class A, Class B and Class C.
The shares of each class of the Fund represent an equal proportionate interest
in the aggregate net assets attributable to that class or series of the Fund.
Holders of each class of shares have certain exclusive voting rights on matters
relating to their respective distribution plans. The different classes of the
Fund may bear different expenses relating to the cost of holding shareholder
meetings necessitated by the exclusive voting rights of any class of shares.
Dividends paid by the Fund, if any, with respect to each class of shares will be
calculated in the same manner, at the same time and on the same day and will be
in the same amount, except for differences resulting from the facts that (i) the
distribution and service fees relating to each class of shares will be borne
exclusively by that class, (ii) Class B and Class C shares will pay higher
distribution and service fees than Class A shares and (iii) each Class of shares
will bear any class expenses properly allocable to that class of shares, subject
to the conditions the Internal Revenue Service imposes with respect to the
multiple-class structures. Similarly, the net asset value per share may vary
depending on which class of shares are purchased. No interest will be paid on
uncashed dividend or redemption checks.
In the event of liquidation, shareholders of each class are entitled to share
pro rata in the net assets of the Fund available for distribution to these
shareholders. Shares entitle their holders to one vote per share, are freely
transferable and have no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights. When
issued, shares are fully paid and non-assessable, except as set forth below.
Unless otherwise required by the Investment Company Act or the Declaration of
Trust, the Fund has no intention of holding annual meetings of shareholders.
Fund shareholders may remove a Trustee by the affirmative vote of at least
two-thirds of the Trust's outstanding shares and the Trustees shall promptly
call a meeting for such purpose when requested to do so in writing by the record
holders of not less than 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
Shareholders may, under certain circumstances, communicate with other
shareholders in connection with requesting
37
<PAGE>
a special meeting of shareholders. However, at any time that less than a
majority of the Trustees holding office were elected by the shareholders, the
Trustees will call a special meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing
Trustees.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust could,
under certain circumstances, be held personally liable for acts or obligations
of the Trust. However, the Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer
of shareholder liability for acts, obligations or affairs of the Fund. The
Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification out of the Fund's assets
for all losses and expenses of any shareholder held personally liable by reason
of being or having been a shareholder. The Declaration of Trust also provides
that no series of the Trust shall be liable for the liabilities of any other
series. Furthermore, no fund included in this Fund's prospectus shall be liable
for the liabilities of any other John Hancock Fund. Liability is therefore
limited to circumstances in which the Fund itself would be unable to meet its
obligations, and the possibility of this occurrence is remote.
The Fund reserves the right to reject any application which conflicts with the
Fund's internal policies or the policies of any regulatory authority. John
Hancock Funds does not accept starter, credit card or third party checks. All
checks returned by the post office as undeliverable will be reinvested at net
asset value in the fund or funds from which a redemption was made or dividend
paid. Information provided on the account application may be used by the Fund to
verify the accuracy of the information or for background or financial history
purposes. A joint account will be administered as a joint tenancy with right of
survivorship, unless the joint owners notify Signature Services of a different
intent. A shareholder's account is governed by the laws of The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. For telephone transactions, the transfer agent will take measures
to verify the identity of the caller, such as asking for name, account number,
Social Security or other taxpayer ID number and other relevant information. If
appropriate measures are taken, the transfer agent is not responsible for any
losses that may occur to any account due to an unauthorized telephone call. Also
for your protection telephone transactions are not permitted on accounts whose
names or addresses have changed within the past 30 days. Proceeds from telephone
transactions can only be mailed to the address of record.
Selling activities for the Fund may not take place outside the U.S. exempt with
U.S. military bases, APO addresses and U.S. diplomats. Brokers of record on
Non-U.S. investors' accounts with foreign mailing addresses are required to
certify that all sales activities have occurred, and in the future will occur,
only in the U.S. A Foreign corporation may purchase shares of the Fund only if
it has a U.S. mailing address.
TAX STATUS
The Fund has qualified and has elected to be treated as a "regulated investment
company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended
(the "Code") and intends to continue to qualify for each taxable year. As such
and by complying with the applicable provisions of the Code regarding the
sources of its income, the timing of its distributions, and the diversification
of its assets, the Fund will not be subject to Federal income tax on its taxable
income (including net realized capital gains) which is distributed to
shareholders in accordance with the timing requirements of the Code.
The Fund will be subject to a 4% nondeductible Federal excise tax on certain
amounts not distributed (and not treated as having been distributed) on a timely
basis in accordance with
38
<PAGE>
annual minimum distribution requirements. The Fund intends under normal
circumstances to seek to avoid or minimize liability for such tax by satisfying
such distribution requirements.
Distributions from the Fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits
("E&P") will be taxable under the Code for investors who are subject to tax. If
these distributions are paid from the Fund's "investment company taxable
income," they will be taxable as ordinary income; and if they are paid from the
Fund's "net capital gain," they will be taxable as capital gain. (Net capital
gain is the excess (if any) of net long-term capital gain over net short-term
capital loss, and investment company taxable income is all taxable income and
capital gains, other than those gains and losses included in computing net
capital gain, after reduction by deductible expenses). Some distributions may be
paid to shareholders as if they had been received on December 31 of the previous
year. The tax treatment described above will apply without regard to whether
distributions are received in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the
Fund.
