<PAGE>
As Filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 5, 1999
Registration No. 333-
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
----------------
DOMINION RESOURCES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Virginia 4911 54-1229715
(State or other (Primary Standard Industrial (I.R.S. Employer
jurisdiction Classification Code Number) Identification Number)
of incorporation or
organization)
120 Tredegar Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
(804) 819-2000
(Address, including Zip Code, and telephone number, including area code, of
registrant's principal executive offices)
Patricia A. Wilkerson
W. H. Riggs, Jr.
Dominion Resources, Inc.
120 Tredegar Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 819-2000
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of agent for service)
With a copy to:
James F. Stutts, Esquire Robert L. Burrus, Jr., Esquire
Dominion Resources, Inc. McGuire, Woods, Battle & Boothe LLP
120 Tredegar Street 901 E. Cary Street
Richmond, VA 23219 Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 819-2000 (804) 775-7700
(804) 819-2233 (Fax) (804) 698-2023 (Fax)
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale of the securities to the
public:
As soon as practicable after this registration statement becomes effective.
If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in
connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance
with General Instruction G, check the following box: [_]
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and
list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement number for the same offering. [_]
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. [_]
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Title of Each Class of Proposed Maximum Proposed Maximum
Securities to be Amounts to be Offering Price Aggregate Amount of
Registered Registered Per Share * Offering Price* Registration Fee
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<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Common stock, without 148,500,000
par value.............. shares $ 37.25 $ 5,531,625,000 $ 1,537,791.75
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</TABLE>
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*The estimated registration fee has been computed pursuant to Rule 457(c) as
of March 31, 1999.
----------------
The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or
dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant
shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this
Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with
Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement
shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission,
acting pursuant to Section 8(a), may determine.
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<PAGE>
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+The information in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is not complete and +
+may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration +
+statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. +
+This joint proxy statement/prospectus is not an offer to sell these +
+securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any +
+state where the offer or sale is not permitted. +
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Subject to Completion
Dated as of April 5, 1999
Proxies are not being solicited at this time
Dear Shareholder:
We are very pleased to offer this joint proxy statement/prospectus to you. As
you know from our 1998 Annual Reports, we are merging. Both of our Boards have
unanimously approved this merger, which is explained in detail on page 25.
This is an exciting and important event in each of our company's history. It
is also an important decision for you as a shareholder. Therefore, we urge you
to read the attached materials thoroughly. We have made every effort to present
this information so that it is easy to read and understand.
Once you have read these materials, please vote your shares.
You do not have to take any other actions at this time. When we have received
all the necessary approvals, CNG shareholders will receive instructions from an
Exchange Agent regarding the exchange of their shares. Dominion Resources
shareholders will not need to take any other action.
Sincerely, Sincerely,
Thos. E. Capps George A. Davidson, Jr.
Chairman, President and Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer
Dominion Resources, Inc. Consolidated Natural Gas Company
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved the securities to be issued under this
joint proxy statement/prospectus or determined if this joint proxy
statement/prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the
contrary is a criminal offense.
<PAGE>
DOMINION RESOURCES NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
[Date]
Dear Shareholder:
On , 1999, Dominion Resources, Inc. will hold a special meeting of
shareholders in [ ]. The meeting will begin at [9:30 a.m.] Eastern
Daylight Time.
Only shareholders who owned stock at the close of business on [ , 1999]
may vote at this meeting or any adjournments that may take place. At the
meeting we propose to:
. Approve the merger with Consolidated Natural Gas Company and the related
issuance of shares; and
. Amend the Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized
shares of Dominion Resources common stock from 300,000,000 to
500,000,000.
These items of business are described in the attached joint proxy
statement/prospectus. The approximate date of mailing this joint proxy
statement/prospectus and card is [ , 1999]. I hope you will be able to
attend the meeting, but even if you cannot, please vote your shares as soon as
possible.
By order of the Board of Directors,
Patricia A. Wilkerson
Corporate Secretary
Dominion Resources shareholders do not need to do anything with respect to
their stock certificates for this merger.
<PAGE>
CNG NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
[Date]
Dear Shareholder:
On [ , 1999], Consolidated Natural Gas Company will hold a special
meeting of shareholders in [ ]. The meeting will begin at [9:30 a.m.]
Eastern Daylight Time.
Only shareholders who owned stock at the close of business on [ , 1999]
may vote at this meeting or any adjournments that may take place. At the
meeting we propose to:
.Approve the merger of the company pursuant to the merger agreement with
Dominion Resources, Inc.
This item of business is described in the attached joint proxy
statement/prospectus. The approximate date of mailing this joint proxy
statement/prospectus and card is [ , 1999]. I hope you will be able to
attend the meeting, but even if you cannot, please vote your shares as soon as
possible.
By order of the Board of Directors,
E. J. Marks, III
Corporate Secretary
ATTENTION: Shareholders Participating in the Dividend
Reinvestment Plan
The accompanying proxy card reflects the total shares of
common stock registered in your name directly, as well as any
full shares credited to your Dividend Reinvestment Plan
account.
Shareholders should not send in their CNG common stock
certificates until they receive instructions to do so.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS SUMMARY.................................. 1
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA................................................ 8
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICE INFORMATION
Dominion Resources...................................................... 9
CNG..................................................................... 9
Equivalent Per Share Data............................................... 10
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA........................... 11
Dominion Resources...................................................... 11
CNG..................................................................... 12
SELECTED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
DATA..................................................................... 13
NOTES TO SELECTED HISTORICAL AND UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA.............................................. 14
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS................................................ 16
THE SPECIAL MEETINGS OF DOMINION RESOURCES AND CNG SHAREHOLDERS........... 17
Dominion Resources Special Meeting...................................... 17
CNG Special Meeting..................................................... 18
Solicitation............................................................ 20
No Appraisal Rights..................................................... 20
THE MERGER................................................................ 21
Background to Merger.................................................... 21
Reasons for the Merger.................................................. 23
Recommendations of the Boards of Directors.............................. 25
What Shareholders Will Receive in the Merger............................ 27
Dividends............................................................... 28
Management of Dominion Resources Following the Merger................... 28
Opinion of Dominion Resources' Financial Advisor........................ 29
Opinion of CNG's Financial Advisor...................................... 35
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences........................... 41
Interest of Certain Persons in the Merger............................... 42
Accounting Treatment.................................................... 44
Resales of Dominion Resources Common Stock.............................. 45
Stock Exchange Listing.................................................. 45
THE MERGER AGREEMENT...................................................... 46
The Merger.............................................................. 46
Representations and Warranties.......................................... 47
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger.................................. 47
No Solicitation of Transactions......................................... 49
Conditions to the Merger................................................ 50
Benefit Plans........................................................... 51
Treatment of CNG Stock Options and Stock Awards......................... 51
Termination............................................................. 52
Termination Fees........................................................ 53
Expenses................................................................ 54
Amendment and Waiver.................................................... 54
</TABLE>
i
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<TABLE>
<S> <C>
REGULATORY
MATTERS........... 55
Antitrust
Considerations.. 55
1935 Act......... 55
Atomic Energy
Act............. 56
Federal Power
Act............. 56
Virginia
Commission...... 57
North Carolina
Commission...... 57
West Virginia
Commission...... 57
Pennsylvania
Commission...... 57
Ohio Commission.. 58
Affiliate
Contracts and
Arrangements.... 58
Other Regulatory
Matters......... 58
THE COMPANIES...... 59
Dominion
Resources ...... 59
CNG.............. 60
DESCRIPTION OF
DOMINION RESOURCES
CAPITAL STOCK..... 61
General.......... 61
Common Stock..... 61
Preferred Stock.. 61
COMPARATIVE RIGHTS
OF SHAREHOLDERS... 61
Board of
Directors....... 62
Payment of
Dividends....... 62
Cumulative
Voting.......... 62
Preemptive
Rights.......... 62
Removal of
Directors....... 62
Board of Director
Vacancies....... 63
Shareholder
Proposals and
Director
Nominations..... 63
Meetings of
Shareholders.... 64
Shareholder
Action Without a
Meeting......... 64
Shareholders'
Inspection
Rights.......... 64
Directors'
Duties.......... 64
Limitations On
Director and
Officer
Liability;
Indemnification.. 65
Common Stock
Purchase
Rights.......... 66
Anti-takeover
Statutes........ 66
Consolidation,
Merger, Share
Exchange and
Transfer of
Assets.......... 67
Shareholders'
Rights In
Certain
Transactions.... 68
Anti-takeover
Effects......... 68
Amendment of
Articles of
Incorporation... 68
AMENDMENT TO THE
DOMINION
RESOURCES'
ARTICLES OF
INCORPORATION..... 69
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
COMBINED CONDENSED
CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL
INFORMATION....... 70
</TABLE>
ii
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Dominion Resources and Subsidiary Companies Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income for the Years Ended December
31, 1998, 1997 and 1996.................................................. 71
Dominion Resources and Subsidiary Companies Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 1998................ 74
Consolidated National Gas Company Unaudited Reclassifying Condensed
Consolidated Statement of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 1998,
1997 and 1996............................................................ 76
Consolidated National Gas Company Unaudited Reclassifying Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 1998.......................... 79
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements............................................................... 81
LEGAL MATTERS............................................................... 83
EXPERTS..................................................................... 83
SUBMISSION OF SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS......................................... 83
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION......................................... 84
Annexes
A--Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger........................ A-1
B--Fairness Opinion of Lehman Brothers Inc. ................................ B-1
C--Fairness Opinion of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated... C-1
</TABLE>
iii
<PAGE>
JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
This summary highlights selected information from this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. It may not contain all of the information that is
important to you. To better understand the merger of Dominion Resources, Inc.
(Dominion Resources) and Consolidated Natural Gas Company (CNG), and for a
more complete description of the merger and related transactions, we urge you
to read this entire document carefully, including the annexes. Each item in
this summary includes a page reference directing you to a more complete
description of the item.
The Merger (page 21)
The companies intend for CNG to be merged with a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Dominion Resources, with CNG as the surviving company. This will result in CNG
becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dominion Resources. Alternatively, the
companies may decide to merge CNG directly into Dominion Resources. In that
case, Dominion Resources will be the surviving entity. In either event, the
companies are sometimes referred to after the merger as the combined company.
What Shareholders Will Receive in the Merger (page 27)
Each CNG shareholder will receive 1.52 shares of Dominion Resources common
stock for each share of CNG common stock that he or she owns on the date the
merger is completed. This exchange ratio will not change even if the market
price of Dominion Resources or CNG common stock increases or decreases between
now and the date of the merger.
No fractional shares of Dominion Resources common stock will be issued in
the merger. Instead, CNG shareholders will receive cash for any fractional
share of Dominion Resources common stock due from the merger based on the
market value of Dominion Resources common stock as of the trading day before
the merger is completed. CNG shareholders should not send in their CNG common
stock certificates until they receive further instructions.
All outstanding shares of Dominion Resources common stock will remain
outstanding after the merger. However, Dominion Resources shareholders will
own shares of a larger, more diversified company. Dominion Resources
shareholders do not need to do anything with their stock certificates.
As of there were Dominion Resources shares and
CNG shares outstanding. Assuming the same number of shares are outstanding
immediately before the closing of the merger, the number of Dominion Resources
shares to be issued in the merger would be , which would represent
approximately percent of the outstanding Dominion Resources shares
immediately after the closing of the merger.
The Companies (page 59)
Dominion Resources
Dominion Resources is a diversified utility holding company headquartered in
Richmond, Virginia. Its principal subsidiary is Virginia Electric and Power
Company (Virginia Power), a regulated public utility that generates,
transmits, distributes and sells electric energy. Its principal service
territory is Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Dominion Resources'
other major subsidiaries are Dominion Capital, Inc. (Dominion Capital), its
diversified financial services subsidiary, and Dominion Energy, Inc. (Dominion
Energy), its independent power and natural gas subsidiary.
Dominion Resources' principal offices are located at 120 Tredegar Street,
Richmond, Virginia 23219, telephone (804) 819-2000.
1
<PAGE>
CNG
CNG is one of the nation's largest producers, transporters, distributors and
retail marketers of natural gas. The company's natural gas transmission and
distribution operations serve customers in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia, West
Virginia, New York and other states in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.
CNG explores for and produces oil and natural gas in the United States and
Canada. The company also selectively participates in energy businesses abroad.
CNG's principal offices are located at CNG Tower, 625 Liberty Avenue,
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222, telephone (412) 690-1000.
Reasons for the Merger (page 23)
The merger will create the nation's fourth largest electric and natural gas
utility, serving nearly four million retail customers in five states. Dominion
Resources and CNG believe the merger will:
. give the combined company the scale, scope and skills necessary to be
successful in the competitive energy marketplace, allowing the combined
company to offer a broad line of energy products as the gas and electric
industries continue to converge;
. create a platform for growth in a region that is rapidly deregulating and
is the source of approximately 40 percent of the nation's demand for
energy, allowing the combined company to market its portfolio of energy
products to a broad customer base;
. establish a company with combined storage, transportation and electric
power production capability concentrated in the Northeast and Mid-
Atlantic region; and
. enable the combined company to realize cost savings from elimination of
duplicate corporate and administrative programs, greater efficiencies in
operations and business processes, and streamlined purchasing practices.
The Meetings (page 17)
Dominion Resources Special Meeting
Dominion Resources will hold its special meeting of shareholders at
a.m., on , 1999 at .
Shareholders of Dominion Resources will be asked to approve:
. the merger, including the issuance of the Dominion Resources common stock
in connection with the merger; and
. an amendment to the Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation to
increase the authorized common shares from 300,000,000 to 500,000,000 to
have sufficient shares available to complete the merger.
Both items require approval by a majority of the votes present at the
special meeting.
Each of your Dominion Resources shares held on , 1999 will be
counted as one vote.
CNG Special Meeting
CNG will hold its special meeting of shareholders at a.m., on ,
1999 at .
Shareholders of CNG will be asked to approve the merger.
2
<PAGE>
Approval of the merger will require the affirmative vote of a majority of
the outstanding shares of CNG common stock.
You will have one vote for each share of CNG common stock held on ,
1999.
Recommendations of the Boards of Directors (page 25)
Dominion Resources
The Dominion Resources Board of Directors, by unanimous vote, has approved
and adopted the merger agreement, including the issuance of Dominion Resources
common stock in accordance with the merger agreement, and determined that the
merger is in the best interests of the company and its shareholders. The Board
of Directors also, by unanimous vote, has approved the amendment to the
Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation. The Dominion Resources Board of
Directors recommends that Dominion Resources shareholders vote FOR the merger
and the issuance of the shares and FOR the amendment to the Articles of
Incorporation. The Dominion Resources Board of Directors took these actions
after consideration of a number of factors.
CNG
The CNG Board of Directors, by unanimous vote, has approved and adopted the
merger agreement, believes the merger is fair and in the best interests of CNG
and CNG shareholders and is advisable, and recommends that CNG shareholders
vote FOR and approve the merger. The CNG Board of Directors approved and
adopted the merger agreement after consideration of a number of factors
described later.
Dividends (page 8)
The merger agreement places restrictions on Dominion Resources' and CNG's
ability to declare or pay dividends, split, combine or reclassify their
capital stock or redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire any shares of their
capital stock other than in the ordinary course or according to previously
announced plans pending closing of the merger. The merger agreement does not
restrict Dominion Resources' and CNG's ability to declare or pay regular
annual dividends of $2.58 per share of Dominion Resources common stock or
$1.94 per share of CNG common stock with usual record and payment dates.
The current annual dividend for Dominion Resources is $2.58 per share.
Dominion Resources' targeted payout ratio of dividends to earnings is 70% to
75%. At present, the payout ratio is higher. Dominion Resources' business plan
projects that the targeted ratio will be achieved within two years post
closing through earnings growth. Therefore, Dominion Resources' dividend will
be maintained at its current level.
Management of Dominion Resources Following the Merger (page 28)
Thos. E. Capps will be the President and Chief Executive Officer of Dominion
Resources after the merger, and George A. Davidson, Jr. will serve as Chairman
of the Board of Directors until his previously announced retirement on August
1, 2000, at which time Mr. Capps will reassume his position as Chairman. The
Board of Directors of Dominion Resources will have 17 members, 10 of whom will
be designated by Dominion Resources and seven of whom will be designated by
CNG. Dominion Resources will continue to use the name Dominion Resources and
be headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. The combined company will continue to
maintain significant operating offices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Tax Consequences (page 41)
CNG shareholders will not recognize a gain or loss for the Dominion
Resources shares they receive from the merger. CNG shareholders will be taxed
on the gain portion of any cash they receive in lieu of a fractional share if
the cash received is more than their basis for the fractional share. CNG
shareholders will recognize a taxable loss if the cash received is less than
their basis for the fractional share.
3
<PAGE>
Background to the Merger (page 21)
For the past few years, both companies have considered a variety of
strategic alternatives to enable each of them to better compete in the
deregulating energy industry. Beginning in the fall of 1998, executive
officers from both companies met informally on several occasions to discuss a
possible combination. After conferring with their respective Boards of
Directors and advisors in late 1998 and early 1999, the companies proceeded
with merger negotiations that resulted in the merger agreement.
The Merger Agreement (page 46)
The merger agreement is attached as Annex A to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. Your companies encourage you to read the merger
agreement, as amended and restated, in its entirety.
Conditions to the Merger (page 50)
The completion of the merger is subject to a number of conditions that must
be completed or waived before the closing, including:
. approval by the Dominion Resources shareholders and the CNG shareholders;
. receipt by Dominion Resources and CNG of letters of their independent
public accountants stating that the merger will qualify as a pooling-of-
interests transaction;
. receipt by Dominion Resources and CNG of opinions of counsel that the
merger will be treated as a non-taxable transaction for U.S. federal
income tax purposes, except with respect to any cash received instead of
fractional shares of Dominion Resources common stock;
. clearance under antitrust laws, approval by the Securities and Exchange
Commission under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, and all
other necessary federal and state regulatory approvals, with such
approvals not having any terms or conditions attached that would have, or
would be reasonably likely to have, a material adverse effect on Dominion
Resources and CNG on a consolidated basis;
. approval for listing on the New York Stock Exchange of the shares of
Dominion Resources common stock to be issued in the merger;
. each company's performance in all material respects of its obligations
under the merger agreement;
. each company's representations and warranties contained in the merger
agreement being, and continuing to be, true and correct in all material
respects;
. no material adverse effect having occurred, or being reasonably likely to
occur, with respect to either company and its subsidiaries taken as a
whole or on the consummation of the merger agreement; and
. no injunction that prohibits the merger.
Termination (page 52)
The merger agreement allows for termination of the agreement:
. by mutual consent;
. by either company, if the closing does not occur on or before January 31,
2000 (provided that such date shall be extended to July 31, 2000 if all
conditions are capable of being satisfied except for obtaining regulatory
approvals);
. by either company if the other company fails to obtain shareholder
approval;
. by either company, if any state or federal law or other action would
prohibit the merger or cause a material adverse effect on either company;
4
<PAGE>
. by either company if, prior to receipt of its shareholders' approval, as
a result of an acquisition proposal from another company, its board of
directors determines in good faith (including receipt of a legal opinion)
that its fiduciary duties require acceptance of the other proposal;
. by either company based on an uncured material breach of the other; or
. by either company if the Board of Directors of the other company
withdraws its recommendation of the merger or recommends another
transaction.
Termination Fees and Expenses (page 53)
If the merger agreement is terminated because of a material breach or
failure to comply with obligations under the merger agreement by either
Dominion Resources or CNG, such party will be required to reimburse the other
for its expenses up to $25 million. If the breach or failure is willful,
however, Dominion Resources or CNG will also be responsible for actual damages
incurred by the other party.
Either Dominion Resources or CNG will be required to pay the other company a
fee of $200 million plus expenses of up to $25 million if:
. either company's Board of Directors, before shareholder approval,
receives an acquisition proposal from another company that it determines,
in good faith (including receipt of a legal opinion) and based on its
fiduciary responsibility, it must accept, and it enters into an agreement
with respect to such proposal (or another proposal in lieu thereof)
within two years of the termination of the merger agreement between CNG
and Dominion Resources; or
. either company's Board of Directors withdraws its recommendation, fails
to reaffirm its recommendation upon the other's request or approves or
recommends an acquisition offer of a third party; or
. either company's Board of Directors does not facilitate shareholder
approval in the manner required by the merger agreement and at the time
of termination, a third party offer is outstanding.
Regulatory Matters (page 55)
Dominion Resources and CNG must receive the approvals of certain federal and
state regulatory agencies before the merger can be completed. At the federal
level, these approvals include approval of the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Additionally, the
waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act must
have expired. At the state level, the parties expect to obtain approvals from
regulators in Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
Upon consummation of the merger, Dominion Resources expects to register as a
holding company under the 1935 Act. CNG, which is already registered as a 1935
Act holding company, will continue its registered status if it becomes a
subsidiary of Dominion Resources following the merger. The 1935 Act imposes a
number of restrictions on the operations of registered holding company
systems. For example, the Securities and Exchange Commission must approve
certain securities issuances as well as sales and acquisitions of assets or
securities of utility companies or acquisitions of interests in any other
business. The 1935 Act also limits the ability of registered holding companies
to engage in activities unrelated to their utility operations and regulates
holding company system service companies and the rendering of services by
holding company affiliates to other companies in their system. Dominion
Resources and CNG believe they will be able to satisfy the Securities and
Exchange Commission's requirements for a registered holding company system.
The Securities and Exchange Commission may require as a condition to its
approval of the merger under the 1935 Act that Dominion Resources divest
certain of its activities which are unrelated to the utility or energy
operations of the combined companies after the merger within a reasonable time
after the merger. In several cases,
5
<PAGE>
the Securities and Exchange Commission has allowed the retention of non-
utility related activities or deferred the question of divestiture for a
substantial period of time. In those cases in which divestiture has taken
place, the Securities and Exchange Commission has usually allowed enough time
to complete the divestiture to allow the applicant to avoid a premature or
untimely sale of the divested assets. Dominion Resources believes strong
policy reasons and prior Securities and Exchange Commission decisions and
policy statements support the retention of non-utility related investments or,
alternatively, support deferring the question of divestiture for a substantial
period of time. Accordingly, Dominion Resources will request in the 1935 Act
application that it be allowed to retain its non-utility related investments
or, in the alternative, that the question of divestiture be deferred.
Interest of Certain Persons in the Merger (page 42)
In considering the CNG Board of Directors' recommendation that CNG
shareholders vote in favor of the merger, shareholders should be aware that a
number of CNG's executive officers have severance agreements or participate in
benefit plans that give them interests in the merger that are different from,
or in addition to, other CNG shareholders. The total amount that may be
payable to CNG's executive officers in connection with the merger due to
severance arrangements and benefit plans is expected to be material. Since it
is not known which, if any, individuals will receive payments under these
arrangements, the amount cannot presently be determined. In addition, under
the merger agreement, Dominion Resources may elect to, and presently expects
to, convert all awards under CNG stock incentive plans outstanding at the time
the merger takes place into Dominion Resources common stock based on a fair
value model. The estimated value of the Dominion Resources common stock which
would be issued to CNG executive officers in connection with such a conversion
is estimated to be $14 million.
Accounting Treatment (page 44)
Dominion Resources and CNG intend for the merger to be accounted for as a
pooling-of-interests, which means that for accounting and financial purposes,
the combined company will be treated as though it had always been combined.
Amendment to the Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation (page 68)
Dominion Resources shareholders are being asked to approve an amendment to
the Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation to increase the authorized
shares of common stock from 300,000,000 to 500,000,000. This amendment will
provide Dominion Resources with the shares it needs for issuance under the
merger agreement and to maintain a reserve of shares for general corporate
purposes. After the merger, Dominion Resources will have approximately
authorized but unissued shares for use in connection with its
Dominion Direct Investment stock purchase program, compensation and benefit
programs for its officers, directors and employees, and for other general
corporate purposes.
Listing of Dominion Resources Common Stock (page 61)
Dominion Resources common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under
the symbol "D". Dominion Resources will obtain approval from the New York
Stock Exchange for listing of additional shares of Dominion Resources common
stock to be issued as a result of the merger.
If the merger is completed, the CNG common stock will be delisted from the
New York Stock Exchange.
Comparison of Shareholder Rights (page 61)
Holders of CNG common stock who receive Dominion Resources common stock in
the merger will become holders of Dominion Resources common stock and will
have rights as Dominion Resources shareholders that are different from rights
they had as CNG shareholders.
6
<PAGE>
Resales of Dominion Resources Common Stock (page 45)
Shares of Dominion Resources common stock received in the merger will be
freely transferable by the holders thereof except for those shares held by
holders who may be deemed to be "affiliates" (generally directors, certain
executive officers and shareholders owning 10 percent or more) of CNG under
applicable federal securities laws.
Opinions of Financial Advisors (page 29)
Dominion Resources
Dominion Resources' financial advisor, Lehman Brothers Inc., gave an opinion
to the Dominion Resources Board of Directors as of February 19, 1999 that,
based on Lehman Brothers' analysis, the exchange ratio was fair to Dominion
Resources from a financial point of view. The opinion is attached as Annex B
to this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
CNG
CNG's financial advisor, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated
gave an opinion to the CNG Board of Directors as of February 19, 1999 that,
based on Merrill Lynch's analysis, the exchange ratio to be received by CNG
shareholders was fair from a financial point of view to the holders of CNG
common stock. The opinion is attached as Annex C to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus.
No Appraisal Rights (page 20)
Neither Dominion Resources shareholders nor CNG shareholders have
dissenters' rights of appraisal in connection with the merger.
7
<PAGE>
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA
The following table compares Dominion Resources and CNG earnings per share
and book value per common share on both a historical and a pro forma combined
basis. Pro forma combined earnings per share is derived from the UNAUDITED PRO
FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS presented later in
this document. Those statements under the pooling of interests method of
accounting present earnings per share as if the merger had occurred at the
beginning of the periods presented. The equivalent pro forma combined data for
CNG is calculated by multiplying the respective pro forma combined amounts by
the exchange ratio. Book values per share for CNG and for the pro forma
combined presentation are based upon outstanding common shares as of the date
presented, adjusted in the case of the pro forma combined presentation to
include shares of Dominion Resources common stock to be issued in the merger.
The information set forth below should be read in conjunction with the
respective audited consolidated financial statements of Dominion Resources and
CNG incorporated by reference in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and
those presented in this document under the heading UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
COMBINED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. The unaudited pro forma
combined per share data is not necessarily indicative of the earnings per
share or book value per share that would have been achieved had the merger
been consummated as of the beginning of the periods presented and should not
be construed as representative of such amounts for any future dates or
periods.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Pro Forma Pro Forma
Dominion Combined per Equivalent
Resources CNG Dominion Combined
Historical Historical Resources per CNG
---------- ---------- ------------ ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Book value per share
Year ended December 31, 1998.. $27.33 $25.14 $22.47 $34.15
Cash dividends declared per
share
Year ended December 31, 1996.. $ 2.58 $ 1.94 (*) (*)
Year ended December 31, 1997.. $ 2.58 $ 1.94 (*) (*)
Year ended December 31, 1998.. $ 2.58 $ 1.94 (*) (*)
Income per share from continuing
operations--basic
Year ended December 31, 1996.. $ 2.65 $ 3.29 $ 2.40 $ 3.65
Year ended December 31, 1997.. $ 2.15 $ 3.36 $ 2.14 $ 3.26
Year ended December 31, 1998.. $ 2.75 $ 3.03 $ 2.30 $ 3.50
Income per share from continuing
operations--diluted
Year ended December 31, 1996.. $ 2.65 $ 3.24 $ 2.35 $ 3.57
Year ended December 31, 1997.. $ 2.15 $ 3.30 $ 2.09 $ 3.18
Year ended December 31, 1998.. $ 2.75 $ 3.00 $ 2.29 $ 3.48
Dividend payout ratio
Year ended December 31, 1998.. 93.8% 77.0% (*) (*)
</TABLE>
- --------
(*) The current annual dividend for Dominion Resources is $2.58 per share.
Dominion Resources' targeted payout ratio of dividends to earnings is 70%
to 75%. At present, the payout ratio is higher. Dominion Resources'
business plan projects that the targeted ratio will be achieved within two
years post closing through earnings growth. Therefore, Dominion Resources'
dividend will be maintained at its current level. Based on a Dominion
Resources dividend of $2.58 per share, the pro forma equivalent combined
dividend per CNG share would be $2.58 per share multiplied by the exchange
ratio of 1.52 or $3.92 per share for each of the years presented.
See Notes to Selected Historical and Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed
Consolidated Financial Data.
8
<PAGE>
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICE INFORMATION
Dominion Resources
The Dominion Resources shares are listed for trading on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol "D". The following table sets forth, for the fiscal
quarters indicated, the dividends paid and the high and low sales prices of
Dominion Resources shares as reported under the New York Stock Exchange
Composite Transactions Reports in The Wall Street Journal.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Dominion Resources
----------------------------
High Low Dividends
---- --- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1996
First Quarter............................... 44 3/8 37 5/8 $0.645
Second Quarter.............................. 40 1/4 37 $0.645
Third Quarter............................... 40 36 7/8 $0.645
Fourth Quarter.............................. 41 37 1/8 $0.645
1997
First Quarter............................... 41 3/8 35 1/2 $0.645
Second Quarter.............................. 36 3/4 33 1/4 $0.645
Third Quarter............................... 38 1/4 35 5/16 $0.645
Fourth Quarter.............................. 42 7/8 34 7/8 $0.645
1998
First Quarter............................... 42 15/16 39 3/8 $0.645
Second Quarter.............................. 42 1/16 37 13/16 $0.645
Third Quarter............................... 44 15/16 39 5/16 $0.645
Fourth Quarter.............................. 48 15/16 44 3/8 $0.645
</TABLE>
CNG
The CNG shares are listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under
the symbol "CNG". The following table sets forth, for the fiscal quarters
indicated, the dividends paid and the high and low sales prices of CNG shares
as reported under the New York Stock Exchange Composite Transactions Reports
in The Wall Street Journal.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CNG
----------------------------
High Low Dividends
---- --- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1996
First Quarter............................... 47 1/8 41 1/2 $0.485
Second Quarter.............................. 52 1/4 43 1/2 $0.485
Third Quarter............................... 57 1/8 49 $0.485
Fourth Quarter.............................. 59 5/8 51 1/8 $0.485
1997
First Quarter............................... 57 3/4 49 5/8 $0.485
Second Quarter.............................. 54 7/8 47 3/8 $0.485
Third Quarter............................... 60 11/16 53 9/16 $0.485
Fourth Quarter.............................. 60 15/16 52 5/16 $0.485
1998
First Quarter............................... 60 1/2 53 1/4 $0.485
Second Quarter.............................. 60 1/8 54 15/16 $0.485
Third Quarter............................... 59 41 11/16 $0.485
Fourth Quarter.............................. 55 15/16 50 7/16 $0.485
</TABLE>
9
<PAGE>
Equivalent Per Share Data
The information presented in the table below represents closing sale prices
reported under the New York Stock Exchange Composite Transaction Reports in
The Wall Street Journal for both Dominion Resources shares and CNG shares, on
February 19, 1999, the last trading day immediately preceding the public
announcement of the proposed merger, and on [ , 1999], the last
practicable day for which closing sale prices were available at the time of
the mailing of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, as well as the
"equivalent per share price" of CNG shares on such dates. Dominion Resources
and CNG shareholders should obtain current market quotations for the Dominion
Resources shares and the CNG shares. The "equivalent per share price" of CNG
shares represents the closing sale price per share reported under the New York
Stock Exchange Composite Transaction Reports in The Wall Street Journal for
Dominion Resources shares at such specified date, multiplied by the exchange
ratio of 1.52.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CNG
Dominion CNG Equivalent
Resources Shares Per
Shares Price Price Share Price
------------ ------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
February 19, 1999........................ 42 1/4 56 1/4 64 7/32
, 1999................................
</TABLE>
Following the consummation of the merger, CNG shares will cease to be traded
on the New York Stock Exchange.
10
<PAGE>
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
Dominion Resources and CNG are providing the following financial information
to aid you in your analysis of the financial aspects of the merger. This
information is only a summary and you should read it in conjunction with the
historical consolidated financial statements of Dominion Resources and CNG and
the related notes contained in the annual reports and other information that
Dominion Resources and CNG have previously filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. See WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION on page .
Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data of Dominion Resources
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31,
---------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
(in millions--except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Income Statement Data
Operating Revenues..................... $ 4,491 $ 4,633 $ 4,815 $ 7,262 $ 6,086
Operating Expenses..................... 3,453 3,607 3,716 5,789 4,995
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Operating Income....................... $ 1,038 $ 1,026 $ 1,099 $ 1,473 $ 1,091
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Net Income............................. $ 478 $ 425 $ 472 $ 399 $ 536
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Earnings per share (basic and
diluted).............................. $ 2.81 $ 2.45 $ 2.65 $ 2.15 $ 2.75
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Dividends Declared per Share........... $ 2.55 $ 2.58 $ 2.58 $ 2.58 $ 2.58
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Balance Sheet Data
Total Assets........................... $13,562 $13,903 $14,896 $20,165 $17,517
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Capitalization:
Long-term Debt(*).................... $ 5,110 $ 5,033 $ 5,478 $ 8,810 $ 6,694
Obligated Mandatorily Redeemable
Preferred Securities of Subsidiary
Trusts.............................. 135 135 385 385
Preferred Stocks of Subsidiary:
Subject to Mandatory Redemption.... 222 180 180 180 180
Not Subject to Mandatory
Redemption........................ 594 509 509 509 509
Common Shareholders' Equity.......... 4,586 4,742 4,915 5,041 5,315
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Total Capitalization................... $10,512 $10,599 $11,217 $14,925 $13,083
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Obligations Under Capital Leases....... $ 4 $ 3 $ 2 $ 10 $ 17
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Book Value per Share................... $ 26.60 $ 26.88 $ 27.13 $ 26.84 $ 27.33
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
- --------
(*) Including portion due within one year.
See Notes to Selected Historical and Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed
Consolidated Financial Data.
11
<PAGE>
Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data of CNG
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31,
--------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
------ ------ ------ ------- ------
(in millions--except per share
amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Income Statement Data
Operating Revenues..................... $3,036 $2,504 $2,955 $ 3,177 $2,760
Operating Expenses(*).................. 2,775 2,352 2,555 2,767 2,393
------ ------ ------ ------- ------
Operating Income....................... $ 261 $ 152 $ 400 $ 410 $ 367
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
Income from Continuing Operations...... 183 29 309 319 288
Discontinued Operations................ (8) (11) (15) (49)
------ ------ ------ ------- ------
Net Income............................. $ 183 $ 21 $ 298 $ 304 $ 239
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
Earnings per Share (basic):
Continuing Operations................ $ 1.97 $ 0.31 $ 3.29 $ 3.36 $ 3.03
Discontinued Operations.............. (0.08) (0.12) (0.15) (0.51)
------ ------ ------ ------- ------
Net Income........................... $ 1.97 $ 0.23 $ 3.17 $ 3.21 $ 2.52
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
Earnings per Share (diluted):
Continuing Operations................ $ 1.97 $ 0.31 $ 3.24 $ 3.30 $ 3.00
Discontinued Operations.............. (0.08) (0.11) (0.15) (0.51)
------ ------ ------ ------- ------
Net Income........................... $ 1.97 $ 0.23 $ 3.13 $ 3.15 $ 2.49
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
Dividends Declared per Share........... $ 1.94 $ 1.94 $ 1.94 $ 1.94 $ 1.94
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
Balance Sheet Data
Total Assets........................... $5,519 $5,418 $6,001 $ 6,314 $6,362
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
Capitalization:
Long-term Debt(**)................... $1,156 $1,302 $1,530 $1,707 $1,491
Common Shareholders' Equity.......... 2,184 2,046 2,205 2,358 2,400
------ ------ ------ ------- ------
Total Capitalization................... $3,340 $3,348 $3,735 $ 4,065 $3,891
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
Book Value per Share................... $23.48 $21.86 $23.23 $ 24.66 $25.14
====== ====== ====== ======= ======
</TABLE>
- --------
(*) Including provision for income taxes.
(**) Including portion due within one year.
See Notes to Selected Historical and Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed
Consolidated Financial Data.
12
<PAGE>
SELECTED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected unaudited pro forma combined condensed consolidated
financial data have been presented to reflect the pro forma effect of the
merger accounted for as a pooling-of-interests. Accordingly, the consolidated
financial statements of Dominion Resources have been restated for all periods
presented to include the assets, liabilities, shareholders' equity and results
of operations of CNG. The pro forma adjustments are based upon available
information and certain assumptions that management believes are reasonable.
The selected unaudited pro forma combined condensed consolidated financial
data are presented for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily
indicative of the operating results or financial condition of the combined
company that would have occurred had the merger occurred at the beginning of
the periods presented, nor are the selected unaudited pro forma combined
condensed consolidated financial data necessarily indicative of future
operating results or financial position of the combined company. The selected
unaudited pro forma combined condensed consolidated financial data (i) have
been derived from and should be read in conjunction with the UNAUDITED PRO
FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS and the related
notes included elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and (ii)
should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of
Dominion Resources and CNG incorporated by reference in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December
31,
---------------------
1996 1997 1998
------ ------- ------
(in millions--except
per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income Statement Data
Operating Revenues....................................... $7,789 $10,467 $8,831
Operating Expenses....................................... 6,129 8,435 7,313
------ ------- ------
Operating Income......................................... 1,660 2,032 1,518
------ ------- ------
Net Income............................................... $ 778 $ 712 $ 786
====== ======= ======
Earnings per Share--basic ............................... $ 2.40 $ 2.14 $ 2.30
====== ======= ======
Earnings per Share--diluted ............................. $ 2.35 $ 2.09 $ 2.29
====== ======= ======
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Balance Sheet Data
Total Assets $23,920
=======
Capitalization
Long-term Debt(*).................................................... $ 8,202
Preferred Securities of Subsidiary Trusts............................ 385
Preferred Stocks of Subsidiary:
Subject to Mandatory Redemption.................................... 180
Not Subject to Mandatory Redemption................................ 509
Common Shareholders' Equity.......................................... 7,696
-------
Total Capitalization................................................... $16,972
=======
Book Value per Share................................................... $ 22.47
=======
</TABLE>
- --------
(*) Including portion due within one year and capital lease obligations.
See Notes to Selected Historical and Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed
Consolidated Financial Data.
13
<PAGE>
NOTES TO SELECTED HISTORICAL AND UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
COMBINED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
1. The data assumes the business combination was accounted for as a pooling-
of-interests and was completed prior to the periods presented. Pro forma
equivalent amounts give effect to the conversion of each outstanding CNG share
into 1.52 shares of Dominion Resources common stock. The pro forma statements
reflect the issuance of Dominion Resources shares in exchange for all
outstanding CNG stock options and performance shares (Stock Out) based on a
fair value model.
The pro forma combined dividends per share were based on the sum of the
historical dividends declared by Dominion Resources and CNG divided by the pro
forma average number of Dominion Resources shares outstanding. The pro forma
average number of Dominion Resources shares was calculated by multiplying the
average number of CNG shares during the year by the exchange ratio and adding
the result to the average number of outstanding Dominion Resources shares
during the year and shares related to the Stock Out. The pro forma combined
dividends per share are not necessarily indicative of the level of dividends
after the consummation of the merger. The current annual dividend for Dominion
Resources is $2.58 per share. Dominion Resources' targeted payout ratio of
dividends to earnings is 70% to 75%. At present, the payout ratio is higher.