Distributions, if any, in excess of E&P will constitute a return of capital
under the Code, which will first reduce an investor's federal tax basis in Fund
shares and then, to the extent such basis is exceeded, will generally give rise
to capital gains. Shareholders who have chosen automatic reinvestment of their
distributions will have a federal tax basis in each share received pursuant to
such a reinvestment equal to the amount of cash they would have received had
they elected to receive the distribution in cash, divided by the number of
shares received in the reinvestment.
The amount of net realized capital gains, if any, in any given year will vary
depending upon the Adviser's current investment strategy and whether the Adviser
believes it to be in the best interests of the Fund to dispose of portfolio
securities and/or engage in options, futures or forward transactions will
generate capital gains. At the time of an investor's purchase of Fund shares, a
portion of the purchase price is often attributable to realized or unrealized
appreciation in the Fund's portfolio. Consequently, subsequent distributions on
these shares from such appreciation may be taxable to such investor even if the
net asset value of the investor's shares is, as a result of the distributions,
reduced below the investor's cost for such shares, and the distributions in
reality represent a return of a portion of the purchase price.
Upon a redemption or other disposition of shares of the Fund (including by
exercise of the exchange privilege) in a transaction that is treated as a sale
for tax purposes, a shareholder may realize a taxable gain or loss depending
upon the amount of the proceeds and the investor's basis in his shares. Such
gain or loss will be treated as capital gain or loss if the shares are capital
assets in the shareholder's hands. A sales charge paid in purchasing shares of
the Fund cannot be taken into account for purposes of determining gain or loss
on the redemption or exchange of such shares within 90 days after their purchase
to the extent shares of the Fund or another John Hancock Fund are subsequently
acquired without payment of a sales charge pursuant to the reinvestment or
exchange privilege. This disregarded charge will result in an increase in the
shareholder's tax basis in the shares subsequently acquired. Also, any loss
realized on a redemption or exchange may be disallowed to the extent the shares
disposed of are replaced with other shares of the Fund within a period of 61
days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the shares are disposed
of, such as pursuant to automatic dividend reinvestments. In such a case, the
basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.
Any loss realized upon the redemption of shares with a tax holding period of six
months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any
amounts treated as distributions of long-term capital gain with respect to such
shares. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers regarding their
particular circumstances to determine whether a disposition of Fund shares is
properly treated as a sale for tax purposes, as is assumed in the foregoing
discussion.
39
<PAGE>
Although its present intention is to distribute, at least annually, all net
capital gain, if any, the Fund reserves the right to retain and reinvest all or
any portion of the excess, as computed for Federal income tax purposes, of net
long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss in any year. The Fund
will not in any event distribute net capital gain realized in any year to the
extent that a capital loss is carried forward from prior years against such
gain. To the extent such excess was retained and not exhausted by the
carryforward of prior years' capital losses, it would be subject to Federal
income tax in the hands of the Fund. Upon proper designation of this amount by
the Fund, each shareholder would be treated for Federal income tax purposes as
if the Fund had distributed to him on the last day of its taxable year his pro
rata share of such excess, and he had paid his pro rata share of the taxes paid
by the Fund and reinvested the remainder in the Fund. Accordingly, each
shareholder would (a) include his pro rata share of such excess as capital gain
in his return for his taxable year in which the last day of the Fund's taxable
year falls, (b) be entitled either to a tax credit on his return for, or to a
refund of, his pro rata share of the taxes paid by the Fund, and (c) be entitled
to increase the adjusted tax basis for his shares in the Fund by the difference
between his pro rata share of such excess and his pro rata share of such taxes.
For Federal income tax purposes, the Fund is permitted to carry forward a net
capital loss in any year to offset its own net capital gains, if any, during the
eight years following the year of the loss. To the extent subsequent net capital
gains are offset by such losses, they would not result in Federal income tax
liability to the Fund and, as noted above, would not be distributed as such to
shareholders. The Fund has $17,040,448 of capital loss carryforwards, available
to the extent provided by regulations, as to offset future net realized capital
gains. These carryforwards expire at various amounts and times from 1999 through
2005.
The Fund's dividends and capital gain distributions will not qualify for the
corporate dividends-received deduction.
The Fund is required to accrue income on any debt securities that have more than
a de minimis amount of original issue discount (or debt securities acquired at a
market discount, if the Fund elects to include market discount in income
currently) prior to the receipt of the corresponding cash payments. However, the
Fund must distribute to shareholders for each taxable year substantially all of
its net income, including such income, to qualify as a regulated investment
company and avoid liability for any federal income or excise tax. Therefore, the
Fund may have to dispose of its portfolio securities under disadvantageous
circumstances to generate cash, or borrow cash, to satisfy these distribution
requirements.
A state income (and possibly local income and/or intangible property) tax
exemption is generally available to the extent (if any) the Fund's distributions
are derived from interest on (or, in the case of intangibles property taxes, the
value of its assets is attributable to) certain U.S. Government obligations,
provided in some states that certain thresholds for holdings of such obligations
and/or reporting requirements are satisfied. The Fund will not seek to satisfy
any threshold or reporting requirements that may apply in particular taxing
jurisdictions, although the Fund may in its sole discretion provide relevant
information to shareholders.
The Fund will be required to report to the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS")
all taxable distributions to shareholders, as well as gross proceeds from the
redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in the case of certain exempt
recipients, i.e., corporations and certain other investors distributions to
which are exempt from the information reporting provisions of the
40
<PAGE>
Code. Under the backup withholding provisions of Code Section 3406 and
applicable Treasury regulations, all such reportable distributions and proceeds
may be subject to backup withholding of federal income tax at the rate of 31% in
the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the Fund with their
correct taxpayer identification number and certain certifications required by
the IRS or if the IRS or a broker notifies the Fund that the number furnished by
the shareholder is incorrect or that the shareholder is subject to backup
withholding as a result of failure to report interest or dividend income. The
Fund may refuse to accept an application that does not contain any required
taxpayer identification number or certification that the number provided is
correct. If the backup withholding provisions are applicable, any such
distributions and proceeds, whether taken in cash or reinvested in shares, will
be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld. Any amounts withheld may be
credited against a shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability. Investors
should consult their tax advisers about the applicability of the backup
withholding provisions.
The Fund may be required to account for its transactions in forward rolls or
swaps, caps, floors and collars in a manner that, under certain circumstances,
may limit the extent of its participation in such transactions. Additionally,
the Fund may be required to recognize gain, but not loss, if a swap or other
transaction is treated as a constructive sale of an appreciated financial
position in the Fund's portfolio. The Fund may have to sell portfolio securities
under disadvantageous circumstances to generate cash, or borrow cash, to satisfy
these distribution requirements.
Different tax treatment, including penalties on certain excess contributions and
deferrals, certain pre-retirement and post-retirement distributions and certain
prohibited transactions, is accorded to accounts maintained as qualified
retirement plans. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers for more
information.
The foregoing discussion relates solely to U.S. Federal income tax law as
applicable to U.S. persons (i.e., U.S. citizens or residents and U.S. domestic
corporations, partnerships, trusts or estates) subject to tax under such law.
The discussion does not address special tax rules applicable to certain classes
of investors, such as tax-exempt entities, insurance companies, and financial
institutions. Dividends, capital gain distributions, and ownership of or gains
realized on the redemption (including an exchange) of Fund shares may also be
subject to state and local taxes. Shareholders should consult their own tax
advisers as to the Federal, state or local tax consequences of ownership of
shares of, and receipt of distributions from, the Fund in their particular
circumstances.
Non-U.S. investors not engaged in a U.S. trade or business with which their
investment in the Fund is effectively connected will be subject to U.S. Federal
income tax treatment that is different from that described above. These
investors may be subject to nonresident alien withholding tax at the rate of 30%
(or a lower rate under an applicable tax treaty) on amounts treated as ordinary
dividends from a Fund and, unless an effective IRS Form W-8 or authorized
substitute for Form W-8 is on file, to 31% backup withholding on certain other
payments from the Fund. Non-U.S. investors should consult their tax advisers
regarding such treatment and the application of foreign taxes to an investment
in the Fund.
The Fund is not subject to Massachusetts corporate excise or franchise taxes.
The Fund anticipates that, provided that the Fund qualifies as a regulated
investment company under the Code, it will also not be required to pay any
Massachusetts income tax.
41
<PAGE>
CALCULATION OF PERFORMANCE
For the 30-day fiscal period ended November 30, 1998, the annualized yield for
the Fund's Class A and Class B shares were __% and __%, respectively. The
average annual return for the Fund's Class A and Class B shares for the period
from December 31, 1991 (inception of the Fund) through November 30, 1998 were
__% and __%, respectively. For the one year fiscal year ended November 30, 1998,
the average annual returns were __% and __%, respectively. For the five year
period ended November 30, 1998, the average annual returns were __% and __%,
respectively. Class C shares commenced operations on April 1, 1999; therefore,
there is no yield to report.
The Fund's yield is computed by dividing net investment income per share
determined for a 30-day period by the maximum offering price per share (which
includes the full sales charge, where applicable) on the last day of the period,
according to the following standard formula:
Yield = 2 ( [ ( a-b/cd ) + 1 ] ^6 - 1)
Where:
a = dividends and interest earned during the period.
b = net expenses accrued during the period.
c = the average daily number of fund shares outstanding during the period that
would be entitled to receive dividends.
d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period (NAV
where applicable).
Total return is computed by finding the average annual compounded rate of return
over the 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year periods that would equate the initial
amount invested to the ending redeemable value according to the following
formula:
T = ((ERV/P)^(1/n)) - 1
Where:
P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000.
T = average annual total return
n = number of years
ERV= ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made at
designated periods or fraction thereof.
Because each class has its own sales charge and fee structure, the classes have
different performance results. In the case of each class, this calculation
assumes the maximum sales charge is included in the initial investment or the
CDSC applied at the end of the period, respectively. This calculation assumes
that all dividends and distributions are reinvested at net
42
<PAGE>
asset value on the reinvestment dates during the period. The "distribution rate"
is determined by annualizing the result of dividing the declared dividends of
the Fund during the period stated by the maximum offering price or net asset
value at the end of the period. Excluding the Fund's sales charge from the
distribution rate produces a higher rate.
In addition to average annual total returns, the Fund may quote unaveraged or
cumulative total returns reflecting the simple change in value of an investment
over a stated period. Cumulative total returns may be quoted as a percentage or
as a dollar amount, and may be calculated for a single investment, a series of
investments, and/or a series of redemptions, over any time period. Total returns
may be quoted with or without taking the Fund's sales charge on Class A shares
or the CDSC on Class B or Class C shares into account. Excluding the Fund's
sales charge on Class A shares and the CDSC on Class B or Class C shares from a
total return calculation produces a higher total return figure.