Dominion Resources' business plan projects that the targeted ratio will be
achieved within two years post closing through earnings growth. Therefore,
Dominion Resources' dividend will be maintained at its current level. If the
pro forma combined dividends per share were based on Dominion Resources'
current annual dividend rate of $2.58 per share, the pro forma combined
dividends per Dominion Resources share would be $2.58 for each of the years
ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998 and the pro forma equivalent combined
dividend per CNG share would be $3.92 for each of the years ended December 31,
1996, 1997 and 1998.
2. Certain revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities of CNG have been
reclassified to conform with Dominion Resources' presentation. The effects of
accounting policy differences are limited to Dominion Resources' change from
the successful efforts method to the full cost method of accounting for oil
and gas properties which resulted in a $11 million, $9 million and $8 million
increase in earnings in the income statement for the years ended December 31,
1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively and a $7 million increase in total assets in
the balance sheet data as of December 31, 1998.
3. Dominion Resources announced in November 1996 that its indirect
subsidiary, DR Investments (UK) PLC, had made an offer to purchase East
Midlands Electricity plc (East Midlands) for approximately $2.2 billion. East
Midlands is a regional electricity company based in the Nottingham area of the
United Kingdom (UK). The acquisition was accounted for as a purchase and East
Midlands was included in Dominion Resources consolidated financial information
until it was sold in July 1998.
In the third quarter of 1997, East Midlands recorded a liability of
approximately $157 million to reflect the one-time windfall tax levied by the
UK government. The tax was levied on regional electric companies in the UK and
was based on the privatized utilities' excess profits.
In July 1998, Dominion Resources sold East Midlands in a transaction valued
at $3.2 billion. The sale resulted in a gain of $332.2 million or $200.7
million, net of tax.
4. In August 1998, the Virginia State Corporation Commission approved a
settlement by Order which resolved Virginia Power's outstanding base rate
proceedings. Virginia Power is Dominion Resources' regulated electric utility.
The settlement defines a new regulatory framework for Virginia Power's
transition to a competitive environment. The Order included rate refunds and
the write-off of regulatory assets which reduced after-tax earnings by $201
million.
5. During 1998, CNG discontinued its wholesale trading and marketing of
natural gas and electricity, including integrated energy management. On July
31, 1998, CNG's sale of the capital stock of CNG Energy Services Corporation,
formerly a wholly-owned subsidiary, to Sempra Energy Trading, a subsidiary of
Sempra
14
<PAGE>
Energy, was finalized. Proceeds of $37.4 million were received from the sale
of the stock, as adjusted for working capital items. CNG's transition out of
the wholesale gas business was substantially complete at December 31, 1998.
CNG recognized losses from discontinued operations, net of applicable tax
benefits, of $11.1 million, $14.5 million and $17.2 million for the years
1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively. In addition, during 1998 CNG recognized a
loss on disposal of the discontinued operations, including a provision for
operating losses during the phase out period, of $31.7 million, net of
applicable tax benefit. These amounts are reflected in CNG's historical
condensed consolidated financial statements and data included elsewhere in
this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
For purposes of the proforma combined condensed consolidated financial data,
the results of CNG's discontinued operations have been reclassified to
continuing operations because on a combined basis the discontinuation of these
operations would not qualify as a disposal of a segment of a business.
15
<PAGE>
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This joint proxy statement/prospectus, and the documents which are
incorporated in it by reference (see WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION),
include various forward-looking statements about Dominion Resources, CNG and
the combined company that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-
looking statements include the information concerning future financial
performance, business strategy, projected costs and plans and objectives of
Dominion Resources, CNG and the combined company set forth under JOINT PROXY
STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS SUMMARY and THE MERGER. Statements preceded by, followed
by or that otherwise include the words "believes," "expects," "anticipates,"
"intends," "estimates," "plans" or similar expressions are generally forward-
looking in nature and not historical facts.
Actual future results for Dominion Resources, CNG and the combined company
could differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking
statements. This is particularly true because Dominion Resources and CNG
participate in an industry that is in transition. It is characterized by
increasing consolidation, growing deregulation and heightened competition. In
addition, the following important factors, as well as others discussed
elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and the documents
incorporated by reference, are among those that could cause the actual results
to differ from the forward-looking statements:
. the effect of the merger on earnings and cash flow;
. the combined company's ability to successfully operate its electric and
gas distribution operations;
. electric load and customer growth;
. abnormal weather conditions;
. available sources and cost of fuel and generating capacity;
. the speed and degree to which competition enters the power generation,
wholesale and retail sectors of the electric utility industry;
. the year 2000 technology issues and costs;
. state and federal regulatory and/or legislative initiatives;
. the economic climate and growth in the service territories of Dominion
Resources and CNG following the merger;
. inflationary trends, capital market conditions and interest rates;
. leverage and holding company issues;
. rate, environmental, energy and other regulatory developments;
. uncertainties related to doing business outside the U.S.;
. exploration, development and operating uncertainties of geothermal and
gas resources;
. deregulation and natural gas and electric industry restructuring issues;
and
. a significant delay in the expected completion of, and unexpected
consequences resulting from, the merger.
Most of these factors are difficult to accurately predict and are generally
beyond the control of Dominion Resources and CNG.
The areas of risk described above should be considered in connection with
any written or oral forward-looking statements that may be made after the date
of this joint proxy statement/prospectus by Dominion Resources or CNG or
anyone acting for either or both of them. Except for their ongoing obligations
to disclose material information under the federal securities laws, neither
Dominion Resources or CNG undertakes any obligation to release publicly any
revisions to any forward-looking statements to report events or circumstances
after the date of the joint proxy statement/prospectus or the occurrence of
unanticipated events.
16
<PAGE>
THE SPECIAL MEETINGS OF DOMINION RESOURCES AND CNG SHAREHOLDERS
Dominion Resources Special Meeting
The Board of Directors of Dominion Resources is soliciting your proxy for a
special shareholders meeting to approve the merger between Dominion Resources
and CNG including the issuance of Dominion Resources common stock under the
merger agreement. Dominion Resources common stock will be issued in exchange
for the outstanding CNG shares and may also be issued to certain CNG
employees. See THE MERGER AGREEMENT--Treatment of CNG Stock Options and Stock
Awards. At the meeting, shareholders also will be asked to approve an
amendment to the Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation to increase the
number of authorized shares of common stock outstanding from 300,000,000 to
500,000,000. The meeting will be held on at 9:30 a.m. at the ,
Richmond, Virginia.
Record Date
All shareholders that owned stock at the close of business on May , 1999
are entitled to vote at the special meeting. There were shares of Dominion
Resources common stock outstanding on that date.
Quorum
A majority of the shares outstanding on May , 1999 constitutes a quorum for
this meeting. Abstentions and shares held by a broker or nominee (Broker
Shares) that are voted on any matter are included in determining a quorum.
Required Vote
Approval of the merger, including the share issuance, and the amendment to
the Articles of Incorporation, requires that a majority of the shares
represented at the meeting vote in favor of both items. Abstentions, failures
to vote and broker non-votes will have the same effect as a vote against
approval of the merger and the amendment to the Articles of Incorporation.
How to Vote
You may vote in person at the special meeting or by proxy. You have three
ways to vote by proxy:
. connect to the Internet at www. .com*;
. call 1-800- *; or
. complete the proxy card and mail it back to us.
*Not for Beneficial Owners
Complete instructions for voting your proxy can be found on your proxy card
included with this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
Rights; Revocation of Proxies
Each of your shares will be counted as one vote. If you vote your proxy
properly, we will follow your instructions. We urge you to mark the boxes on
your proxy to indicate how to vote your shares. If no instructions are
indicated on a properly executed proxy, the shares will be voted FOR approval
of the merger including the share issuance and FOR the amendment to the
Articles of Incorporation. If you vote and change your mind on any issue, you
may revoke your proxy at any time before the close of voting at the special
meeting in any of the following four ways:
. connect to the Internet at www. .com*;
. call 800- *;
17
<PAGE>
. write to our Corporate Secretary; or
. vote your shares at the special meeting.
*Not for Beneficial Owners
Registered Shareholders and Dominion Direct Participants
Your proxy card shows the number of full and fractional shares you own. If
you are a participant in our Dominion Direct Investment stock purchase plan,
the number includes shares we hold in your Dominion Direct Investment account.
All shares will be voted according to your instructions if you properly vote
your proxy by one of the methods listed above. If you sign your proxy and do
not make a selection, it will be voted as recommended by the Board of
Directors. If you are a Dominion Direct Investment participant and do not vote
your proxy, we will vote all shares held in that account according to the
Board of Directors' recommendations.
Employee Savings Plan Participants
You will receive a request for voting instructions from Mellon Bank, N.A.,
the Employee Savings Plan trustee. The share amounts listed on that form
include the full and fractional shares in your Employee Savings Plan account.
You may instruct Mellon Bank by:
. connecting to the Internet at www. .com;
. calling 1-800- ; or
. returning your Voting Instructions in the enclosed envelope (not to
Dominion Resources).
Complete instructions can be found on the Voting Instruction Card included
with the joint proxy statement/prospectus.
Whichever method you choose, Mellon Bank will vote according to your
instructions and will keep your vote confidential. If you do not vote your
Employee Savings Plan shares, Mellon Bank generally will vote your shares
according to the Board of Directors' recommendations.
Beneficial Owners (Broker Shares)
If your shares are held in street name with your broker, please follow the
instructions found on the Voting Instruction Card enclosed with this joint
proxy statement/prospectus.
Tabulation
Dominion Resources has retained Corporate Election Services, Inc. to
tabulate the proxies and to assist with the Special Meeting.
DOMINION RESOURCES SHAREHOLDERS DO NOT NEED TO DO ANYTHING WITH RESPECT TO
THEIR STOCK CERTIFICATES FOR THIS MERGER.
CNG Special Meeting
The Board of Directors of CNG is soliciting your proxy for a special
shareholders meeting to approve the merger with Dominion Resources. The
meeting will be held on at 9:30 a.m. at the .
Record Date
All shareholders that owned stock at the close of business on May , 1999
are entitled to vote at the special meeting. There were shares of CNG
common stock outstanding on that date.
18
<PAGE>
Quorum
A majority of the shares outstanding on May , 1999 constitutes a quorum for
this meeting. Abstentions and shares held by a broker or nominee (broker
shares) that are voted on any matter are included in determining a quorum.
Required Vote
Approval of the merger requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the
outstanding shares. Broker shares not voted and votes withheld will not be
considered to be voted in favor of the merger.
How to Vote
You may vote in person at the special meeting or by proxy. You have two ways
to vote by proxy:
. call 1-800- *; or
. complete the proxy card and mail it back to us.
*Not for Beneficial Owners
Complete instructions for voting your proxy can be found on your proxy card
included with this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
Rights; Revocation of Proxies
You will have one vote for each share of CNG common stock. If you vote your
proxy properly, we will follow your instructions. We urge you to mark the box
on your proxy to indicate how to vote your shares. If no instructions are
indicated on a properly executed proxy, the shares will be voted FOR approval
of the merger. If you vote and change your mind, you may revoke your proxy at
any time before the close of voting at the special meeting. There are three
ways to revoke your proxy:
. call the 1-800 number listed above*;
. write to our Corporate Secretary; or
. vote your shares at the special meeting.
*Not for Beneficial Owners
Registered Shareholders and Dividend Reinvestment Plan Participants
Your proxy card shows the number of full and fractional shares you own. If
you are a participant in the CNG Dividend Reinvestment Plan, the number also
includes shares we hold in your Plan account. All shares will be voted
according to your instructions if you properly vote your proxy by one of the
methods listed above. If you sign your proxy and do not make a selection, it
will be voted as recommended by the Board of Directors.
Employee Thrift Plan Participants
You will receive a proxy card and instructions from Mellon Bank, N.A, the
Thrift Plan Trustee. The share amounts listed on that form include the full
shares in your Thrift Plan account. You may instruct the Trustee by:
. calling 1-800- ; or
. returning your proxy card in the enclosed envelope (not to CNG).
Complete instructions can be found on the proxy card included with this
joint proxy statement/prospectus.
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Whichever method you choose, the Trustee will vote according to your
instructions and will keep your vote confidential. In the absence of
instructions, the Trustee will vote unvoted shares in the same proportion as
shares voted pursuant to confidential instructions.
Tabulation
CNG has retained First Chicago Trust Company to tabulate the proxies and to
assist with the special meeting.
HOLDERS OF CNG SHARES SHOULD NOT SEND STOCK CERTIFICATES WITH THEIR PROXY
CARDS. IF THE MERGER IS CONSUMMATED, CNG SHAREHOLDERS WILL BE FURNISHED WITH
INSTRUCTIONS FOR EXCHANGING THEIR CNG STOCK CERTIFICATES FOR DOMINION
RESOURCES STOCK CERTIFICATES AT THAT TIME.
Solicitation
We will equally share the expenses incurred in connection with the printing
and mailing of this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Each company has
retained Georgeson & Co., Inc., a proxy solicitation firm, at a total
estimated cost of $28,000 plus reimbursement of expenses, to assist in the
solicitation of proxies. In addition, Dominion Resources and CNG employees may
telephone shareholders of their respective companies after the initial
solicitation. We will also request banks, brokers and other intermediaries
holding shares beneficially owned by others to send this joint proxy
statement/prospectus to and obtain proxies from the beneficial owners and will
reimburse the holders for their reasonable expenses in so doing.
No Appraisal Rights
Under Delaware law, CNG shareholders will not be entitled to appraisal
rights. Under certain circumstances, the Delaware General Corporation Law
entitles a shareholder to exercise appraisal rights upon a merger or
consolidation. Appraisal rights would be available under Delaware law if the
CNG shareholders were required by the terms of the merger to accept
consideration other than, among other things, shares of stock of any
corporation listed on a national securities exchange or cash in lieu of
fractional shares. Since holders of CNG common stock will receive only shares
of Dominion Resources common stock, which are listed on the New York Stock
Exchange, and cash in lieu of fractional shares under the terms of the merger
agreement, they are not entitled to appraisal rights under the Delaware law.
Under Virginia law, Dominion Resources shareholders will not be entitled to
appraisal rights.
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THE MERGER
Background to Merger
During late 1997 and early 1998, CNG reassessed its strategic plan in
response to business changes caused by slower than expected unbundling of the
gas and electric distribution businesses at the retail level and the company's
decision to exit the wholesale energy business. Management then discussed and
explored alternatives for increasing shareholder value with the CNG Board of
Directors at its meetings throughout 1998.
Throughout 1997 and the first half of 1998, Dominion Resources engaged in a
number of acquisition transactions and considered a variety of strategic
alternatives to enable it to compete and grow in the deregulating energy
industry. Among the strategic alternatives Dominion Resources considered was
the acquisition of regional gas or other electric utility companies. Dominion
Resources' growth strategy and specific possible acquisition candidates were
reviewed by the Dominion Resources Board of Directors at several meetings
during this period. The Dominion Resources Board of Directors encouraged
management to pursue a number of different strategic alternatives, including
investigating the desirability of a transaction with CNG.
During the fall of 1998, CNG conferred with Merrill Lynch on an ongoing
basis as one of its principal investment advisors. During that same period,
Dominion Resources was using Lehman Brothers informally to assist it in
identifying and evaluating opportunities in the industry. Both companies were
also consulting with their legal advisors during the fall of 1998 and early
1999 with respect to matters covered in this discussion. CNG's principal legal
advisor was Cahill Gordon & Reindel (Cahill) and Dominion Resources' principal
legal advisor was LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae, L.L.P. (LLG&M).
George A. Davidson, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of CNG,
routinely met informally with leading industry executives throughout the
summer and fall of 1998 to exchange views on energy industry trends. At one
such dinner engagement, on September 8, 1998, Mr. Davidson and Thos. E. Capps,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Dominion Resources, included a
discussion of their companies' respective business strategies in their
conversation.
The September 8, 1998 meeting was followed by several telephone
conversations between Mr. Davidson and Mr. Capps. On October 8, 1998, Mr.
Davidson and Mr. Capps met jointly with selected senior management and
operating and marketing personnel from both companies in Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania to discuss the feasibility of locating new power generating
facilities along CNG's pipeline system. The discussion led to other examples
of how synergy might be developed between the two companies. On October 16,
1998, Dominion Resources' management reviewed a possible business combination
with CNG with its Organization, Compensation and Nominating Committee (OC&N
Committee) and the OC&N Committee agreed that management should begin
discussions with CNG.
On October 20, 1998, Stephen E. Williams, Senior Vice President and General
Counsel, and David M. Westfall, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer, of CNG met with Edgar M. Roach, Jr., Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer, and Thomas F. Farrell, II, Executive Vice President--
Corporate Affairs, of Dominion Resources. At this meeting, Dominion Resources
presented its views on the business rationale for a combination of the two
companies. Following this meeting, Dominion Resources management conferred
with its legal and investment banking advisors and, on October 27, 1998,
Dominion Resources sent a letter to CNG expressing its interest in exploring a
business combination with CNG.
On November 9 and 10, 1998, CNG management presented information to the CNG
Board of Directors related to strategic issues and the possibility of a merger
or other combination with a variety of energy companies, including Dominion
Resources. Following those meetings, CNG informed Dominion Resources that it
was not prepared to consider a transaction with Dominion Resources at that
time because it was still in the process of considering other strategic
alternatives.
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An Ad Hoc Committee of the CNG Board of Directors, consisting of Richard P.
Simmons, Paul E. Lego, Steven A. Minter, and J. Y. Connolly as an advisor, was
formed on November 10, 1998, to review business matters of the company. CNG
management, along with representatives of Merrill Lynch, met with the Ad Hoc
Committee on November 23, 1998, to review strategic alternatives available to
CNG. At that meeting, Merrill Lynch was asked to provide further analysis on a
possible combination of CNG with two gas and two electric companies, including
Dominion Resources.
On December 7, 1998, CNG management and the Ad Hoc Committee received a
presentation by Merrill Lynch regarding four potential merger partners which
represented different strategies. On December 8, 1998, the CNG Board agreed
that management ought to have additional discussions with Dominion Resources
to begin exploring a possible business combination. It was also considered
appropriate for Mr. Davidson to contact Mr. Capps to schedule further
discussions. On December 8, 1998, Mr. Davidson informed Mr. Capps of CNG's
willingness to have further discussions, and meetings were scheduled for
January 5, 1999. On December 17, 1998, Dominion Resources management updated
the Dominion Resources OC&N Committee on the status of the possible merger.
On January 5, 1999, CNG retained Merrill Lynch to act as its financial
advisor in connection with the proposed business combination with Dominion
Resources. Also on January 5, Mr. Capps and other senior Dominion Resources
executives, Mr. Davidson and Mr. Westfall and representatives from Lehman
Brothers and Merrill Lynch met in New York to discuss the potential benefits
of a business combination of CNG and Dominion Resources. On January 11, 1999,
the Dominion Resources OC&N Committee met and received a report on the January
5 meetings. Following review of the report, the OC&N Committee supported
management's continued discussion with CNG. On January 5, both companies
entered into confidentiality agreements with each other.
Dominion Resources formally engaged Lehman Brothers on January 11, 1999,
with respect to the merger with CNG. Also on January 11, 1999, Dominion
Resources' representatives, CNG's representatives and representatives of
Lehman Brothers and Merrill Lynch met in New York to review the potential
business plan of a combined entity.
During the period January 11, 1999, through January 15, 1999,
representatives of both companies met to gain a better understanding of their
respective business strategies and financial information and to begin
negotiation of a merger transaction.
On January 19, 1999, the CNG Board of Directors met to review data presented
by Merrill Lynch. The Board expressed concerns about a merger transaction with
Dominion Resources at that time, and asked management to gather additional
information. Dominion Resources was informed that CNG wished to defer further
merger discussions pending the receipt and analysis of additional information.
On January 21, 1999, Dominion Resources management updated the OC&N Committee
on these developments.
On January 25, 1999, discussions were resumed among the companies' senior
management with more detailed information exchanged between CNG and Dominion
Resources concerning their respective plans for their unregulated businesses
and the details in their financial information. On February 4, 1999, CNG
management and Merrill Lynch met with the Ad Hoc Committee of the CNG Board
plus two other Board members, William S. Barrack and Raymond E. Galvin.
On February 9, 1999, the CNG Board of Directors met to discuss the merits of
the proposed transaction with Dominion Resources in general terms. Following
that discussion, Mr. Davidson and Mr. Simmons, Chairman of the Ad Hoc
Committee, were directed to meet with Mr. Capps, Mr. Farrell and Mr. Roach to
define the parameters of the merger. The Dominion Resources Board met on
February 11, 1999 and received presentations from management and Lehman
Brothers. The Dominion Resources Board of Directors endorsed going forward
with the merger discussions with CNG. Representatives of the companies met
again on February 12, 1999, and held discussions on the terms of the merger
agreement.
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During the period February 15, 1999 through February 21, 1999,
representatives of the companies and their financial and legal advisors held
numerous meetings to conduct due diligence and negotiate the terms of the
merger. On February 18, 1999, Dominion Resources management met with the OC&N
Committee to discuss the proposed merger. The merger was approved by the
Dominion Resources Board of Directors on February 19, 1999, and, on that date,
Dominion Resources submitted a written offer to CNG.
On February 19, 1999, after receiving the Dominion Resources offer, the CNG
Board of Directors approved the merger subject to satisfaction on the part of
Mr. Davidson with respect to certain outstanding pooling-of-interest
accounting issues. The CNG Board meeting was recessed in anticipation of
continuing on February 21, 1999.
On February 20, 1999, Mr. Davidson received a letter from one of the gas
utilities that the CNG Board of Directors had considered at its meeting on
November 23, 1998, expressing interest in a business combination which would
either take the form of an acquisition of CNG for predominantly cash or a
merger of equals on undefined terms. This proposal was subject to due
diligence, financing and other substantial contingencies. On February 21,
1999, the CNG Board reconvened its meeting of February 19, was informed that
Mr. Davidson was satisfied with respect to the pooling-of-interest accounting
issues and received the report of Merrill Lynch on the possible transaction
proposed by the other gas utility as compared to the transaction with Dominion
Resources. The CNG Board unanimously reaffirmed its determination to accept
the Dominion Resources proposal. The merger agreement was executed and
delivered by both companies following the meeting of the CNG Board of
Directors.
The merger was announced on February 22, 1999.
Reasons for the Merger
The merger of Dominion Resources and CNG will result in an integrated
electric and natural gas company, serving nearly four million retail customers
in five states. Your companies believe the combined company will be well
positioned to be successful in the increasingly competitive energy
marketplace, in particular in the Northeast quadrant of the United States. We
expect the merger to enhance shareholder value more than either company could
do on its own. The combined company should have three elements key to success
in the competitive energy marketplace--size; geographic focus in strong
regional markets; and efficient assets in the right locations.
.Increase in Scale, Scope and Skills
The merger will result in the combined company having pro forma 1998
assets of $23.9 billion and revenues of $8.8 billion. Dominion Resources
and CNG believe that the combined company's increased size and scope will
improve its opportunities for expansion, allowing the company to offer a
broad line of energy products. The combination will expand and diversify
Dominion Resources' core customer base from approximately two million
retail customers in two states to four million retail customers in five
states. The merger aligns successful leaders with seasoned managers proven
in the competitive marketplace.
As a result, the combined company should have the scale, scope and
skills to be successful in the competitive energy marketplace.
.Compatible Geographic Markets
The proposed merger is consistent with Dominion Resources' previously
announced strategy of growing in the Northeast quadrant of the U.S.--
covering the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast portions of the U.S. This
region is referred to as MAIN-to-Maine. The first MAIN refers to the Mid-
America Interconnected Network. It covers the states of Missouri,
Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Indiana. The reference to the State of
Maine designates the northeast end of this region. Virginia represents the
southern boundary of this region. This area is the source of approximately
40 percent of the nation's demand for energy.
Dominion Resources and CNG believe that the merger will give the
combined company the platform it needs for growth in a region that is
rapidly deregulating, allowing the company to market its portfolio of
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0energy products to a broad customer base. In the states where our
companies already have operations, there are an estimated 16 million power
customers not currently serviced by Virginia Power. There are an estimated
8 million additional natural gas customers not currently served by CNG.
Millions of prospective customers live in adjoining states. Your companies
intend to seek out these prospective customers.
Dominion Resources has most of its electric power assets in several of
the region's states and has gas reserves located within, or transportable
to, the region. The proposed merger gives it a strong platform for growth,
allowing it to more rapidly and effectively compete in the emerging
electric retail competition markets in states where CNG currently has
facilities. Pennsylvania and Ohio, especially, have strong policies
encouraging new competition. For CNG, the merger gives it a broader
platform in Virginia and North Carolina, the primary service area of
Dominion Resources' principal subsidiary, Virginia Power.
.Efficient and Well Located Assets
Dominion Resources and CNG combined will have storage, transportation
and electric power production capability concentrated in the Northeast and
Mid-Atlantic region.
The combined company will have an energy portfolio (including purchased
power) of nearly 20,000 megawatts, 2.9 trillion cubic feet equivalent in
natural gas and oil reserves producing over 300 billion cubic feet
equivalent annually. It will operate a major interstate gas pipeline
system and the largest natural gas storage system in North America with
almost 900 Bcfe of storage. The combined company will rank as the eleventh
largest independent oil and gas producer in the United States measured by
reserves. The combined company will have more than 5,000 miles of electric
transmission lines. These power lines are well located to transmit power
from low-cost producers in the Southeast, including Virginia Power, into
higher-cost markets in the Northeast and Midwest, including CNG's service
territory. The combined company's assets are well positioned to serve the
MAIN to Maine region.
Your companies believe a strategic advantage of the merger is a better
positioned exploration and production portfolio. After the merger, the
combined company will have a well balanced mix of offshore and onshore
properties. This should reduce the risk profile of the exploration and
production operations.
Other Reasons For The Merger
When the merger is complete your companies expect to enhance revenues
through integration of our complementary businesses. Our combined company will
have the following primary businesses:
. retail natural gas and electricity sales;
. wholesale natural gas and electricity sales;
. natural gas exploration and production activities;
. electric generation; and
. international operations.
We intend to integrate these complementary businesses. We will not only
serve our existing retail customers and wholesale customers, but will reach
out to new customers as a full-service energy provider as deregulation
proceeds.
In addition, the merger will enable the combined company to realize cost
savings from elimination of duplicate corporate and administrative programs,
greater efficiencies in operations and business processes, and streamlined
purchasing practices.
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Recommendations of the Boards of Directors
Dominion Resources
The Dominion Resources Board of Directors, by unanimous vote, approved and
adopted the merger agreement, including the issuance of Dominion Resources
common stock in accordance with the merger agreement, and determined that the
merger is in the best interests of the company and its shareholders. The Board
of Directors also, by unanimous vote, has approved the amendment to the
Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation. The Dominion Resources Board of
Directors recommends that Dominion Resources shareholders vote FOR the merger
and the issuance of the shares and FOR the amendment to the Articles of
Incorporation.
Dominion Resources has been developing a strategy to compete in the
deregulating energy industry. As part of that strategy, the Board of Directors
believes that to be successful going forward, the company must have a broad
scale and scope, must focus on strong energy markets and must have efficient
and well-located assets. When considering whether to approve and recommend the
merger with CNG, the Board felt that CNG contributed to all of these factors.
In its review of the proposed transaction, the Dominion Resources Board of
Directors was assisted by management and by its financial, investment banking
and legal advisors. In addition to considering the guidance it received from
its advisors, the Dominion Resources Board of Directors took into account
various strategic, financial, legal and tax factors, including those described
above in THE MERGER--Reasons for the Merger.
Over time, the Board compared the merger and other strategic growth
alternatives and other similar gas and electric utility mergers that have
begun a trend in the increasingly competitive energy industry. By diversifying
the product offered (gas or electricity) and spreading assets geographically,
the Board believes this type of business combination can ease the risks of the
changing energy industry. The Board also feels that the combined company will
be financially stronger and will have broader opportunities than the company
could have access to on its own.
The Board also analyzed various risks of the merger, including:
.whether the benefits sought from the merger would be realized;
. whether the amount of work required by the merger would divert
management's attention and increase expenses;
. whether the regulatory approvals would be obtained;
. whether the difficulties of integrating two large and geographically and
operationally distinct companies could be overcome; and
. whether the issuance of the company's stock to CNG shareholders would
dilute the value of the company's stock.
After considering these and other risks, the Board concluded that the
potential benefits of the proposed merger outweighed the risks and any
disadvantages.
It is important to note that no one factor was the reason for any individual
director's decision and that each director attached his or her own weights to
the many factors considered. However, based on the total mix of information
available to them, all directors determined to approve and recommend the
merger to Dominion Resources shareholders. They felt that the strategic,
operational and financial opportunities the transaction presents will enhance
Dominion Resources shareholder value and that shareholders should stand to
benefit in the future by holding ownership interests in the combined entity.
CNG
The CNG Board of Directors, by unanimous vote, has approved and adopted the
merger agreement, believes the merger is fair and in the best interests of CNG
and CNG shareholders and is advisable, and recommends that CNG shareholders
vote FOR and approve the merger.
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In considering the recommendation of the CNG Board of Directors with respect
to the merger agreement, CNG shareholders should be aware that certain members
of the CNG Board of Directors and CNG employees have interests in the merger
that are different than, or in addition to, the interests of shareholders of
CNG generally. The CNG Board of Directors was aware of these interests and
considered them, among other matters, in approving the merger agreement. See
Interest of Certain Persons in the Merger.
In engaging in the process of screening and evaluating potential strategic
merger candidates and in reaching its determination to approve and recommend
the merger agreement, the CNG Board of Directors was motivated in its desire
to position CNG to meet the challenges of the changing energy industry
environment and thereby to assist the holders of CNG common stock to realize
the benefits of the opportunities, and to avoid the risks, presented by such
changing environment.
In its deliberations with respect to the merger and the merger agreement,
the CNG Board of Directors consulted with CNG management and the financial and
legal advisors to CNG. The factors considered by the CNG Board of Directors
include those enumerated below. While all of these factors were considered by
the CNG Board of Directors, the CNG Board of Directors did not make
determinations with respect to each such factor. Rather, the CNG Board of
Directors made its judgment with respect to the merger and the merger
agreement based on the total mix of information available to it, and the
judgments of individual directors may have been influenced to a greater or
lesser degree by their individual views with respect to different factors.
The factors considered by the CNG Board of Directors in evaluating the
merger and the merger agreement included the following:
. its knowledge of the business, operations, assets, properties, operating
results and financial condition of CNG;
. CNG's strategic alternatives, including the prospects of positioning CNG
for the future and enhancing long-term shareholder value by remaining an
independent company or by effecting a strategic business combination with
another party;
. information concerning CNG's prospects as an independent company;
. information concerning the financial position, results of operations,
businesses, competitive position and prospects of a business combination
with Dominion Resources, including the amount of stranded investment;
. the philosophy of the management of Dominion Resources, especially as it
relates to the means of meeting the challenges of industry change and
compatibility with that of CNG management;
. the prospects of regulatory approval, at each level of regulation, of a
combination with Dominion Resources;
. the opportunities for cost savings as a result of a business combination
with Dominion Resources;
. the extensive information developed during the period of the screening
process discussed under Background of the Merger with respect to Dominion
Resources as well as the extensive and inclusive nature of the screening
process itself;
. the comparative market capitalization, debt-to-equity ratio and financial
strength of CNG as an independent company and a combination of CNG with
Dominion Resources;
. the effects of the changing regulatory environment and increased
competition in the energy industry;
. the recent trend in the utility industry toward consolidation and
strategic partnerships that create larger, stronger companies made to
face an increasingly competitive environment;
. specifically, with respect to a business combination with Dominion
Resources:
(a) the exchange ratio and recent trading prices for CNG common stock
and Dominion Resources common stock;
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(b) the opportunity for the shareholders of CNG to receive a premium
over the market price for their CNG common stock immediately prior
to announcement of the merger agreement;
(c) the anticipated positive effects of the merger on CNG shareholders;
(d) the terms of the merger agreement, which provide for reciprocal
representations and warranties, conditions to closing and rights to
termination, balanced rights and obligations and protection for
employees of CNG (as discussed under THE MERGER AGREEMENT);
(e) the tax and accounting treatment for the merger; and
(f) the presentations made by Merrill Lynch to the CNG Board of
Directors during the screening process, including information
regarding CNG as an independent entity and CNG in combination with
Dominion Resources (as well as others) and the opinion of Merrill
Lynch rendered to CNG Board of Directors on February 19, 1999 that,
as of such date, the exchange ratio was fair, from a financial point
of view, to CNG shareholders. See Opinion of CNG's Financial
Advisors.
During its deliberations regarding the merger and the merger agreement (and,
indeed, during the screening process), the CNG Board of Directors also
analyzed certain risks associated with the merger. The CNG Board of Directors
was advised regarding the risks of obtaining regulatory approval for the
merger at all levels of regulation and the potential for a negative effect on
its credit rating following the merger. After reviewing these matters
thoroughly the CNG Board of Directors determined that the benefits of the
merger outweighed any risks entailed in these matters.
CNG believes that the merger will provide strategic and operational
opportunities that would be unavailable to CNG as an independent company and
will enable CNG and its shareholders to participate in a significantly larger
and more diverse company. Through the pooling of common stock equity,
management, human resources and technical expertise and coordination in the
use of the facilities of CNG and Dominion Resources, CNG believes the combined
company will be better able to meet the competitive environment for the
delivery of energy and services then would CNG as a stand-alone enterprise.
CNG believes that the combined entity will be better able, in the long term,
to achieve benefits of increased financial stability and strength, improved
and unified management and efficiencies of operations than would CNG as an
independent company.
What Shareholders Will Receive in the Merger
If the merger is completed, CNG shareholders will receive 1.52 shares of
Dominion Resources common stock for each share of CNG common stock. This
exchange ratio will not change even if the market price of Dominion Resources
or CNG common stock increases or decreases between now and the date of the
merger. Therefore, if there is a change in the value of either company's
stock, the Dominion Resources shares that CNG shareholders receive may be
worth less or more than they anticipated.
As soon as practical after the closing of the merger, an exchange agent
selected by Dominion Resources will mail instructions to each record holder of
CNG common stock with instructions on the procedures for exchanging shares of
CNG common stock for shares of Dominion Resources common stock.
Dominion Resources will not issue fractional shares in the merger. Instead,
CNG shareholders will receive cash for any fractional share of Dominion
Resources common stock due from the merger, CNG shareholders should not send
in their CNG common stock certificates until they receive further
instructions.
Dominion Resources shareholders will not receive anything in the merger. All
outstanding shares of Dominion Resources common stock will remain outstanding
after the merger.
As of there were Dominion Resources shares and CNG shares
outstanding. Assuming the same number of shares are outstanding immediately
before the closing of the merger, the number of Dominion Resources shares to
be issued in the merger would be . This would represent approximately
percent of the outstanding Dominion Resources shares immediately after the
closing of the merger.
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Dividends
The merger agreement places restrictions on Dominion Resources' and CNG's
ability to declare or pay dividends, split, combine or reclassify their
capital stock or redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire any shares of their
capital stock other than in the ordinary course or according to previously
announced plans pending closing of the merger. The merger agreement does not
restrict Dominion Resources' and CNG's ability to declare or pay regular
annual dividends of $2.58 per share of Dominion Resources common stock or
$1.94 per share of CNG common stock with usual record and payment dates.
The current annual dividend for Dominion Resources is $2.58 per share.
Dominion Resources' targeted payout ratio of dividends to earnings is 70% to
75%. At present, the payout ratio is higher. Dominion Resources' business plan
projects that the targeted ratio will be achieved within two years post
closing through earnings growth. Therefore, Dominion Resources' dividend will
be maintained at its current level.
Management of Dominion Resources Following the Merger
Chief Executive Officer
If the merger becomes effective before August 1, 2000, George A. Davidson,
Jr. will be Chairman of the Board of Directors and Thos. E. Capps will be
Vice-Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer of Dominion Resources.
Mr. Davidson will serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors until his
previously announced retirement on August 1, 2000. Mr. Capps will reassume his
position as Chairman of the Board of Directors upon the earlier of Mr.
Davidson's retirement or August 1, 2000.
Other Management
Other than the positions of Mr. Capps and Mr. Davidson, the remaining
executive positions have not been determined, but decisions will be made
before the consummation of the merger. The executive officers will consist of
certain members of Dominion Resources' senior management and certain members
of CNG's senior management.
Board of Directors
After the merger, the Dominion Resources Board of Directors will have 17
members, 10 of whom will be designated by Dominion Resources and seven of whom
will be designated by CNG. Dominion Resources expects to name Mr. Capps as one
of its designees, and if the merger becomes effective before August 1, 2000,
CNG plans on naming Mr. Davidson as one of its designees. Each of CNG and
Dominion Resources intends to designate the remaining board members prior to
the consummation of the merger.
Committees
The Board of Directors of Dominion Resources will have at least three
committees:
. Audit;
. Organization, Compensation and Nominating; and
. Finance.
CNG designated directors will have a proportionate number of representatives
on each committee. A director nominated by CNG will chair the finance
committee.
Operations
Dominion Resources will continue to use the name Dominion Resources and be
headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. The combined company will continue to
maintain significant operating offices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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Opinion of Dominion Resources' Financial Advisor
Dominion Resources engaged Lehman Brothers Inc. (Lehman Brothers) to act as
Dominion Resources' financial advisor in connection with the merger. On
February 19, 1999, Lehman Brothers delivered its opinion to the Dominion
Resources Board of Directors to the effect that as of such date and based upon
and subject to certain matters stated therein, from a financial point of view,
the exchange ratio was fair to Dominion Resources.
The full text of the written opinion of Lehman Brothers is included as
Appendix B to this document. Holders of Dominion Resources common stock may
read such opinion for a discussion of the assumptions made, factors considered
and limitations upon the review undertaken by Lehman Brothers in rendering its
opinion. The following is a summary of Lehman Brothers' opinion.
In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers did not ascribe a specific range
of values to Dominion Resources or CNG but made its determination as to the
fairness of the exchange ratio on the basis of the financial and comparative
analyses described below. Lehman Brothers' advisory services and opinion were
provided for the use and benefit of the Dominion Resources Board of Directors
and were rendered to the Dominion Resources Board of Directors in connection
with its consideration of the merger. Lehman Brothers' opinion does not
constitute a recommendation to any holder of Dominion Resources common stock
as to how such holder should vote with respect to the merger. Lehman Brothers
was not requested to opine as to, and its opinion does not address, Dominion
Resources' underlying business decision to proceed with or effect the merger.
In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers reviewed and analyzed:
(1) the merger agreement and the specific terms of the merger, including
provisions therein relating to corporate governance and management of
Dominion Resources following the merger;
(2) such publicly available information concerning Dominion Resources and
CNG that Lehman Brothers believed to be relevant to its analysis, including
their respective Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 1997
and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for each quarter in 1998;
(3) financial and operating information with respect to the businesses,
operations and prospects of Dominion Resources and CNG as furnished to
Lehman Brothers by Dominion Resources and CNG, respectively;
(4) a trading history of Dominion Resources common stock from January 1,
1994 to February 18, 1999 and a comparison of that trading history with
those of other companies that Lehman Brothers deemed relevant, including
CNG;
(5) a trading history of the CNG common stock from January 1, 1994 to
February 18, 1999 and a comparison of that trading history with those of
other companies that Lehman Brothers deemed relevant, including Dominion
Resources;
(6) a comparison of the historical financial results and present
financial condition of Dominion Resources with those of other companies
that Lehman Brothers deemed relevant;
(7) a comparison of the financial terms of the merger agreement with the
financial terms of certain other recent transactions that Lehman Brothers
deemed relevant;
(8) the relative pro forma financial contributions of Dominion Resources
and CNG to the combined company upon consummation of the merger;
(9) the potential pro forma impact of the merger on Dominion Resources
(including the cost savings, operating synergies and strategic benefits
expected by the management of Dominion Resources and CNG to result from the
merger); and
(10) certain estimates of oil and natural gas reserves and production
provided by Dominion Resources and CNG.
29
<PAGE>
In addition, Lehman Brothers had discussions with the management of Dominion
Resources and CNG concerning their respective businesses, operations, assets,
financial conditions, reserves, production profiles, exploration programs and
prospects (including the cost savings, operating synergies and strategic
benefits expected by the management of Dominion Resources and CNG to result
from a combination of the businesses of Dominion Resources and CNG) and
undertook such other studies, analyses and investigations as Lehman Brothers
deemed appropriate.
In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers assumed and relied upon the
accuracy and completeness of the financial and other information used by
Lehman Brothers without assuming any responsibility for independent
verification of such information and further relied upon the assurances of the
management of Dominion Resources and CNG that they were not aware of any facts
or circumstances that would make such information inaccurate or misleading.
With respect to the financial projections of Dominion Resources, CNG and the
combined company, upon advice of the management of Dominion Resources and CNG,
Lehman Brothers assumed that such projections had been reasonably prepared on
a basis reflecting the then best currently available estimates and judgments
of the management of Dominion Resources and CNG, as the case may be, as to
their respective future financial performance and that Dominion Resources and
CNG will perform in accordance with such projections. With respect to the cost
savings, operating synergies, and strategic benefits projected by the
management of Dominion Resources and CNG to result from the merger, Lehman
Brothers assumed that such cost savings, operating synergies and strategic
benefits will be realized substantially in accordance with such projections.
In arriving at its opinion, Lehman Brothers did not conduct a physical
inspection of the properties and facilities of Dominion Resources or CNG and
did not make or obtain from third parties any evaluations or appraisals of the
assets or liabilities of Dominion Resources or CNG. Upon the advice of
Dominion Resources, Lehman Brothers assumed that the merger will qualify for
pooling-of-interests accounting treatment. Lehman Brothers' opinion
necessarily is based upon market, economic and other conditions as they
existed on, and could be evaluated as of, the date of its opinion letter.
In connection with rendering its opinion, Lehman Brothers performed certain
financial, comparative and other analyses as described below. The preparation
of a fairness opinion involves various determinations as to the most
appropriate and relevant methods of financial and comparative analysis and the
application of those methods to the particular circumstances, and, therefore,
such an opinion is not readily susceptible to summary description.
Furthermore, in arriving at its fairness opinion, Lehman Brothers did not
attribute any particular weight to any analysis or factor considered by it,
but rather made qualitative judgments as to the significance and relevance of
each analysis and factor. Accordingly, Lehman Brothers believes that its
analyses must be considered as a whole and that considering any portion of
such analyses and of the factors considered, without considering all analyses
and factors, could create a misleading or incomplete view of the process
underlying the opinion. In its analyses, Lehman Brothers made numerous
assumptions with respect to industry performance, general business and
economic conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of
Dominion Resources or CNG. Any estimates contained in the analyses are not
necessarily indicative of actual values or predictive of future results or
values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than as set forth
therein. In addition, analyses relating to the value of businesses do not
purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which businesses actually
may be sold.
Valuation Analyses
Lehman Brothers prepared separate valuations of Dominion Resources and CNG
before considering the pro forma impact of any cost savings, operating
synergies or strategic benefits resulting from the merger. In determining
valuation, Lehman Brothers used the following methodologies: discounted cash
flow analysis, comparable transaction analysis and comparable company trading
analysis. In applying these methodologies to the valuation of both companies,
Lehman Brothers utilized a segment approach and a whole company approach. The
segment approach involved valuing each company's individual business units
separately (by applying appropriate discount rates and multiples to each
business unit). For Dominion Resources, relevant business units were electric
utility, unregulated power production (IPP), exploration and production (E&P)
and finance
30
<PAGE>
(Dominion Capital). For CNG, relevant business units were natural gas
transmission, natural gas distribution, E&P and other operations, such as
international. The whole company approach involved valuing each company as one
entity (by applying to consolidated financial data of each company a range of
discount rates and terminal value multiples based on the composition of the
respective businesses). The whole company and segment valuation approaches
were used to generate a reference enterprise value range for each of Dominion
Resources and CNG. For each valuation methodology, where relevant, the
reference enterprise value range for each company was adjusted for appropriate
on- and off-balance sheet assets and liabilities, such as debt, cash
(including options proceeds) and indicative values for other operations (such
as international) that were based upon book value, in order to arrive at a
common equity value range (in aggregate dollars and dollars per common share)
for each company. The per share equity value ranges were then used to evaluate
the merger exchange ratio. The implied exchange ratios derived using the
various valuation methodologies listed above all supported the conclusion that
the merger exchange ratio is fair to Dominion Resources from a financial point
of view. These various valuation analyses are summarized below.
Certain of the analyses include information presented in tabular format. In
order to fully understand the financial analyses used by Lehman Brothers, the
tables must be read together with the text of each summary. The tables alone
do not constitute a complete description of the financial analyses. In
addition, considering any portion of such analyses and of the factors
considered, without considering all analyses and factors, could create a
misleading or incomplete view of the process underlying Lehman Brothers'
opinion.
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis
Lehman Brothers prepared after-tax cash flow models for the period from
January 1, 1999 through December 31, 2004 for both Dominion Resources and CNG
based on information provided by both companies and utilizing whole company
and segment approaches described above. Terminal values reflect ranges of
multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization
(EBITDA) in the year 2004. The summary of the discounted cash flow analysis
assumptions is provided below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Dominion Resources CNG
------------------------ -------------------------
Discount Terminal Value Terminal Value
Rate EBITDA Discount EBITDA
Range Multiple Range Rate Range Multiple Range
--------- -------------- ---------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Whole Company Analysis...... 7.0%-8.0% 7.00x-8.25x 8.0%- 8.5% 8.00x-9.00x
Segment Analysis
Electric Utility.......... 6.5%-7.0% 7.50x-8.50x -- --
Dominion Resources
Capital.................. 8.0%-8.5% 9.00x-9.50x -- --
IPP....................... 8.0%-8.5% 8.50x-9.00x -- --
E&P....................... 8.0%-8.5% 7.00x-7.50x 9.5%-11.0% 5.50x-7.00x
Natural Gas Transmission.. -- -- 8.0%- 9.0% 9.00x-9.50x
Natural Gas Distribution.. -- -- 8.5%- 9.0% 7.50x-9.00x
</TABLE>
Based on the above discount rates and terminal value multiples, Lehman
Brothers obtained enterprise value ranges for each of Dominion Resources and
CNG. Where appropriate, Lehman Brothers adjusted these enterprise value ranges
for appropriate on- and off-balance sheet items, such as debt, cash (including
options proceeds) and indicative values for other operations (such as
international) that were based upon book value, in order to arrive at a common
equity value range (in aggregate dollars and dollars per common shares) for
each company.
The discounted cash flow analysis based on the whole company approach
yielded valuations for Dominion Resources and CNG that imply a range of
exchange ratios of 1.27 to 1.56 shares of Dominion Resources common stock per
share of CNG common stock. The discounted cash flow analysis based on the
segment approach yielded valuations for Dominion Resources and CNG that imply
a range of exchange ratios of 1.12 to 1.53 shares of Dominion Resources common
stock per share of CNG common stock. The exchange ratio of 1.52 falls within
each range.
31
<PAGE>
Comparable Transactions Analysis
Lehman Brothers reviewed certain publicly available information on selected
transactions which were announced or took place over the last several years
for each of the relevant business segments. Such data included projected
financial criteria based on published estimates of various third-company
equity research analysts. For each transaction, relevant transaction multiples
were analyzed and applied to Dominion Resources and CNG business segments.
With respect to Dominion Resources, Lehman Brothers reviewed selected
transactions involving electric utility companies, specialty finance and
capital companies, IPP companies and E&P companies. With respect to CNG,
Lehman Brothers reviewed selected transactions involving natural gas
transmission companies, local natural gas distribution companies and E&P
companies. For the whole company approach, Lehman Brothers applied multiples
applicable to transactions involving electric utility companies, as adjusted
using a weighting of other businesses for Dominion Resources, and multiples
applicable to natural gas transmission companies, as adjusted using a
weighting of other businesses for CNG. Multiples used to determine enterprise
values included projected EBITDA, earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT)
and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, depletion, amortization and
exploration expenses (EBITDE) as well as estimated proved oil and gas reserves
on a billion cubic feet equivalent (Bcfe) basis and the standardized measure
of discounted future net after-tax cash flows (After-tax SEC-10 Value).
Multiples used to determine equity values included book value and projected
net income. These multiples are summarized in the following table.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Dominion
Resources CNG
------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Whole Company Analysis
Enterprise Value/
EBITDA (LTM-2000E)................................ 7.00x- 7.75x 8.00x-10.00x
Equity Value/
Net Income (LTM-1999E)............................ 16.00x-20.00x 18.00x-22.00x
Segment Analysis
Electric Utility
Enterprise value/
EBITDA (1998E-1999E)............................. 7.25x- 8.00x --
EBIT (1998E-1999E)............................... 11.25x-12.00x --
Capital
Equity Value/
Net Income (1998E)............................... 14.00x-18.00x --
IPP
Enterprise Value/
EBITDA (1998E-1999E)............................. 8.00x- 9.50x --
E&P
Enterprise value/
EBITDE (1998E)................................... 6.50x- 7.50x 7.50x- 8.50x
Proved Reservers (Bcfe 6:1)...................... $1.00-$1.25 $1.25-$1.50
After-tax SEC-10 Value........................... 1.10x- 1.40x 1.10x- 1.40x
Natural Gas Transmission
Enterprise value/
EBITDA (LTM-2000E)............................... -- 8.00x-10.00x
Natural Gas Distribution
Enterprise value/
EBITDA (1998E-1999E)............................. -- 8.00x- 9.25x
</TABLE>
Where appropriate, Lehman Brothers adjusted enterprise value ranges for
certain on- and off-balance sheet items, such as debt, cash (including options
proceeds) and indicative values for other operations (such as international)
that were based upon book value, in order to arrive at a common equity value
range for each company.
32
<PAGE>
Based on the whole company approach, the comparable transactions analysis
yielded valuations for Dominion Resources and CNG that imply a range of
exchange ratios of 1.28 to 1.60 shares of Dominion Resources common stock per
share of CNG common stock. Based on the segment approach, the comparable
transactions analysis yielded valuations for Dominion Resources and CNG that
imply a range of exchange ratios of 1.12 to 1.54 shares of Dominion Resources
common stock per share of CNG common stock. The exchange ratio of 1.52 falls
within these ranges.
Because the market conditions, rationale and circumstances surrounding each
of the transactions analyzed were specific to each transaction and because of
the inherent differences between the businesses, operations and prospects of
Dominion Resources and CNG and the acquired businesses analyzed, Lehman
Brothers believed that it was inappropriate to, and therefore did not, rely
solely on the quantitative results of the analysis and, accordingly, also made
qualitative judgments concerning differences between the characteristics of
these transactions and the merger that would affect the acquisition values of
Dominion Resources and CNG and such acquired companies.
Comparable Company Trading Analysis
With respect to Dominion Resources, Lehman Brothers reviewed the public
stock market trading multiples for selected large capitalization public
electric utility companies, selected specialty finance and capital companies,
selected IPP companies and selected E&P companies. With respect to CNG, Lehman
Brothers reviewed the public stock market trading multiples for selected large
capitalization natural gas transmission companies, selected large
capitalization local natural gas distribution companies and selected E&P
companies. For the whole company approach, Lehman Brothers applied multiples
applicable to selected large capitalization electric utility companies as
adjusted using a weighting of other businesses for Dominion Resources and
multiples applicable to natural gas transmission companies as adjusted using a
weighting of other businesses for CNG. Lehman Brothers calculated and analyzed
enterprise and common equity market value multiples based upon certain
relevant historical publicly available data and upon projected financial
criteria as published by various third-company equity research analysts. These
multiples are summarized below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Dominion
Resources CNG
------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Whole Company Analysis
Enterprise Value/
EBITDA (LTM-2000E)................................ 6.75x- 7.50x 7.00x-10.00x
Equity Value/
Net Income (LTM-1999E)............................ 14.00x-18.00x 16.00x-20.00x
Segment Analysis
Electric Utility
Enterprise Value/
EBITDA (1998E-1999E)............................. 6.75x- 7.75x --
EBIT (1998E-1999E)............................... 10.75x-11.75x --
Capital
Equity Value/
Net Income (1998E-1999E)......................... 7.00x-12.00x --
Book Value (LTM)................................. 1.00x- 1.20x --
IPP
Enterprise Value/
EBITDA (1998E-1999E)............................. 8.50x-11.00x --
EBIT (1998E-1999E)............................... 13.00x-15.50x --
</TABLE>
33
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Dominion
Resources CNG
------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
E&P
Enterprise Value/
EBITDE (LTM-2000E)............................... 4.00x- 6.00x 4.50x- 6.50x
Proved Reserves (Bcfe 6:1)....................... $1.00-$1.25 $1.25-$1.50
After-tax SEC-10 Value........................... -- 1.60x- 1.80x
Natural Gas Transmission
Enterprise Value/
EBITDA (LTM-2000E)............................... -- 7.00x- 9.50x
Natural Gas Distribution
Enterprise Value/
EBITDA (1998E-1999E)............................. -- 7.00x- 8.50x
EBIT (1998E-1999E)............................... -- 11.00x-12.50x
</TABLE>
Where appropriate, Lehman Brothers adjusted enterprise value ranges for
certain on- and off-balance sheet items, such as debt, cash (including options
proceeds) and indicative values for other operations (such as international)
that were based upon book value, in order to arrive at a common equity value
range for each company.
Based on the whole company approach, the comparable company trading analysis
yielded valuations for Dominion Resources and CNG that imply a range of
exchange ratios of 1.12 to 1.53 shares of Dominion Resources common stock per
share of CNG common stock. Based on the segment approach, the comparable
company trading analysis yielded valuations for Dominion Resources and CNG
that imply a range of exchange ratios of 1.13 to 1.55 shares of Dominion
Resources common stock per share of CNG common stock. The exchange ratio of
1.52 falls within these ranges.
Because of the inherent differences between the businesses, operations and
prospects of Dominion Resources and CNG and the businesses, operations and
prospects of the companies included in the comparable company groups, Lehman
Brothers believed that it was inappropriate to, and therefore did not, rely
solely on the quantitative results of the analysis and, accordingly, also made
qualitative judgments concerning differences between the financial and
operating characteristics of Dominion Resources and CNG and companies in the
comparable company groups that would affect the public trading values of
Dominion Resources and CNG and such comparable companies.
Premiums Paid Analysis
Lehman Brothers conducted an analysis of premiums paid in selected relevant
convergence (combinations between electric and gas utilities), natural gas
distribution and electric utility transactions. In addition, Lehman Brothers
separately analyzed premiums paid in the Duke/PanEnergy transaction. Premiums
for these analyses were calculated based upon the implied price on the date of
the announced transaction relative to the target company's closing stock
prices 1 day, 1 week and 4 weeks prior to transaction announcement. The
results of these analyses are summarized below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1 Day 1 Week 4 Weeks
----- ------ -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Average of premiums for convergence companies...... 30% 32% 34%
Average of premiums for natural gas distribution
companies......................................... 34 34 35
Average of premiums for electric utilities......... 25 24 26
Duke/PanEnergy transaction premiums................ 18 23 30
</TABLE>
Based on closing prices as of February 18, 1999 and the exchange ratio of
1.52, the implied premiums paid for CNG stock would have been 26%, 30% and 28%
for the periods of 1 day, 1 week and 4 weeks, respectively. These premiums are
within the range of the premiums paid in comparable transactions.
34
<PAGE>
Pro Forma Merger Consequences Analysis
Lehman Brothers also prepared a pro forma merger model based upon Dominion
Resources' and CNG's estimates of future cost savings, operating synergies and
strategic benefits expected to result from the merger. Lehman Brothers then
compared the earnings per share of Dominion Resources on a stand-alone basis
to the earnings per share of the pro forma combined company. In addition,
Lehman Brothers prepared a pro forma merger model based on Wall Street
consensus earnings estimates for the years 2000 through 2002. Lehman Brothers
noted that, assuming a closing by December 31, 1999, the merger will be
neutral or accretive to Dominion Resources' pro forma earnings per share by
2002.
Lehman Brothers is an internationally recognized investment banking firm
engaged in, among other things, the valuation of businesses and their
securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated
underwritings, competitive bids, secondary distributions of listed and
unlisted securities, private placements and valuations for corporate and other
purposes. Dominion Resources selected Lehman Brothers because of its
expertise, reputation and familiarity with Dominion Resources and because its
investment banking professionals have substantial experience in transactions
comparable to the merger.
Lehman Brothers has previously rendered certain financial advisory and
investment banking services to Dominion Resources, for which it has received
customary compensation. Pursuant to the terms of an engagement letter between
Lehman Brothers and Dominion Resources, Dominion Resources will pay Lehman
Brothers a financial advisory fee of up to $12 million. In addition, Dominion
Resources has agreed to reimburse Lehman Brothers for its reasonable expenses
incurred in connection with its engagement, and to indemnify Lehman Brothers
and certain related persons against certain liabilities in connection with its
engagement, including certain liabilities which may arise under federal
securities laws.
In the ordinary course of its business, Lehman Brothers actively trades in
the debt and equity securities of Dominion Resources and CNG for its own
account and for the accounts of its customers and, accordingly, may at any
time hold a long or short position in such securities.
Opinion of CNG's Financial Advisor
Merrill Lynch
Merrill Lynch has acted as financial advisor to CNG in connection with the
merger and has assisted the CNG Board of Directors in its examination of the
fairness to the holders of CNG common stock, from a financial point of view,
of the exchange ratio. As described herein, Merrill Lynch's opinion dated
February 19, 1999 (together with the related presentations) to the CNG Board
of Directors was only one of the many factors taken into consideration by the
CNG Board of Directors in making its determination to approve the merger
agreement.
On February 19, 1999, Merrill Lynch delivered its oral opinion to the CNG
Board of Directors subsequently confirmed in writing in the Merrill Lynch
fairness opinion letter, to the effect that as of such date and based upon and
subject to certain matters stated therein, the exchange ratio was fair to the
holders of CNG common stock from a financial point of view.
The full text of Merrill Lynch's written opinion, which sets forth the
assumptions made, matters considered and limitations on review undertaken, is
attached as Annex C to this joint proxy statement/prospectus and is
incorporated herein by reference. Merrill Lynch's opinion is directed to the
CNG Board of Directors and addresses the fairness to the holders of CNG common
stock of the exchange ratio from a financial point of view. It does not
address any other aspect of the merger or any related transaction and does not
constitute a recommendation to any holder of CNG common stock as to how such
holder should vote at the CNG meeting. The summary of the opinion of Merrill
Lynch set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the full text of such opinion.
35
<PAGE>
In connection with its opinion, Merrill Lynch reviewed drafts of the merger
agreement and certain publicly available business, stock market and financial
information relating to CNG and Dominion Resources. Merrill Lynch also
reviewed certain other information, including financial forecasts, provided to
Merrill Lynch by CNG and Dominion Resources and met with the respective
managements of CNG and Dominion Resources to discuss the businesses and
prospects of CNG and Dominion Resources. Merrill Lynch also considered certain
financial and stock market data of CNG and Dominion Resources and compared
that data with similar data for other publicly held companies in businesses
similar to those of CNG and Dominion Resources and considered, to the extent
publicly available, the financial terms of certain other business combinations
that recently have been proposed or effected. Merrill Lynch also considered
such other information, financial studies, analyses and investigations and
financial, economic and market criteria that Merrill Lynch deemed relevant.
In connection with its review, Merrill Lynch did not assume any
responsibility for independent verification of any of the information provided
to or otherwise reviewed by Merrill Lynch and assumed and relied upon the
accuracy and completeness of all such information. With respect to the
financial forecasts, Merrill Lynch assumed that such forecasts were reasonably
prepared and reflect the best currently available estimates and judgments of
the managements of CNG and Dominion Resources as to the future financial
performance of CNG and Dominion Resources, respectively. In addition, Merrill
Lynch did not make an independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets or
liabilities (contingent or otherwise) of CNG or Dominion Resources, nor was
Merrill Lynch furnished with any such evaluations, appraisals or actuarial
analyses. In addition, Merrill Lynch has not assumed any obligation to
conduct, nor has it conducted any physical inspection of the properties or
facilities of the Company or Dominion Resources. Merrill Lynch assumed that
the merger will qualify for pooling of interests accounting treatment and as a
tax-free transaction to the shareholders of CNG and Dominion Resources. With
respect to the estimates of potential synergies furnished by CNG, Merrill
Lynch assumed that such estimates have been reasonably prepared and reflect
the best currently available estimates and judgments of the management of CNG
as to the expected synergies of the merger that the shareholders of the
combined entity will be allowed to retain. Merrill Lynch also assumed that the
final form of the merger agreement did not differ materially from the drafts
reviewed by Merrill Lynch. Merrill Lynch's opinion was necessarily based on
information available to it and on general economic, financial, stock market,
monetary and other conditions as they existed and could be evaluated on the
date of its opinion. Merrill Lynch expressed no opinion as to what the value
of the Dominion Resources common stock actually would be when issued to the
holders of CNG common stock pursuant to the merger or the prices at which the
Dominion Resources common stock would trade subsequent to the merger. Although
Merrill Lynch evaluated the consideration to be received by the holders of CNG
common stock from a financial point of view, Merrill Lynch was not requested
to, and did not, recommend the specific consideration payable in the merger.
In connection with the preparation of its opinion, Merrill Lynch was not
authorized by CNG or the CNG Board of Directors to solicit, and did not
solicit third-company indications of interest for an acquisition of all or any
part of CNG.
In preparing its opinion for the CNG Board of Directors, Merrill Lynch
performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses, including those
described below. The summary of analyses performed by Merrill Lynch, as set
forth below does not purport to be a complete description of the analyses
underlying Merrill Lynch's opinion. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a
complex analytic process involving various determinations as to the most
appropriate and relevant methods of financial analyses and the application of
those methods to the particular circumstances and, therefore, such an opinion
is not readily susceptible to partial or summary description. No company,
business or transaction used in such analyses as a comparison is identical to
Dominion Resources, CNG or the merger, nor is an evaluation of the results of
such analyses entirely mathematical; rather, it involves complex
considerations and judgments concerning financial and operating
characteristics and other factors that could affect the acquisition, public
trading or other values of the companies, business segments or transactions
being analyzed. The estimates contained in such analyses and the ranges of
valuations resulting from any particular analysis are not necessarily
indicative of actual values or predictive of future results or values, which
may be significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by such
analyses. In addition, analyses relating to the value of businesses or
securities do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which
36
<PAGE>
businesses, companies or securities actually may be sold. Accordingly, such
analyses and estimates are inherently subject to substantial uncertainty.
In arriving at its opinion, Merrill Lynch made qualitative judgments as to
the significance and relevance of each analysis and factor considered by it.
Accordingly, Merrill Lynch believes that its analyses must be considered as a
whole and that selecting portions of its analyses and factors, without
considering all analyses and factors, could create an incomplete view of the
processes underlying such analyses and its opinion. In its analyses, Merrill
Lynch made numerous assumptions with respect to Dominion Resources, CNG,
industry performance, and with respect to regulatory, general business,
economic, market and financial conditions. These and other matters, many of
which are beyond the control of Dominion Resources and CNG, involve the
application of complex methodologies and educated judgments.
The following is a summary of certain financial and comparative analyses
performed by Merrill Lynch in arriving at its February 19, 1999 opinion and
presented to the CNG Board of Directors. Merrill Lynch derived implied
exchange ratios for the common stock of CNG and Dominion Resources based upon
the relative values suggested by these analyses, in light of the judgment and
experience of Merrill Lynch. The Merrill Lynch opinion is based upon Merrill
Lynch's consideration of the collective results of all such analyses, together
with the other factors referred to in its opinion letter. In the merger, each
issued and outstanding share of the common stock of CNG will be converted into
the right to receive 1.52 shares of Dominion Resources common stock. In
concluding that the exchange ratio was fair, from a financial point of view,
to holders of the common stock of CNG and in its discussions with the CNG
Board of Directors, Merrill Lynch compared the exchange ratio to each range of
implied exchange ratios set forth below. These ratios, which were derived from
the analyses performed by Merrill Lynch, and noted that the exchange ratio was
higher than, or at the upper end of, the ranges of such implied exchange
ratios. The implied exchange ratios derived by Merrill Lynch were as follows:
(i) contribution analysis (1.15 to 1.30); (ii) comparable transactions
analysis (1.30 to 1.50); (iii) comparable company trading analysis (1.20 to
1.40); (iv) discounted cash flow analysis (1.40 to 1.50); and (v) merger
premium analysis (1.45 to 1.55). Certain of the implied exchange ratios were
computed using $43.8125 as the price per share of Dominion Resources common
stock, which was the closing price of the Dominion Resources common stock on
February 18, 1999.
Contribution Analysis
In order to determine an implied exchange ratio range based upon
contribution analysis, Merrill Lynch calculated the contribution of each of
CNG and Dominion Resources to the net income to common shareholders of the pro
forma combined company using projections provided by the respective
managements of CNG and Dominion Resources for the twelve month periods ending
December 31, 1999 and 2000. The analysis of net income to common shareholders
yielded implied exchange ratios for CNG common stock to Dominion Resources
common stock of 1.25 for 1999 and 1.22 for 2000. The analysis of EBITDA per
share (adjusted for leverage) yielded implied exchange ratios for CNG common
stock to Dominion Resources common stock of 1.28 for 1999 and 1.26 for 2000.
The analysis of EBIT per share (adjusted for leverage) yielded exchange ratios
for CNG common stock to Dominion Resources common stock of 1.20 for 1999 and
1.16 for 2000.
Utilizing the contribution analysis, Merrill Lynch calculated an implied
exchange ratio range of 1.15 to 1.30.
Analysis of Selected Comparable Acquisitions
Merrill Lynch also reviewed publicly available information relating to
certain merger and acquisition transactions of companies with primarily
natural gas and energy services operations. With respect to CNG, Merrill Lynch
examined multiples of the consideration paid for the common equity and the
value of the indebtedness assumed in each of the transactions to, among other
measures, such acquired companies' EBITDA and EBIT, and examined multiples of
the value of the common equity in each of the transactions to net income.
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The transactions in the natural gas and energy services industry that
Merrill Lynch reviewed were the following (Comparable Transactions):
. Transco Energy Company's acquisition of Texas Gas Transmission
Corporation (December 1988);
. Panhandle Eastern Corporation's acquisition of Texas Eastern Corporation
(February 1989);
. The Williams Companies, Inc.'s acquisition of Transco Energy Company
(December 1994);
. Texas Utilities Company's acquisition of ENSERCH Corporation (April
1996);
. El Paso Energy Corporation's acquisition of Tenneco Energy (July 1996);
. Houston Industries Inc.'s acquisition of NorAm Energy Corp. (August
1996);
. Pacific Enterprises' acquisition of Enova Corporation (October 1996);
. Duke Power Co.'s acquisition of PanEnergy Corp. (November 1996);
. KN Energy, Inc.'s acquisition of Midcon Corp. (December 1997);
. TransCanada Pipelines Limited's acquisition of NOVA Corporation (January
1998); and
. CMS Energy Corporation's acquisition of Duke Energy's Panhandle Eastern
Pipeline Company and Trunkline Gas Company (November 1998).
In order to determine an implied exchange ratio range based on Comparable
Transactions analysis, Merrill Lynch (i) compared the offer value (defined to
be consideration paid for the common equity) in each of the Comparable
Transactions as a multiple of the then publicly available last twelve months
(LTM) net income to common shareholders (the Net Income Multiple) and (ii)
compared the transaction value (defined to be the offer value plus the
liquidation value of preferred stock plus the principal amount of debt less
cash) for each of the Comparable Transactions as a multiple of the then
publicly available (a) LTM EBITDA (the EBITDA Multiple) and (b) LTM EBIT (the
EBIT Multiple), to the corresponding multiples for the merger. The results of
the foregoing were: (i) the Net Income Multiple resulted in a range of implied
exchange ratios of 1.30 to 1.51; (ii) the EBITDA Multiple resulted in a range
of implied exchange ratios of 1.34 to 1.44; and (iii) the EBIT Multiple
resulted in a range of implied exchange ratios of 1.22 to 1.48.
Utilizing the Comparable Transactions analysis, Merrill Lynch calculated an
implied exchange ratio range of 1.30 to 1.50.
Because the reasons for, and circumstances surrounding, each of the
transactions analyzed were so diverse and because of the inherent differences
between the operations and financial conditions of CNG and the selected
companies, Merrill Lynch believes that a purely quantitative comparable
transaction analysis would not be dispositive in the context of the merger.
Merrill Lynch further believes that an appropriate use of a comparable
transaction analysis in this instance involves qualitative judgments
concerning the differences between the characteristics of these transactions
and the merger that would affect the value of the acquired companies and
businesses and CNG, which judgments are reflected in Merrill Lynch's opinion.
Analysis of Selected Publicly Traded Comparable Companies
Using publicly available information, Merrill Lynch compared selected
historical stock, financial and operating ratios for CNG with corresponding
data and ratios of certain similar publicly traded companies. These companies
were selected by Merrill Lynch based upon Merrill Lynch's views as to the
comparability of financial and operating characteristics of these companies to
CNG and Dominion Resources. With respect to each such analysis, Merrill Lynch
made such comparisons among the following companies: The Coastal Corporation,
Columbia Energy, El Paso Energy, Enron Corp., KN Energy, Inc., Questar
Corporation, Sonat Inc. and The Williams Companies, Inc. (the Comparable
Companies).
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In order to determine an implied exchange ratio range based upon an analysis
of comparable publicly traded companies, Merrill Lynch compared the market
value of CNG common stock as a multiple of (i) estimated 1999 EPS (the 1999
EPS Ratio) and (ii) estimated 2000 EPS (the 2000 EPS Ratio) to the
corresponding ratios for each of the Comparable Companies. The earnings
estimates were obtained from IBES and First Call, data services, which monitor
and publish a compilation of earnings estimates produced by selected research
analysts on companies of interest to investors. Additionally, Merrill Lynch
compared the adjusted market capitalization of CNG as a multiple of estimated
1999 EBITDA (the 1999 EBITDA Ratio) and estimated 2000 EBITDA (the 2000 EBITDA
Ratio) to the corresponding ratios for each of the Comparable Companies.
Merrill Lynch determined that the appropriate trading multiples for the
Comparable Companies were 13.5 to 14.5, 12.0 to 13.0, 7.0 to 7.5, and 6.5 to
7.0 for 1999 estimated net income, 2000 estimated net income, 1999 estimated
EBITDA and 2000 estimated EBITDA, respectively. Such multiples were applied to
CNG's forecast of each respective financial measure, providing the following
implied exchange ratios: (i) the 1999 EPS Ratio resulted in a range of implied
exchange ratios of 1.14 to 1.22; (ii) the 2000 EPS Ratio resulted in a range
of implied exchange ratios of 1.11 to 1.20; (iii) the 1999 EBITDA Ratio
resulted in a range of implied exchange ratios of 1.22 to 1.34; and (iv) the
2000 EBITDA Ratio resulted in a range of implied exchange ratios of 1.25 to
1.38.
Utilizing the foregoing analysis, Merrill Lynch calculated an implied
exchange ratio of 1.20 to 1.40.
Because of the inherent differences among the operations of CNG and the
selected Comparable Companies, Merrill Lynch believes that a purely
quantitative comparable company analysis would not be dispositive in the
context of the merger. Merrill Lynch further believes that an appropriate use
of a comparable company analysis in this instance involves qualitative
judgments concerning differences among the financial and operating
characteristics of CNG and the selected Comparable Companies, which judgments
are reflected in Merrill Lynch's opinion.
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis
In order to determine an implied exchange ratio range based upon discounted
cash flow analysis (DCF Analysis), Merrill Lynch performed DCF Analyses for
each of CNG and Dominion Resources using projections provided to Merrill Lynch
by the respective managements of CNG and Dominion Resources and calculated
ranges of value per share for CNG common stock and Dominion Resources common
stock.
The CNG and Dominion Resources DCF Analyses were based upon the discount to
present value, assuming discount rates ranging from 7.5% to 8.5% for CNG and
6.5% to 7.5% for Dominion Resources of (i) their respective projected free
cash flows for the years 1999 through 2003 and (ii) their respective adjusted
market capitalization values in 2003 based upon a range of multiples for CNG
from 6.75 to 7.25 times projected 2003 EBITDA, and for Dominion Resources from
7.00 to 7.50 times projected 2003 EBITDA. Based on these analyses, Merrill
Lynch calculated a range of value for CNG common stock of $55.50 per share to
$63.35 per share and for Dominion Resources common stock of $36.33 per share
to $45.36 per share.
Utilizing DCF Analysis, Merrill Lynch calculated an implied exchange ratio
range of 1.40 to 1.50.
Merger Premium Analysis
In order to determine an implied exchange ratio range based upon merger
premium analysis (merger premium analysis), Merrill Lynch examined the
premiums paid for target company shares in certain mergers over the pre-
announcement stock prices of such target companies.
Merrill Lynch examined premiums paid for the target's equity over pre-
announcement stock prices one day prior to announcement, one week prior to
announcement and four weeks prior to announcement (i) in all U.S. public
merger transactions with an enterprise value in excess of $5.0 billion for the
periods of 1994 to present, 1995 to present, 1996 to present, 1997 to present
and 1998 to present; (ii) all U.S. natural gas and electric transactions with
an equity value in excess of $1.0 billion for the periods 1992 to present,
1993 to present, 1994
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to present, 1995 to present, 1996 to present, 1997 to present and 1998 to
present; and (iii) nine selected natural gas company transactions. Based on
this analysis, Merrill Lynch calculated an implied exchange ratio of 1.45 to
1.55.
Because the reasons for, and circumstances surrounding, each of the
transactions analyzed were different, Merrill Lynch believes that a purely
quantitative merger premium analysis would not be dispositive in the context
of the merger. Merrill Lynch further believes that an appropriate use of a
merger premium analysis in this instance involves quantitative judgments
concerning the differences between the characteristics of these transactions
and the merger that would affect the value of the acquired companies and
businesses and CNG, which judgments are reflected in Merrill Lynch's opinion.
Purchase Price Analysis and Stock Trading History
Merrill Lynch performed analyses relating to the consideration to be
received by the holders of the CNG common stock assuming various prices for
the Dominion Resources common stock. Merrill Lynch also examined the history
of trading prices and volume for the CNG common stock and the Dominion
Resources common stock and various historical information relating to such
common stocks.
Pro Forma Merger Analysis
Merrill Lynch analyzed certain pro forma effects which could result from the
merger, based on financial forecasts provided by CNG's management for CNG's
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003 fiscal years and financial forecasts provided
by Dominion Resources' management for Dominion Resources' 1999, 2000, 2001,
2002 and 2003 fiscal years. Merrill Lynch was advised by the management of CNG
that the merger will be accounted for as a "pooling-of-interests" under
generally accepted accounting principles. Management of CNG also provided
Merrill Lynch with projections of certain synergies estimated to result from
the merger and to be retained by the shareholders of the combined entity. This
analysis indicated that the merger would be dilutive to the forecasted
earnings per share of Dominion Resources for its 2000 and 2001 fiscal years,
and forecasted earnings would approach break-even for the full fiscal year
ended December 31, 2002 following the merger's completion.
Other Factors and Analyses
In the course of preparing its opinion, Merrill Lynch performed certain
other analyses and reviewed certain other matters, including, among other
things, (i) historical and expected trading characteristics of the CNG common
stock and the Dominion Resources common stock; (ii) financing considerations
relating to the merger; and (iii) pro forma capitalization of the combined
company.
Merrill Lynch is an internationally recognized investment banking firm and,
as a part of its investment banking business, is regularly engaged in the
valuation of businesses and securities in connection with mergers and
acquisitions. The CNG Board of Directors selected Merrill Lynch as its
financial advisor because of Merrill Lynch's experience and expertise and
because it is familiar with CNG and its business.
Pursuant to the terms of Merrill Lynch's engagement, CNG has agreed to pay
Merrill Lynch for its financial advisory services in connection with the
merger a fee equal to 0.3% of the aggregate [purchase price], defined in
Merrill Lynch's engagement letter as the amount equal to the sum of the
aggregate fair market value of any securities issued and any other non-cash
consideration delivered (including, without limitation, any joint venture
interest delivered to, or retained by, CNG), and any cash consideration paid
to CNG or its security holders in connection with a business combination. This
fee is payable as follows: (i) a fee of $5,000,000, payable upon the execution
of the merger agreement; (ii) a fee of $5,000,000, payable upon the approval
of the merger agreement by the holders of CNG common stock; and (iii) any
remaining unpaid portion of such fee, payable on closing of the merger. CNG
also has agreed to reimburse Merrill Lynch for its out-of-pocket expenses,
including the fees and expenses of legal counsel and any other advisor
retained by Merrill Lynch, and to indemnify Merrill
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Lynch against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the federal
securities laws, or to contribute to payments Merrill Lynch may be required to
make in respect thereof.
In the ordinary course of business, Merrill Lynch and its affiliates may
actively trade the equity securities of CNG and Dominion Resources for their
own account and for accounts of customers and, accordingly, may at any time
hold a long or short position in such securities. Merrill Lynch has in the
past provided financing and investment banking advisory services to CNG and
Dominion Resources, for which it received customary compensation.
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following discussion describes the material United States federal income
tax consequences of the merger to CNG shareholders and is based upon current
provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, existing regulations thereunder and
current administrative rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject
to change at any time, possibly with retroactive effect, which change could
affect the validity of this discussion. This discussion is included for
general information only, and does not address all of the merger's United
States federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to particular CNG
shareholders, including CNG shareholders that are subject to special tax rules
such as dealers in securities, foreign persons, mutual funds, insurance
companies, tax-exempt entities and CNG shareholders who do not hold their
shares as capital assets. CNG shareholders are urged to consult their own tax
advisors regarding the United States federal income tax consequences of the
merger in light of their personal circumstances and the consequences under
state, local and foreign tax laws.
The merger is intended to qualify as a reorganization under Section 368(a)
of the Internal Revenue Code. Dominion Resources will receive from its counsel
at closing an opinion to the effect that the merger will be treated for United
States federal income tax purposes as a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. CNG will receive from its counsel
at closing an opinion to the effect that the merger will be treated for United
States federal income tax purposes as a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code and that shareholders of CNG will
not recognize any gain or loss upon the receipt of Dominion Resources shares
for their CNG shares, other than with respect to cash received in lieu of
fractional shares. Receipt of these opinions by Dominion Resources and CNG is
a condition to consummation of the merger, although such condition may be
waived by either company. Such opinions will be subject to certain assumptions
and will be based on certain representations of Dominion Resources and CNG.
CNG shareholders should be aware that such opinions are not binding on the
Internal Revenue Service, and no assurance can be given that the Internal
Revenue Service will not adopt a contrary position or that a contrary Internal
Revenue Service position would not be sustained by a court.
Since the merger will qualify as a reorganization under Section 368(a) of
the Internal Revenue Code, the following United States federal income tax
consequences will result:
. no gain or loss will be recognized by Dominion Resources or CNG in
connection with the merger;
. no gain or loss will be recognized by a CNG shareholder upon the exchange
of all such holder's shares of common stock solely for Dominion Resources
common stock in the merger;
. the aggregate basis of the Dominion Resources common stock received by a
CNG shareholder in the merger (including any fractional share deemed
received) will be the same as the aggregate basis of the CNG common stock
surrendered in exchange therefor;
. the holding period of the Dominion Resources common stock received by a
CNG shareholder in the merger (including any fractional share deemed
received) will include the holding period of the CNG common stock
surrendered in exchange therefor; provided that such shares of CNG common
stock are held as capital assets at the Effective Time; and
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. a CNG shareholder who receives cash in lieu of a fractional share of
Dominion Resources common stock will recognize gain or loss equal to the
difference, if any, between such shareholder's basis in such fractional
share and the amount of cash received. Such gain or loss will be eligible
for long-term capital gain or loss treatment if the shares of CNG common
stock are held by such shareholder as a capital asset at the Effective
Time, and the holding period for a fractional share (as described above)
is more than one year at the Effective Time.