From time to time, in reports and promotional literature, the Fund's total
return and/or yield will be compared to indices of mutual funds and bank deposit
vehicles such as Lipper Analytical Services, Inc.'s "Lipper -- Fixed Income Fund
Performance Analysis," a monthly publication which tracks net assets, total
return, and yield on fixed income mutual funds in the United States. Ibbotson
and Associates, CDA Weisenberger and F.C. Towers are also used for comparison
purposes, as well a the Russell and Wilshire Indices.
Performance rankings and ratings reported periodically in national financial
publications such as MONEY Magazine, FORBES, BUSINESS WEEK, THE WALL STREET
JOURNAL, MICROPAL, INC., MORNINGSTAR, STANGER'S and BARRON'S, may also be
utilized. The Fund's promotional and sales literature may make reference to the
Fund's "beta." Beta is a reflection of the market-related risk of the Fund by
showing how responsive the Fund is to the market.
The performance of the Fund is not fixed or guaranteed. Performance quotations
should not be considered to be representations of performance of the Fund for
any period in the future. The performance of the Fund is a function of many
factors including its earnings, expenses and number of outstanding shares.
Fluctuating market conditions; purchases, sales and maturities of portfolio
securities; sales and redemptions of shares of beneficial interest; and changes
in operating expenses are all examples of items that can increase or decrease
the Fund's performance.
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION
Decisions concerning the purchase and sale of portfolio securities and the
allocation of brokerage commissions are made by the Adviser pursuant to
recommendations made by an investment committee of the Adviser, which consists
of officers and directors of the Adviser and affiliates and Trustees who are
interested persons of the Fund. Orders for purchases and sales of securities are
placed in a manner which, in the opinion of the Adviser, will offer the best
price and market for the execution of each such transaction. Purchases from
underwriters of portfolio securities may include a commission or commissions
paid by the issuer and transactions with dealers serving as market makers to
reflect a "spread." Debt securities are generally traded on a net basis through
dealers acting for their own account as principals and not as brokers; no
brokerage commissions are payable on these transactions.
43
<PAGE>
In the U.S. and in some other countries, debt securities are traded principally
in the over-the-counter market on a net basis through dealers acting for their
own account and not as brokers. In other countries, both debt and equity
securities are traded on exchanges at fixed commission rates. Commissions on
foreign transactions are generally higher than the negotiated commission rates
available in the U.S. There is generally less government supervision and
regulation of foreign stock exchanges and broker-dealers than in the U.S.
The Fund's primary policy is to execute all purchases and sales of portfolio
instruments at the most favorable prices consistent with best execution,
considering all of the costs of the transaction including brokerage commissions.
This policy governs the selection of brokers and dealers and the market in which
a transaction is executed. Consistent with the foregoing primary policy, the
Rules of Fair Practice of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
and other policies as the Trustees may determine, the Adviser may consider sales
of shares of the Fund as a factor in the selection of broker-dealers to execute
the Fund's portfolio transactions.
To the extent consistent with the foregoing, the Fund will be governed in the
selection of brokers and dealers, and the negotiation of brokerage commission
rates and dealer spreads, by the reliability and quality of the services,
including primarily the availability and value of research information and to a
lesser extent statistical assistance furnished to the Adviser of the Fund, and
their value and expected contribution to the performance of the Fund. It is not
possible to place a dollar value on information and services to be received from
brokers and dealers, since it is only supplementary to the research efforts of
the Adviser. The receipt of research information is not expected to reduce
significantly the expenses of the Adviser. The research information and
statistical assistance furnished by brokers and dealers may benefit the Life
Company or other advisory clients of the Adviser, and conversely, brokerage
commissions and spreads paid by other advisory clients of the Adviser may result
in research information and statistical assistance beneficial to the Fund. The
Fund will not make any commitment to allocate portfolio transactions upon any
prescribed basis. While the Adviser's officers will be primarily responsible for
the allocation of the Fund's brokerage business, the policies in this regard
must be consistent with the foregoing and will at all times be subject to review
by the Trustees. For the years ended March 31, 1997 and 1996, no negotiated
brokerage commissions were paid on portfolio transactions. For the period from
April 1, 1997 to May 31, 1997 and for the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, no
negotiated brokerage commissions were paid on portfolio transactions.
As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Fund
may pay to a broker which provides brokerage and research services to the Fund
an amount of disclosed commission in excess of the commission which another
broker would have charged for effecting that transaction. This practice is
subject to a good faith determination by the Trustees that such price is
reasonable in light of the services provided and to such policies as the
Trustees may adopt from time to time. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998,
the Fund did not pay commissions to compensate any brokers for research services
such as industry, economic and company reviews and evaluations of securities.
The Adviser's indirect parent, the Life Company, is the indirect sole
shareholder of Signator Investors, Inc., a broker dealer ("Signator" or
"Affiliated Broker"). Pursuant to procedures determined by the Trustees and
consistent with the above policy of obtaining best net results, the Fund may
execute portfolio transactions with or through Affiliated Brokers. During the
years ended March 31, 1997 and 1996, the Fund did not execute any portfolio
transactions with any Affiliated Broker. For the period from April 1, 1997 to
May 31, 1997 and for the fiscal year
44
<PAGE>
ended May 31, 1998, the Fund did not execute any portfolio transactions with any
Affiliated Broker.