Interest of Certain Persons in the Merger
Certain members of CNG's management and the CNG Board of Directors have
interests in the merger that are in addition to their interests as holders of
CNG common stock generally. These persons have participated in the negotiation
of the terms of the merger agreement and the transactions it contemplates,
including the merger. Certain CNG executive officers and members of the
Dominion Resources Board of Directors and the CNG Board of Directors will be
executive officers of Dominion Resources and/or members of the Dominion
Resources Board of Directors after the Effective Time. It is possible that the
combined company will enter into employment agreements with certain of such
executive officers and directors. Certain CNG executive officers and members
of the CNG Board of Directors may also be entitled to receive benefits as a
result of the merger under the terms of benefit plans and agreements
maintained by CNG. In addition, Dominion Resources has agreed to provide
insurance and indemnification for executive officers and directors of CNG
after the Effective Time. Both Boards of Directors were aware of the
additional interests and took them into consideration at the time the merger
was approved.
Change of Control Agreements. CNG has Change of Control Agreements and
Salary Continuation Agreements (collectively referred to as the Change of
Control Agreements) with all CNG executive officers and certain other key
employees. The purpose of the Change of Control Agreements is to assure the
objective judgment and to retain the loyalty of these key employees in the
event of a change of control (as defined) of CNG. For purposes of the Change
of Control Agreements, a change of control includes, among other things,
shareholder approval of any merger, acquisition or consolidation following
which the former shareholders of CNG own less than 60 percent of the surviving
entity. The approval by shareholders of the merger will constitute a change of
control under the Change of Control Agreements.
The exact terms of the Change of Control Agreements vary, and generally fit
within four categories. Generally, the Change of Control Agreements entitle
eligible employees, in certain circumstances, including but not limited to, a
termination or constructive termination of the employee by CNG within two or
three years after a Change of Control (and prior to the expiration of the
Change of Control Agreements), to receive some or all of the following: (i)
payment equal to one of the following: 12 months of salary continuation plus
severance; 18 months of salary continuation plus severance; or a lump sum
payment of two or three times the sum of their base salary plus target bonus,
(ii) enhanced non-qualified retirement benefits, (iii) payment for or
continued health and other welfare benefits generally for up to three years
(including a tax gross-up on lump sum payments for certain employees) but in
certain instances, for life and (iv) various other benefits such as
outplacement services (with a tax gross-up for certain employees). The
eligible employees are also eligible for an additional payment, if required,
to make them whole for any excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Internal
Revenue Code. With respect to certain Change of Control Agreements, the
employee can unilaterally trigger these payments by terminating his or her
employment for any reason during the 30 day period following the first
anniversary of the Change of Control.
The total amount that may be payable upon termination or constructive
termination to CNG's executive officers in connection with the merger pursuant
to the Change of Control Agreements is expected to be material. Since it is
not known which, if any, individuals will receive payments under the Change of
Control Agreements, the amount cannot presently be determined.
CNG Stock Based Incentive Plans; CNG Stock Options and Restricted
Stock. CNG's 1991, 1995 and 1997 Stock Incentive Plans (CNG Incentive Plans)
provide for awards of stock options, stock appreciation rights,
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restricted stock, deferred stock, and performance awards to employees selected
by the CNG Compensation Committee (Awards). The executive officers of CNG have
received Awards. Upon a change of control (as defined in the CNG Incentive
Plans), some or all of the Awards previously granted to those employees will
become fully or partially exercisable, vested, or earned. For purposes of the
CNG Incentive Plans a change of control includes, among other things,
shareholder approval of any merger, acquisition or consolidation following
which the shareholders of CNG own less than 60% of the surviving entity.
Approval by shareholders of the merger will constitute a change of control
under the CNG Incentive Plans. For 60 days after a change of control, the
holders of Awards may elect to receive shares equal to the value of the Awards
based on a share of CNG stock valued at the higher of (i) the highest price of
CNG stock during the 30 days before a change of control or (ii) the amount
paid to other CNG shareholders in the merger.
Certain rights with respect to CNG common stock pursuant to Awards
outstanding under the CNG Incentive Plans, which are not then vested or
exercisable, will accelerate in whole or in part upon a change of control. As
of the date of the merger agreement, executive officers held 877,755
outstanding and unvested stock options and 247,200 shares of unvested
restricted stock that could vest as a result of the change of control.
Under the merger agreement, Dominion Resources and CNG shall use their best
efforts to take action to, and the companies presently expect to, convert all
Awards under the CNG Incentive Plans outstanding at the Effective Time
(including the Awards accelerated as a result of the change of control) into
Dominion Resources common stock based on a fair value model. See THE MERGER
AGREEMENT--Treatment of CNG Stock Options and Stock Awards. The value of the
Dominion Resources common stock which would be issued to CNG executive
officers in connection with such a conversion is estimated to be $14 million.
Director Plans. The CNG Non-Employee Directors' Restricted Stock Plan
provides for grants of restricted stock to CNG directors who are not CNG
employees. As a result of the merger, all unvested awards under the CNG Non-
Employee Directors' Restricted Stock Plan will vest.
The Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of CNG allows non-employee
directors to defer income paid by CNG. Upon a change of control, the plan
requires that CNG make an irrevocable contribution to an existing rabbi trust
(Rabbi Trust) sufficient to pay the benefits to which participants are
entitled as of the change of control. Since CNG funds deferred amounts under
this plan on a current basis, no additional contributions will be required
upon a change of control.
Other Benefit Plans and Agreements. Except as provided below, a change of
control will be deemed to have occurred under each of the following CNG
employee benefit plans when CNG shareholders approve the merger. The cost, if
any, of the benefits payable under these plans as a result of the change of
control cannot presently be determined since it is not known which, if any,
individuals will receive benefits.
. The CNG Executive Incentive Deferral Plan covers most CNG executive
officers. The plan provides for deferral of benefits under the CNG Annual
Executive Incentive Program. Upon a change of control, future deferrals
will not be permitted and, unless the CNG Board of Directors provides
otherwise, participants' account balances (except the stock account
balances of individuals required to report under Section 16 of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934) must be paid in full. A change of
control under the CNG Executive Incentive Deferral Plan will occur when
the merger is complete.
. System Severance Pay Policy covers all non-union employees of CNG and
certain of its affiliates. Upon certain terminations of employment as a
result of job elimination, the policy currently would provide the
terminated employee with a lump-sum benefit equal to two weeks of
compensation for each year of service or part thereof (with a maximum
benefit equal to one year's compensation) and additional COBRA-based
payments.
. Unfunded Supplemental Benefit Plan for Employees of CNG and Its
Participating Subsidiaries who are not Represented by a Recognized Union
(ERISA Excess Plan) covers employees whose compensation is greater than
the limits provided in Section 401(a)(17) of the Internal Revenue Code or
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whose benefits exceed the limits of Section 415 of the Internal Revenue
Code under the CNG pension plan or thrift plan. The ERISA Excess Plan
provides benefits to participants in an amount they would receive under
CNG's pension plan and/or thrift plan but for limits under the Internal
Revenue Code. Under the ERISA Excess Plan following a change of control,
benefits must be paid in a lump sum upon termination or upon reaching
normal retirement age. In addition, CNG must establish an account for the
ERISA Excess Plan under the Rabbi Trust and make an irrevocable
contribution in an amount sufficient to pay benefits to which
participants are entitled as of the change of control.
. The System Short Service Supplemental Retirement Plan for Certain
Management Employees of CNG and Its Participating Subsidiaries (Short
Service Plan) compensates certain employees of CNG for loss of pension
benefits that they would have accrued under their prior employment. Under
the Short Service Plan, a change of control accelerates vesting to the
later of the date of a change of control or five years of employment. CNG
is also required to add an account under the Rabbi Trust and make an
irrevocable contribution sufficient to pay benefits to which participants
are entitled as of the change of control.
. The Retirement and Post Retirement Benefit Plan for Certain Employees of
CNG and its Participating Subsidiaries (Post Retirement Plan) covers
substantially all CNG executive officers and other key employees of CNG.
The Post Retirement Plan is the mechanism for payment of certain benefits
which are payable under the change of control agreements. Funding under
the Rabbi Trust is also required as a result of the merger for all
benefits payable under the Post Retirement Plan.
CNG Agreement With CEO. CNG and George A. Davidson, Jr. have entered into an
employment agreement dated December 22, 1998, and related letters (Davidson
Agreement). Pursuant to the Davidson Agreement, Mr. Davidson will function as
Chairman of the Board and CEO of CNG until August 1, 2000. The Davidson
Agreement further provides certain levels of compensation, participation in
benefit and incentive programs. If Mr. Davidson is relieved of his duties as
Chairman, or if the position ceases to exist, or if his responsibilities as
CEO are reduced prior to August 1, 2000, Mr. Davidson may resign. In such a
case, CNG will be responsible for the compensation and benefits which would
have been payable had Mr. Davidson continued in his positions with CNG until
August 1, 2000.
Indemnification and Insurance. The merger agreement provides that, to the
extent not prohibited by law, all rights of indemnification in favor of
current or former directors or officers of CNG as provided in the CNG
Certificate of Incorporation or the CNG Bylaws for acts or omissions occurring
prior to the Effective Time will continue in full force and effect from the
Effective Time. The merger agreement also provides that for a period not less
than six years from the Effective Time, Dominion Resources will cause to be
maintained CNG's directors and officers' insurance and indemnification policy
to the extent that it provides coverage for events occurring prior to the
Effective Time for directors and officers of CNG who were covered under such
policy as in effect at the Effective Time so long as the annual premium would
not be in excess of 200% of the last annual premium paid prior to the
Effective Time (Maximum Premium). If the existing insurance expires, is
terminated or is canceled during such six-year period, Dominion Resources, has
agreed in the merger agreement to use all reasonable efforts to obtain as much
insurance for the remaining period for an annualized premium not in excess of
the Maximum Premium as may be obtained on terms no less advantageous to the
covered persons than provided in the existing policy.
Accounting Treatment
The merger is intended to qualify as a pooling-of-interests for accounting
and financial reporting purposes. Under this method of accounting, the
recorded assets and liabilities of Dominion Resources and CNG will be carried
forward to the consolidated financial statements of Dominion Resources at
their recorded amounts; income of Dominion Resources will include income of
CNG for the entire fiscal year in which the merger occurs; and the reported
income of the separate corporations will be combined and restated as income
for prior periods of Dominion Resources. The receipt by Dominion Resources of
a letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP and by
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CNG of a letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, their respective independent
accountants, dated as of the effective date of the registration statement and
as of the closing date stating that the transaction will qualify as a pooling-
of-interests, is a condition to the consummation of the merger.
Resales of Dominion Resources Common Stock
The Dominion Resources common stock to be issued to CNG shareholders in
connection with the merger has been registered under the Securities Act. All
shares of Dominion Resources common stock received by CNG shareholders upon
consummation of the merger will be freely transferable by those CNG
shareholders who are not deemed to be "affiliates" (as defined under the
Securities Act of 1933 but generally including executive officers, directors
and shareholders owning ten percent or more) of CNG.
CNG has agreed in the merger agreement to qualify the merger for pooling-of-
interests accounting treatment and to use its best efforts to cause each
person identified by CNG as an affiliate of CNG to deliver to Dominion
Resources a written agreement to not sell, pledge, transfer or otherwise
dispose of any Dominion Resources common stock issued to him or her pursuant
to the merger except in accordance with the Securities Act of 1933. The
affiliate will also agree in writing not to sell, transfer or otherwise
dispose of any such Dominion Resources common stock or any other capital stock
of Dominion Resources until after such time as financial results covering at
least 30 days of post-merger operations of the combined entity have been
published by Dominion Resources. The stock certificates representing Dominion
Resources common stock issued to such affiliates in the merger will bear a
legend with respect to the applicable restrictions.
Stock Exchange Listing
The merger agreement provides for the filing of, and Dominion Resources will
file, a listing application with the New York Stock Exchange covering the
shares of Dominion Resources common stock to be issued pursuant to the merger.
The obligations of Dominion Resources and CNG to effect the merger are subject
to the condition that the shares of Dominion Resources common stock to be
issued to CNG shareholders in connection with the merger be approved for
listing on the New York Stock Exchange, subject only to official notice of
issuance.
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THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The following is a brief summary of the material provisions of the merger
agreement, which is attached as Annex A and is incorporated herein by
reference. You should read the merger agreement in its entirety.
The Merger
The companies intend for CNG to be merged with a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Dominion Resources, with CNG as the surviving company. This will result in CNG
becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dominion Resources. Alternatively, the
companies may decide to merge CNG directly into Dominion Resources. In that
case, Dominion Resources will be the surviving entity. In either event, the
companies are sometimes referred to after the merger as the combined company.
Merger Consideration
At the Effective Time, each issued and outstanding share of CNG common stock
together with any outstanding rights to purchase CNG common stock (other than
any such stock or rights owned by Dominion Resources or any of its
subsidiaries, all of which will be canceled without consideration and will
cease to exist) will be converted into the right to receive 1.52 shares of
Dominion Resources common stock and cash in lieu of any fractional shares. No
fractional shares of Dominion Resources common stock will be issued in the
merger. Each holder of CNG common stock who would otherwise be entitled to
receive a fractional Dominion Resources share will be paid an amount in cash
equal to such fraction multiplied by the closing sales price of Dominion
Resources common stock as reported under the New York Stock Exchange Composite
Transaction Reports in The Wall Street Journal on the trading day immediately
prior to the Effective Time.
Conversion of CNG Common Stock
As soon after the Effective Time as possible, the exchange agent will mail
transmittal instructions to each CNG shareholder of record at the close of
business on the day prior to the Effective Time. The transmittal instructions
will explain exactly what CNG shareholders will need to do to convert their
CNG common stock to Dominion Resources common stock, whether they are
certificated shares and book-entry shares.
Your CNG common stock certificates will be delivered, and risk of loss and
title will pass to the exchange agent, only when the exchange agent receives
your certificates of CNG common stock. We urge you to mail your certificates
by certified mail or some other secure method. CNG shareholders should not
send in their CNG common stock certificates until they receive instructions
from the exchange agent.
As soon as practical after the Effective Time, the exchange agent will also
mail to record holders of CNG common stock held in book-entry form,
instructions for converting such shares into shares of Dominion Resources
common stock. After the Effective Time, CNG shareholders will have the right
to receive Dominion Resources common stock, but will not receive Dominion
Resources common stock until the exchange agent has received the documents
described in the transmittal instructions and has converted the shares of CNG
common stock. The exchange agent will not issue fractional shares that result
from the conversion, but will issue a check in lieu of the fractional share.
CNG shareholders that have not exchanged their CNG common stock for Dominion
Resources common stock will not receive any dividends or other distributions
declared or made after the Effective Time. Once a CNG shareholder has
exchanged their shares, they will be entitled to receive, without interest:
. cash payable in lieu of a fractional share, and
. dividends payable after the Effective Time on whole shares of Dominion
Resources, but before their CNG shares were exchanged.
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Representations and Warranties
The merger agreement contains the following representations and warranties
of Dominion Resources and CNG:
. their respective due organization and qualification, the due organization
and qualification of their respective significant subsidiaries and
similar corporate matters;
. their respective capital structures;
. the authorization, execution, delivery, performance and enforceability of
the merger agreement and related matters;
. regulatory and statutory approvals;
. compliance with applicable laws and agreements;
. reports and financial statements have been filed with governmental
authorities, complied in all material respects with all applicable
requirements, and did not contain a material misrepresentation or
omission;
. the absence of material adverse changes;
. the information supplied by each of Dominion Resources and CNG for use in
the joint proxy statement/prospectus does not contain a material
misrepresentation or omission;
. certain employee matters;
. the utility regulatory status of Dominion Resources and CNG and their
respective subsidiaries;
. the Dominion Resources and CNG shareholder vote required to approve the
merger agreement;
. the absence of actions that would prevent either Dominion Resources or
CNG from accounting for the business combination to be effected by the
merger as a pooling-of-interests for accounting purposes;
. the receipt by Dominion Resources and CNG of opinions as to the fairness
of the Exchange Ratio, from a financial point of view, of their
respective financial advisors;
. the ownership of each other's shares;
. the non-applicability of certain statutory and company-specific anti-
takeover provisions;
. certain environmental matters;
. the trading position risk management; and
. the absence of litigation which would have a material adverse effect on
either Dominion Resources or CNG.
In addition, the merger agreement contains certain representations and
warranties by Dominion Resources as to the nuclear operations of Dominion
Resources and its subsidiaries and as to the Dominion Resources Board of
Directors present intent to maintain the payment of dividends on the Dominion
Resources common stock at its current rate and by CNG as to the non-
applicability of certain provisions of its rights agreement to the merger.
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger
The companies have agreed to carry on their respective businesses in the
ordinary course until the merger is effective or terminated and to use all
commercially reasonable efforts to preserve their current business
organizations, goodwill and customer and supplier relationships. In addition,
each company has agreed without prior written consent to:
. not declare or pay any dividends or make any distributions, other than as
provided in the merger agreement;
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. not change the capital structure of the company;
. not redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire its own stock, other than as
provided in the merger agreement;
. not issue or sell any stock or securities convertible into stock, other
than as provided in the merger agreement;
. not amend their respective articles of incorporation or by-laws other
than as provided in the merger agreement;
. not merge with, acquire a substantial equity interest in or acquire
substantial assets of any other business entity, other than as provided
in the merger agreement;
. not sell, transfer, license or otherwise dispose of any assets that are
material to the company as a whole, other than as provided in the merger
agreement;
. not incur or guarantee any indebtedness other than as provided in the
merger agreement;
. not make any capital expenditures, other than as provided in the merger
agreement;
. not engage in any activities that would change the status of the company
or its subsidiaries under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935;
. not make any changes to accounting methods, except as required by law,
rule, regulation or GAAP;
. use their best efforts to ensure that the merger is accounted for as a
pooling-of-interests for accounting purposes;
. not take any action that would, or would be reasonably likely to, affect
the merger's status under Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code;
. not pay, discharge or satisfy any material claims, liabilities or
obligations, other than in the ordinary course or as provided in the
merger agreement;
. confer frequently with each other's representatives and promptly notify
each other of any significant changes in operations;
. consult with each other regarding regulated rates, charges or regulatory
filings and not make any filing to change rates that would have a
material adverse effect on the merger;
. use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain required third-company
consents and to notify the other company of any failures to obtain such
consents;
. not take any action that would breach the merger agreement or make any of
the representations and warranties untrue as of the Closing Date;
. not take any action that would likely jeopardize the qualification of
outstanding revenue bonds for the benefit of CNG that qualify as exempt
facility bonds or as tax-exempt industrial development bonds under
Section 103(b)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended prior
to the Tax Reform Act of 1986;
. create a transition task force, headed by Thos. E. Capps, and two
additional members of Dominion Resources and two additional members from
CNG;
. maintain insurance in such amounts and against such risks and losses as
are customary in their respective industries; and
. use commercially reasonable efforts to maintain existing permits.
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CNG has also agreed that, without the prior written consent of Dominion
Resources, it shall not, nor shall it permit any of its subsidiaries to:
. enter into, adopt or amend (except as may be required by applicable law)
or increase the amount or accelerate the payment or vesting of any
benefit or amount payable under any employee benefit plan or other
contract, agreement, commitment, arrangement, plan or policy maintained
by, contributed to or entered into by such company or any of its
subsidiaries, or increase, or enter into any of the foregoing to increase
in any manner, the compensation or fringe benefits, or otherwise to
extend, expand or enhance the engagement, employment or any related
rights, of any director, officer or other employee of CNG or its
subsidiaries, except as otherwise expressly contemplated by the merger
agreement; or
. enter into or amend any employment, severance or special pay arrangements
with respect to termination of employment or other similar contract,
agreement or arrangement with any director or officer other than in the
ordinary course of business consistent with past practice.
No Solicitation of Transactions
The companies agreed that neither they, their subsidiaries nor any
directors, officers, employees, agents or other representatives, directly or
indirectly, would:
. initiate, solicit or encourage, or take any action to facilitate the
making of any offer or proposal that constitutes or is reasonably likely
to lead to any tender or exchange offer, proposal for a merger,
consolidation or other business combination involving Dominion Resources
or CNG (or any of their material subsidiaries), or any proposal or offer
to acquire in any manner a substantial equity interest in, or a
substantial portion of the assets of, Dominion Resources or CNG (or any
of their material subsidiaries), other than pursuant to transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement; or
. engage in negotiations or provide any confidential information or data to
any person relating to any such business combination.
Each company will notify the other orally and in writing of any such
inquiries, offers or proposals including, without limitation, the terms and
conditions of any such proposal and the identity of the person making it
within 24 hours of the receipt thereof and will give the other five days
advance notice of any agreement to be entered into with or any information to
be supplied to any person making such inquiry, offer or proposal.
The merger agreement requires each company immediately to cease and cause to
be terminated all existing discussions and negotiations, if any, with any
other persons conducted prior to the date of the merger agreement with respect
to any such business combination.
However, unless the shareholders of each of Dominion Resources and CNG have
voted to approve the merger, either company may participate in discussions or
negotiations with, furnish information to, and afford access to the
properties, books and records of the company and its subsidiaries to any
person in connection with an unsolicited offer to effect a business
combination as described above, if and to the extent that:
. the Board of Directors of the company has reasonably concluded in good
faith (after consultation with its financial advisors) that the person or
group making the unsolicited offer will have adequate sources of
financing to consummate the transaction and that the unsolicited offer is
more favorable to such company's shareholders than the merger;
. the Board of Directors of such company is advised in a written, reasoned
opinion of outside counsel that a failure to do so would result in a
breach of its fiduciary duties under applicable law; and
. such company has entered into a confidentiality agreement with the person
or group making the unsolicited offer containing terms and conditions no
less favorable to such company than the existing confidentiality
agreement between Dominion Resources and CNG.
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Conditions to the Merger
Consummation of the merger is subject to a number of conditions, including:
. the approval of the merger by the shareholders of Dominion Resources and
CNG;
. no temporary restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or
other order by any federal or state court shall be in effect that
prevents the consummation of the merger, and the merger and the other
transactions contemplated thereby shall not have been prohibited under
any applicable federal or state law or regulation;
. the registration statement filed with this joint proxy
statement/prospectus shall have become effective and no stop order
suspending such effectiveness shall be in effect;
. the shares of Dominion Resources common stock issuable in the merger
shall have been approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange,
subject to official notice of issuance;
. each of Dominion Resources and CNG shall have received letters from its
independent public accountants, one dated the date of the effective date
of the registration statement filed with this joint proxy
statement/prospectus and the other dated at the closing, stating that the
merger will qualify as a pooling of interests transaction for accounting
purposes; and
. all authorizations, consents, findings by or approvals of any
governmental authority necessary for the execution and delivery of the
merger agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated
thereby shall have been obtained at or prior to the Effective Time and
shall have become final orders and shall not impose terms or conditions
that would have, or would be reasonably likely to have, a material
adverse effect on the business, operations, properties, assets, condition
(financial or otherwise), prospects or results of operations of Dominion
Resources and CNG and their subsidiaries on a consolidated basis as if
the merger had been consummated (but without giving effect to the impact
of such material adverse effect).
In addition, each company's obligation to effect the merger is subject to a
number of additional conditions, including the following:
CNG
. the agreements and covenants required to be performed by Dominion
Resources under the merger agreement shall have been performed in all
material respects;
. the representations and warranties of Dominion Resources shall be true
and correct as of closing as if made on and as of closing except as
expressly provided in the merger agreement;
. CNG shall have received an officers' certificate from Dominion Resources
stating that certain conditions set forth in the merger agreement have
been satisfied;
. no material adverse affect shall have occurred with respect to the
business, operations, properties, assets or condition (financial or
otherwise), prospects or results of operations of Dominion Resources and
its subsidiaries taken as a whole or the consummation of the merger
agreement;
. CNG shall have received an opinion of counsel in form and substance
satisfactory to CNG to the effect that the merger will be treated as a
transaction described in Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code and
that no gain or loss will be recognized by the shareholders of CNG who
exchange CNG common stock solely for Dominion Resources common stock
pursuant to the merger (except with respect to cash received in lieu of
fractional shares); and
. the third party consents required by the merger agreement to be obtained
with respect to Dominion Resources shall have been obtained.
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Dominion Resources
. the agreements and covenants required to be performed by CNG under the
merger agreement shall have been performed in all material respects;
. the representations and warranties of CNG shall be true and correct as of
closing as if made on and as of closing except as expressly provided in
the merger agreement;
. Dominion Resources shall have received an officers' certificate from CNG
stating that certain conditions set forth in the merger agreement have
been satisfied;
. no material adverse affect shall have occurred with respect to the
business, operations, properties, assets or condition (financial or
otherwise), prospects or results of operations of CNG and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole or the consummation of the merger
agreement;
. Dominion Resources shall have received an opinion of counsel in form and
substance satisfactory to Dominion Resources to the effect that the
merger will be treated as a transaction described in Section 368(a) of
the Internal Revenue Code; and
. the third party consents required by the merger agreement to be obtained
with respect to CNG shall have been obtained.
Benefit Plans
Following the Effective Time, Dominion Resources and its subsidiaries will
honor, without modification, all prior contracts, agreements, collective
bargaining agreements and commitments of CNG that apply to any current or
former employees or current or former directors of CNG. This undertaking is
not intended to prevent Dominion Resources from enforcing such contracts,
agreements and commitments in accordance with their terms or from exercising
any right to amend, modify, suspend, revoke or terminate any such contract,
agreement, collective bargaining agreement or commitment.
In addition, subject to applicable law and obligations under applicable
collective bargaining agreements, Dominion Resources shall maintain for a
period of at least two years after the closing, such employee compensation,
welfare and benefit plans, programs, policies and fringe benefits as will, in
the aggregate, provide benefits to the employees or former employees of CNG
and its subsidiaries who were employees immediately prior to the closing that
are no less favorable than those provided pursuant to such CNG plans, as in
effect at closing.
Treatment of CNG Stock Options and Stock Awards
With respect to certain CNG stock incentive plans and other employee benefit
plans, programs and arrangements under which the delivery of CNG common stock
is required to be used for payment, Dominion Resources may elect either to:
. take such action with CNG, after the Effective Time, so that such stock
plan provides for the issuance of only Dominion Resources common stock
and, with respect to outstanding options or awards, provide that the
holder shall be entitled to the equivalent number of shares of Dominion
Resources common stock that the holder would have received if the option
or award had been exercised prior to the Effective Time with appropriate
adjustments to the exercise price; and
take all corporate action necessary to obtain shareholder approval with
respect to such plan to the extent required or to the extent Dominion
Resources deems it advisable, to enable such plan to comply with
applicable law and reserve for issuance or otherwise provide a sufficient
number of shares of Dominion Resources common stock for delivery upon
payment of benefits, grants, awards or exercise of options under such
plan, and:
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as soon as practicable after the Effective Time, file a registration
statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to
the shares of Dominion Resources common stock subject to such stock plan
and use its best efforts to maintain its effectiveness so long as the
benefits, grants, and awards remain payable or options remain
outstanding; or
. with CNG, use their respective best efforts so that, after the Effective
Time, all benefits, grants, awards and options are converted to the right
to receive at the Effective Time the number of shares of Dominion
Resources common stock having a value equal to the fair value of each
such benefit, grant, award or option based on the closing sales price of
Dominion Resources common stock as reported under the New York Stock
Exchange Composite Transaction Reports in The Wall Street Journal on the
trading day immediately prior to the Effective Time.
Termination
The merger agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the closing,
whether before or after approval by the shareholders of Dominion Resources and
CNG:
. by mutual written consent of the Board of Directors of Dominion Resources
and CNG;
. by either Dominion Resources or CNG, by written notice to the other, if
the Effective Time shall not have occurred on or before January 31, 2000
(or July 31, 2000 if all conditions are capable of being satisfied except
for regulatory approvals having been obtained);
. by either Dominion Resources or CNG, by written notice to the other, if
any required shareholder approval shall not have been obtained at a duly
held meeting of shareholders or at any adjournment thereof;
. by either Dominion Resources or CNG, if any state or federal law, order,
rule or regulation is adopted or issued, that has the effect, as
supported by the written, reasoned opinion of outside counsel for such
company, of prohibiting the merger or causing a material adverse effect
on the business, operations, properties, assets or condition (financial
or otherwise), prospects or results of operations of either company and
its subsidiaries taken as a whole or the consummation of the merger
agreement, or if any court of competent jurisdiction in the United States
or any state shall have issued an order, judgment or decree permanently
restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting either the merger or
causing a material adverse effect on the business, operations,
properties, assets or condition (financial or otherwise), prospects or
results of operations of either company and its subsidiaries taken as a
whole or the consummation of the merger agreement, and such order,
judgment or decree shall have become final and nonappealable;
. by Dominion Resources or CNG, by written notice to the other, if there
shall have been any material breach of any representation or warranty, or
any material breach of any covenant or agreement of the other company
under the merger agreement, and such breach shall not have been remedied
within twenty days after receipt by the other company of notice in
writing from the nonterminating company specifying the nature of such
breach and requesting that it be remedied; or
. if the Board of Directors of the nonterminating company or any committee
of such company (1) shall withdraw or modify in any manner adverse to the
terminating company its approval or recommendation of the merger
agreement and the merger, (2) shall fail to reaffirm such approval or
recommendation upon the request of the terminating company, (3) shall
approve or recommend any acquisition of the nonterminating company or a
material portion of such nonterminating company's assets or any tender
offer for shares of capital stock of such nonterminating company, in each
case, by a party other than the terminating company or any of its
affiliates, or (4) shall resolve to take any of the actions specified
above.
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In addition, either Dominion Resources or CNG, upon two days prior notice to
the other, may terminate the merger agreement if as a result of a tender offer
by a party other than Dominion Resources or CNG or any of their respective
affiliates or any written offer or proposal with respect to a merger, sale of
a material portion of the terminating company's assets or other business
combination for the terminating company, in each case, by a party other than
Dominion Resources or CNG or their respective affiliates, the Board of
Directors of the terminating company, determines in good faith that its
fiduciary obligations under applicable law require that such tender offer or
other written offer or proposal be accepted; provided, however, that:
. the Board of Directors of the terminating company has reasonably
concluded in good faith (after consultation with its financial advisors)
that the person or group proposing the business combination will have
adequate sources of financing to consummate the business combination and
that the business combination is more favorable to the terminating
company's shareholders than the merger and shall have been advised in a
written, reasoned opinion by outside counsel that, notwithstanding the
binding commitment of the merger agreement, and notwithstanding all
concessions that may be offered by the nonterminating company in the
negotiations described below, the directors' fiduciary duties would
require the directors to reconsider such commitment as a result of such
tender offer or such written offer or proposal; and
. prior to any such termination, the terminating company shall, and shall
have caused its respective financial and legal advisors to, negotiate
with the nonterminating company to make such adjustments in the terms and
conditions of the merger agreement as would enable the terminating
company to proceed with the merger.
In the event of termination of the merger agreement by either Dominion
Resources or CNG as provided above, there shall be no liability on the part of
either Dominion Resources or CNG or their respective officers or directors
under the merger agreement, other than:
. the liabilities arising from certain specified provisions of the merger
agreement described below under Termination Fees and Expenses; and
. to hold in strict confidence all documents furnished in connection with
the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and in accordance
with the existing confidentiality agreement between Dominion Resources
and CNG.
Termination Fees
If the merger agreement is terminated as a result of a material breach of
any representation, warranty or covenant under the merger agreement, then the
company receiving the notice of termination shall promptly (but not later than
five business days after receipt of such notice) pay to the terminating
company an amount equal to all documented out-of-pocket expenses and fees
incurred by the terminating company in connection with the merger agreement up
to $25 million.
However, if the merger agreement is terminated by a company as a result of a
willful breach or failure to perform or comply with the agreements and
covenants by the nonterminating party, such nonterminating company shall in
addition to the other expenses described above, be liable to the terminating
company for such terminating company's actual damages as a result of such
breach.
If the merger agreement is terminated by either company as a result of the
good faith determination that the fiduciary obligations of the directors of
the terminating company under applicable law requires acceptance of a tender
offer or other written offer or proposal and it enters into an agreement
(whether or not such agreement is embodied in a definitive manner) to
consummate a business combination with a third party within two years of such
termination, then the terminating company shall promptly (but not later than
five business days after receipt of notice), but prior to entering into such
agreement with the third party, pay to the other company an amount equal to
out-of-pocket expenses up to $25 million plus $200 million.
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If the merger agreement is terminated by Dominion Resources or CNG:
. as a result of the board of directors of the other company:
--withdrawing or modifying in any manner adverse to the party
terminating its approval or recommendation of the merger agreement or
the merger transaction;
--failing to reaffirm such approval or recommendation upon the other
party's request;
--approving or recommending any acquisition of its company or a material
portion of its assets or any tender offer for its capital stock by a
party other than the other party to the merger agreement; or
--resolving to take any of the above actions; or
. as a result of the Effective Time not occurring on or before January 31,
2000 (or July 31, 2000, if all conditions are capable of being satisfied
other than regulatory approvals having been obtained), following the
failure of the shareholders of either Dominion Resources or CNG to grant
the necessary approvals or as a result of a material breach of certain
agreements in connection with obtaining such shareholder approvals and,
at the time of termination, there shall have been a third-party tender
offer for shares or a third-party offer or proposal with respect to a
business combination involving either Dominion Resources or CNG which, at
the time of such termination, shall not have been rejected by such target
company and its Board of Directors and withdrawn by the third party
then promptly (but not later than five business days after receipt of notice
of the amount due from the other party) after the termination of the merger
agreement, the party terminating the merger agreement shall be paid by the
other party:
. out-of-pocket expenses up to $25 million; and
. a termination fee of $200 million
provided that no such amounts shall be payable if and to the extent the party
to make such payment shall have paid such amounts pursuant to the paragraphs
above.
Expenses
The expenses incurred in connection with printing and filing of the joint
proxy statement/prospectus will be shared equally by Dominion Resources and
CNG. All other costs and expenses incurred in connection with the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby will be paid by the
company incurring such expenses.
Amendment and Waiver
The merger agreement may be amended by the Board of Directors of Dominion
Resources and CNG at any time before or after the shareholders of Dominion
Resources and CNG approve the merger. However, no such amendment after
shareholder approval shall alter or change:
. the amount or kind of shares, rights or any of the proceedings of the
exchange and/or conversion with respect to the shares of Dominion
Resources stock to be issued under the merger agreement; or
. any of the terms and conditions of the merger agreement that would
materially and adversely affect the rights of holders of CNG common
stock, except for alterations or changes that could otherwise be adopted
by the Board of Directors of Dominion Resources and/or CNG, without the
further approval of such shareholders.
At any time prior to the Effective Time, the parties to the merger agreement
may extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or other
acts of the other parties under the merger agreement, waive any inaccuracies
in the representations and warranties contained therein or in any document
delivered pursuant thereto and waive compliance with any of the agreements or
conditions contained in the merger agreement.
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REGULATORY MATTERS
A summary of the material regulatory requirements affecting the merger is
set forth below. Additional consents from or notifications to governmental
agencies may be necessary or appropriate in connection with the merger.
While the companies believe that they will receive the requisite regulatory
approvals and clearances for the merger that are summarized below, there can
be no assurance as to the timing of such approvals or clearances or the
ability of the companies to obtain such approvals and clearances on
satisfactory terms or otherwise. Consummation of the merger is conditioned
upon receipt of final orders from the various federal and state commissions
described below that do not impose terms or conditions that would have, or
would be reasonably likely to have, a material adverse effect on the combined
company. There can be no assurance that any such approvals will be obtained
or, if obtained, will not contain terms, conditions or qualifications that
cause such approvals to fail to satisfy such condition to the consummation of
the merger or that such orders will not be appealed by intervenors to the
appropriate courts.
Antitrust Considerations
Under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 (HSR Act),
Dominion Resources and CNG cannot consummate the merger until each has
submitted certain information to the Antitrust Division of the Department of
Justice and the Federal Trade Commission. Additionally, each company must
satisfy specified HSR Act waiting period requirements. The expiration or
earlier termination of the HSR Act waiting period will not prevent the
Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission from challenging the
merger on antitrust grounds. Neither Dominion Resources nor CNG believes that
the merger will violate federal antitrust laws. If the merger is not
consummated within 12 months after the expiration or earlier termination of
the HSR Act waiting period, Dominion Resources and CNG must submit new
information to the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, and
a new HSR Act waiting period will begin .
1935 Act
Dominion Resources is a holding company exempt from most provisions of the
Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935 (1935 Act). CNG is a registered
holding company subject to the provisions of the 1935 Act.
In connection with the merger, Dominion Resources is required to obtain
Securities and Exchange Commission approval under the 1935 Act to acquire the
four public utilities owned by CNG. Dominion Resources and CNG will file an
application with the Securities and Exchange Commission seeking the necessary
approvals under the 1935 Act.
If as a result of the merger CNG becomes a subsidiary of Dominion Resources,
then CNG will continue to be a registered public utility holding company. In
any event, Dominion Resources will become a public utility holding company and
will register under the 1935 Act. Although CNG and Dominion Resources believe
that SEC approval of the merger under the 1935 Act on terms acceptable to both
parties will be obtained, it is not possible to predict with certainty the
timing of such approval and whether the approval will be on terms acceptable
to them.
Under the standards applicable to transactions subject to approval pursuant
to Sections 9(a) and 10 of the 1935 Act, the Securities and Exchange
Commission is directed to approve the merger unless it finds that (i) the
merger would tend towards detrimental interlocking relations or a detrimental
concentration of control, (ii) the consideration to be paid in connection with
the merger is not reasonable, or (iii) the merger would unduly complicate the
capital structure of the holding company system or would be detrimental to the
proper functioning of the applicant's holding company system. To approve the
proposed merger, the Securities and Exchange Commission also must find that
the merger would comply with applicable state law, tend towards the
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development of an integrated public utility system and would otherwise conform
to the 1935 Act's integration and corporate simplification standards.
The 1935 Act imposes a number of restrictions on the operations of
registered holding company systems. Among these restrictions are requirements
that certain securities issuances as well as sales and acquisitions of assets
or securities of utility companies or acquisitions of interests in any other
business must be approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The 1935
Act also limits the ability of registered holding companies to engage in
activities unrelated to their utility operations and regulates holding company
system service companies and the rendering of services by holding company
affiliates to other companies in their system. Dominion Resources and CNG
believe they will be able to satisfy the Securities and Exchange Commission's
requirements for a registered holding company system.
The Securities and Exchange Commission may require as a condition to its
approval of the merger under the 1935 Act that Dominion Resources divest
certain of its activities which are unrelated to the utility or energy
operations of the combined companies after the merger within a reasonable time
after the merger. In several cases, the Securities and Exchange Commission has
allowed the retention of non-utility related activities or deferred the
question of divestiture for a substantial period of time. In those cases in
which divestiture has taken place, the Securities and Exchange Commission has
usually allowed enough time to complete the divestiture to allow the applicant
to avoid an untimely or premature sale of the divested assets. Dominion
Resources believes strong policy reasons and prior Securities and Exchange
Commission decisions and policy statements support the retention of its non-
utility related investments or, alternatively, support deferring the question
of divestiture for a substantial period of time. Accordingly, Dominion
Resources will request in the 1935 Act application that it be allowed to
retain its non-utility related investments or, in the alternative, that the
question of divestiture be deferred.
Atomic Energy Act
Dominion Resources holds various licenses issued by the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission (NRC) to own and operate the North Anna and Surry nuclear
generating stations. Under the Atomic Energy Act and NRC regulations, nuclear
licensees must seek and obtain prior NRC consent for any changes that would
constitute a transfer of an NRC license, directly or indirectly, through
transfer of control of the license to any person. Dominion Resources does not
believe that the merger will constitute a transfer of control of its NRC
licenses or that the merger will affect the basis for prior NRC decisions
relating to its financial qualifications as an NRC licensee. Dominion
Resources will request confirmation that the NRC concurs with its belief.
Federal Power Act
Section 203 of the Federal Power Act provides that no public utility may
sell or otherwise dispose of its jurisdictional facilities, directly or
indirectly merge or consolidate its facilities with those of any other person,
or acquire any security of any other public utility, without first having
obtained authorization from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
Because CNG has subsidiary power marketers that are considered to be "public
utilities" and to own "jurisdictional facilities" under the Federal Power Act,
FERC's approval under Section 203 is required before Dominion Resources and
CNG may consummate the merger. Section 203 provides that FERC is required to
grant its approval if the merger is found to be "consistent with the public
interest."
FERC has stated in its 1996 Utility Merger Policy Statement that, in
analyzing a merger under Section 203, it will evaluate the following criteria:
. the effect of the merger on competition in wholesale electric power
markets, utilizing an initial screening approach derived from the
Department of Justice/Federal Trade Commission-Initial Merger Guidelines
to determine if a merger will result in an increase in an applicant's
market power;
. the effect of the merger on the applicants' FERC jurisdictional
ratepayers; and
. the effect of the merger on state and federal regulation of the
applicants.
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Dominion Resources' power-marketing affiliates are authorized by FERC to
sell electric power at wholesale in interstate commerce at market-based rates.
CNG's power marketing affiliates have similar authorizations from FERC. These
authorizations, which were obtained under Section 205 of the Federal Power
Act, were predicated in part on FERC's finding that the power-marketing
affiliates of Dominion Resources and CNG lack market power over the generation
and transfer of electric energy and, therefore, could not sell electric power
at prices above competitive levels. As a condition of the power marketer
authorizations, the power marketing affiliates of Dominion Resources and CNG
are required to report any changes in status that could result in a change in
the facts FERC relied upon in approving market-based rates. Pursuant to this
requirement, the power-marketing affiliates of Dominion Resources and CNG will
file notifications of a "change in status" with FERC. These notifications will
inform FERC of the merger agreement and will advise FERC that the power-
marketing affiliates of both Dominion Resources and CNG would not deal with
one another except under specified certain circumstances during the pendency
of the merger.
Pending FERC approval of the merger under Section 203 and related action
under Section 205, the authorizations under which the power-marketing
affiliates of both Dominion Resources and CNG engage in market-based sales are
expected to remain effective. The necessary filings will be made with FERC to
allow Dominion Resources and CNG power-marketing affiliates to continue to
engage in wholesale power transactions at market-based rates.
Virginia Commission
Dominion Resources' wholly-owned subsidiary, Virginia Power, and CNG's
wholly-owned subsidiary, Virginia Natural Gas, Inc., are subject to the
jurisdiction of the Virginia State Corporation Commission (Virginia
Commission). The Virginia Commission must approve the acquisition of any
Virginia public utility. The applicants must show that the provision of
adequate service at just and reasonable rates will not be threatened or
impaired as a result of the merger. Dominion Resources and CNG will seek
Virginia Commission approval of the merger consistent with these requirements.
North Carolina Commission
Virginia Power is subject to the jurisdiction of the North Carolina
Utilities Commission (North Carolina Commission). The North Carolina
Commission must approve any merger or combination affecting any public
utility, whether made through acquisition or control by stock purchase or
otherwise. Under this authority, the North Carolina Commission has advised
that it will assert jurisdiction to approve the merger. The North Carolina
Commission must give its approval if justified by the public convenience and
necessity. Dominion Resources and CNG will seek the approval of the North
Carolina Commission consistent with these requirements.
West Virginia Commission
CNG's wholly-owned subsidiary, Hope Gas, Inc., is subject to the
jurisdiction of the West Virginia Public Service Commission (West Virginia
Commission). No person or corporation may acquire either directly or
indirectly a majority of the common stock of any public utility organized and
doing business in West Virginia without the approval of the West Virginia
Commission. The West Virginia Commission may approve such a transaction upon
proper showing that the terms and conditions are reasonable, that neither
party to it is given an undue advantage over the other, and that it does not
adversely affect the public in West Virginia. Dominion Resources and CNG will
seek the approval of the West Virginia Commission consistent with these
requirements.
Pennsylvania Commission
CNG's wholly-owned subsidiary, The Peoples Natural Gas Company, is subject
to the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission
(Pennsylvania Commission). The issuance of a certificate of public convenience
and necessity may be required. The Pennsylvania Commission has advised that it
will assert jurisdiction to approve the merger. The standard for approval is
whether the transaction is necessary and proper
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for the service, accommodation, convenience, or safety of the public. This
standard has been applied by the Pennsylvania Commission to require that the
companies demonstrate that the transaction will affirmatively promote the
service, accommodation, convenience or safety of the public in some
substantial way. The Peoples Natural Gas Company will seek the approval of the
Pennsylvania Commission consistent with these requirements.
Ohio Commission
CNG's wholly-owned subsidiary, East Ohio Gas is subject to the jurisdiction
of the Public Utilities Commission of the State of Ohio (Ohio Commission). The
Ohio Commission does not have statutory jurisdiction over the transaction, but
will be provided any relevant information for its review, and use in
evaluating the impact of the merger, if any, on retail customers in Ohio.
Affiliate Contracts and Arrangements
In connection with the merger, Dominion Resources and CNG and their
subsidiaries may need to enter into or amend agreements related to the
provision by affiliates of the combined companies of various services,
including management, supervisory, construction, engineering, accounting,
legal, financial or similar services. The approval or non-opposition of
certain federal and state regulatory commissions is required with respect to
the creation or amendment of certain inter-affiliate agreements. Dominion
Resources, CNG and their subsidiaries will file such agreements with the
appropriate federal and state regulatory commissions and seek such regulatory
approvals as may be required by applicable law.
Other Regulatory Matters
Dominion Resources and its subsidiaries and CNG and its subsidiaries have
obtained from various regulatory authorities certain franchises, permits and
licenses which may need to be renewed, replaced or transferred in connection
with the merger, and approvals, consents or notifications may be required in
connection with such renewals, replacements or transfers.
Regulatory commissions of states where Dominion Resources' and CNG's utility
subsidiaries operate may intervene in the federal regulatory proceedings. In
addition, such regulatory commissions regulate the rates charged to utility
customers within their jurisdictions. In approving rates, each state may take
into account other affects of, including possible savings resulting from, the
merger.
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THE COMPANIES
Dominion Resources, Inc.
Dominion Resources, a diversified utility holding company, has its principal
office at 120 Tredegar Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, telephone (804) 819-
2000. Its principal subsidiary is Virginia Power, a regulated public utility
engaged in the generation, transmission, distribution and sale of electric
energy. The primary service area is in Virginia and northeastern North
Carolina. Dominion Resources, other major subsidiaries are Dominion Capital,
its diversified financial services company, and Dominion Energy, its
independent power and natural gas subsidiary. Dominion Resources was
incorporated in 1983 as a Virginia corporation. Dominion Resources and its
subsidiaries had 11,033 full-time employees as of December 31, 1998. Dominion
Resources is currently exempt from registration as a holding company under the
Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935. Dominion Resources also owns and
operates a 365 Mw natural gas fired generating facility in the United Kingdom.
Virginia Power
Virginia Power is a public utility engaged in the generation, transmission,
distribution and sale of electric energy within a 30,000 square-mile area in
Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Virginia Power operates nuclear,
fossil fuel and hydroelectric generating units with an aggregate capability of
13,635Mw. It supplies energy at retail to approximately two million customers
and sells electricity at wholesale to rural electric cooperatives, power
marketers and certain municipalities. The term "Virginia Power" refers to the
entirety of Virginia Electric and Power Company, including its Virginia and
North Carolina operations and all of its subsidiaries. In Virginia it trades
under the name "Virginia Power." The Virginia service area comprises about 65
percent of Virginia's total land area, but accounts for over 80 percent of its
population. In North Carolina it trades under the name "North Carolina Power"
and serves retail customers located in the northeastern region of the state,
excluding certain municipalities. Virginia Power also engages in off-system
wholesale purchases and sales of electricity and purchases and sales of
natural gas, and is developing trading relationships beyond the geographic
limits of its retail service territory.
Dominion Capital
Dominion Capital is a diversified financial services company with several
operating subsidiaries in the commercial lending, merchant banking and
residential lending business. Its principal subsidiaries are First Source
Financial, LLP, First Dominion Capital LLC and Saxon Mortgage, Inc. Dominion
Capital also owns a 46 percent interest in Cambrian Capital LLP. First Source
Financial provides cash-flow and asset-based financing to middle-market
companies seeking to expand, recapitalize or undertake buyouts. First Dominion
Capital is an integrated merchant banking and asset management business
located in New York. Saxon Mortgage and its affiliates originate and
securitize home equity and mortgage loans to individuals. Cambrian Capital
provides financing to small and mid-sized independent oil and natural gas
producers undertaking acquisitions, refinancings and expansions.
Dominion Energy
Dominion Energy is active in the competitive electric power generation
business and in the development, exploration and operation of natural gas and
oil reserves. Dominion Energy is involved in power projects in five states,
Argentina, Bolivia, Belize and Peru. Domestic power projects include the
Kincaid Power Station, a 1,108 Mw coal fired station in Central Illinois; a
600Mw gas-fired peaking facility under construction in Central Illinois; two
geothermal projects and one solar project in California; three small
hydroelectric projects in New York; a waste coal-fueled project in West
Virginia and a waste wood- and coal-fueled project in Maine. International
power projects include one hydroelectric and one gas-fired project in
Argentina, two hydroelectric projects in Bolivia, a run-of-river hydroelectric
project in Belize and two hydroelectric projects and six diesel oil-fueled
projects in Peru. Dominion Energy is also involved in natural gas and oil
development, exploration
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and production in Canada, the Appalachian Basin, the Michigan Basin, the
Illinois Basin, the Black Warrior Basin, the Uinta Basin, the San Juan Basin
and owns net proved oil and natural gas reserves in key regions of the United
States and Canada.
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
CNG is a Delaware corporation organized on July 21, 1942, and a public
utility holding company registered under the Public Utility Holding Company
Act of 1935. It is engaged solely in the business of owning and holding all of
the outstanding equity securities of nineteen directly owned subsidiary
companies. CNG and its subsidiaries are engaged in all phases of the natural
gas business--distribution, transmission and exploration and production. The
company's principal subsidiaries are described below.
Distribution
Public utility subsidiaries of CNG are The East Ohio Gas Company, The
Peoples Natural Gas Company, Virginia Natural Gas, Inc. and Hope Gas, Inc.
Principal cities served at retail are: Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown, Canton,
Warren, Lima, Ashtabula and Marietta in Ohio; Pittsburgh (a portion), Altoona
and Johnstown in Pennsylvania; Norfolk, Newport News, Virginia Beach,
Chesapeake, Hampton and Williamsburg in Virginia; and Clarksburg and
Parkersburg in West Virginia. At December 31, 1998, CNG served at retail
approximately two million residential, commercial and industrial gas sales and
transportation customers.
Transmission
CNG Transmission Corporation operates a regional interstate pipeline system
and provides gas transportation and storage services to each of CNG's public
utility subsidiaries and to non-affiliated utilities, end-users and others in
the Midwest, the Mid-Atlantic states and the Northeast. Through its wholly
owned subsidiary, CNG Iroquois, Inc., CNG Transmission holds a 16 percent
general partnership interest in the Iroquois Gas Transmission System, L.P.,
that owns and operates an interstate natural gas pipeline extending from the
Canada-United States border near Iroquois, Ontario, to Long Island, New York.
The Iroquois pipeline transports Canadian gas to utility and power generation
customers in metropolitan New York and New England.
Exploration and Production
CNG Producing Company is CNG's exploration and production subsidiary. Its
activities are conducted primarily in the Gulf of Mexico, the southern and
western United States, the Appalachian region, and in Canada.
Retail Marketing
CNG Retail Services Corporation was created in 1997 to market natural gas,
electricity and related products and services to residential, commercial and
small industrial customers. CNG Products and Services, Inc. also provides
energy-related services to customers of CNG's local distribution subsidiaries
and others.
International Activities
CNG International Corporation was formed by CNG in 1996 to invest in foreign
energy activities. CNG International currently owns interests in natural gas
pipeline companies in Australia, and gas and electric utility companies in
Argentina.
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DESCRIPTION OF DOMINION RESOURCES CAPITAL STOCK
General
As of January 31, 1999, the authorized capital stock was 320,000,000 shares.
Those shares consisted of: (a) 20,000,000 shares of preferred stock, none of
which were outstanding; and (b) 300,000,000 shares of common stock, of which
193,962,097 shares were outstanding.
Common Stock
Dominion Resources outstanding shares of common stock are listed on the New
York Stock Exchange under the symbol "D". Any additional common stock issued
will also be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Common shareholders may
receive dividends when declared by the Board of Directors. Dividends may be
paid in cash, stock or other form. In certain cases, common shareholders may
not receive dividends until obligations to any preferred shareholders have
been satisfied. All outstanding shares of common stock are fully paid and non-
assessable. Any additional common stock issued will also be fully paid and
non-assessable. Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote in the
election of directors and other matters. Common shareholders are not entitled
to preemptive or cumulative voting rights. Common shareholders will be
notified of any shareholders' meeting according to applicable law. If Dominion
Resources liquidates, dissolves, or winds-up its business, either voluntarily
or not, common shareholders will share equally in the assets remaining after
creditors and preferred shareholders are paid.
Preferred Stock
The following description of the terms of the preferred stock sets forth
certain general terms and provisions of Dominion Resources authorized
preferred stock. If preferred stock is offered, the specific designations and
rights will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Board of Directors can, without approval of shareholders, issue one or
more series of preferred stock. The Board can also determine the number of
shares of each series and the rights, preferences and limitations of each
series including the dividend rights, voting rights, conversion rights,
redemption rights and any liquidation preferences of any wholly unissued
series of preferred stock, the number of shares constituting each series and
the terms and conditions of issue. In some cases, the issuance of preferred
stock could delay a change in control of the company and make it harder to
remove present management. Under certain circumstances, preferred stock could
also restrict dividend payments to holders of common stock.
The preferred stock will, if issued, be fully paid and non-assessable.
COMPARATIVE RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS
Upon consummation of the merger, the company in which the present Dominion
Resources shareholders and CNG shareholders will own stock will be governed by
Virginia law and by the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of Dominion
Resources. Significant provisions of the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
of Dominion Resources and certain differences between these documents and the
present charter documents of CNG are discussed below. Although it is
impracticable to compare all of the aspects in which Virginia law and Delaware
law differ, the following is a summary of certain significant differences
between the provisions of these laws.
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The following discussion is a summary only. It is not intended to be a
complete statement of the differences affecting the rights of shareholders.
The discussion is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of
the relevant documents and applicable state statutes. Dominion Resources and
CNG have filed their charter documents as exhibits to the reports they file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission. For information on obtaining
those documents, see WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION.
Board of Directors
Members of the Dominion Resources Board of Directors currently serve
staggered three-year terms. This means that only one-third of Dominion
Resources' directors are elected each year. However, at the Dominion Resources
April 16, 1999 Annual Meeting, shareholders are requested to approve an
amendment to Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation that will require
the annual election of directors.
Delaware law provides that a corporation's board of directors may be divided
into various classes with staggered terms of office. The CNG Certificate of
Incorporation provides for three classes of directors, as nearly equal in size
as practicable.
Payment of Dividends
After the merger, dividends paid by Dominion Resources on its capital stock
will be governed by Virginia law. Under Virginia law, dividends may be
declared and paid as determined by the board of directors, provided that no
dividends may be paid if, after giving effect to the distribution (i) the
company would not be able to pay its debts as they become due in the usual
course of business, or (ii) the company's total assets would be less than the
sum of its total liabilities plus any amount required to be paid to holders of
preferred stock in the event of liquidation of the company.
Under Delaware law, dividends are also declared and paid as determined by
the board of directors. However, the ability of CNG to pay dividends on its
capital stock is limited by certain restrictions imposed upon corporations
under Delaware law. Under Delaware law, dividends may be declared and paid out
of surplus, or, in case there is no surplus, out of the corporation's net
profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the net
profits from the preceding fiscal year. The distribution of dividends is not
permitted by a Delaware corporation in the event the capital of such
corporation has been diminished by depreciation of property or losses to an
amount less than the aggregate amount of the capital represented by issued and
outstanding stock having a preference upon distribution of assets.
Cumulative Voting
Neither the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of Dominion Resources nor
the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of CNG permit cumulative voting.
Preemptive Rights
None of the shareholders of Dominion Resources or CNG has preemptive rights.
Removal of Directors
The Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation provide that directors may
be removed by shareholders only for cause and with the affirmative vote of at
least two-thirds of the outstanding shares entitled to vote. Under the Bylaws
of Dominion Resources and Virginia law, a director may be removed only at a
meeting called for such purpose.
Under Delaware law, directors may be removed, with or without cause, by the
vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of all classes of stock entitled
to vote present at a meeting of shareholders. Unless the
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certificate of incorporation otherwise provides, in the case of a corporation
with a classified board, shareholders may effect such removal only for cause.
The CNG certificate of incorporation for a classified board of directors does
not override the Delaware law provision.
Board of Director Vacancies
Under the Articles of Incorporation of Dominion Resources, any vacancies on
the Board of Directors, however caused, and newly created directorships may be
filled by a majority vote of the directors then in office, whether or not a
quorum. Directors appointed in this manner hold office until the next annual
meeting of shareholders.
Delaware law provides that, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of
incorporation or bylaws, vacancies, including those due to removal without
cause, and newly created directorships may be filled by majority vote of the
directors then in office, even if less than a quorum. If, at the time of
filling any vacancy or newly created directorship, the directors then in
office constitute less than a majority of the whole board, the Delaware Court
of Chancery has the authority, upon application of shareholders holding at
least 10% of the shares outstanding at the time and entitled to vote, to order
an election to be held to fill any such vacancies or new directorships, or to
replace the directors chosen by the directors then in office.
Shareholder Proposals and Director Nominations
Dominion Resources' shareholders can submit shareholder proposals and
nominate candidates for the Board of Directors if the shareholders follow
advance notice procedures described in the Dominion Resources Bylaws.
To nominate directors, shareholders must submit a written notice to the
corporate secretary at least 60 days before a scheduled meeting. The notice
must include the name and address of the shareholder and of the nominee, a
description of any arrangements between the shareholder and the nominee,
information about the nominee required for proxy statements by the Securities
and Exchange Commission, the written consent of the nominee to serve as a
director and other information.
Shareholder proposals must be submitted to the corporate secretary at least
90 days before the first anniversary of the date of Dominion Resources' last
annual meeting. The notice must include a description of the proposal, the
reasons for presenting the proposal at the annual meeting, the text of any
resolutions to be presented, the shareholder's name and address and number of
shares held, and any material interest of the shareholder in the proposal.
Director nominations and shareholder proposals that are late or that do not
include all required information may be rejected by Dominion Resources. This
could prevent shareholders from bringing certain matters before an annual or
special meeting, including making nominations for directors.
CNG does not have special procedures for submission of shareholder
proposals. CNG shareholders can nominate candidates for the CNG Board of
Directors if the shareholders follow the advance notice procedures described
in the CNG Bylaws. The CNG Bylaws require that shareholder nominations be in
writing and be received by the secretary of CNG not less than thirty and not
more than sixty calendar days before the date of the meeting at which the
election is to take place. Such notice must set forth information about the
nominee required for proxy statements by the Securities and Exchange
Commission and other information. In addition, such notice must be signed by a
shareholder duly qualified to attend and vote at the meeting (other than the
person or persons nominated) and must contain a notice in writing signed by
each nominee of his willingness to be elected and to serve as a director. If a
nomination by a shareholder is not made in accordance with the foregoing
procedures, the chairman of the meeting shall have the power to declare such
nomination to be null, void and of no force or effect and to disregard such
nomination in conducting the election of directors at such meeting.
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Meetings of Shareholders
Under the Dominion Resources Bylaws, meetings of the shareholders may be
called only by the Chairman of the Board, the President or a majority of the
Board of Directors. This provision could have the effect of delaying until the
next annual shareholders' meeting shareholder actions which are favored by the
holders of a majority of outstanding voting securities, because such person or
entity, even if it acquired a majority of the outstanding voting securities of
Dominion Resources, would be able to take action as a shareholder, such as
electing new directors or approving a merger, only at a duly called
shareholders' meeting.
Under the CNG bylaws, meetings of shareholders may be called by the chairman
of the board or at the request in writing of a majority of the board of
directors or at the request in writing of the holders of 75 percent or more of
the outstanding shares of CNG common stock.
Shareholder Action Without a Meeting
Virginia law permits action by the shareholders of a public company such as
Dominion Resources without a meeting, provided that all the shareholders
consent in writing to the action taken.
The Certificate of Incorporation of CNG provides for written action by
shareholders without a meeting, provided that holders of 75 percent or more of
the shares entitled to vote consent in writing to such action. Prompt notice
of the taking of any action by less than unanimous consent must be given to
shareholders who did not consent to such action and who, if the action had
taken place at a meeting, would have been entitled to notice.
Shareholders' Inspection Rights
Virginia law provides for shareholder inspection of the "corporate records"
of Virginia corporations upon written demand at least five business days prior
to such inspection, provided that the requesting shareholder (i) has been a
shareholder of record for at least the six months preceding the written
demand; (ii) makes a demand in good faith and for a proper purpose; (iii)
describes, with particularity, the purpose and the records to be inspected;
and (iv) requests records that are connected with the purpose. Under Virginia
law, "corporate records" include the following: (a) excerpts from minutes of
any meeting of the board of directors, records of any action of a committee of
the board of directors while acting in place of the board of directors on
behalf of the corporation, minutes of the shareholders, and records of action
taken by shareholders or board of directors without a meeting, to the extent
permitted under statute; (b) accounting records of the corporation; and (c)
the record of shareholders.
Under Delaware law, a shareholder may inspect a corporation's stock ledgers,
the shareholders' list and its other books and records for any purpose
reasonably related to such person's interest as a shareholder.
Directors' Duties
The standard of conduct for directors of Virginia corporations are listed in
Section 13.1-690 of the Code of Virginia. Directors must discharge their
duties in accordance with their "good faith business judgment of the best
interest of the corporation." Directors may rely on the advice or acts of
others, including officers, employees, attorneys, accountants and board
committees if they have a good faith belief in their competence. Directors'
actions are not subject to a "reasonableness" or "prudent person" standard.
Virginia's federal courts have focused on the process involved with directors'
decisionmaking and are generally supportive of directors if they have based
their decision on an informed process. These elements of Virginia law could
make it more difficult to take over a Virginia corporation than corporations
in other states.
There is no corresponding provision in the Delaware General Corporation Law.
The Delaware standards of conduct for directors have developed through written
opinions of the Delaware courts. Generally, directors of Delaware corporations
are subject to a duty of loyalty and a duty of care. The duty of loyalty has
been said to require directors to refrain from self-dealing. According to the
Delaware Supreme Court, the duty of care requires
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"directors . . . in managing the corporate affairs . . . to use that amount of
care which ordinarily careful and prudent men would use in similar
circumstances." Later case law has established "gross negligence" as the test
for breach of the standard for the duty of care in the process of decision-
making by directors of Delaware corporations. Delaware courts have also
indicated that directors may consider the interests of various non-shareholder
constituencies provided there exists some rationally related benefit to the
shareholders.
Limitations on Director and Officer Liability; Indemnification
Dominion Resources' Articles of Incorporation contain a provision that
eliminates or limits a director's personal liability for monetary damages to
Dominion Resources or its shareholders to the full extent permitted under
Virginia law, as it may be amended from time to time. Under Virginia law, in
any proceeding brought by or on behalf of a shareholder of the company or in
the right of the company, the damages assessed against an officer or director
arising out of a single transaction, occurrence or course of conduct, shall
not exceed the lesser of: (1) the monetary amount, including the elimination
of liability, specified in the articles of incorporation or, if approved by
the shareholders, in the bylaws as a limitation on or elimination of the
liability of the officer or director; or (2) the greater of (i) $100,000 or
(ii) the amount of cash compensation received by the officer or director from
the company during the twelve months immediately preceding the act or omission
for which liability was imposed. However, an officer or director will be
liable without limitation if he or she engaged in willful misconduct, knowing
violation of criminal law or any federal or state securities law, including,
without limitation, any claim of unlawful insider trading or manipulation of
the market of any security.
As permitted by Delaware law, the Certificate of Incorporation of CNG
provides that a director of the company shall not be liable for breach of his
or her duty as a director, except for liability for: (i) any breach of the
director's duty of loyalty to the company or its shareholders; (ii) acts or
omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a
knowing violation of the law; (iii) under Section 174 of Delaware law which
imposes liability on directors for unlawful payment of dividends or unlawful
stock repurchases; or (iv) any transaction from which the director derived an
improper personal benefit. The Certificate of Incorporation does not limit the
personal liability of officers.
Indemnification provisions contained in the Articles of Incorporation of
Dominion Resources and the Bylaws of CNG as governed by Virginia law and
Delaware law, respectively, are similar. Both provisions generally require
indemnification of directors and officers to the full extent permitted by law.
In general, Virginia law and Delaware law permit a corporation to provide
indemnification for officers and directors (among such as employees or agents
of the corporation or any such person serving in such capacities for another
entity at the request of the company) who are parties or are threatened to be
made parties to any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit or
proceeding (whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative) against
expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement that are actually
and reasonably incurred.
Under Virginia law, indemnification is permitted, if so provided in the
articles of incorporation, as is the case with Dominion Resources, in all
instances, except indemnity against willful misconduct or knowing violation of
the criminal law.
Under Delaware law, indemnification is permitted if the indemnitee acted in
good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in the
corporation's best interest, and in a criminal proceeding, had no reasonable
cause to believe that the conduct was unlawful.
Under the Articles of Incorporation of Dominion Resources and the Bylaws of
CNG and under Virginia law and Delaware law, prior approval of a majority of
the company's Board of Directors is required before an officer or director may
be indemnified. However, where there is not a quorum of the disinterested
members of the Board of Directors, then such determination of indemnification
may be made as otherwise provided under the respective statutes.
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Delaware law prohibits indemnification if the proposed indemnitee is
adjudged liable to the corporation, except upon application to a court which
determines such person is reasonably entitled to such indemnification. The
limitation does not apply to directors of Dominion Resources. The rights of
Dominion Resources' and CNG's directors and officers to indemnification are
not exclusive of any other right which they may have or acquire under any
statute, the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of Dominion Resources, the
Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of CNG, any agreement, vote of
shareholders or directors, or otherwise.
Common Stock Purchase Rights
Dominion Resources does not have a shareholders rights plan.
CNG is a party to a Rights Agreement, pursuant to which CNG common stock
trades with the CNG Rights. The CNG Rights Agreement was amended to provide
that none of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement shall be a
triggering event. The CNG Rights, which cannot be traded separately from CNG
common stock, become exercisable upon the occurrence of certain triggering
events, including the accumulation by a person or group of ten percent or more
of CNG common stock. Upon the occurrence of a merger or other business
combination in which the interests of the holders of CNG common stock are
changed, holders of the rights, other than the "acquiring person," will be
entitled to purchase CNG common stock or stock of the "acquiring person," at
half its market value. In addition, any time after a person or group acquires
ten percent or more of outstanding shares of CNG common stock, the CNG Board
may, at its option, exchange part or all of the rights (other than rights held
by the "acquiring person") for CNG common stock on a one-for-one basis. The
CNG Rights could have the effect of delaying, deferring, or preventing a
takeover or change of control of CNG under certain circumstances.
Anti-takeover Statutes
Virginia law and Delaware law regulate transactions with major shareholders
after they become major shareholders.
Virginia law provides Virginia corporations with additional protections
against hostile takeovers. The Virginia Affiliated Transactions Act restricts
certain transactions between a Virginia corporation and a holder of 10 percent
or more of the corporation's outstanding voting stock, together with
affiliates or associates thereof (an "interested shareholder"). For a period
of three years following the date that a shareholder becomes an interested
shareholder, the Virginia Affiliated Transactions Act generally prohibits the
following types of transactions between the corporation and the interested
shareholder (unless certain conditions, described below, are met): (i)
mergers; (ii) sales, leases, exchanges, mortgages, pledges, transfers or other
dispositions (in one or a series of transactions) having a total market value
in excess of five percent of the corporation's consolidated net worth; (iii)
any guarantees of indebtedness of any interested shareholder in an amount in
excess of five percent of the corporation's consolidated net worth; (iv) sales
or other dispositions by the corporation or any subsidiary thereof of any
voting shares of the corporation or any subsidiary thereof having a market
value of five percent or more of the total market value of the outstanding
voting shares of the corporation to any interested shareholder or affiliate of
any interested shareholder other than pursuant to a stock dividend or the
exercise of rights or warrants; (v) the dissolution of the corporation if
proposed by or on behalf of an interested shareholder; (vi) any
reclassification of securities, including any reverse stock split, or
recapitalization of the corporation, or any merger of the corporation with any
of its subsidiaries or any distribution or other transaction which has the
effect directly or indirectly of increasing by more than 5 percent the
percentage of the outstanding voting shares of the corporation or any of its
subsidiaries beneficially owned by any interested shareholder; and (vii) any
share exchange in which an interested shareholder acquires a class or series
of the corporation's voting stock, unless the affiliated transaction is
approved by (a) a majority of the disinterested directors, and (b) two-thirds
of the disinterested voting shares. Additionally, after the three-year
prohibition on affiliated transactions has expired, an affiliated transaction
must be approved by two-thirds of the votes cast by disinterested
shareholders.
66
<PAGE>
The foregoing voting requirements do not apply if the particular affiliated
transaction (i) has been approved by a majority of the disinterested
directors; (ii) meets the fair price requirements of the Virginia Affiliated
Transactions Act; or (iii) qualifies for one of the statutory exemptions. A
Virginia corporation may exempt itself from the requirements of the statute in
its articles of incorporation. In this regard, the company has not exempted
itself from the provisions of the Virginia Affiliated Transactions Act.
Additionally, the Virginia Affiliated Transactions Act does not apply to
corporations with less than 300 shareholders of record.
Under Delaware law, a Delaware corporation is prohibited from engaging in
mergers, dispositions of 10 percent or more of its assets, and issuances of
stock and other transactions ("business combinations") with a person or group
that owns 15 percent or more of the voting stock of the corporation (an
"interested shareholder"), for a period of three years after the interested
shareholder crosses the 15 percent threshold. These restrictions on
transactions involving an interested shareholder do not apply in certain
circumstances, including those transactions in which (i) prior to an
interested shareholder owning 15 percent or more of the voting stock, the
board of directors approved the business combination or the transaction that
resulted in the person or group becoming an interested shareholder; (ii) in a
transaction that resulted in a person or group becoming an interested
shareholder, the person or group acquired at least 85 percent of the voting
stock other than stock owned by inside directors and certain employee stock
plans; (iii) after the person or group became an interested shareholder, the
board of directors and at least 66 2/3 percent of the voting stock other than
stock owned by the interested shareholder approved the business combination;
or (iv) certain competitive bidding circumstances were present.
Virginia law also contains the Virginia Control Share Acquisition Act, which
requires an interested investor who acquires a threshold percentage of stock
in a target corporation to obtain the approval of non-interested shareholders
before it may exercise voting rights. Under the Virginia Control Share
Acquisition Act, certain notice and informational filings and special
shareholder meeting and voting procedures must be followed prior to
consummation of a proposed "control share acquisition," which is generally
defined as any acquisition of an issuer's shares which would entitle the
acquiror, immediately after such acquisition, directly or indirectly, to
exercise or direct the exercise of voting power of the issuer in the election
of directors within any of the following ranges of such voting power: (i) one-
fifth or more but less than one-third of such voting power; (ii) one-third or
more but less than a majority of such voting power; or (iii) a majority or
more of such voting power. Assuming compliance with the notice and information
filings prescribed by statute, the proposed control share acquisition may be
made only if the acquisition is approved by a majority of all votes entitled
to be cast for the election of directors, excluding the combined voting power
of the "interested shares" (generally, the shares held by the intended
acquiror and the directors and officers of the issuer). A Virginia corporation
may include a provision in its articles of incorporation or bylaws exempting
the corporation from Virginia's Control Share Acquisitions Statute. Dominion
Resources, however, has not exempted itself from the provisions of Virginia's
Control Share Acquisitions Statute. Delaware law does not contain any similar
type of statute.
The Dominion Resources Bylaws give Dominion Resources the right to redeem
the shares purchased by an acquiring person in a control share acquisition.
Dominion Resources can call the shares for redemption if the acquiring person
fails to deliver a statement to Dominion Resources listing information
required by the Virginia Act or if Dominion Resources shareholders vote not to
grant voting rights to the acquiring person.
Consolidation, Merger, Share Exchange and Transfer of Assets
In addition to the anti-takeover provisions discussed above, Virginia law
requires consolidations, mergers, share exchanges and certain asset transfers
to be approved by shareholders. Under Virginia law and Dominion Resources'
Articles of Incorporation, the vote required for approval is a majority of the
votes cast on the transaction by each voting group entitled to vote, at a
meeting at which a quorum of the voting group exists.
Delaware law does not require shareholder approval in the case of asset and
share acquisitions and, in general, requires approval of mergers and
disposition of substantially all of a corporation's assets by a majority vote
of the voting power of the corporation.
67
<PAGE>
Shareholders' Rights in Certain Transactions
Virginia law provides generally, with certain exceptions hereinafter
described, that a shareholder of a Virginia corporation has the right to
demand and receive payment of the fair value of the shareholder's stock from a
successor corporation if: (i) the corporation merges or consolidates with
another corporation; (ii) the shareholder's stock is to be acquired in a share
exchange; (iii) the corporation transfers its assets other than in the
ordinary course of business; or (iv) the corporation alters its charter in a
way which alters contractual rights, as expressly set forth in the charter, of
any outstanding stock and substantially adversely affects the shareholder's
rights, unless the right to do so is reserved by the charter of the
corporation.
In order for a shareholder to perfect their dissenters rights, such
shareholder must file with the corporation prior to the vote a demand in
writing for the fair cash value of his shares of his or her intent to demand
payment. Virginia law provides that the right to fair value does not apply,
with certain exceptions, if (i) the stock is listed on a national securities
exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation
System or (ii) if the stock is held by at least 2,000 record shareholders.
Delaware law provides similar rights in the context of a merger or
consolidation only.
Dominion Resources' shareholders will not have dissenters' rights in
connection with the types of transactions as described under Virginia law
above either before or after the merger since the company's stock is and will
be held by at least 2,000 record shareholders.
CNG shareholders will not have dissenters' rights under Delaware law in
connection with the merger since they will receive only shares of Dominion
Resources common stock which are listed on the New York Stock Exchange or cash
in lieu of fractional shares.
Anti-takeover Effects
Many of the provisions contained in the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
of Dominion Resources and under Virginia law are similar to the provisions
contained in the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of CNG and under
Delaware law. These provisions could have the effect of discouraging an
acquisition of the company or stock purchases in furtherance of an
acquisition, and could, under certain circumstances, discourage transactions
which might otherwise have a favorable effect on the price of the company's
common stock. These provisions may serve to make it more difficult to remove
incumbent management and may also discourage all attempts to acquire control
not approved by the Board of Directors for any reason. As a result,
shareholders who might desire to participate in, or benefit from, such a
transaction may not have an opportunity to do so.
Amendment of Articles of Incorporation
Generally, the Dominion Resources Articles of Incorporation may be amended
by a majority of the votes present by each voting group entitled to vote on a
given matter. Some provisions of the Articles of Incorporation, however, may
only be amended or repealed by a vote of at least two-thirds of the
outstanding shares entitled to vote.
Under Delaware law, amendments to the certificate of incorporation may be
authorized by the vote of the holders of a majority of all outstanding shares
entitled to vote thereon. The CNG Certificate of Incorporation provides that
certain specified sections may only be amended by the affirmative vote of
holders of 75 percent or more of the outstanding shares of CNG common stock.
68
<PAGE>
AMENDMENT TO THE DOMINION RESOURCES' ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
Dominion Resources' shareholders are being asked to vote on a proposed
amendment to that company's Articles of Incorporation.
Under Article III of its Articles of Incorporation Dominion Resources has
authority to issue 300,000,000 shares of common stock. The Dominion Resources
Board of Directors is recommending that this Article be revised to allow the
company authority to issue 500,000,000 shares of common stock.
This amendment will provide Dominion Resources with the shares it needs for
issuance under the merger agreement. Under the terms of the merger, Dominion
Resources will issue 1.52 shares of Dominion Resources common stock for each
share of CNG common stock. As of there were Dominion Resources
shares and CNG shares outstanding. Assuming the same number of
shares is outstanding immediately before the closing of the merger, the number
of Dominion Resources shares to be issued in the merger would be ,
which would represent approximately percent of the outstanding Dominion
Resources shares immediately after the closing of the merger.
Dominion Resources' intends to issue shares of Dominion
Resources common stock in connection with the merger. If the amendment to
increase the number of authorized shares is approved, but the merger fails,
Dominion Resources will have authorized but unissued shares.
These additional authorized shares will give Dominion Resources the ability
to respond to future business needs and opportunities and, after the merger,
will be available for issuance by Dominion Resources without further approval
by the shareholders. Dominion Resources would be able to issue additional
shares in connection with other acquisitions, investment opportunities or for
other corporate purposes. Other corporate purposes might include a public
offering to raise capital funds, debt or equity securities that would be
convertible to common stock, and the issuance of common stock in connection
with Dominion Resources' employee benefit and stock purchase plans. The
percentage interest of current Dominion Resources shareholders could be
reduced if these additional authorized shares were issued to new shareholders.
The Board of Directors could use the additional shares of common stock to
discourage an attempt to change control of Dominion Resources. However, the
Board of Directors does not intend to issue common stock for that purposes and
this proposal is not being recommended in response to any specific effort to
obtain control of Dominion Resources.
The Board of Directors has unanimously approved this amendment.
The Board of Directors recommends that Dominion Resources shareholders vote
FOR the proposed amendment to the Dominion Resources Articles of
Incorporation.
69
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The merger is to be accounted for in accordance with the pooling-of-
interests method of accounting pursuant to APB Opinion No. 16. Accordingly,
the accompanying unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial information
gives effect to the transaction in accordance with the pooling-of-interests
method of accounting. The unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial
information should be read in conjunction with (i) Dominion Resources' audited
consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Dominion
Resources' 1998 Form 10-K and (ii) CNG's audited consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto, included in Exhibit 99 to its 1998 Form 10-K
each incorporated by reference in this document. See WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE
INFORMATION. The unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial information
has been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
These principles require management to make use of estimates and assumptions
that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The
unaudited pro forma combined condensed results of operations are not
necessarily indicative of future operating results. The unaudited pro forma
combined condensed balance sheet gives effect to the merger as if it had
occurred on December 31, 1998, combining the balance sheets of Dominion
Resources and CNG at December 31, 1998. The unaudited pro forma combined
condensed statements of earnings give effect to the merger as if it had
occurred on January 1, 1996. The unaudited pro forma combined condensed
financial statements are not necessarily indicative of actual or future
financial position or results of operations that would have or will occur upon
consummation of the merger.