Signator may act as broker for the Fund on exchange transactions, subject,
however, to the general policy of the Fund set forth above and the procedures
adopted by the Trustees pursuant to the Investment Company Act. Commissions paid
to an Affiliated Broker must be at least as favorable as those which the
Trustees believe to be contemporaneously charged by other brokers in connection
with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or
sold. A transaction would not be placed with an Affiliated Broker if the Fund
would have to pay a commission rate less favorable than the Affiliated Broker's
contemporaneous charges for comparable transactions for its other most favored,
but unaffiliated, customers, except for accounts for which the Affiliated Broker
acts as a clearing broker for another brokerage firm, and any customers of the
Affiliated Broker not comparable to the Fund as determined by a majority of the
Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined in the Investment Company
Act) of the Fund, the Adviser or the Affiliated Broker. Because the Adviser,
which is affiliated with the Affiliated Brokers, has, as an investment adviser
to the Fund, the obligation to provide investment management services, which
includes elements of research and related investment skills, such research and
related skills will not be used by the Affiliated Broker as a basis for
negotiating commissions at a rate higher than that determined in accordance with
the above criteria.
Other investment advisory clients advised by the Adviser may also invest in the
same securities as the Fund. When these clients buy or sell the same securities
at substantially the same time, the Adviser may average the transactions as to
price and allocate the amount of available investments in a manner which the
Adviser believes to be equitable to each client, including the Fund. In some
instances, this investment procedure may adversely affect the price paid or
received by the Fund or the size of the position obtainable for it. On the other
hand, to the extent permitted by law, the Adviser may aggregate the securities
to be sold or purchased for the Fund with those to be sold or purchased for
other clients managed by it in order to obtain best execution.
TRANSFER AGENT SERVICES
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc., 1 John Hancock Way, Suite 1000, Boston,
MA 02217-1000, a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of the Life Company, is the
transfer and dividend paying agent for the Fund. The Fund pays Signature
Services an annual fee of $19.00 for each Class A shareholder account and $21.50
for each Class B shareholder account and $20.50 for each Class C shareholder
account. The Fund also pays certain out-of-pocket expenses and these expenses
are aggregated and charged to the Fund and allocated to each class on the basis
of their relative net asset values.
CUSTODY OF PORTFOLIO
Portfolio securities of the Fund are held pursuant to custodian agreements
between the Fund and Investors Bank & Trust Company, 200 Clarendon Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02116. Under the custodian agreement, Investors Bank &
Trust Company performs custody, portfolio and fund accounting services.
45
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
___________________, 200 Clarendon Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116, has been
selected as the independent auditors of the Fund. The financial statements of
the Fund included in the Prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information
as of the Fund's fiscal year ended May 31, 1998 have been audited by ___________
for the periods indicated in their report, appearing elsewhere herein, and are
included in reliance upon such report given upon the authority of such firm as
experts in accounting and auditing.
46
<PAGE>
APPENDIX-A
MORE ABOUT RISK
A fund's risk profile is largely defined by the fund's principal securities and
investment practices. You may find the most concise description of the fund's
risk profile in the prospectus.
A fund is permitted to utilize -- within limits established by the trustees --
certain other securities and investment practices that have higher risks and
opportunities associated with them. To the extent that the fund utilizes these
securities or practices, its overall performance may be affected, either
positively or negatively. On the following pages are brief definitions of
certain associated risks with them, with examples of related securities and
investment practices included in brackets. See the "Investment Objectives and
Policies" and "Investment Restrictions" sections of this Statement of Additional
Information for a description of this Fund's investment policies. The fund
follows certain policies that may reduce these risks.
As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the fund will earn income or
show a positive total return over any period of time -- days, months or years.
TYPES OF INVESTMENT RISK
Correlation risk The risk that changes in the value of a hedging instrument will
not match those of the asset being hedged (hedging is the use of one investment
to offset the effects of another investment). Incomplete correlation can result
in unanticipated risks. (e.g., currency contracts, futures and related options,
options on securities and indices, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Credit risk The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a
contract, will default or otherwise become unable to honor a financial
obligation. (e.g., non- investment-grade debt securities, borrowing; reverse
repurchase agreements, covered mortgage dollar roll transactions, repurchase
agreements, securities lending, brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind,
delayed and zero coupon debt securities, asset-backed securities,
mortgage-backed securities, participation interest, options on securities,
structured securities and swaps, caps floors and collars).
Currency risk The risk that fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S.
dollar and foreign currencies may negatively affect an investment. Adverse
changes in exchange rates may erode or reverse any gains produced by foreign
currency-denominated investments, and may widen any losses.(e.g., foreign debt
securities, currency contracts, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Extension risk The risk that an unexpected rise in interest rates will extend
the life of a mortgage-backed security beyond the expected prepayment time,
typically reducing the security's value.(e.g. mortgage-backed securities and
structured securities).
Interest rate risk The risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest
rates. With fixed-rate securities, a rise in interest rates typically causes a
fall in values, while a fall in rates typically causes a rise in values. (e.g.,
non-investment-grade debt securities, covered mortgage dollar roll transactions,
brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind, delayed and zero coupon debt
securities, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, participation
interest, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Leverage risk Associated with securities or practices (such as borrowing) that
multiply small index or market movements into large changes in value. (e.g.
borrowing; reverse repurchase agreements,
A-1
<PAGE>
covered mortgage dollar roll transactions, when-issued securities and forward
commitments, currency contracts, financial futures and options; securities and
index options, structured securities, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
o Hedged When a derivative (a security whose value is based on another
security or index) is used as a hedge against an opposite position that
the fund also holds, any loss generated by the derivative should be
substantially offset by gains on the hedged investment, and vice versa.