70
<PAGE>
Dominion Resources and Subsidiary Companies
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31, 1998
-------------------------------------------------------
Dominion
Resources CNG Pro Forma Pro Forma
(As Reported) (As Reclassified) Adjustments Combined
------------- ----------------- ----------- ---------
(in millions--except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES AND
INCOME
Virginia Power........ $4,285 $4,285
Consolidated Natural
Gas.................. $4,336 $(1,591)(B) 2,745
East Midlands......... 1,009 1,009
Nonutility............ 792 792
------ ------ ------- ------
Total operating revenues
and income............. 6,086 4,336 (1,591) 8,831
------ ------ ------- ------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Fuel, net............. 953 953
Purchased power
capacity, net........ 806 806
Purchased gas......... 1,925 (1,025)(B) 900
Liquids, capacity and
other products
purchased............ 711 (566)(B) 145
Supply and
distribution--East
Midlands............. 655 655
Impairment of
regulatory assets.... 159 159
Other operation and
maintenance.......... 1,381 776 (16)(C) 2,141
Depreciation,
depletion &
amortization......... 734 332 (1)(C) 1,065
Other taxes........... 307 182 489
------ ------ ------- ------
Total operating
expenses............... 4,995 3,926 (1,608) 7,313
------ ------ ------- ------
Operating income........ 1,091 410 17 1,518
------ ------ ------- ------
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE
Gain on Sale of East
Midlands............. 332 332
Other................. 94 49 143
------ ------ ------- ------
Total other income...... 426 49 -- 475
------ ------ ------- ------
Income before fixed
charges, income taxes
and minority
interests.............. 1,517 459 17 1,993
------ ------ ------- ------
FIXED CHARGES
Interest charges...... 583 116 699
Preferred dividends of
Va. Power............ 29 29
Distributions--
preferred securities
of sub. trusts....... 36 36
------ ------ ------- ------
Total fixed charges..... 648 116 -- 764
------ ------ ------- ------
Income before provision
for income taxes and
minority interests..... 869 343 17 1,229
Provision for income
taxes.................. 306 104 6(C) 416
Minority interests...... 27 27
------ ------ ------- ------
NET INCOME.............. $ 536 $ 239 $ 11 $ 786
====== ====== ======= ======
Average Number of Shares
Outstanding............ 194.9 94.8 52.3(D) 342.0
------ ------ ======= ------
EARNINGS PER SHARE
(basic)................ $ 2.75 $ 2.52 $ 2.30
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE
(diluted).............. $ 2.75 $ 2.49 $ 2.29
====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
71
<PAGE>
Dominion Resources and Subsidiary Companies
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31, 1997
-------------------------------------------------------
Dominion
Resources CNG Pro Forma Pro Forma
(As Reported) (As Reclassified) Adjustments Combined
------------- ----------------- ----------- ---------
(in millions--except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES AND
INCOME
Virginia Power........ $4,664 $ 4,664
Consolidated Natural
Gas.................. $5,710 $(2,505)(B) 3,205
East Midlands......... 1,970 1,970
Nonutility............ 628 628
------ ------ ------- -------
Total operating revenues
and income............. 7,262 5,710 (2,505) 10,467
------ ------ ------- -------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Fuel, net............. 1,204 1,204
Purchased power
capacity, net........ 717 717
Purchased gas......... 2,960 (1,846)(B) 1,114
Liquids, capacity and
other products
purchased............ 870 (659)(B) 211
Supply and
distribution--East
Midlands............. 1,466 1,466
Impairment of
regulatory assets.... 38 38
Restructuring......... 18 18
Impairment of gas and
oil producing
properties........... 10 10
Other operation and
maintenance.......... 1,244 799 (11)(C) 2,032
Depreciation,
depletion &
amortization......... 819 330 (3)(C) 1,146
Other taxes........... 283 196 479
------ ------ ------- -------
Total operating
expenses............... 5,789 5,165 (2,519) 8,435
------ ------ ------- -------
Operating income........ 1,473 545 14 2,032
------ ------ ------- -------
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE
Windfall Profits Tax.. (157) (157)
Other................. 38 13 51
------ ------ ------- -------
Total other income...... (119) 13 -- (106)
------ ------ ------- -------
Income before fixed
charges, income taxes
and minority
interests.............. 1,354 558 14 1,926
------ ------ ------- -------
FIXED CHARGES
Interest charges...... 627 107 734
Preferred dividends of
Va. Power............ 12 12
Distributions--
preferred securities
of sub. trusts....... 36 36
------ ------ ------- -------
Total fixed charges..... 675 107 -- 782
------ ------ ------- -------
Income before provision
for income taxes and
minority interests..... 679 451 14 1,144
Provision for income
taxes.................. 233 147 5(C) 385
Minority interests...... 47 47
------ ------ ------- -------
NET INCOME.............. $ 399 $ 304 $ 9 $ 712
====== ====== ======= =======
Average Number of Shares
Outstanding............ 185.2 94.9 52.3(D) 332.4
====== ====== ======= =======
EARNINGS PER SHARE
(basic)................ $ 2.15 $ 3.21 $ 2.14
====== ====== =======
EARNINGS PER SHARE
(diluted) ............. $ 2.15 $ 3.15 $ 2.09
====== ====== =======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
72
<PAGE>
Dominion Resources and Subsidiary Companies
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31, 1996
------------------------------------------------------
Dominion
Resources CNG Pro Forma Pro Forma
(As Reported) (As Reclassified) Adjustments Combined
------------- ----------------- ----------- ---------
(in millions--except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES AND
INCOME
Virginia Power........ $4,382 $4,382
Consolidated Natural
Gas.................. $3,794 $(820)(B) 2,974
Nonutility............ 433 433
------ ------ ----- ------
Total operating revenues
and income............. 4,815 3,794 (820) 7,789
------ ------ ----- ------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Fuel, net............. 979 979
Purchased power
capacity, net........ 701 701
Purchased gas......... 1,615 (652)(B) 963
Liquids, capacity and
other products
purchased............ 347 (168)(B) 179
Impairment of
regulatory assets.... 27 27
Restructuring......... 65 65
Other operation and
maintenance.......... 1,054 789 (7)(C) 1,836
Depreciation,
depletion &
amortization......... 615 304 (6)(C) 913
Other taxes........... 275 191 466
------ ------ ----- ------
Total operating
expenses............... 3,716 3,246 (833) 6,129
------ ------ ----- ------
Operating income........ 1,099 548 13 1,660
------ ------ ----- ------
OTHER INCOME AND
EXPENSE................ 35 9 -- 44
------ ------ ----- ------
Income before fixed
charges, income taxes
and minority
interests.............. 1,134 557 13 1,704
------ ------ ----- ------
FIXED CHARGES
Interest charges...... 387 103 490
Preferred dividends of
Va. Power............ 11 11
Distributions--
preferred securities
of sub. trusts....... 35 35
------ ------ ----- ------
Total fixed charges..... 433 103 -- 536
------ ------ ----- ------
Income before provision
for income taxes and
minority interests..... 701 454 13 1,168
Provision for income
taxes.................. 219 156 5 (C) 380
Minority interests...... 10 10
------ ------ ----- ------
NET INCOME.............. $ 472 $ 298 $ 8 $ 778
====== ====== ===== ======
Average Number of Shares
Outstanding............ 178.3 94.1 51.9 (D) 324.3
====== ====== ===== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE
(basic)................ $ 2.65 $ 3.17 $ 2.40
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE
(diluted).............. $ 2.65 $ 3.13 $ 2.35
====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
73
<PAGE>
Dominion Resources and Subsidiary Companies
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
December 31, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Dominion Pro
Resources CNG (As Pro Forma Forma
(As Reported) Reclassified) Adjustments Combined
ASSETS ------------- ------------- ----------- --------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents... $ 426 $ 138 $ 564
Accounts receivable, net.... 1,034 575 1,609
Materials and supplies......
Plant and general......... 142 28 170
Fossil fuel............... 95 95
Gas stored................ 121 121
Mortgage loans in
warehouse.................. 140 140
Commodity contract assets... 180 180
Other....................... 268 316 $16 (G) 600
------- ------ --- -------
2,285 1,178 16 3,479
------- ------ --- -------
INVESTMENTS
Loans receivable, net....... 1,687 1,687
Other investments........... 1,944 302 2,246
------- ------ --- -------
3,631 302 -- 3,933
------- ------ --- -------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Utility and other plant..... 17,396 5,096 22,492
Accumulated depreciation,
depletion and
amortization............... 7,254 2,001 9,255
------- ------ --- -------
Net utility and other
plant.................... 10,142 3,095 -- 13,237
------- ------ --- -------
Exploration and production
properties................. 710 4,081 (10)(C) 4,781
Accumulated depreciation and
amortization............... 215 2,735 (17)(C) 2,933
------- ------ --- -------
Net exploration and
production properties.... 495 1,346 7 1,848
------- ------ --- -------
10,637 4,441 7 15,085
------- ------ --- -------
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER
ASSETS
Goodwill.................... 150 150
Regulatory assets........... 620 224 844
Other....................... 194 235 429
------- ------ --- -------
964 459 -- 1,423
------- ------ --- -------
TOTAL ASSETS.............. $17,517 $6,380 $23 $23,920
======= ====== === =======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
74
<PAGE>
Dominion Resources and Subsidiary Companies
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
December 31, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Dominion Pro Pro
Resources CNG (As Forma Forma
LIABILITIES AND As Reported Reclassified) Adjustments Combined
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY ----------- ------------- ----------- --------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Securities due within
one year.............. $ 1,623 $ 111 $ 1,734
Short-term debt........ 301 559 860
Accounts payable....... 699 489 $ 40 (G) 1,228
Commodity contract
liabilities........... 266 266
Other.................. 630 403 1,033
------- ------ ----- -------
3,519 1,562 40 5,121
------- ------ ----- -------
LONG-TERM DEBT........... 5,071 1,380 6,451
------- ------ ----- -------
DEFERRED CREDITS AND
OTHER LIABILITIES
Deferred income taxes.. 1,793 781 2 (C) 2,576
Investment tax
credits............... 221 24 245
Other.................. 213 233 446
------- ------ ----- -------
2,227 1,038 2 3,267
------- ------ ----- -------
Total liabilities...... 10,817 3,980 42 14,839
------- ------ ----- -------
MINORITY INTEREST........ 311 311
------- ------ ----- -------
OBLIGATED MANDATORILY
REDEEMABLE PREFERRED
SECURITIES OF SUBSIDIARY
TRUSTS.................. 385 385
------- ------ ----- -------
PREFERRED STOCK:
Subject to mandatory
redemption............ 180 180
------- ------ ----- -------
Not subject to
mandatory redemption.. 509 509
------- ------ ----- -------
COMMON SHAREHOLDERS'
EQUITY
Common stock........... 3,933 238 672 (D)(I) 4,843
Retained earnings...... 1,386 1,597 (119)(G)(C)(D) 2,864
Accumulated other
comprehensive income.. (20) (7) (27)
Other paid in capital.. 16 572 (572)(F) 16
------- ------ ----- -------
5,315 2,400 (19) 7,696
------- ------ ----- -------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY.... $17,517 $6,380 $ 23 $23,920
======= ====== ===== =======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
75
<PAGE>
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
Unaudited Reclassifying Condensed
Consolidated Statement of Income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31, 1998
--------------------------------------
CNG
CNG (As (Reclassifying CNG (As
Reported) Entries)(H/1/) Reclassified)
--------- -------------- -------------
(in millions--except per share
amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES AND INCOME
Gas sales............................. $1,868 $1,049 $2,917
Gas transportation and storage........ 546 (10) 536
Other................................. 346 537 883
------ ------ ------
Total operating revenues and income..... 2,760 1,576 4,336
------ ------ ------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Purchased gas......................... 900 1,025 1,925
Liquids, capacity, and other products
purchased............................ 145 566 711
Other operation and maintenance....... 709 67 776
Depreciation, depletion &
amortization......................... 330 2 332
Taxes, other than income taxes........ 179 3 182
------ ------ ------
Total operating expenses................ 2,263 1,663 3,926
------ ------ ------
Operating income before income taxes.... 497 (87) 410
INCOME TAXES............................ 130 (26) 104
------ ------ ------
Operating income........................ 367 (61) 306
OTHER INCOME............................ 35 14 49
------ ------ ------
Income before interest charges.......... 402 (47) 355
INTEREST CHARGES........................ 114 2 116
------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS....... 288 (49) 239
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS................. (49) 49 --
------ ------ ------
NET INCOME.............................. $ 239 $-- $ 239
====== ====== ======
Average Number of Shares Outstanding.... 94.8 94.8 94.8
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE--basic
Continuing Operations................. $ 3.03 $(0.51) $ 2.52
Discontinued Operations............... (0.51) 0.51 --
------ ------ ------
EARNINGS PER SHARE.................... $ 2.52 $ -- $ 2.52
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE--diluted
Continuing Operations................. $ 3.00 $(0.51) $ 2.49
Discontinued Operations............... (0.51) 0.51 --
------ ------ ------
EARNINGS PER SHARE.................... $ 2.49 $ -- $ 2.49
====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
76
<PAGE>
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
Unaudited Reclassifying Condensed
Consolidated Statement of Income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31, 1997
----------------------------------------------
CNG
CNG (Reclassifying CNG
(As Reported) Entries)(H/1/) (As Reclassified)
------------- -------------- -----------------
(in millions--except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES AND INCOME
Gas sales..................... $2,284 $1,906 $4,190
Gas transportation and
storage...................... 492 (12) 480
Other......................... 401 639 1,040
------ ------ ------
Total operating revenues and
income......................... 3,177 2,533 5,710
------ ------ ------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Purchased gas................. 1,114 1,846 2,960
Liquids, capacity, and other
products purchased........... 211 659 870
Impairment of gas and oil
producing properties......... 10 -- 10
Other operation and
maintenance.................. 757 42 799
Depreciation, depletion &
amortization................. 325 5 330
Taxes, other than income
taxes........................ 194 2 196
------ ------ ------
Total operating expenses........ 2,611 2,554 5,165
------ ------ ------
Operating income before income
taxes.......................... 566 (21) 545
INCOME TAXES.................... 156 (9) 147
------ ------ ------
Operating income................ 410 (12) 398
OTHER INCOME.................... 13 -- 13
------ ------ ------
Income before interest charges.. 423 (12) 411
INTEREST CHARGES................ 104 3 107
------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM CONTINUING
OPERATIONS..................... 319 (15) 304
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS......... (15) 15 --
------ ------ ------
NET INCOME...................... $ 304 $ -- $ 304
====== ====== ======
Average Number of Shares
Outstanding.................... 94.9 94.9 94.9
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE -basic
Continuing Operations......... $ 3.36 $(0.15) $ 3.21
Discontinued Operations....... (0.15) 0.15 --
------ ------ ------
EARNINGS PER SHARE............ $ 3.21 $ -- $ 3.21
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE -diluted
Continuing Operations......... $ 3.30 $(0.15) $ 3.15
Discontinued Operations....... (0.15) 0.15 --
------ ------ ------
EARNINGS PER SHARE............ $ 3.15 $ -- $ 3.15
====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
77
<PAGE>
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
Unaudited Reclassifying Condensed
Consolidated Statement of Income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended December 31, 1996
----------------------------------------------
CNG
CNG (Reclassifying CNG
(As Reported) Entries)(H/1/) (As Reclassified)
------------- -------------- -----------------
(in millions--except per share amounts)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES AND INCOME
Gas sales..................... $2,150 $ 695 $2,845
Gas transportation and
storage...................... 479 (14) 465
Other......................... 326 158 484
------ ------ ------
Total operating revenues and
income......................... 2,955 839 3,794
------ ------ ------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Purchased gas................. 963 652 1,615
Liquids, capacity, and other
products purchased........... 179 168 347
Other operation and
maintenance.................. 757 32 789
Depreciation, depletion &
amortization................. 303 1 304
Taxes, other than income
taxes........................ 191 -- 191
------ ------ ------
Total operating expenses........ 2,393 853 3,246
------ ------ ------
Operating income before income
taxes.......................... 562 (14) 548
INCOME TAXES.................... 162 (6) 156
------ ------ ------
Operating income................ 400 (8) 392
OTHER INCOME.................... 9 -- 9
------ ------ ------
Income before interest charges.. 409 (8) 401
INTEREST CHARGES................ 100 3 103
------ ------ ------
INCOME FROM CONTINUING
OPERATIONS..................... 309 (11) 298
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS......... (11) 11 --
------ ------ ------
NET INCOME...................... $ 298 $ -- $ 298
====== ====== ======
Average Number of Shares
Outstanding.................... 94.1 94.1 94.1
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE--basic
Continuing Operations......... $ 3.29 $(0.12) $ 3.17
Discontinued Operations....... (0.12) 0.12 --
------ ------ ------
EARNINGS PER SHARE............ $ 3.17 $ -- $ 3.17
====== ====== ======
EARNINGS PER SHARE--diluted
Continuing Operations......... $ 3.24 $(0.11) $ 3.13
Discontinued Operations....... (0.11) 0.11 --
------ ------ ------
EARNINGS PER SHARE............ $ 3.13 $ -- $ 3.13
====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
78
<PAGE>
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
Unaudited Reclassifying Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheet
December 31, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CNG
CNG (Reclassifying CNG
(As Reported) Entries) (As Reclassified)
ASSETS ------------- -------------- -----------------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
PROPERTY, PLANT AND
EQUIPMENT
Gas utility and other
plant................ $5,092 $ 4 (H/1/) $5,096
Accumulated
depreciation and
amortization......... 1,999 2 (H/1/) 2,001
------ ----- ------
Net gas utility and
other plant........ 3,093 2 3,095
------ ----- ------
Exploration and
production
properties........... 4,081 4,081
Accumulated
depreciation and
amortization......... 2,735 2,735
------ ----- ------
Net exploration and
production
properties......... 1,346 -- 1,346
------ ----- ------
Net property, plant
and equipment........ 4,439 2 4,441
------ ----- ------
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash
equivalents.......... 135 3 (H/1/) 138
Accounts receivable
Customers........... 363 212 (H/2/)(H/1/) 575
Unbilled revenues
and other.......... 222 (222)(H/2/) 0
Allowance for
doubtful accounts.. (23) 23 (H/2/) 0
Inventories, at cost
Gas stored--current
portion............ 121 121
Materials and
supplies........... 28 28
Unrecovered gas
costs................ 35 (35)(H/3/) 0
Deferred income
taxes--current....... 22 (22)(H/3/) 0
Prepayments and other
current assets....... 259 57 (H/3/) 316
------ ----- ------
Total current
assets............. 1,162 16 1,178
------ ----- ------
REGULATORY AND OTHER
ASSETS
Other investments..... 302 302
Regulatory assets..... 224 (H/4/) 224
Deferred charges and
other assets......... 459 (224)(H/4/) 235
------ ----- ------
Total regulatory and
other assets....... 761 -- 761
------ ----- ------
TOTAL ASSETS...... $6,362 $ 18 $6,380
====== ===== ======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
79
<PAGE>
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
Unaudited Reclassifying Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheet
December 31, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CNG
CNG (As (Reclassifying CNG (As
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND Reported) Entries) Reclassified)
LIABILITIES --------- -------------- -------------
(in millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CAPITALIZATION
Common stockholders' equity
Common Stock.................. $ 264 $ (26)(H/6/) $ 238
Capital in excess of par...... 572 572
Retained earnings............. 1,591 6 (H/5/)(H/9/) 1,597
Accumulated other
comprehensive income......... (7)(H/9/) (7)
Treasury stock................ (26) 26 (H/6/) --
Unearned compensation......... (1) 1 (H/5/) --
------ ----- ------
Total common stockholders
equity..................... 2,400 -- 2,400
Long-term debt.................. 1,380 1,380
------ ----- ------
Total capitalization........ 3,780 -- 3,780
------ ----- ------
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Current maturities on long-
term debt.................... 111 111
Commercial paper.............. 559 559
Accounts payable.............. 424 65 (H/7/)(H/1/) 489
Estimated rate contingencies.. 78 (78)(H/8/) 0
Accounts payable to
customers.................... 48 (48)(H/7/) 0
Taxes accrued................. 123 (123)(H/8/) 0
Dividends declared............ 46 (46)(H/8/) 0
Other current liabilities..... 155 248 (H/8/)(H/1/) 403
------ ----- ------
Total liabilities........... 1,544 18 1,562
------ ----- ------
DEFERRED CREDITS
Deferred income taxes......... 781 781
Accumulated deferred
investment tax credits....... 24 24
Deferred credits and other
liabilities.................. 233 233
------ ----- ------
Total deferred credits...... 1,038 -- 1,038
------ ----- ------
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
AND LIABILITIES............ $6,362 $ 18 $6,380
====== ===== ======
</TABLE>
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements.
80
<PAGE>
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements
A. There were no material intercompany transactions between Dominion
Resources, including its subsidiaries, and CNG, including its subsidiaries,
during the periods presented.
Proforma Adjustments:
B. Dominion Resources' policy is to record revenues from its commodity trading
activities net of related costs of sales. This adjustment conforms CNG's
trading activities to reflect this policy.
C. Dominion Resources uses the successful efforts method to account for its
oil and gas activities. CNG utilizes the full cost method of accounting for
its oil and gas operations. The pro forma statements reflect Dominion
Resources' change from the successful efforts method to the full cost
method which resulted in a $11 million, $9 million, and $8 million increase
in earnings in the income statement for the years ended December 31, 1998,
1997, and 1996, respectively, and a $7 million increase in total assets in
the balance sheet.
D. The unaudited pro forma combined condensed consolidated financial
statements reflect the conversion of each outstanding share of CNG common
stock into 1.52 shares of Dominion Resources common stock, as provided in
the merger agreement, and are presented as if the companies were combined
during all periods included therein. The combined authorized shares reflect
the number of shares which would be authorized assuming the share issuance
proposed herein had been approved on December 31, 1998.
The pro forma statements also reflect the Stock Out of all outstanding CNG
stock options and performance shares, estimated to be $100 million (pre-
tax) based on a fair value model.
E. The pro forma average number of outstanding shares of Dominion Resources
common stock was calculated by multiplying the average number of
outstanding shares of CNG common stock during the year by the exchange
ratio of 1.52 and adding the result to the average number of outstanding
shares of Dominion Resources common stock during the year.
F. The pro forma adjustment to common stock and paid-in capital represents the
effects of recording the merger as of the balance sheet date using the
pooling of interests method of accounting whereby the common stock and
paid-in capital amounts are adjusted to reflect the difference in par value
of Dominion Resources common stock without par value compared with CNG
common stock with a $2.75 par value and the exchange ratio of 1.52 shares
of Dominion Resources common stock for each share of CNG common stock.
G. The companies expect to record a charge in 1999 to cover the direct costs
of the merger (including fees of financial advisors, legal counsel and
independent auditors), the cost associated with employment agreements, and
the costs associated with merger integration. The direct costs of the
merger are estimated to be $24 million, net of applicable income taxes, and
has been charged to retained earnings in the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as if they had been incurred as of
December 31, 1998 and will be charged against income. These charges were
not considered in the pro forma combined condensed statements of income.
The estimated charges and nature of costs included therein are subject to
change, as more accurate estimates become available.
The pro forma financial statements do not reflect the non-recurring costs
and expenses associated with integrating the operations of the two
companies, nor any of the anticipated recurring expense savings arising
from the integration. Costs of integration will result in significant non-
recurring charges to the combined results of operations after consummation
of the merger; however, the actual amount of such charges cannot be
determined until the transition plan relating to the integration of
operations is completed.
81
<PAGE>
H. Reclassifying Entries:
The CNG unaudited reclassifying condensed consolidated financial statements
reflect the reclassifying entries necessary to adjust CNG's condensed
consolidated balance sheet and income statement presentations to be
consistent with the presentation expected to be used by Dominion Resources
after the merger is completed. The following describes such reclassifying
entries:
(1) To reclassify discontinued operations
(2) To reclassify accounts receivable
(3) To reclassify other current assets
(4) To reclassify regulatory assets
(5) To reclassify unearned compensation
(6) To reclassify treasury stock
(7) To reclassify accounts payable to customers
(8) To reclassify other current liabilities
(9) To reclassify other comprehensive income
I. Pursuant to the terms of CNG's stock incentive plans, holders of vested
options and awards are granted limited stock appreciation rights upon a
change of control. For a period of 60 days subsequent to the change of
control, the employee may elect to receive shares of CNG stock in exchange
for vested options or awards. The number of shares received would be based
on the formula included in the associated plans, which considers the option
price, award value, and CNG stock price during the 30-day period prior to
the change of control.
CNG will incur charges to compensation expense in 1999 resulting from the
exercise of the rights whether or not the merger is consummated. The amount
of the charge will be determined based on the value of the shares per the
formula, the option price or value of the award exchanged, and the number
of rights exercised. It is not possible to estimate the likelihood that
such rights will be exercised or to estimate the CNG stock price during the
period. Therefore, no adjustments have been included in the accompanying
pro forma combined condensed consolidated financial statements. However,
based on the current equivalent per share price for CNG shares and assuming
that all employees exercised their rights during the 60 day period, the
total charge to compensation expense would be approximately $60 million.
J. The estimated provision for income taxes related to the pro forma
adjustments are based on an assumed combined federal and state income tax
rate of 40%.
82
<PAGE>
LEGAL MATTERS
The legality of the Dominion Resources shares being offered hereby is being
passed upon for Dominion Resources by James F. Stutts, Esquire, its Vice
President and General Counsel.
EXPERTS
The financial statements of Dominion Resources, Inc. and subsidiaries as of
December 31, 1998 and 1997 and for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1998 incorporated by reference in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent
auditors, as stated in their report which is incorporated herein by reference,
and have been so incorporated in reliance upon the reports of such firm given
upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
The consolidated financial statements of Consolidated Natural Gas Company
and its subsidiaries incorporated in this joint proxy statement/prospectus by
reference to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Consolidated Natural Gas
Company for the year ended December 31, 1998, have been so incorporated in
reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants,
given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
The estimates of gas and oil reserves included in the aforesaid Annual
Report on Form 10-K of Consolidated Natural Gas Company for the year ended
December 31, 1998 are incorporated in this joint proxy statement/prospectus by
reference thereto in reliance upon the report of Ralph E. Davis Associates,
Inc., independent geologists, as experts.
SUBMISSION OF SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Dominion Resources shareholders must follow certain advance notice
procedures in order to submit a shareholder proposal. For the proposal to be
considered at the 2000 Annual Meeting, it must be in writing and received by
the Corporate Secretary by January 15, 2000. For the proposal to be included
in the Dominion Resources 2000 proxy statement, the Corporate Secretary must
receive it no later than December 15, 1999. Dominion Resources plans to hold
its 2000 Annual Meeting on April 21, 2000. Proposals should be sent to the
Corporate Secretary, Dominion Resources, Inc., 120 Tredegar Street, Richmond,
Virginia 23219.
In order for proposals of CNG shareholders intended to be presented at the
annual meeting of shareholders to be held Tuesday, April 11, 2000 (if the
merger is not consummated prior to such time) and to be considered for
inclusion in the CNG proxy statement and form of proxy relating to that
meeting, such proposals must be received by CNG on or before November 3, 1999.
The CNG Corporate Secretary must be notified on or before January 19, 2000 of
any shareholder proposal intended to be submitted to the 2000 Annual Meeting
but not included in CNG's proxy materials for that meeting. Proposals should
be sent to the Corporate Secretary, Consolidated Natural Gas Company, CNG
Tower, 625 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-3199.
If Dominion Resources and CNG shareholders do not provide the proper notice
described above, the Chairman of their meeting may exclude the matter, and it
will not be acted upon at the meeting. If the Chairman does not exclude the
matter, the proxies may vote in the manner they believe is appropriate, as the
Securities and Exchange Commission's rules allow.
83
<PAGE>
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Dominion Resources and CNG file annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy
statements and other information with the SEC. SEC filings are available to
the public over the Internet at the SEC's web site at http://www.sec.gov. You
may also read and copy any document filed at the SEC's public reference rooms
in Washington, D.C., New York, New York and Chicago, Illinois. Please call the
SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference rooms.
The SEC allows companies to "incorporate by reference" the information filed
with them, which means that important information can be disclosed to you by
referring to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is an
important part of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, and information that
is filed by the companies later with the Securities and Exchange Commission
will automatically update and supersede this information. The documents listed
below and any future filings made with the SEC under Sections 13(a), 14 or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are incorporated by reference.
Filed by Dominion Resources:
Form 8-K filed March 29, 1999
Form 10-K filed March 1, 1999
Form 8-B (Item 4) dated April 29,
1983 (Description of Dominion
Resources common stock)
Filed by CNG:
Form 10-K filed March 15, 1999
Form 8-K filed March 1, 1999
You may request a copy of these filings at no cost, by writing or
telephoning the respective companies at the following address:
Corporate Secretary
Dominion Resources, Inc.
120 Tredegar Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
(804) 819-2000
Corporate Secretary
Consolidated National Gas Company
625 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-3199
(412) 690-1000
You should rely on the information incorporated by reference or provided in
this joint proxy statement/prospectus or any prospectus supplement. No one
else is authorized to provide you with different information. No offer is
being made of these securities in any state where the offer is not permitted.
You should not assume that the information in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus or any prospectus supplement is accurate as of any date
other than the date on the front of those documents.
84
<PAGE>
Annex A
Amended and Restated
AGREEMENT AND PLAN
OF MERGER
by and between
DOMINION RESOURCES, INC.
and
CONSOLIDATED NATURAL GAS COMPANY
Dated as of March 31, 1999
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
----
ARTICLE I
<C> <S> <C>
The Merger.............................................................. 1
Section 1.1 The Merger................................................ 1
Section 1.2 The Alternative Merger.................................... 2
Section 1.3 Effective Time of the Merger.............................. 2
ARTICLE II
Treatment of Shares..................................................... 2
Section 2.1 Effect of Merger on Capital Stock......................... 2
Section 2.2 Exchange of Common Stock Certificates..................... 2
ARTICLE III
The Closing............................................................. 4
Section 3.1 Closing................................................... 4
ARTICLE IV
Representations and Warranties of DRI................................... 4
Section 4.1 Organization and Qualification............................ 4
Section 4.2 Subsidiaries.............................................. 5
Section 4.3 Capitalization............................................ 5
Authority; Non-Contravention; Statutory Approvals;
Section 4.4 Compliance............................................... 5
Section 4.5 Reports and Financial Statements.......................... 6
Section 4.6 Absence of Certain Changes or Events...................... 7
Section 4.7 Registration Statement and Proxy Statement................ 7
Section 4.8 Employee Matters; ERISA................................... 7
Section 4.9 Regulation as a Utility................................... 8
Section 4.10 Vote Required............................................. 8
Section 4.11 Accounting Matters........................................ 8
Section 4.12 Opinion of Financial Advisor.............................. 8
Section 4.13 Ownership of CNG Common Stock............................. 8
Section 4.14 Anti-Takeover Provisions.................................. 8
Section 4.15 Nuclear Operations........................................ 8
Section 4.16 NRC Actions............................................... 8
Section 4.17 Environmental Protection.................................. 9
Section 4.18 Trading Position Risk Management.......................... 9
Section 4.19 Litigation................................................ 9
Section 4.20 Dividends................................................. 9
Section 4.21 Merger Sub................................................ 9
ARTICLE V
Representations and Warranties of CNG................................... 9
Section 5.1 Organization and Qualification............................ 10
Section 5.2 Subsidiaries.............................................. 10
Section 5.3 Capitalization............................................ 10
</TABLE>
i
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
----
<C> <S> <C>
Authority; Non-Contravention; Statutory Approvals;
Section 5.4 Compliance............................................... 10
Section 5.5 Reports and Financial Statements.......................... 11
Section 5.6 Absence of Certain Changes or Events...................... 11
Section 5.7 Registration Statement and Proxy Statement................ 12
Section 5.8 Employee Matters; ERISA................................... 12
Section 5.9 Regulation as a Utility................................... 12
Section 5.10 Vote Required............................................. 12
Section 5.11 Accounting Matters........................................ 13
Section 5.12 Opinion of Financial Advisor.............................. 13
Section 5.13 Ownership of DRI Common Stock............................. 13
Section 5.14 CNG Rights Agreement...................................... 13
Section 5.15 Anti-Takeover Provisions.................................. 13
Section 5.16 Environmental Protection.................................. 13
Section 5.17 Trading Position Risk Management.......................... 13
Section 5.18 Litigation................................................ 13
ARTICLE VI
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger.................................. 14
Section 6.1 Ordinary Course of Business............................... 14
Section 6.2 Dividends................................................. 14
Section 6.3 Issuance of Securities.................................... 14
Section 6.4 Charter Documents......................................... 15
Section 6.5 Acquisitions.............................................. 15
Section 6.6 No Dispositions........................................... 15
Section 6.7 Indebtedness.............................................. 15
Section 6.8 Capital Expenditures...................................... 15
Section 6.9 Compensation, Benefits.................................... 16
Section 6.10 1935 Act.................................................. 16
Section 6.11 Accounting................................................ 16
Section 6.12 Pooling................................................... 16
Section 6.13 Tax-Free Status........................................... 16
Section 6.14 Discharge of Liabilities.................................. 16
Section 6.15 Cooperation, Notification................................. 16
Section 6.16 Rate Matters.............................................. 16
Section 6.17 Third-Party Consents...................................... 17
Section 6.18 No Breach, Etc............................................ 17
Section 6.19 Tax-Exempt Status......................................... 17
Section 6.20 Transition Management..................................... 17
Section 6.21 Insurance................................................. 17
Section 6.22 Permits................................................... 17
ARTICLE VII
Additional Agreements................................................... 17
Section 7.1 Access to Information..................................... 17
Section 7.2 Joint Proxy Statement and Registration Statement.......... 18
Section 7.3 Regulatory Matters........................................ 18
Section 7.4 Shareholder Approvals..................................... 19
Section 7.5 Directors' and Officers' Indemnification.................. 19
</TABLE>
ii
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
----
<C> <S> <C>
Section 7.6 Disclosure Schedules...................................... 20
Section 7.7 Public Announcements...................................... 21
Section 7.8 Rule 145 Affiliates....................................... 21
Section 7.9 Certain Employee Agreements............................... 21
Section 7.10 Incentive, Stock and Other Plans.......................... 21
Section 7.11 No Solicitations.......................................... 22
Section 7.12 DRI Board of Directors.................................... 22
Section 7.13 Corporate Offices......................................... 23
Section 7.14 Expenses.................................................. 23
Section 7.15 Community Support......................................... 23
Section 7.16 Further Assurances........................................ 23
ARTICLE VIII
Conditions.............................................................. 23
Conditions to Each Party's Obligation to Effect the
Section 8.1 Merger................................................... 23
Section 8.2 Conditions to Obligation of CNG to Effect the Merger...... 24
Section 8.3 Conditions to Obligation of DRI to Effect the Merger...... 25
ARTICLE IX
Termination, Amendment and Waiver....................................... 25
Section 9.1 Termination............................................... 25
Section 9.2 Effect of Termination..................................... 27
Section 9.3 Termination Fee; Expenses................................. 27
Section 9.4 Amendment................................................. 28
Section 9.5 Waiver.................................................... 28
ARTICLE X
General Provisions...................................................... 29
Non-Survival of Representations, Warranties, Covenants and
Section 10.1 Agreements............................................... 29
Section 10.2 Brokers................................................... 29
Section 10.3 Notices................................................... 29
Section 10.4 Miscellaneous............................................. 30
Section 10.5 Interpretation............................................ 30
Section 10.6 Counterparts; Effect...................................... 30
Section 10.7 Parties in Interest....................................... 30
Section 10.8 Specific Performance...................................... 30
Section 10.9 Waiver of Jury Trial...................................... 30
</TABLE>
iii
<PAGE>
AMENDED AND RESTATED
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of March 31,
1999 (this "Agreement"), by and between DOMINION RESOURCES, INC., a
corporation organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia ("DRI"),
and CONSOLIDATED NATURAL GAS COMPANY, a corporation formed under the laws of
the State of Delaware ("CNG").
WHEREAS, the respective Boards of Directors of DRI and CNG have approved the
business combination of DRI and CNG provided for in this Agreement pursuant to
which either (a) a wholly-owned, newly formed subsidiary of DRI will merge
with and into CNG, with CNG being the surviving entity, as a result of which
DRI will own all of the issued and outstanding stock of CNG (the "Merger") or
(b) at the election of DRI, after consultation with CNG, CNG will merge with
and into DRI, with DRI being the surviving entity (the "Alternative Merger",
each such business combination being hereinafter referred to as the Merger
unless the context requires otherwise), in each case, pursuant to the terms
and conditions of this Agreement;
WHEREAS, for accounting purposes, it is intended that the Merger will be
accounted for as a pooling of interests in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles ("GAAP") and applicable regulations of the Securities
and Exchange Commission (the "SEC");
WHEREAS, for federal income tax purposes, it is intended that the Merger
shall qualify as a transaction described in Section 368(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and that the shareholders of
CNG will not recognize any gain or loss as a result thereof, except with
respect to any cash received in lieu of fractional shares; and
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the representations,
warranties, covenants and agreements contained herein, the parties hereto,
intending to be legally bound, hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
The Merger
Section 1.1 The Merger.
(a) Formation of the Merger Subsidiary. To effectuate the transactions
contemplated herein, upon receipt of any required approvals, DRI shall
cause the organization of DRI Merger Corp., a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware ("Merger Sub"), the certificate of
incorporation and bylaws of which shall be in such forms as shall be
determined by DRI and the authorized capital stock of which shall initially
consist of 100 shares of common stock with no par value, which shall be
issued to DRI at a price of $1.00 per share.
(b) Certain Other Actions. In connection with the organization of the
Merger Sub, as soon as practicable following the creation of the Merger
Sub, DRI shall: (a) designate the respective directors and officers of the
Merger Sub, (b) cause the directors and officers of the Merger Sub to take
such steps as may be necessary or appropriate to complete the organization
of the Merger Sub, (c) cause the Agreement to be approved and executed by
the Merger Sub, (d) adopt (as sole shareholder of the Merger Sub) the
Agreement, and (e) cause the Merger Sub to perform its obligations under
the Agreement. Upon the approval and execution of this Agreement by the
Merger Sub as described in the preceding sentence, the Merger Sub will
become a party to this Agreement.
(c) The Merger. Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions of
the Agreement, at the Effective Time (as defined in Section 1.3), the
Merger Sub shall be merged into CNG in accordance with the laws of the
State of Delaware. CNG shall be the surviving corporation in the Merger and
shall continue its existence under the laws of the State of Delaware. As a
result of the Merger, CNG shall become a wholly-owned subsidiary of DRI.
The effects and consequences of the Merger shall be as set forth in this
Agreement and Section 259 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the
"DGCL").
A-1
<PAGE>
Section 1.2 The Alternative Merger. (a) At the election of DRI, after
consultation with CNG, in lieu of the Merger described in Section 1.1 and
pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement, at the
Effective Time (as defined in Section 1.3), CNG shall be merged into DRI in
accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the State of
Delaware. DRI shall be the surviving corporation in the Merger and shall
continue its existence under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The
effects and consequences of the Merger shall be as set forth in this Agreement
and in Section 13.1-721 of the Virginia Stock Corporation Act (the "VSCA").
Section 1.3 Effective Time of the Merger. (a) In the event that DRI and CNG
enter into the Merger pursuant to Section 1.1, a certificate of merger with
respect to the Merger, in form acceptable to DRI and CNG, shall be executed
and filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware pursuant to
Section 251 of the DGCL.
(b) In the event that DRI and CNG enter into the Alternative Merger pursuant
to Section 1.2, on the Closing Date (as defined in Section 3.1), articles of
merger with respect to the Alternative Merger, in form acceptable to DRI and
CNG, shall be executed and filed with the State Corporation Commission of the
Commonwealth of Virginia pursuant to Section 13.1-720 of the VSCA and a
certificate of merger, in form acceptable to DRI and CNG, shall be executed
and filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware pursuant to Section 252 of
the Delaware General Corporation Law.
(c) The Merger shall become effective at the time that DRI and CNG shall
agree as specified in either (i) the certificate of merger filed pursuant to
Section 1.3(a) in the event that DRI and CNG enter into the Merger, or (ii)
the articles of merger and certificate of merger filed pursuant to Section
1.3(b) in the event that DRI and CNG enter into the Alternative Merger (either
such time being hereinafter called the "Effective Time").
ARTICLE II
Treatment of Shares
Section 2.1 Effect of Merger on Capital Stock. At the Effective Time, by
virtue of the Merger or the Alternative Merger and without any action on the
part of any holder of any capital stock of DRI, CNG or the Merger Sub, in the
event of the Merger, or any capital stock of DRI or CNG, in the event of the
Alternative Merger:
(a) Cancellation of Certain CNG Common Stock. Each share of CNG common
stock, par value $2.75 per share ("CNG Common Stock"), together with any
CNG Rights (as defined in Section 5.14) that are owned by CNG, DRI or any
of their subsidiaries (as defined in Section 4.1), shall be cancelled and
shall cease to exist and no consideration shall be delivered in exchange
therefor.
(b) Conversion of CNG Common Stock. Each share of CNG Common Stock issued
and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares
cancelled pursuant to Section 2.1(a)) shall be converted into the right to
receive 1.52 share(s) (the "Conversion Ratio") of duly authorized, validly
issued, fully paid and nonassessable DRI common stock, no par value ("DRI
Common Stock"). Upon such conversion, each holder of any shares of CNG
Common Stock (whether held in book entry or certificated form) shall cease
to have any rights with respect thereto, except the right to receive the
shares of DRI Common Stock to be issued in consideration therefor (and cash
in lieu of fractional shares pursuant to Section 2.2(d)) upon the
conversion of such CNG Common Stock in accordance with Section 2.2.
(c) DRI Common Stock to Remain Outstanding. Each share of DRI Common
Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall
remain outstanding following the Effective Time.
(d) Conversion of Merger Sub Shares in the Merger. In the event that DRI
and CNG enter into the Merger pursuant to Section 1.1, each share of Merger
Sub common stock, no par value, shall be converted into the right to
receive one share of CNG Common Stock.
Section 2.2 Exchange of Common Stock Certificates.
(a) Deposit with Exchange Agent. As soon as practicable after the Effective
Time, DRI shall deposit with a bank, trust company or other agent selected by
DRI (the "Exchange Agent") certificates representing shares
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of DRI Common Stock required to effect the conversion of CNG Common Stock into
DRI Common Stock as provided in Section 2.1(b).
(b) Exchange Procedures. As soon as practicable after the Effective Time,
the Exchange Agent shall mail to each holder of record of a certificate or
certificates ("Certificate") which immediately prior to the Effective Time
represented issued and outstanding shares of CNG Common Stock ("CNG Shares"),
(i) a letter of transmittal (which shall specify that delivery shall be
effected, and risk of loss and title to the Certificates shall pass, only upon
actual delivery of the Certificates to the Exchange Agent) and (ii)
instructions for use in effecting the exchange of Certificates for
certificates representing shares of DRI Common Stock ("DRI Shares") or for
effecting the exchange of Certificates for DRI Shares to be held in book entry
form. As soon as practicable after the Effective Time, the Exchange Agent
shall also mail to each holder of record of CNG Shares held in book entry form
("Book Entry Shares") instructions for use in effecting the conversion of said
Book Entry Shares into DRI Shares. Upon delivery of a Certificate to the
Exchange Agent for exchange, together with a duly executed letter of
transmittal and such other documents as the Exchange Agent shall require, or,
in the case of Book Entry Shares, compliance with the instructions for
conversion thereof, the holder of such Certificate or Book Entry Shares shall
be entitled to receive in exchange therefor that number of whole DRI Shares
and the amount of cash in lieu of fractional share interests (pursuant to
Section 2.2(d)) which such holder has the right to receive pursuant to the
provisions of this Article II. In the event of a transfer of ownership of CNG
Shares which is not registered in the transfer records of CNG, the proper
number of DRI Shares will be issued to a transferee if, in addition to the
other requirements for conversion, the Exchange Agent receives all documents
required to evidence and effect such transfer and evidence satisfactory to the
Exchange Agent that any applicable stock transfer taxes have been paid. Until
delivered as contemplated by this Section 2.2, each Certificate, and until
converted as contemplated by this Section 2.2, all Book Entry Shares, shall be
deemed at any time after the Effective Time to represent only the right to
receive DRI Shares and cash in lieu of any fractional shares of DRI Common
Stock as contemplated by this Section 2.2.
(c) Distributions with Respect to Unexchanged Shares. No dividends or other
distributions declared or made after the Effective Time with respect to DRI
Shares with a record date after the Effective Time shall be paid to the holder
of any undelivered Certificate or unconverted Book Entry Shares with respect
to the DRI Shares represented thereby, and no cash payment in lieu of
fractional shares shall be paid to any such holder pursuant to Section 2.2(d),
until the holder of record of such Certificate or unconverted Book Entry
Shares (or a transferee as described in Section 2.2(b)) shall have delivered
such Certificate or effected the conversion of such Book Entry Shares as
contemplated in Section 2.2(b). Subject to the effect of unclaimed property,
escheat and other applicable laws, following delivery of any such Certificate
or conversion of any such Book Entry Shares, there shall be paid to the record
holder (or transferee) of the whole DRI Shares issued in exchange or
conversion therefor, without interest, (i) at the time of such delivery, the
amount of any cash payable in lieu of a fractional share of DRI Common Stock
to which such holder (or transferee) is entitled pursuant to Section 2.2(d)
and the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after
the Effective Time theretofore paid with respect to such whole DRI Shares and
(ii) at the appropriate payment date, the amount of dividends or other
distributions with a record date after the Effective Time but prior to
delivery or conversion and a payment date subsequent to delivery or conversion
payable with respect to such whole DRI Shares, as the case may be.
(d) No Fractional Shares. (i) No certificates or scrip representing
fractional shares of DRI Common Stock shall be issued upon the exchange of
Certificates or conversion of Book Entry Shares, and such fractional share
interests will not entitle the owner thereof to vote or to any rights of a
shareholder of DRI. All holders of CNG Common Stock who would otherwise be
entitled to receive a fractional share of DRI Common Stock shall receive, in
lieu thereof upon exchange or conversion of its CNG Shares, an amount of cash
determined by multiplying the fraction of a share of DRI Common Stock to which
such shareholder would otherwise be entitled by the closing sales price of DRI
Common Stock as reported under "NYSE Composite Transition Reports," in The
Wall Street Journal on the trading day immediately prior to the Effective
Time. From time to time, DRI shall, subject to Section 2.2(f) hereof, deliver
to the Exchange Agent cash in such amounts as shall be necessary to pay to the
holders of CNG Shares cash in lieu of fractional shares of DRI Common Stock.
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(e) Closing of Transfer Books. From and after the Effective Time, the stock
transfer books of CNG with respect to shares of CNG Common Stock issued and
outstanding prior to the Effective Time shall be closed and no transfer of any
such shares shall thereafter be made. If, after the Effective Time,
Certificates are presented to DRI, they shall be cancelled and exchanged for
certificates representing the appropriate number of whole DRI Shares and cash
in lieu of fractional shares of DRI Common Stock as provided in this Section
2.2.
(f) Termination of Exchange Agent. Any certificates representing DRI Shares
deposited with the Exchange Agent pursuant to Section 2.2(a) and not exchanged
or converted within six (6) months after the Effective Time pursuant to this
Section 2.2 shall be returned by the Exchange Agent to DRI, which shall
thereafter act as Exchange Agent. All funds held by the Exchange Agent for
payment to the holders of undelivered Certificates or unconverted Book Entry
Shares and unclaimed at the end of six (6) months from the Effective Time
shall be remitted to DRI, after which time any holder of undelivered
Certificates or unconverted Book Entry Shares shall look as a general creditor
only to DRI for payment of such funds which may be due to such holder, subject
to applicable law. DRI shall not be liable to any person for such shares or
funds delivered to a public official pursuant to any applicable abandoned
property, escheat or similar law.
ARTICLE III
The Closing
Section 3.1 Closing. The closing (the "Closing") of the Merger shall take
place at the offices of LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae, L.L.P., 125 West 55th
Street, New York, New York 10019-5389, or such other place as may be mutually
agreed upon by the parties hereto at 10:00 A.M., local time, on the second
business day immediately following the date on which the last of the
conditions set forth in Article VIII is fulfilled or waived, or at such other
time and date as CNG and DRI shall mutually agree (the "Closing Date").
ARTICLE IV
Representations and Warranties of DRI
Except as disclosed in the DRI SEC Reports (as defined in Section 4.5) filed
prior to the date hereof or as set forth on the Disclosure Schedule delivered
by DRI to CNG prior to the execution of this Agreement (the "DRI Disclosure
Schedule"), DRI represents and warrants to CNG as follows:
Section 4.1 Organization and Qualification. DRI and each of its Significant
Subsidiaries is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation, has all
requisite corporate power and authority, to own, lease and operate its assets
and properties and to carry on its business as it is now being conducted, and
is duly qualified and in good standing to do business in each jurisdiction in
which the nature of its business or the ownership or leasing of its assets and
properties makes such qualification necessary, other than in such
jurisdictions where the failure to be so qualified and in good standing will
not, when taken together with all other such failures, have a material adverse
effect on the business, operations, properties, assets, condition (financial
or otherwise), prospects or results of operations of DRI and its subsidiaries
taken as a whole or on the consummation of this Agreement (any such material
adverse effect being hereinafter referred to as a "DRI Material Adverse
Effect"). True, accurate and complete copies of the articles of incorporation
and bylaws of DRI, as in effect on the date hereof, have been delivered to
CNG. As used in this Agreement, the term "subsidiary" with respect to any
person shall mean any corporation or other entity (including partnerships and
other business associations) in which such person directly or indirectly owns
outstanding capital stock or other voting securities having the power, under
ordinary circumstances, to elect a majority of the directors or similar
members of the governing body of such corporation or other entity, or
otherwise to direct the management and policies of such corporation or other
entity. As used in this Agreement, a "Significant Subsidiary" means any
subsidiary of DRI or CNG, as the case may be, that constitutes a "significant
subsidiary" of such party within the meaning of Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X of
the SEC.
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Section 4.2 Subsidiaries. Exhibit 21 to the Annual Report of DRI on Form 10-
K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 includes all subsidiaries of DRI
which as of the date of this Agreement are Significant Subsidiaries. All the
outstanding shares of capital stock of, or other equity interests in, each
such Significant Subsidiary have been duly authorized and validly issued and
are fully paid and nonassessable and are owned directly or indirectly by DRI,
free and clear of all pledges, claims, liens, charges, encumbrances and
security interests of any kind or nature whatsoever (collectively, "Liens").
None of the subsidiaries of DRI is a "public utility company", a "holding
company", a "subsidiary company" or an "affiliate" of any public utility
company within the meaning of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935,
as amended (the "1935 Act"). There are no outstanding subscriptions, options,
calls, contracts, voting trusts, proxies or other commitments, understandings,
restrictions, arrangements, rights or warrants, including any right of
conversion or exchange under any outstanding security, instrument or other
agreement, obligating any Significant Subsidiary to issue, deliver or sell, or
cause to be issued, delivered or sold, additional shares of its capital stock
or obligating it to grant, extend or enter into any such agreement or
commitment. As used in this Agreement, the term "joint venture" with respect
to any person shall mean any corporation or other entity (including
partnerships and other business associations and joint ventures) in which such
person or one or more of its subsidiaries owns an equity interest that is less
than a majority of any class of the outstanding voting securities or equity,
other than equity interests held for passive investment purposes that are less
than 5% of any class of the outstanding voting securities or equity.
Section 4.3 Capitalization. The authorized capital stock of DRI consists of
300,000,000 shares of DRI Common Stock and 20,000,000 shares of preferred
stock. As of the close of business on January 31, 1999, 193,962,097 shares of
DRI Common Stock and no shares of preferred stock were issued and outstanding.
All of the issued and outstanding shares of the capital stock of DRI are
validly issued, fully paid, nonassessable and free of preemptive rights. As of
the date hereof, there are no outstanding subscriptions, options, calls,
contracts, voting trusts, proxies or other commitments, understandings,
restrictions, arrangements, rights or warrants, including any right of
conversion or exchange under any outstanding security, instrument or other
agreement, obligating DRI or any of its subsidiaries to issue, deliver or
sell, or cause to be issued, delivered or sold, additional shares of the
capital stock or other voting securities of DRI or obligating DRI or any of
its subsidiaries to grant, extend or enter into any such agreement or
commitment.
Section 4.4 Authority; Non-Contravention; Statutory Approvals; Compliance.
(a) Authority. DRI has all requisite power and authority to enter into this
Agreement and, subject to the DRI Shareholders' Approval (as defined in
Section 4.10) and the DRI Required Statutory Approvals (as defined in Section
4.4(c)), to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The Board of
Directors of DRI has (a) determined that the Merger is fair and in the best
interest of DRI and its shareholders, (b) approved and adopted this Agreement,
and (c) resolved to recommend to the holders of DRI Common Stock that they
give the DRI Shareholders' Approval. The execution and delivery of this
Agreement and the consummation by DRI of the transactions contemplated hereby
have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the part of
DRI, subject to obtaining the DRI Shareholders' Approval. This Agreement has
been duly and validly executed and delivered by DRI and, assuming the due
authorization, execution and delivery of this Agreement by CNG, constitutes
the legal, valid and binding obligation of DRI enforceable against DRI in
accordance with its terms.
(b) Non-Contravention. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by DRI
do not and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby will not,
violate, conflict with or result in a breach of any provision of, or
constitute a default (with or without notice or lapse of time or both) under,
or result in the termination of, or accelerate the performance required by, or
result in a right of termination, cancellation or acceleration of any material
obligation under or the loss of a material benefit under, or result in the
creation of any Lien upon any of the properties or assets (any such violation,
conflict, breach, default, right of termination, cancellation or acceleration,
loss or creation being hereinafter referred to as a "Violation") by DRI or any
of its Significant Subsidiaries under any provisions of (i) the articles of
incorporation, bylaws or similar governing documents of DRI or any of its
Significant Subsidiaries, (ii) subject to obtaining the DRI Required Statutory
Approvals and the receipt of the DRI Shareholders' Approval, any statute, law,
ordinance, rule, regulation,
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judgment, decree, order, injunction, writ, permit or license of any court,
governmental or regulatory body (including a stock exchange or other self-
regulatory body) or authority, domestic or foreign (each, a "Governmental
Authority") applicable to DRI or any of its Significant Subsidiaries or any of
their respective properties or assets, or (iii) subject to obtaining the
third-party consents or other approvals set forth in Section 4.4(b) of the DRI
Disclosure Schedule (the "DRI Required Consents"), any note, bond, mortgage,
indenture, deed of trust, license, franchise, permit, concession, contract,
lease or other instrument, obligation or agreement of any kind to which DRI or
any of its Significant Subsidiaries is now a party or by which any of them or
any of their respective properties or assets may be bound or affected,
excluding from the foregoing clauses (ii) and (iii) such Violations as would
not have, individually or in the aggregate, a DRI Material Adverse Effect.
(c) Statutory Approvals. No declaration, filing or registration with, or
notice to or authorization, consent, finding by or approval of, any
Governmental Authority is necessary for the execution and delivery of this
Agreement by DRI or the consummation by DRI of the transactions contemplated
hereby, which, if not obtained, made or given, would have, individually or in
the aggregate, a DRI Material Adverse Effect (the "DRI Required Statutory
Approvals"), it being understood that references in this Agreement to
"obtaining" such DRI Required Statutory Approvals shall mean making such
declarations, filings or registrations; giving such notice; obtaining such
consents or approvals; and having such waiting periods expire as are necessary
to avoid a violation of law.
(d) Compliance. Neither DRI nor any of its subsidiaries nor, to the best
knowledge of DRI, any of its joint ventures, is in violation of or under
investigation with respect to, or has been given notice or been charged with
any violation of, any law, statute, order, rule, regulation, ordinance or
judgment (including, without limitation, any "Environmental Laws") of any
Governmental Authority, except for violations that, individually or in the
aggregate, do not have, and, to the best knowledge of DRI, are not reasonably
likely to have, a DRI Material Adverse Effect. DRI, its subsidiaries and, to
the best knowledge of DRI, its joint ventures have all permits, licenses,
franchises and other governmental authorizations, consents and approvals
necessary to conduct their respective businesses as currently conducted
(collectively, "Permits"), except those Permits the failure to obtain which
would not have, individually or in the aggregate, a DRI Material Adverse
Effect. As used in this Agreement, the term "Environmental Laws" means any
law, statute, order, rule, regulation, ordinance or judgment relating to
pollution or protection of human health or the environment (including, without
limitation, ambient air, indoor air, surface water, ground water, land surface
or subsurface strata and natural resources) including, without limitation,
those relating to the release or threatened release of Hazardous Materials or
to the manufacture, processing, distribution, use, treatment, storage,
disposal, transport or handling of Hazardous Materials. As used in this
Agreement, the term "Hazardous Materials" means chemicals, pollutants,
contaminants, wastes, toxic substances, hazardous substances, materials or
constituents, petroleum or petroleum products or any other substances or
materials subject to regulation under Environmental Laws.
Section 4.5 Reports and Financial Statements. The filings required to be
made by DRI and its subsidiaries since January 1, 1996 under the Securities
Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), the Federal Power Act (the "Power
Act"), the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended (the "Atomic Energy Act"),
the 1935 Act and applicable state laws and regulations have been filed with
the SEC, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (the "FERC"), the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission (the "NRC") or the applicable state regulatory
authorities, as the case may be, including all forms, statements, reports,
agreements (oral or written) and all documents, exhibits, amendments and
supplements appertaining thereto, and complied in all material respects with
all applicable requirements of the appropriate act and the rules and
regulations thereunder. DRI has made available to CNG a true and complete copy
of each report, schedule, registration statement and definitive proxy
statement filed by DRI with the SEC under the Securities Act and the Exchange
Act since January 1, 1996 and through the date hereof (as such documents have
since the time of their filing been amended, the "DRI SEC Reports"). The DRI
SEC Reports, including without limitation any financial statements or
schedules included therein, at the time filed, and any forms, reports or other
documents filed by DRI with the SEC after the date hereof, did not and will
not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made,
not misleading. The
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audited consolidated financial statements and unaudited interim financial
statements of DRI included in the DRI SEC Reports (collectively, the "DRI
Financial Statements") have been prepared, and will be prepared, in accordance
with GAAP (except as may be indicated therein or in the notes thereto and
except with respect to unaudited statements as permitted by Form 10-Q under
the Exchange Act) and fairly present the consolidated financial position of
DRI as of the respective dates thereof or the consolidated results of
operations and cash flows for the respective periods then ended, as the case
may be, subject, in the case of the unaudited interim financial statements, to
normal, recurring audit adjustments.
Section 4.6 Absence of Certain Changes or Events. From September 30, 1998
through the date hereof, each of DRI and each of its subsidiaries has
conducted its business only in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice and no event has occurred which has had, and no fact or
condition exists that would have or, to the best knowledge of DRI, is
reasonably likely to have, a DRI Material Adverse Effect.
Section 4.7 Registration Statement and Proxy Statement. None of the
information supplied or to be supplied by or on behalf of DRI for inclusion or
incorporation by reference in (i) the registration statement on Form S-4 to be
filed with the SEC by DRI in connection with the issuance of shares of DRI
Common Stock in the Merger (the "Registration Statement") will, at the time
the Registration Statement becomes effective under the Securities Act, and as
the same may be amended, at the effective time of such amendment, contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact
required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
misleading, and (ii) the joint proxy in definitive form, relating to the
meetings of the shareholders of CNG and DRI to be held in connection with the
Merger and the prospectus relating to DRI Common Stock to be issued in the
Merger (the "Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus") will at the date such Joint
Proxy Statement/Prospectus is mailed to such shareholders and, as the same may
be amended or supplemented, at the times of such meetings, contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary in
order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under
which they were made, not misleading. The Registration Statement and the Joint
Proxy Statement/Prospectus will comply as to form in all material respects
with the provisions of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and the rules
and regulations thereunder.
Section 4.8 Employee Matters; ERISA.
(a) Each "employee benefit plan" (as defined in Section 3(3) of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA")), bonus, deferred
compensation, stock option, employment, severance, change in control or other
written agreement relating to employment, fringe benefits or perquisites for
current or former employees of DRI or any of its subsidiaries, maintained or
contributed to by DRI or any of its subsidiaries at any time during the seven-
calendar year period immediately preceding the date hereof (collectively, the
"DRI Employee Benefit Plans") is listed in Section 4.8(a) of the DRI
Disclosure Schedule.
(b) With respect to the DRI Employee Benefit Plans, individually and in the
aggregate, no event has occurred and, there exists no condition or set of
circumstances, in connection with which DRI or any of its subsidiaries could
be subject to any liability that is reasonably likely to have a DRI Material
Adverse Effect (except liability for benefits claims and funding obligations
payable in the ordinary course) under ERISA, the Code or any other applicable
law.
(c) Each DRI Employee Benefit Plan has been administered in accordance with
its terms, except for any failures to so administer any DRI Employee Benefit
Plans as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a DRI Material
Adverse Effect. DRI, its subsidiaries and all the DRI Employee Benefit Plans
are in compliance with the applicable provisions of ERISA, the Code and all
other applicable laws and the terms of all applicable collective bargaining
agreements as they relate to the DRI Employee Benefit Plans, except for any
failures to be in such compliance as would not, individually or in the
aggregate, have a DRI Material Adverse Effect. Each DRI Employee Benefit Plan
which is intended to be qualified within the meaning of Section 401(a) of the
Code has received a favorable determination letter from the IRS and, to the
knowledge of DRI, no event has occurred and no condition exists which could
reasonably be expected to result in the revocation of any such determination.
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(d) Except for all equity-based and other awards, the vesting and
exercisability of which will, by their terms, be accelerated as a result of
the transactions contemplated hereunder, no employee of DRI will be entitled
to any additional benefits or any acceleration of the time of payment or
vesting of any benefits under any DRI Employee Benefit Plan as a result of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 4.9 Regulation as a Utility. Neither DRI nor any subsidiary company
or affiliate of DRI is subject to regulation as a public utility or public
service company (or similar designation) by any state in the United States, by
the United States or any agency or instrumentality of the United States or by
any foreign country. As used in this Section 4.9 and in Section 5.9, the terms
"subsidiary company" and "affiliate" shall have the respective meanings
ascribed to them in the 1935 Act.
Section 4.10 Vote Required. (a) The approval of the Merger by a majority of
all votes cast by the holders of DRI Common Stock at a duly called meeting of
such shareholders at which a quorum is present (the "DRI Shareholders'
Approval") is the only vote of the holders of any class or series of the
capital stock of DRI required to approve this Agreement, the Merger and the
other transactions contemplated hereby.
(b) None of the shareholders of DRI are entitled to exercise any appraisal
rights in connection with the DRI Shareholders Approval.
Section 4.11 Accounting Matters. DRI has not, through the date hereof, taken
or agreed to take any action that would prevent DRI from accounting for the
business combination to be effected by the Merger as a pooling-of-interests in
accordance with GAAP and applicable SEC regulations.
Section 4.12 Opinion of Financial Advisor. DRI has received the opinion of
Lehman Brothers Inc., dated the date hereof, to the effect that, as of the
date hereof, the Conversion Ratio is fair from a financial point of view to
the holders of DRI Common Stock.
Section 4.13 Ownership of CNG Common Stock. DRI does not "beneficially own"
(as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) any shares of
CNG Common Stock.
Section 4.14 Anti-Takeover Provisions. None of the business combination
provisions of Article 13.1 of Chapter 9 of the VSCA or any similar provisions
of the VSCA or the articles of incorporation or bylaws of DRI are applicable
to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. No other "fair price,"
"moratorium," "control share acquisition" or similar anti-takeover statute or
regulation is applicable to DRI, the Merger or any other transaction
contemplated hereby.
Section 4.15 Nuclear Operations. To the knowledge of DRI, the operations of
DRI's and its subsidiaries' nuclear generating stations are and have at all
times been conducted in compliance with applicable health, safety, regulatory
and other legal requirements, except for those requirements the failure with
which to comply would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a DRI
Material Adverse Effect. To the knowledge of DRI, DRI's and its subsidiaries'
nuclear generating stations maintain emergency plans designed to respond to an
unplanned release therefrom of radioactive materials into the environment and
liability insurance to the extent required by law, and such further insurance
(other than liability insurance) as is consistent with DRI's view of the risks
inherent in the operation of a nuclear power facility. To the knowledge of
DRI, plans for the decommissioning of each of DRI's and its subsidiaries'
nuclear generating stations and for the short-term storage of spent nuclear
fuel conform with applicable regulatory or other legal requirements (other
than those with which the failure to comply would not, individually or in the
aggregate, have a DRI Material Adverse Effect), and such plans have at all
times been funded to the extent required by law, which is consistent with
DRI's reasonable budget projections for such plans. To the knowledge of DRI,
neither DRI nor any of its subsidiaries has incurred any liability as a result
of operating nuclear power facilities for third parties which liability,
individually or in the aggregate, would have a DRI Material Adverse Effect.
Section 4.16 NRC Actions. Neither DRI nor any of its subsidiaries has been
given written notice of or been charged with actual or potential violation of,
or is the subject of any ongoing proceeding, inquiry, special
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inspection, diagnostic evaluation or other NRC action (excluding rulemakings
of general application that may affect the conduct of DRI's business regarding
DRI's nuclear power facilities) of which DRI or any of its subsidiaries has
received written notice, under the Atomic Energy Act, any applicable
regulations thereunder or the terms and conditions of any license granted to
DRI or any of its subsidiaries regarding DRI's or any of its subsidiaries'
nuclear power facilities or any third party's nuclear power facility operated
by DRI or any of its subsidiaries that would have, or DRI reasonably believes
would be reasonably likely to have, a DRI Material Adverse Effect.
Section 4.17 Environmental Protection. Except as would not have,
individually or in the aggregate, a DRI Material Adverse Effect, (A) neither
DRI nor any of its subsidiaries is in violation of, or has received any
written notice that it is subject to liability under, any Environmental Laws,
(B) DRI and its subsidiaries have, or have filed timely application for, all
permits, licenses, authorizations and approvals required under any applicable
Environmental Laws, all of which are in full force and effect, and are each in
compliance with their requirements, (C) there are no pending, or to the
knowledge of DRI, threatened administrative, regulatory or judicial actions,
suits, demands, demand letters, claims, liens, notices of noncompliance,
violation or potential responsibility or liability, investigation or
proceeding pursuant to any Environmental Law against DRI or any of its
subsidiaries, or to the knowledge of DRI, any of their respective
predecessors-in-interest for which DRI or any of its subsidiaries is or may be
liable and (D) there are no past or present events, conditions or
circumstances which would reasonably be expected to form the basis of an order
or other requirement to conduct responsive or corrective action, or an action,
suit or proceeding by any private party or governmental agency, against or
affecting, or requiring capital or operating expenditures by, DRI or any of
its subsidiaries, in each case pursuant to any Environmental Laws.
Section 4.18 Trading Position Risk Management. DRI has established a risk
management committee which, from time to time, establishes risk parameters to
restrict the level of risk that DRI and its subsidiaries are authorized to
take with respect to the net position resulting from physical commodity
transactions, exchange traded futures and options and over-the-counter
derivative instruments. The risk management committee of DRI regularly
monitors the compliance of DRI and its subsidiaries with such risk parameters.
Section 4.19 Litigation. (i) There are no suits, actions or proceedings
pending or, to the best knowledge of DRI threatened against or affecting DRI
or any of its subsidiaries and (ii) there are no judgments, decrees,
injunctions, rules or orders of any court, governmental department,
commission, agency, instrumentality or authority or any arbitrator outstanding
against DRI or any of its subsidiaries that, in each case, individually or in
the aggregate, would have, or are reasonably likely to have, a DRI Material
Adverse Effect.
Section 4.20 Dividends. It is the present intention of DRI's Board of
Directors to maintain the dividends on DRI Common Stock at its current annual
rate.
Section 4.21 Merger Sub. If the Merger Sub is organized pursuant to Section
1.1 of this Agreement, following such organization and at the Effective Time,
all of the issued and outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Merger
Sub will be (a) owned directly by DRI and (b) be duly authorized, validly
issued, full paid, nonassessable and free of preemptive rights. The Merger Sub
will be a direct wholly-owned Subsidiary of DRI that (a) will be formed for
the sole purpose of effecting the Merger, (b) will have no material assets,
(c) will engage in no other material activities prior to the Effective Time
and (d) will have no Subsidiaries.
ARTICLE V
Representations and Warranties of CNG
Except as disclosed in the CNG SEC Reports (as defined in Section 5.5) filed
prior to the date hereof or as set forth on the Disclosure Schedule delivered
by CNG to DRI prior to the execution of this Agreement (the "CNG Disclosure
Schedule"), CNG represents and warrants to DRI as follows:
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Section 5.1 Organization and Qualification. CNG and each of its Significant
Subsidiaries is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation, has all
requisite corporate power and authority, to own, lease and operate its assets
and properties and to carry on its business as it is now being conducted, and
is duly qualified and in good standing to do business in each jurisdiction in
which the nature of its business or the ownership or leasing of its assets and
properties makes such qualification necessary, other than in such
jurisdictions where the failure to be so qualified and in good standing will
not, when taken together with all other such failures, have a material adverse
effect on the business, operations, properties, assets, condition (financial
or otherwise), prospects or results of operations of CNG and its subsidiaries
taken as a whole or on the consummation of this Agreement (any such material
adverse effect being hereinafter referred to as a "CNG Material Adverse
Effect"). True, accurate and complete copies of the articles of incorporation
and bylaws of CNG, as in effect on the date hereof, have been delivered to
DRI.
Section 5.2 Subsidiaries. Exhibit 21 to the Annual Report of CNG on Form 10-
K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 includes all subsidiaries of CNG
which as of the date of this Agreement are Significant Subsidiaries. All the
outstanding shares of capital stock of, or other equity interests in, each
such Significant Subsidiary have been duly authorized and validly issued and
are fully paid and nonassessable and are owned directly or indirectly by CNG,
free and clear of all Liens. There are no outstanding subscriptions, options,
calls, contracts, voting trusts, proxies or other commitments, understandings,
restrictions, arrangements, rights or warrants, including any right of
conversion or exchange under any outstanding security, instrument or other
agreement, obligating any Significant Subsidiary to issue, deliver or sell, or
cause to be issued, delivered or sold, additional shares of its capital stock
or obligating it to grant, extend or enter into any such agreement or
commitment.
Section 5.3 Capitalization. The authorized capital stock of CNG consists of
400,000,000 shares of CNG Common Stock and 5,000,000 shares of preferred
stock. As of the close of business on January 31, 1999, 95,397,649 shares of
CNG Common Stock and no shares of preferred stock were issued and outstanding.
All of the issued and outstanding shares of the capital stock of CNG are
validly issued, fully paid, nonassessable and free of preemptive rights.
Except for the CNG Rights (as defined in Section 5.14), as of the date hereof,
there are no outstanding subscriptions, options, calls, contracts, voting
trusts, proxies or other commitments, understandings, restrictions,
arrangements, rights or warrants, including any right of conversion or
exchange under any outstanding security, instrument or other agreement,
obligating CNG or any of its subsidiaries to issue, deliver or sell, or cause
to be issued, delivered or sold, additional shares of the capital stock or
other voting securities of CNG or obligating CNG or any of its subsidiaries to
grant, extend or enter into any such agreement or commitment.
Section 5.4 Authority; Non-Contravention; Statutory Approvals; Compliance.
(a) Authority. CNG has all requisite power and authority to enter into this
Agreement and, subject to the CNG Shareholders' Approval (as defined in
Section 5.10) and the CNG Required Statutory Approvals (as defined in Section
5.4(c), to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The Board of
Directors of CNG has (a) determined that the Merger is fair and in the best
interest of CNG and its shareholders, (b) approved and adopted this Agreement,
and (c) resolved to recommend to the holders of CNG Common Stock that they
give the CNG Shareholders' Approval. The execution and delivery of this
Agreement and the consummation by CNG of the transactions contemplated hereby
have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the part of
CNG, subject to obtaining the CNG Shareholders' Approval. This Agreement has
been duly and validly executed and delivered by CNG and, assuming the due
authorization, execution and delivery of this Agreement by DRI, constitutes
the legal, valid and binding obligation of CNG enforceable against CNG in
accordance with its terms.
(b) Non-Contravention. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by CNG
do not and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby will not
result in any Violation by CNG or any of its Significant Subsidiaries under
any provisions of (i) the articles of incorporation, bylaws or similar
governing documents of CNG or any of its Significant Subsidiaries, (ii)
subject to obtaining the CNG Required Statutory
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Approvals and the receipt of the CNG Shareholders' Approval, any statute, law,
ordinance, rule, regulation, judgment, decree, order, injunction, writ, permit
or license of any Governmental Authority applicable to CNG or any of its
Significant Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties or assets, or
(iii) subject to obtaining the third-party consents or other approvals
disclosed in Section 5.4(b) of the CNG Disclosure Schedule (the "CNG Required
Consents"), any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, license,
franchise, permit, concession, contract, lease or other instrument, obligation
or agreement of any kind to which CNG or any of its Significant Subsidiaries
is now a party or by which any of them or any of their respective properties
or assets may be bound or affected, excluding from the foregoing clauses (ii)
and (iii) such Violations as would not have, individually or in the aggregate,
a CNG Material Adverse Effect.
(c) Statutory Approvals. No declaration, filing or registration with, or
notice to or authorization, consent, finding by or approval of, any
Governmental Authority is necessary for the execution and delivery of this
Agreement by CNG or the consummation by CNG of the transactions contemplated
hereby which if not obtained, made or given, would have, individually or in
the aggregate, a CNG Material Adverse Effect (the "CNG Required Statutory
Approvals"), it being understood that references in this Agreement to
"obtaining" such CNG Required Statutory Approvals shall mean making such
declarations, filings or registrations; giving such notice; obtaining such
consents or approvals; and having such waiting periods expire as are necessary
to avoid a violation of law.
(d) Compliance. Neither CNG nor any of its subsidiaries nor, to the best
knowledge of CNG, any of its joint ventures, is in violation of or under
investigation with respect to, or has been given notice or been charged with
any violation of, any law, statute, order, rule, regulation, ordinance or
judgment (including, without limitation, any Environmental Laws) of any
Governmental Authority, except for violations that, individually or in the
aggregate, do not have, and, to the best knowledge of CNG, are not reasonably
likely to have, a CNG Material Adverse Effect. CNG, its subsidiaries and, to
the best knowledge of CNG, its joint ventures have all Permits, except those
Permits the failure to obtain which would not have, individually or in the
aggregate, a CNG Material Adverse Effect.
Section 5.5 Reports and Financial Statements. The filings required to be
made by CNG and its subsidiaries since January 1, 1996 under the Securities
Act, the Exchange Act, the Power Act, the Natural Gas Act (the "Gas Act"), the
Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 (the "Gas Policy Act"), the 1935 Act and
applicable state laws and regulations have been filed with the SEC, the FERC
or the applicable state regulatory authorities, as the case may be, including
all forms, statements, reports, agreements (oral or written) and all
documents, exhibits, amendments and supplements appertaining thereto, and
complied in all material respects with all applicable requirements of the
appropriate act and the rules and regulations thereunder. CNG has made
available to DRI a true and complete copy of each report, schedule,
registration statement and definitive proxy statement filed by CNG with the
SEC under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, since January 1, 1996 and
through the date hereof (as such documents have since the time of their filing
been amended, the "CNG SEC Reports"). The CNG SEC Reports, including without
limitation any financial statements or schedules included therein, at the time
filed, and any forms, reports or other documents filed by CNG with the SEC
after the date hereof, did not and will not contain any untrue statement of a
material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances
under which they were made, not misleading. The audited consolidated financial
statements and unaudited interim financial statements of CNG included in the
CNG SEC Reports (collectively, the "CNG Financial Statements") have been
prepared, and will be prepared, in accordance with GAAP (except as may be
indicated therein or in the notes thereto and except with respect to unaudited
statements as permitted by Form 10-Q under the Exchange Act) and fairly
present the consolidated financial position of CNG as of the respective dates
thereof or the consolidated results of operations and cash flows for the
respective periods then ended, as the case may be, subject, in the case of the
unaudited interim financial statements, to normal, recurring audit
adjustments.
Section 5.6 Absence of Certain Changes or Events. From September 30, 1998
through the date hereof, each of CNG and each of its subsidiaries has
conducted its business only in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice and no event has occurred which has had, and no fact or
condition exists that would have or, to the best knowledge of CNG, is
reasonably likely to have, a CNG Material Adverse Effect.
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Section 5.7 Registration Statement and Proxy Statement. None of the
information supplied or to be supplied by or on behalf of CNG for inclusion or
incorporation by reference in (i) the Registration Statement will, at the time
the Registration Statement becomes effective under the Securities Act, and as
the same may be amended, at the effective time of such amendment, contain any
untrue statement or a material fact or omit to state any material fact
required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
misleading and (ii) the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus will, at the date
such Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus is mailed to the shareholders of CNG and
DRI and, as the same may be amended or supplemented, at the times of the
meetings of such shareholders to be held in connection with the Merger,
contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material
fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. The Registration
Statement and the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus will comply as to form in
all material respects with the provisions of the Securities Act and the
Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Section 5.8 Employee Matters; ERISA.
(a) Each "employee benefit plan" (as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA),
bonus, deferred compensation, stock option, employment, severance, change in
control or other written agreement relating to employment, fringe benefits or
perquisites for current or former employees of CNG or any of its subsidiaries,
maintained or contributed to by CNG or any of its subsidiaries at any time
during the seven-calendar year period immediately preceding the date hereof
(collectively, the "CNG Employee Benefit Plans") is listed in Section 5.8(a)
of the CNG Disclosure Schedule.
(b) With respect to the CNG Employee Benefit Plans, individually and in the
aggregate, no event has occurred and, to the knowledge of CNG, there exists no
condition or set of circumstances, in connection with which CNG or any of its
subsidiaries could be subject to any liability that is reasonably likely to
have a CNG Material Adverse Effect (except liability for benefits claims and
funding obligations payable in the ordinary course) under ERISA, the Code or
any other applicable law.
(c) Each CNG Employee Benefit Plan has been administered in accordance with
its terms, except for any failures to so administer any CNG Employee Benefit
Plans as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a CNG Material
Adverse Effect, CNG, its subsidiaries and all the CNG Employee Benefit Plans
are in compliance with the applicable provisions of ERISA, the Code and all
other applicable laws and the terms of all applicable collective bargaining
agreements as they relate to the CNG Employee Benefit Plans, except for any
failures to be in such compliance as would not, individually or in the
aggregate, have a CNG Material Adverse Effect. Each CNG Employee Benefit Plan
which is intended to be qualified within the meaning of Section 401(a) of the
Code has received a favorable determination letter from the IRS and, to the
knowledge of CNG, no event has occurred and no condition exists which could
reasonably be expected to result in the revocation of any such determination.