While hedging can reduce or eliminate losses, it can also reduce or
eliminate gains.
o Speculative To the extent that a derivative is not used as a hedge, the
fund is directly exposed to the risks of that derivative. Gains or losses
from speculative positions in a derivative may be substantially greater
than the derivative's original cost.
Liquidity risk The risk that certain securities may be difficult or impossible
to sell at the time and the price that the seller would like. The seller may
have to lower the price, sell other securities instead, or forego an investment
opportunity, any of which could have a negative effect on fund management or
performance. (e.g. non-investment-grade debt securities, restricted and illiquid
securities, mortgage-backed securities, participation interest, currency
contracts, futures and related options; securities and index options, structured
securities, swaps, caps, floors and collars).
Management risk The risk that a strategy used by a fund's management may fail to
produce the intended result. Common to all mutual funds.
Market risk The risk that the market value of a security may move up and down,
sometimes rapidly and unpredictably. Market risk may affect a single issuer, an
industry, a sector of the bond market or the market as a whole. Common to all
stocks and bonds and the mutual funds that invest in them. (e.g. covered
mortgage dollar roll transactions, short-term trading, when-issued securities
and forward commitments, brady bonds, foreign debt securities, in-kind, delayed
and zero coupon debt securities, restricted and illiquid securities, rights and
warrants, financial futures and options; and securities and index options,
structured securities).
Natural event risk The risk of losses attributable to natural disasters, crop
failures and similar events.
Opportunity risk The risk of missing out on an investment opportunity because
the assets necessary to take advantage of it are tied up in less advantageous
investments.(e.g. covered mortgage dollar roll transactions, when-issued
securities and forward commitments, currency contracts, financial futures and
options; securities and securities and index options).
Political risk The risk of losses attributable to government or political
actions, from changes in tax or trade statutes to governmental collapse and war.
(e.g., brady bonds and foreign debt securities).
Prepayment risk The risk that unanticipated prepayments may occur during periods
of falling interest rates, reducing the value of mortgage-backed securities.
(e.g., mortgage backed securities).
Valuation risk The risk that a fund has valued certain of its securities at a
higher price than it can sell them for. (e.g., non-investment-grade debt
securities, participation interest, structured securities, swaps, caps, floors
and collars).
A-2
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
The ratings of Moody's Investors Service, Inc. and Standard & Poor's Corporation
represent their opinions as to the quality of various debt instruments. Their
ratings are a generally accepted barometer of credit risk. They are, however,
subject to certain limitations from an investor's standpoint. Such limitations
include the following: the rating of an issue is heavily weighted by past
developments and does not necessarily reflect probable future conditions; there
is frequently a lag between the time a rating is assigned and the time it is
updated; and there are varying degrees of difference in credit risk of
securities in each rating category. Therefore, it should be understood, that
ratings are not absolute standards of quality. Consequently, debt instruments
with the same maturity, coupon and rating may have different yields while debt
instruments of the same maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the
same yield.
Description of Bond Ratings Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
Aaa: Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They carry
the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt
edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable
margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely
to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the
fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa: Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high grade
bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection
may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuations 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.
A: Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa: Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations, i.e.,
they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba: Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
B-1
<PAGE>
B: Bonds which are rated b generally lack the characteristics of 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 which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principle or
interest.
Ca: Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in a
high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C: Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues so
rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any
real investment standing.
Standard & Poor's Ratings Group
AAA: Bonds rated AAA have the higher rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
AA: Bonds rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differ from the higher rated issues only in small degree.
A: Bonds rated A have a very 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 bonds in higher rated
categories.
BBB: Bonds rated BBB 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 for
bonds in this category than in higher rated categories.
BB, B, CCC, CC: Debt rated BB, B, CCC and CC is 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 of speculation. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse
conditions.
C: The rating C is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being paid.
B-2
<PAGE>
JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST
PART C.
OTHER INFORMATION
Item. 23. Exhibits:
The exhibits to this Registration Statement are listed in the Exhibit Index
hereto and are incorporated herein by reference.
Item 24. Persons Controlled by or under Common Control with Registrant.
No person is directly or indirectly controlled by or under common control with
Registrant.
Item. 25. Indemnification.
Indemnification provisions relating to the Registrant's Trustees, officers,
employees and agents is set forth in Article VII of the Registrant's By Laws
included as Exhibit 2 herein.
Under Section 12 of the Distribution Agreement, John Hancock Funds, Inc. ("John
Hancock Funds") has agreed to indemnify the Registrant and its Trustees,
officers and controlling persons against claims arising out of certain acts and
statements of John Hancock Funds.
Section 9(a) of the By-Laws of John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company ("the
Insurance Company") provides, in effect, that the Insurance Company will,
subject to limitations of law, indemnify each present and former director,
officer and employee of the Insurance Company who serves as a Trustee or officer
of the Registrant at the direction or request of the Insurance Company against
litigation expenses and liabilities incurred while acting as such, except that
such indemnification does not cover any expense or liability incurred or imposed
in connection with any matter as to which such person shall be finally
adjudicated not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his
action was in the best interests of the Insurance Company. In addition, no such
person will be indemnified by the Insurance Company in respect of any final
adjudication unless such settlement shall have been approved as in the best
interests of the Insurance Company either by vote of the Board of Directors at a
meeting composed of directors who have no interest in the outcome of such vote,
or by vote of the policyholders. The Insurance Company may pay expenses incurred
in defending an action or claim in advance of its final disposition, but only
upon receipt of an undertaking by the person indemnified to repay such payment
if he should be determined not to be entitled to indemnification.
Article IX of the respective By-Laws of John Hancock Funds and John Hancock
Advisers, Inc. ("the Adviser") provide as follows:
C-1
<PAGE>
"Section 9.01. Indemnity. Any person made or threatened to be made a party to
any action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or
investigative, by reason of the fact that he is or was at any time since the
inception of the Corporation a director, officer, employee or agent of the
Corporation or is or was at any time since the inception of the Corporation
serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or
agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other
enterprise, shall be indemnified by the Corporation against expenses (including
attorney's fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and
reasonably incurred by him in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if
he acted in good faith and the liability was not incurred by reason of gross
negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his
office, and expenses in connection therewith may be advanced by the Corporation,
all to the full extent authorized by the law."
"Section 9.02. Not Exclusive; Survival of Rights: The indemnification provided
by Section 9.01 shall not be deemed exclusive of any other right to which those
indemnified may be entitled, and shall continue as to a person who has ceased to
be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the
heirs, executors and administrators of such a person."
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933 (the
"Act") may be permitted to Trustees, officers and controlling persons of the
Registrant pursuant to the Registrant's Declaration of Trust and By-Laws of John
Hancock Funds, the Adviser, or the Insurance Company or otherwise, the
Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against policy as expressed in the Act and
is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification
against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant in the
successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
Trustee, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter
has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether indemnification by it is against public policy
as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such
issue.
Item 26. Business and Other Connections of Investment Advisers.
For information as to the business, profession, vocation or employment of a
substantial nature of each of the officers and Directors of the Adviser,
reference is made to Form ADV (801-8124) filed under the Investment Advisers Act
of 1940, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 27. Principal Underwriters.
(a) John Hancock Funds acts as principal underwriter for the Registrant and also
serves as principal underwriter or distributor of shares for John Hancock Cash
Reserve, Inc., John Hancock Bond Trust, John Hancock Current Interest, John
Hancock Series Trust, John Hancock Tax-Free Bond Trust, John Hancock California
Tax-Free Income Fund, John Hancock Capital Series, John Hancock Special Equities
Fund, John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund, John Hancock Tax-Exempt Series, John
Hancock Strategic Series, John Hancock World Fund, John Hancock Investment
Trust, John Hancock Institutional Series Trust, John Hancock Investment Trust II
and John Hancock Investment Trust III.
C-2
<PAGE>
(b) The following table lists, for each director and officer of John Hancock
Funds, the information indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Principal Positions and Offices Positions and Offices
Business Address with Underwriter with Registrant
---------------- ---------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
Edward J. Boudreau, Jr. Director, Chairman, Trustee, Chairman, and
101 Huntington Avenue President and Chief Chief Executive Officer
Boston, Massachusetts Executive Officer
Anne C. Hodsdon Director, Executive Vice President
101 Huntington Avenue President
Boston, Massachusetts
Robert H. Watts Director, Executive Vice None
John Hancock Place President and Chief
P.O. Box 111 Compliance Officer
Boston, Massachusetts
Osbert M. Hood Senior Vice President and None
101 Huntington Avenue Chief Financial Officer
Boston, Massachusetts
David A. King Director None
380 Stuart Street
Boston, Massachusetts
Richard O. Hansen Senior Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
John A. Morin Vice President and Vice President
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary
Boston, Massachusetts
Susan S. Newton Vice President Vice President and
101 Huntington Avenue Secretary
Boston, Massachusetts
</TABLE>
C-3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Principal Positions and Offices Positions and Offices
Business Address with Underwriter with Registrant
---------------- ---------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
Stephen L. Brown Director None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
Thomas E. Moloney Director None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
Jeanne M. Livermore Director None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
Richard S. Scipione Director Trustee
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
John M. DeCiccio Director None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
Foster L. Aborn Director None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
David F. D'Alessandro Director None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
William C. Fletcher Director None
53 State Street
Boston, Massachusetts
</TABLE>
C-4
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Principal Positions and Offices Positions and Offices
Business Address with Underwriter with Registrant
---------------- ---------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
James V. Bowhers President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
Anthony P. Petrucci Executive Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
Charles H. Womack Senior Vice President None
6501 Americas Parkway
Suite 950
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Kathleen M. Graveline Senior Vice President None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
Keith Hartstein Senior Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
Peter Mawn Senior Vice President None
John Hancock Place
P.O. Box 111
Boston, Massachusetts
J. William Bennintende Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
Karen F. Walsh Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
Gary Cronin Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
Kristine Pancare Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
Renee M. Humphrey Vice President None
101 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts
</TABLE>
C-5
<PAGE>
(c) None.
Item 28. Location of Accounts and Records.
The Registrant maintains the records required to be maintained by it
under Rules 31a-1 (a), 31a-a(b), and 31a-2(a) under the Investment
Company Act of 1940 at its principal executive offices at 101
Huntington Avenue, Boston Massachusetts 02199-7603. Certain records,
including records relating to Registrant's shareholders and the
physical possession of its securities, may be maintained pursuant to
Rule 31a-3 at the main office of Registrant's Transfer Agent and
Custodian.
Item 29. Management Services.
Not applicable.
Item 30. Undertakings.
Not applicable
C-6
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment
Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement
to be signed on its behlaf by the undersigned, thereto duly authorized, in the
City of Boston, and The Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the 28th day of
January, 1999.
JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST
By: *
-----------------------------
Edward J. Boudreau, Jr.
Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signature Title Date
--------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
* Chairman and Chief Executive January 28, 1999
- ----------------------- Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
Edward J. Boudreau, Jr.
/s/James J. Stokowski Senior Vice President and Chief
- ------------------ Financial Officer (Principal
James J. Stokowski Financial and Accounting Officer)
* Trustee
- ----------------------------
James F. Carlin
* Trustee
- ----------------------------
William H. Cunningham
* Trustee
- ----------------------------
Ronald R. Dion
* Trustee
- ----------------------------
Harold R. Hiser, Jr.
* Trustee
- ----------------------------
Anne C. Hodsdon
</TABLE>
C-7
<PAGE>
Signature Title Date
--------- ----- ----
- ---------------------------- Trustee
Charles L. Ladner
- ---------------------------- Trustee
Leo E. Linbeck, Jr.
- ---------------------------- Trustee
Steven R. Pruchansky
- ---------------------------- Trustee
Richard S. Scipione
- ---------------------------- Trustee
Norman H. Smith
- ---------------------------- Trustee
John P. Toolan
By: /s/Susan S. Newton January 28, 1999
------------------
Susan S. Newton,
Attorney-in-Fact, under
Powers of Attorney dated
June 25, 1996 and September 15, 1998.
C-8
<PAGE>
John Hancock Bond Trust
(File no. 2-66906)
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
99.(a) Articles of Incorporation. Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust
dated 7/1/96.**
99.(b) By-Laws. Amended and Restated By-Laws dated November 19, 1996.***
99.(c) Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holders. See Exhibit 99.(a)
and 99.(b).
99.(d) Investment Advisory Contracts. Investment Advisory Agreement between
John Hancock Advisers, Inc. and the Registrant on behalf of John
Hancock Intermediate Maturity Government Fund.*
99.(d).1 Investment Management Contract between John Hancock Advisers, Inc.
and the Registrant on behalf of John Hancock Government Income Fund
and John Hancock Yield Bond Fund dated August 30, 1996.***
99.(e) Underwriting Contracts. Distribution Agreement between John Hancock
Broker Distribution Services, Inc. and the Registrant.*
99.(e).1 Form of soliciting Dealer Agreement between John Hancock Funds, Inc.
and the John Hancock funds.*
99.(e).2 Form of Financial Institution Sales and Service Agreement between
John Hancock Funds, Inc. and the John Hancock funds.*
99.(e).3 Amendment to Distribution Agreement dated August 30, 1996.***
99.(f) Bonus or Profit Sharing Contracts. Not Applicable.
99.(g) Custodian Agreements. Master Custodian Agreement between the John
Hancock Funds and Investors Bank & Trust Company dated December
15, 1992.*
99.(h) Other Material Contracts. Amended and Restated Master Transfer
Agency and Service Agreement between John Hancock funds and John
Hancock Signature Services, Inc. dated June 1, 1998.****
99.(i) Legal Opinion. Not Applicable.
99.(j) Other Opinions. Not Applicable.
99.(k) Omitted Financial Statements. Not Applicable.
99.(l) Initial Capital Agreements. Not Applicable.
99.(m) Rule 12b-1 Plan. Rule 12b-1 Plans for Class A and Class B Shares
for John Hancock Intermediate Maturity Government Fund dated
December 22, 1994.*
99.(m).1 Rule 12b-1 Plans for Class A and Class B Shares for John Hancock
High Yield Bond Fund dated August 30, 1996.***
99.(m).2 Rule 12b-1 Plans for Class A and Class B Shares for John Hancock
Government Income Fund dated August 30, 1996.***
<PAGE>
Financial Data Schedule.
Not Applicable.
99.(o) Rule 18f-3 Plan. John Hancock Funds Class A and Class B amended
and restated Multiple Class Plan pursuant to Rule 18f-3 for John
Hancock Government Income Fund and John Hancock Intermediate
Maturity Government Fund dated May 1, 1998.****
99.(o).1 John Hancock Funds Class A, Class B and Class C amended and
restated Multiple Class Plan pursuant to Rule 18f-3 for John Hancock
High Yield Bond Fund dated May 1, 1998 and June 1, 1998.****
* Previously filed electronically with Registration Statement and/or
post-effective amendment no. 30, file nos. 811-03006 and 2-66906 on
May 15, 1995, accession number 0000950135-95-001202.
** Previously filed electronically with Registration Statements and/or
post-effective amendment no. 35 file nos. 811-03006 and 2-66906 on
August 28, 1996, accession number 0001010521-96-000148.
*** Previously filed electronically with post-effective amendment number
36 (file nos. 811-3006 and 2-66906) on February 28, 1997, accession
number 0001010521-97-000232.
**** Previously filed electronically with post-effective amendment number
41 (file nos. 811-3006 and 2-66906) on July 6, 1998, accession
number 0001010521-98-000288.
+ Filed herewith.