(d) Except for all equity-based and other awards, the vesting and
exercisability of which will, by their terms, be accelerated as a result of
the transactions contemplated hereunder, no employee of CNG will be entitled
to any additional benefits or any acceleration of the time of payment or
vesting of any benefits under any CNG Employee Benefit Plan as a result of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 5.9 Regulation as a Utility. Neither CNG nor any subsidiary company
or affiliate of CNG is subject to regulation as a public utility or public
service company (or similar designation) by any state in the United States, by
the United States or any agency or instrumentality of the United States or by
any foreign country.
Section 5.10 Vote Required. (a) The approval of the Merger by a majority of
all votes entitled to be cast by the holders of CNG Common Stock (the "CNG
Shareholders' Approval"), is the only vote of the holders of any class or
series of the capital stock of CNG required to approve this Agreement, the
Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby.
(b) None of the shareholders of CNG are entitled to exercise any appraisal
rights in connection with the CNG Shareholders' Approval.
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Section 5.11 Accounting Matters. CNG has not, through the date hereof, taken
or agreed to take any action that would prevent CNG from accounting for the
business combination to be effected by the Merger as a pooling-of-interests in
accordance with GAAP and applicable SEC regulations.
Section 5.12 Opinion of Financial Advisor. CNG has received the opinion of
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated dated the date hereof, to
the effect that, as of the date hereof, the Conversion Ratio to be received by
the holders of CNG Common Stock is fair from a financial point of view to the
holders of CNG Common Stock.
Section 5.13 Ownership of DRI Common Stock. CNG does not "beneficially own"
(as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) any shares of
DRI Common Stock.
Section 5.14 CNG Rights Agreement. CNG shall take all necessary action with
respect to all of the outstanding rights to purchase common stock of CNG (the
"CNG Rights") issued pursuant to the Rights Agreement dated as of January 23,
1996 between CNG and First Chicago Trust Company of New York, as Rights Agent
(the "CNG Rights Agreement"), so that CNG, as of the time immediately prior to
the Effective Time, will have no obligations under the CNG Rights or the CNG
Rights Agreement, except for the payment of any redemption price, if required,
and so that the holders of the CNG Rights will have no rights under the CNG
Rights or the CNG Rights Agreement, except for the payment of any redemption
price, if required. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement
will not result in a distribution of, or otherwise, trigger, the CNG Rights
under the CNG Rights Agreement.
Section 5.15 Anti-Takeover Provisions. None of the business combination
provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law or the
certificate of incorporation or bylaws of CNG are applicable to the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement. No other "fair price,"
"moratorium," "control share acquisition" or similar anti-takeover statute or
regulation is applicable to CNG, the Merger or any other transaction
contemplated hereby.
Section 5.16 Environmental Protection. Except as would not have,
individually or in the aggregate, a CNG Material Adverse Effect, (A) neither
CNG nor any of its subsidiaries is in violation of, or has received any
written notice that it is subject to liability under, any Environmental Laws,
(B) CNG and its subsidiaries have or have filed timely application for, all
permits, licenses, authorizations and approvals required under any applicable
Environmental Laws, all of which are in full force and effect, and are each in
compliance with their requirements, (C) there are no pending or, to the
knowledge of CNG, threatened administrative, regulatory or judicial actions,
suits, demands, demand letters, claims, liens, notices of noncompliance,
violation or potential responsibility or liability, investigation or
proceedings pursuant to any Environmental Law against CNG or any of its
subsidiaries, or to the knowledge of CNG, any of their respective
predecessors-in-interest for which CNG or any of its subsidiaries is or may be
liable and (D) there are no past or present events, conditions or
circumstances which would reasonably be expected to form the basis of an order
or other requirement to conduct responsive or corrective action, or an action,
suit or proceeding by any private party or governmental agency, against or
affecting, or requiring capital or operating expenditures by, CNG or any of
its subsidiaries, in each case pursuant to any Environmental Laws.
Section 5.17 Trading Position Risk Management. CNG has established a risk
management department which, from time to time, establishes risk parameters to
restrict the level of risk that CNG and its subsidiaries are authorized to
take with respect to the net position resulting from physical commodity
transactions, exchange traded futures and options and over-the-counter
derivative instruments. The risk management department of CNG regularly
monitors the compliance by CNG and its subsidiaries with such risk parameters.
Section 5.18 Litigation. (i) There are no suits, actions or proceedings
pending or, to the best knowledge of CNG threatened against or affecting CNG
or any of its subsidiaries and (ii) there are no judgments, decrees,
injunctions, rules or orders of any court, governmental department,
commission, agency, instrumentality or authority or any arbitrator outstanding
against CNG or any of its subsidiaries that, in each case, individually or in
the aggregate, would have, or are reasonably likely to have, a CNG Material
Adverse Effect.
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ARTICLE VI
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger
DRI and CNG have each delivered to the other a budget for the years 1999 and
2000 (respectively, the "DRI Budget" and the "CNG Budget"), which DRI or CNG,
as the case may be, may update or otherwise modify in writing for purposes of
this Article VI only with the consent in writing of CNG or DRI, as the case
may be. After the date hereof and prior to the Effective Time or earlier
termination of this Agreement, each of DRI and CNG agrees as to itself and its
subsidiaries, except as expressly contemplated or permitted in this Agreement,
or to the extent the other party shall otherwise consent in writing, as
follows:
Section 6.1 Ordinary Course of Business. Each of DRI and CNG shall, and each
shall cause its respective subsidiaries to, carry on their respective
businesses in the usual, regular and ordinary course consistent with past
practice and use all commercially reasonable efforts to preserve intact their
present business organizations and goodwill, preserve the goodwill and
relationships with customers, suppliers and others having business dealings
with them, subject to prudent management of workforce needs and ongoing or
planned programs relating to downsizing, re-engineering and similar programs
to the end that their goodwill and ongoing businesses shall not be impaired in
any material respect at the Effective Time.
Section 6.2 Dividends. Neither DRI nor CNG shall, nor shall either permit
any of its subsidiaries to: (a) declare or pay any dividends on or make other
distributions in respect of any of their capital stock other than (i) in the
case of subsidiaries, to such subsidiary's shareholders, (ii) regular
dividends on DRI Common Stock with usual record and payment dates not in
excess of an annual rate of $2.58 per share, and (iii) regular dividends on
CNG Common Stock with usual record and payment dates not in excess of an
annual rate of $1.94 per share; (b) split, combine or reclassify any of their
capital stock or issue or authorize or propose the issuance of any other
securities in respect of, in lieu of, or in substitution for, shares of its
capital stock; or (c) redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire any shares of
their capital stock other than (but in all cases subject to Section 6.12) (i)
redemptions, repurchases and other acquisitions of shares of capital stock in
the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice including,
without limitation, repurchases, redemptions and other acquisitions in
connection with the administration of employee benefit and dividend
reinvestment plans as in effect on the date hereof in the ordinary course of
the operation of such plans, (ii) intercompany acquisitions of capital stock,
(iii) purchases under DRI's existing share repurchase program and (iv) the
redemption, if required, of the CNG Rights pursuant to the CNG Rights
Agreement.
Section 6.3 Issuance of Securities. Except as provided in the DRI Budget or
the CNG Budget, as the case may be, neither DRI nor CNG shall, nor shall
either permit any of its subsidiaries to, issue, deliver or sell, or authorize
or propose the issuance, delivery or sale of, any shares of their capital
stock of any class or any securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or
any rights, warrants or options to acquire, any such shares or convertible or
exchangeable securities, other than (a) the issuance of common stock, stock
options, restricted stock or stock appreciation or similar rights pursuant to
(i) the existing Dominion Direct Investment, Incentive Compensation Plan,
Directors' Stock Compensation Plan, Directors' Stock Accumulation Plan,
Directors' Deferred Cash Compensation Plan, Executive Deferred Compensation
Plan, Employee Savings Plan, Subsidiary Savings Plan, Hourly Employee Savings
Plan and other existing plans and practices of DRI or (ii) the existing 1991
Stock Incentive Plan, 1997 Stock Incentive Plan, 1995 Employee Stock Incentive
Plan, Non-Employee Directors Restricted Stock Plan, Dividend Reinvestment
Plan, Employee Stock Ownership Plan and other existing plans and practices of
CNG, in each case consistent in kind and amount with past practice and in the
ordinary course of business under such plans substantially in accordance with
their present terms, (b) the issuance by a subsidiary of shares of its capital
stock to its shareholders, (c) the issuance or sale of treasury stock to
satisfy the requirements to use the pooling of interests method of accounting
for the transaction, and (d) the issuance by DRI of shares of its capital
stock in connection with any acquisition permitted pursuant to Section 6.5,
except that such issuance by DRI shall not exceed an aggregate value of
$800,000,000 without the prior written consent of CNG.
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Section 6.4 Charter Documents. Except as disclosed in Section 6.4 of the DRI
Disclosure Schedule or the CNG Disclosure Schedule, neither DRI nor CNG shall
amend or propose to amend its articles of incorporation or by-laws, except as
contemplated herein, in any way adverse to the other party. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, DRI may increase the number of authorized shares of DRI Common
Stock and may amend its articles of incorporation to eliminate the staggered
terms of its Board of Directors.
Section 6.5 Acquisitions. Except as disclosed in Section 6.5 of the DRI
Disclosure Schedule or the CNG Disclosure Schedule and except as provided in
the DRI Budget or the CNG Budget, as the case may be, neither DRI nor CNG
shall, nor shall either permit any of its subsidiaries to, acquire or agree to
acquire, by merging or consolidating with, or by purchasing a substantial
equity interest in or a substantial portion of the assets of, or by any other
manner, any business or any corporation, partnership, association or other
business organization or division thereof, or otherwise acquire or agree to
acquire any assets (i) which would, in the case of either DRI and its
subsidiaries or CNG and its subsidiaries, require a vote of the shareholders
of DRI or CNG, as the case may be, or (ii) which would exceed $100,000,000
individually or $300,000,000 in the aggregate (including, in each case, any
recourse indebtedness assumed in connection therewith) and which, in the case
of CNG have not been approved in writing by DRI, which approval shall not be
unreasonably withheld, or in the case of DRI, with respect to which DRI has
not consulted with CNG or in the case of non-energy industry related
acquisitions in excess of $2,000,000,000 in the aggregate, to which CNG has
not consented, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither party shall acquire any nuclear power
facilities without the prior written consent of the other party.
Section 6.6 No Dispositions. Except as disclosed in Section 6.6 of the DRI
Disclosure Schedule or the CNG Disclosure Schedule, and other than (a)
dispositions not exceeding $100,000,000 individually or $300,000,000 in the
aggregate, in the case of, on the one hand, DRI and its subsidiaries and, on
the other hand, CNG and its subsidiaries, (b) as may be required by law to
consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, (c) in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practices, or (d) in the case of CNG, as may be
approved in writing by DRI, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld,
or, in the case of DRI, with respect to which DRI has consulted with CNG,
neither DRI nor CNG shall, nor shall either permit any of its subsidiaries to,
sell, lease, license, encumber or otherwise dispose of, any of its assets that
are material, individually or in the aggregate, to such party and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole.
Section 6.7 Indebtedness. Except as disclosed in Section 6.7 of the DRI
Disclosure Schedule or the CNG Disclosure Schedule and except as provided in
the DRI Budget or the CNG Budget, as the case may be, neither DRI nor CNG
shall, nor shall either permit any of its subsidiaries to, incur or guarantee
any indebtedness (including any debt borrowed or guaranteed or otherwise
assumed, including, without limitation, the issuance of debt securities or
warrants or rights to acquire debt) other than (a) short-term indebtedness in
the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, (b) long-term
indebtedness in connection with the refinancing of existing indebtedness
either at its stated maturity or at a lower cost of funds, (c) additional
indebtedness aggregating in any year not more than 110% of the amount provided
therefor in the DRI Budget with respect to DRI and its subsidiaries or in the
CNG Budget with respect to CNG and its subsidiaries, and (d) in the case of
CNG, as may be approved in writing by DRI, which approval shall not be
unreasonably withheld, or, in the case of DRI, with respect to which DRI has
consulted with CNG.
Section 6.8 Capital Expenditures. Except as disclosed in Section 6.8 of the
DRI Disclosure Schedule or the CNG Disclosure Schedule or as required by law,
neither DRI nor CNG shall, nor shall either permit any of its subsidiaries to,
make any capital expenditures, other than (a) capital expenditures to repair
or replace facilities destroyed or damaged due to casualty or accident
(whether or not covered by insurance), (b) additional capital expenditures in
any year of not more than 110% of the amount provided therefor in the DRI
Budget for that year with respect to DRI and its subsidiaries and in the CNG
Budget for that year with respect to CNG and its subsidiaries, and (c) in the
case of CNG, as may be approved in writing by DRI, which approval shall not be
unreasonably withheld, or, in the case of DRI, with respect to which DRI has
consulted with CNG.
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Section 6.9 Compensation, Benefits. Except as disclosed in Section 6.9 of
the CNG Disclosure Schedule or the CNG Budget, CNG shall not, nor shall it
permit any of its subsidiaries to, (i) enter into, adopt or amend (except as
may be required by applicable law), or increase the amount or accelerate the
payment or vesting of any benefit or amount payable under, any employee
benefit plan or other contract, agreement, commitment, arrangement, plan or
policy maintained by, contributed to or entered into by such party or any of
its subsidiaries, or increase, or enter into any contract, agreement,
commitment or arrangement to increase in any manner, the compensation or
fringe benefits, or otherwise to extend, expand or enhance the engagement,
employment or any related rights, of any director, officer or other employee
of such party or any of its subsidiaries, except pursuant to binding legal
commitments or as a result of normal collective bargaining processes, and
except for normal (including incentive) increases, extensions, expansions,
enhancements, amendments, replacements or adoptions in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practice that, in the aggregate, do not result
in a material increase in benefits or compensation expense to such party and
its subsidiaries taken as a whole or (ii) enter into or amend any employment,
severance or special pay arrangement with respect to termination of employment
or other similar contract, agreement or arrangement with any director or
officer other than in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practice.
Section 6.10 1935 Act. None of the parties hereto shall, nor shall any such
party permit any of its Significant Subsidiaries to, except as required or
contemplated by this Agreement, engage in any activities that would cause a
change in its status, or that of its Significant Subsidiaries, under the 1935
Act.
Section 6.11 Accounting. Neither DRI nor CNG shall, nor shall either permit
any of its subsidiaries to, make any changes in their accounting methods,
except as required by law, rule, regulation or GAAP.
Section 6.12 Pooling. DRI and CNG shall use their respective best efforts,
and shall cause each of their respective subsidiaries to use its best efforts,
to take such actions as may be necessary to permit the parties to account for
the Merger, and shall not and shall not permit any of their respective
subsidiaries to, take any actions that would, or would reasonably likely to,
prevent the parties from accounting for the Merger, as a pooling of interests
in accordance with GAAP and applicable SEC regulations.
Section 6.13 Tax-Free Status. Neither DRI nor CNG shall, nor shall either
permit any of its subsidiaries to, take any actions that would, or would be
reasonably likely to, adversely affect the qualification of the Merger as a
transaction described in Section 368(a)(1)(A) of the Code.
Section 6.14 Discharge of Liabilities. Neither DRI nor CNG shall pay,
discharge or satisfy any material claims, liabilities or obligations
(absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise), other
than the payment, discharge or satisfaction, in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practice (which includes the payment of
judgments and settlements and the refinancing of existing indebtedness for
borrowed money either at its stated maturity or at a lower cost of funds) or
in accordance with their terms, of liabilities reflected or reserved against
in, or contemplated by, the most recent consolidated financial statements (or
the notes thereto) of such party included in such party's reports filed with
the SEC, or incurred in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practice or as disclosed in Section 6.7 of the DRI Disclosure Schedule or the
CNG Disclosure Schedule.
Section 6.15 Cooperation, Notification. Each of DRI and CNG shall: (a)
confer on a regular and frequent basis with one or more representatives of the
other to discuss the general status of its ongoing operations; (b) promptly
notify the other of any significant changes in its business, properties,
assets, condition (financial or other), prospects or results of operations;
(c) advise the other of any change or event that has had or, insofar as
reasonably can be foreseen, is reasonably likely to result in, a DRI Material
Adverse Effect or a CNG Material Adverse Effect, as the case may be; and (d)
promptly provide the other with copies of all filings made by it or any of its
subsidiaries with any state or federal court, administrative agency,
commission or other Governmental Authority in connection with this Agreement
and the transactions contemplated hereby.
Section 6.16 Rate Matters. Other than currently pending rate filings, each
of DRI and CNG shall, and shall cause its subsidiaries to, discuss with the
other any changes in its or its subsidiaries' regulated rates or
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charges (other than fuel and gas rates or charges), standards of service or
accounting from those in effect on the date hereof and consult with the other
prior to making any filing (or any amendment thereto), or effecting any
agreement, commitment, arrangement or consent, whether written or oral, formal
or informal, with respect thereto, and neither DRI nor CNG shall make any
filing to change its rates on file with any state regulatory authority or the
FERC that would have a material adverse effect on the benefits associated with
the Merger.
Section 6.17 Third-Party Consents. DRI shall, and shall cause its
subsidiaries to, use all commercially reasonable efforts to obtain all DRI
Required Consents. DRI shall promptly notify CNG of any failure or anticipated
failure to obtain any such consents and, if requested by CNG, shall provide
copies of all DRI Required Consents obtained by DRI to CNG. CNG shall, and
shall cause its subsidiaries to, use all commercially reasonable efforts to
obtain all CNG Required Consents. CNG shall promptly notify DRI of any failure
or anticipated failure to obtain any such consents and, if requested by DRI,
shall provide copies of all CNG Required Consents obtained by CNG to DRI.
Section 6.18 No Breach, Etc. No party shall, nor shall any party permit any
of its subsidiaries to, take any action that would or is reasonably likely to
result in a material breach of any provision of this Agreement or in any of
its representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement being untrue on
and as of the Closing Date.
Section 6.19 Tax-Exempt Status. No party hereto shall, nor shall any party
permit any subsidiary to, take any action that would likely jeopardize the
qualification of the outstanding revenue bonds issued for the benefit of DRI
(or any subsidiary thereof) or for the benefit of CNG (or any subsidiary
thereof) that qualify on the date hereof under Section 142(a) of the Code as
"exempt facility bonds" or as tax-exempt industrial development bonds under
Section 103(b)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended prior to
the Tax Reform Act of 1986.
Section 6.20 Transition Management. (a) DRI and CNG shall create a special
transition management task force (the "Task Force") to be headed by Thomas E.
Capps, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DRI, and in addition, to
consist of two members nominated by CNG and two additional members nominated
by DRI. The Task Force shall report its findings to the Board of Directors of
each of DRI and CNG.
(b) The functions of the Task Force shall include (i) serving as a conduit
for the flow of information and documents between DRI and CNG as contemplated
by Section 6.15, (ii) development of transition plans, corporate
organizational and management plans, workforce combination proposals, and such
other matters as may be appropriate and (iii) otherwise assisting DRI and CNG
in making an orderly transition.
Section 6.21 Insurance. Each of DRI and CNG shall, and shall cause its
subsidiaries to, maintain with financially responsible insurance companies
insurance in such amounts and against such risks and losses as are customary
for companies engaged in their respective industries, taking into account, in
the case of DRI, DRI's methods of generating electric power and fuel sources.
Section 6.22 Permits. Each party shall, and shall cause its subsidiaries to,
use commercially reasonable efforts to maintain in effect all existing Permits
(as defined in Section 4.4) pursuant to which such party or such party's
subsidiaries operate.
ARTICLE VII
Additional Agreements
Section 7.1 Access to Information. Upon reasonable notice and during normal
business hours, each party shall, and shall cause its subsidiaries to, afford
to the officers, directors, employees, accountants, counsel, investment
banker, financial advisor and other representatives of the other
(collectively, "Representatives") reasonable access, during normal business
hours throughout the period prior to the Effective Time, to all of its
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properties, books, contracts, commitments and records (including, but not
limited to, tax returns) and, during such period, each party shall, and shall
cause its subsidiaries to, furnish promptly to the other (i) a copy of each
reasonably available report, schedule and other document filed or received by
it or any of its subsidiaries pursuant to the requirements of federal or state
securities laws or filed with the SEC, the FERC, the NRC, the Department of
Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, or any other federal or any state
regulatory agency or commission, and (ii) all information concerning
themselves, their subsidiaries, directors, officers and shareholders and such
matters as may be reasonably requested by the other party in connection with
any filings, applications or approvals required or contemplated by this
Agreement. All documents and information furnished pursuant to this Section
7.1 shall be subject to the Confidentiality Agreement between the parties (the
"Confidentiality Agreement"). The party requesting copies of any documents
from any other party hereto shall be responsible for all out-of-pocket
expenses incurred by the party to whom such request is made in complying with
such request, including any cost of reproducing and delivering any required
information.
Section 7.2 Joint Proxy Statement and Registration Statement.
(a) Preparation and Filing. As promptly as reasonably practicable after the
date hereof, DRI shall, in consultation with CNG, prepare and file with the
SEC the Registration Statement and the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus
(together the "Joint Proxy/Registration Statement"). DRI shall take such
actions as may be reasonably required to cause the Registration Statement to
be declared effective under the Securities Act as promptly as practicable
after such filing and shall also take such action as may be reasonably
required to cause the shares of DRI Common Stock issuable in connection with
the Merger to be registered or to obtain an exemption from registration under
applicable state "blue sky" or securities laws. Each of the parties shall
furnish all information concerning itself that is required or customary for
inclusion in the Joint Proxy/Registration Statement. No representation,
covenant or agreement contained in this Agreement is made by any party hereto
with respect to information supplied by any other party hereto for inclusion
in the Joint Proxy/Registration Statement. The parties shall take such actions
as may be reasonably required to cause Joint Proxy/Registration Statement to
comply as to form in all material respects with the Securities Act, the
Exchange Act and the 1935 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder. DRI
shall take such action as may be reasonably required to cause the shares of
DRI Common Stock to be issued in the Merger to be approved for listing on the
NYSE and any other stock exchanges agreed to by the parties, each upon
official notice of issuance.
(b) Letter of DRI's Accountants. DRI shall use best efforts to cause to be
delivered to DRI and CNG letters of Deloitte & Touche LLP, one dated a date
within two (2) business days before the effective date of the Registration
Statement and one dated the Closing Date, and addressed to DRI and CNG, in
form and substance reasonably satisfactory to DRI and CNG and customary in
scope and substance for "cold comfort" letters delivered by independent public
accountants in connection with registration statements and proxy statements
similar to the Joint Proxy/Registration Statement.
(c) Letter of CNG's Accountants. CNG shall use best efforts to cause to be
delivered to CNG and DRI letters of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, one dated a
date within two (2) business days before the effective date of the
Registration Statement and one dated the Closing Date, and addressed to CNG
and DRI, in form and substance satisfactory to CNG and DRI and customary in
scope and substance for "cold comfort" letters delivered by independent public
accountants in connection with registration statements and proxy statements
similar to the Joint Proxy/Registration Statement.
Section 7.3 Regulatory Matters.
(a) HSR Filings. Each party hereto shall file or cause to be filed with the
Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice any notifications
required to be filed by them or their respective "ultimate parent" companies
under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended
(the "HSR Act"), and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder with
respect to the transactions contemplated hereby. Such parties will use all
commercially reasonable efforts to make such filings promptly and shall
respond promptly to any requests for additional information made by either of
such agencies.
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(b) Other Regulatory Approvals. Each party hereto shall cooperate and use
its best efforts to promptly prepare and file all necessary documentation, to
effect all necessary applications, notices, petitions, filings and other
documents, and to use all commercially reasonable efforts to obtain all
necessary permits, consents, approvals and authorizations of all Governmental
Authorities and all other persons necessary or advisable to consummate the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, without limitation,
the DRI Required Statutory Approvals and the CNG Required Statutory Approvals.
CNG shall have the right to review and approve in advance all
characterizations of the information relating to CNG, on the one hand, and DRI
shall have the right to review and approve in advance all characterizations of
the information relating to DRI, on the other hand, in either case, which
appear in any filing made in connection with the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement or the Merger, such approvals not to be unreasonably withheld.
DRI and CNG shall each consult with the other with respect to the obtaining of
all such necessary or advisable permits, consents, approvals and
authorizations of Governmental Authorities and shall keep each other informed
of the status thereof.
Section 7.4 Shareholder Approvals.
(a) Approval of CNG Shareholders. CNG shall, as promptly as reasonably
practicable after the date hereof (i) take all steps reasonably necessary to
call, give notice of, convene and hold a special meeting of its shareholders
(the "CNG Special Meeting") for the purpose of securing the CNG Shareholders'
Approval, (ii) distribute to its shareholders the Joint Proxy
Statement/Prospectus in accordance with applicable federal and state law and
with its certificate of incorporation and bylaws, (iii) recommend to its
shareholders that they give the CNG Shareholders' Approval (provided that
nothing contained in this Section 7.4 shall require the Board of Directors of
CNG to take any action or refrain from taking any action that such Board
determines in good faith and with the advice of counsel as set forth in a
written, reasoned opinion would result in a breach of its fiduciary duties
under applicable law), and (iv) cooperate and consult with DRI with respect to
each of the foregoing matters.
(b) Approval of DRI Shareholders. DRI shall, as promptly as reasonably
practicable after the date hereof (i) take all steps reasonably necessary to
call, give notice of, convene and hold a special meeting of its shareholders
(the "DRI Special Meeting") for the purpose of securing the DRI Shareholders'
Approval, (ii) distribute to its shareholders the Joint Proxy
Statement/Prospectus in accordance with applicable federal and state law and
its articles of incorporation and bylaws, (iii) recommend to its shareholders
that they give the DRI Shareholders' Approval (provided that nothing contained
in this Section 7.4 shall require the Board of Directors of DRI to take any
action or refrain from taking any action that such Board determines in good
faith and with the advice of counsel as set forth in a written, reasoned
opinion would result in a breach of its fiduciary duties under applicable
law), and (iv) cooperate and consult with CNG with respect to each of the
foregoing matters.
(c) Meeting Date. The DRI Special Meeting and the CNG Special Meeting shall
be held on the same day unless otherwise agreed by DRI and CNG.
Section 7.5 Directors' and Officers' Indemnification.
(a) Indemnification. To the extent, if any, not provided by an existing
right of indemnification or other agreement or policy, from and after the
Effective Time, DRI shall, to the fullest extent provided by CNG prior to the
Closing and not prohibited by applicable law, indemnify, defend and hold
harmless the present and former directors, officers and management employees
of CNG and its subsidiaries (each an "Indemnified Party" and, collectively,
the "Indemnified Parties") against (i) all losses, expenses (including
reasonable attorneys' fees and expenses), claims, damages, costs, liabilities,
judgments or (subject to the proviso of the next succeeding sentence) amounts
that are paid in settlement of or in connection with any claim, action, suit,
proceeding or investigation based in whole or in part on or arising in whole
or in part out of the fact that such person is or was a director, officer or
management employee of CNG or any subsidiary thereof, whether pertaining to
any matter existing or occurring at or prior to or after the Effective Time
and whether asserted or claimed prior to, at or after the Effective Time and
(ii) all liabilities based in whole or in part on, or arising in whole or in
part out of, or pertaining to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated
hereby. In the event of any such loss, expense,
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claim, damage, cost, liability, judgment or settlement (whether or not arising
before the Effective Time), (x) DRI shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses
of counsel selected by the Indemnified Parties, which counsel shall be
reasonably satisfactory to DRI, promptly after statements therefor are
received, and otherwise advance to the Indemnified Parties upon request
reimbursement of documented expenses reasonably incurred, in either case, to
the extent not prohibited by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, (y) DRI
shall cooperate in the defense of any such matter and (z) any determination
required to be made with respect to whether an Indemnified Party's conduct
complies with the standards under applicable law or as set forth in DRI's
articles of incorporation or bylaws shall be made by independent counsel
mutually acceptable to DRI and the Indemnified Party; provided, however, that
DRI shall not be liable for any settlement effected without its written
consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed). The
Indemnified Parties as a group may retain only one law firm (other than local
counsel) with respect to each related matter except to the extent there is, in
the sole opinion of counsel to an Indemnified Party, under applicable
standards of professional conduct, a conflict on any significant issue between
positions of any two or more Indemnified Parties, in which case each
Indemnified Party with a conflicting position on a significant issue shall be
entitled to separate counsel. In the event any Indemnified Party is required
to bring any action to enforce rights or to collect moneys due under this
Agreement and is successful in such action, DRI shall reimburse such
Indemnified Party for all of its expenses in bringing and pursuing such
action. Each Indemnified Party shall be entitled to the advancement of
expenses to the full extent contemplated in this Section 7.5(a) in connection
with any such action.
(b) Insurance. For a period of six (6) years after the Effective Time, DRI
shall cause to be maintained in effect the policies of directors' and
officers' liability insurance maintained by CNG; provided that DRI may
substitute therefor policies of at least the same coverage containing terms
that are no less advantageous with respect to matters occurring at or prior to
the Effective Time to the extent such liability insurance can be maintained
annually at a cost to DRI not greater than 200% of the current annual premiums
for the policies currently maintained by CNG for its directors' and officers'
liability insurance; provided further, that if such insurance cannot be so
maintained or obtained at such cost, DRI shall maintain or obtain as much of
such insurance for CNG as can be so maintained or obtained at a cost equal to
200% of the respective current annual premiums of CNG for its directors' and
officers' liability insurance and other indemnity agreements.
(c) Successors. In the event DRI or any of its successors or assigns (i)
consolidates with or merges into any other person and shall not be the
continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such consolidation or merger
or (ii) transfers all or substantially all of its properties and assets to any
person, then and in either such case, proper provision shall be made so that
the successors and assigns of DRI shall assume the obligations set forth in
this Section 7.5.
(d) Survival of Indemnification. To the fullest extent not prohibited by
law, from and after the Effective Time, all rights to indemnification now
existing in favor of the employees, agents, directors or officers of CNG and
its subsidiaries with respect to their activities as such prior to or at the
Effective Time, as provided in their respective articles of incorporation or
bylaws or indemnification agreements in effect on the date of such activities
or otherwise in effect on the date hereof, shall survive the Merger and shall
continue in full force and effect for a period of not less than six (6) years
from the Effective Time.
Section 7.6 Disclosure Schedules. On or before the date of this Agreement,
(i) CNG has delivered to DRI a schedule (the "CNG Disclosure Schedule")
accompanied by a certificate signed by the chief financial officer of CNG
stating that the CNG Disclosure Schedule is being delivered pursuant to this
Section 7.6(i) and (ii) DRI has delivered to CNG a schedule (the "DRI
Disclosure Schedule") accompanied by a certificate signed by the chief
financial officer of DRI stating that the DRI Disclosure Schedule is being
delivered pursuant to this Section 7.6(ii). The CNG Disclosure Schedule and
the DRI Disclosure Schedule are collectively referred to herein as the
"Disclosure Schedules". The Disclosure Schedules constitute an integral part
of this Agreement and modify the respective representations, warranties,
covenants or agreements of the parties hereto contained herein to the extent
that such representations, warranties, covenants or agreements expressly refer
to the Disclosure Schedules. Any and all statements, representations,
warranties or disclosures set forth in the Disclosure Schedules shall be
deemed to have been made on and as of the date of this Agreement.
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Section 7.7 Public Announcements. DRI and CNG shall cooperate with each
other in the development and distribution of all news releases and other
public information disclosures with respect to this Agreement or any of the
transactions contemplated hereby and, subject to each party's disclosure
obligations imposed by law or any applicable national securities exchange,
shall not issue any public announcement or statement prior to consultation
with the other party.
Section 7.8 Rule 145 Affiliates. (a) Prior to the Closing Date, CNG shall
identify in a letter to DRI all persons who are, at the Closing Date,
"affiliates" of CNG, as such term is used in Rule 145 under the Securities
Act. CNG shall use its best efforts to cause its affiliates to deliver to DRI
on or prior to the Closing Date a written agreement substantially in the form
attached as Exhibit A.
(b) Prior to the Closing Date, DRI shall identify in a letter to CNG all
persons who are at the Closing Date, "affiliates" of DRI, as such term is used
in Rule 145 under the Securities Act. DRI shall use its best efforts to cause
its affiliates to deliver to CNG on or prior to the Closing Date a written
agreement substantially in the form attached as Exhibit B.
Section 7.9 Certain Employee Agreements. (a) Subject to Section 7.10, DRI
and its subsidiaries shall honor, without modification, all contracts,
agreements, collective bargaining agreements and commitments of CNG that apply
to any current or former employees or current or former directors of CNG;
provided, however, that this undertaking is not intended to prevent DRI from
enforcing such contracts, agreements, collective bargaining agreements and
commitments in accordance with their terms or from exercising any right to
amend, modify, suspend, revoke or terminate any such contract, agreement,
collective bargaining agreement or commitment.
(b) Before undertaking any reductions in workforce following the Effective
Time, DRI will consider whether such reductions have a disproportionate effect
on employees of CNG and its subsidiaries in light of the circumstances and the
objectives to be achieved and the needs of the combined businesses of DRI and
CNG.
(c) Subject to applicable law and obligations under applicable collective
bargaining agreements, DRI shall maintain for a period of at least two (2)
years after the Closing Date, without interruption, such employee
compensation, welfare and benefit plans, programs, policies and fringe
benefits as will, in the aggregate, provide benefits to the employees or
former employees of CNG and its subsidiaries, respectively, who were employees
immediately prior to the Closing Date that are no less favorable than those
provided pursuant to such employee compensation, welfare and benefit plans,
programs, policies and fringe benefits of CNG and its subsidiaries, as in
effect on the Closing Date.
Section 7.10 Incentive, Stock and Other Plans. With respect to each of CNG's
1991 Stock Incentive Plan, 1997 Stock Incentive Plan, 1995 Employee Stock
Incentive Plan, Non-Employee Directors Restricted Stock Plan and Employee
Stock Ownership Plan and each other employee benefit plan, program or
arrangement under which the delivery of CNG Common Stock is required to be
used for purposes of the payment of benefits, grant of awards or exercise of
options (each a "Stock Plan"), at the election of DRI, either (A) (i) DRI and
CNG shall take such action as may be necessary so that, after the Effective
Time, such Stock Plan shall provide for the issuance only of DRI Common Stock
and, with respect to outstanding options and/or awards, provide that the
holder thereof shall be entitled to a number of shares of DRI Common Stock
equal to the number such holder would have received if such option or award
had been exercised prior to the Effective Date with appropriate adjustments to
the exercise price and (ii) DRI shall (x) take all corporate action necessary
or appropriate to obtain shareholder approval with respect to such Stock Plan
to the extent such approval is required for purposes of the Code or other
applicable law, or, to the extent DRI deems it desirable, to enable such Stock
Plan to comply with Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, (y) reserve
for issuance under such Stock Plan or otherwise provide a sufficient number of
shares of DRI Common Stock for delivery upon payment of benefits, grants of
awards or exercise of options under such Stock Plan and (z) as soon as
practicable after the Effective Time, file one or more registration statements
under the Securities Act with respect to the shares of DRI Common Stock
subject to such Stock Plan to the extent such filing is required under
applicable law and use its best efforts to
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maintain the effectiveness of such registration statement(s) (and the current
status of the prospectuses contained therein or related thereto) so long as
such benefits, grants or awards remain payable or such options remain
outstanding, as the case may be, or (B) DRI and CNG shall use their respective
best efforts to take such action as may be necessary so that, at the Effective
Time, all benefits, grants of awards and options are converted to the right to
receive at the Effective Time a number of shares of DRI Common Stock having a
value equal to the fair value of each such benefit, grant of award or option
as determined in good faith by DRI, and based on the closing sales price of
DRI Common Stock as reported under "NYSE Composite Transaction Reports" in The
Wall Street Journal on the day immediately prior to the Effective Time. With
respect to those individuals who subsequent to the Merger will be subject to
the reporting requirements under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, DRI shall
administer the Stock Plans, where applicable, in a manner that complies with
Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act. DRI shall obtain any shareholder approvals
that may be necessary for the deduction of any compensation payable under any
Stock Plan or other compensation arrangement.
Section 7.11 No Solicitations. No party hereto shall, and each such party
shall cause its subsidiaries not to, permit any of its Representatives to, and
shall use its best efforts to cause such persons not to, directly or
indirectly, initiate, solicit or encourage, or take any action to facilitate
the making of any offer or proposal that constitutes or is reasonably likely
to lead to any Takeover Proposal (as defined below), or, in the event of any
unsolicited Takeover Proposal, engage in negotiations or provide any
confidential information or data to any person relating to any Takeover
Proposal. Each party shall notify the other orally and in writing of any such
inquiries, offers or proposals (including, without limitation, the terms and
conditions of any such proposal and the identity of the person making it)
within 24 hours of the receipt thereof and shall give the other five (5) days'
advance notice of any agreement to be entered into with or any information to
be supplied to any person making such inquiry, offer or proposal. Each party
hereto shall immediately cease and cause to be terminated all existing
discussions and negotiations, if any, with any other persons conducted
heretofore with respect to any Takeover Proposal. Notwithstanding anything in
this Section 7.11 to the contrary, in the event of an unsolicited Takeover
Proposal, unless the DRI Shareholders' Approval and the CNG Shareholders'
Approval have both been obtained, DRI or CNG may participate in discussions or
negotiations with, furnish information to, and afford access to the
properties, books and records of such party and its subsidiaries to any person
in connection with a possible Takeover Proposal with respect to such party by
such person, if and to the extent that (A) the Board of Directors of such
party has reasonably concluded in good faith (after consultation with its
financial advisors) that the person or group making the Takeover Proposal will
have adequate sources of financing to consummate the Takeover Proposal and
that the Takeover Proposal is more favorable to such party's shareholders than
the Merger, (B) the Board of Directors of such party is advised in a written,
reasoned opinion of outside counsel that a failure to do so would result in a
breach of its fiduciary duties under applicable law and (C) such party has
entered into a confidentiality agreement with the person or group making the
Takeover Proposal containing terms and conditions no less favorable to such
party than the Confidentiality Agreement. As used in this Section 7.11,
"Takeover Proposal" shall mean any tender or exchange offer, proposal for a
merger, consolidation or other business combination involving any party or any
of its material subsidiaries, or any proposal or offer to acquire in any
manner a substantial equity interest in, or a substantial portion of the
assets of, any party or any of its material subsidiaries, other than pursuant
to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
Section 7.12 DRI Board of Directors. The DRI Board of Directors will take
such action as may be necessary to cause the number of directors comprising
the full Board of Directors of DRI at the Effective Time to be seventeen
persons, ten of whom shall be designated by DRI prior to the Effective Time
and seven of whom shall be designated by CNG prior to the Effective Time, to
be divided as equally as possible among classes of directors if, at the
Effective Time, DRI has a staggered Board of Directors. The Board of Directors
of DRI will have at least three committees consisting of an audit committee,
an organization, compensation and nominating committee and a finance committee
and such other committees as the Board of Directors of DRI may determine is
appropriate under the circumstances. The finance committee will be chaired by
a director nominated by CNG. In addition, CNG will have a proportionate number
of representatives on each committee. Further, if the Closing Date occurs
prior to August 1, 2000 and if George A. Davidson, Jr. is then Chairman of the
CNG Board of Directors, he shall be Chairman of the DRI Board of Directors
from the Closing Date to August 1, 2000 and
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Thomas E. Capps shall be Vice Chairman of the DRI Board of Directors. If,
George A. Davidson, Jr. does not become Chairman of the DRI Board of Directors
pursuant to the preceding sentence, Thomas E. Capps shall continue as Chairman
of the DRI Board of Directors. If George A. Davidson, Jr. becomes Chairman of
the DRI Board of Directors, Thomas E. Capps shall reassume his position as
Chairman of the DRI Board of Directors upon the earlier of George A. Davidson,
Jr.'s retirement or August 1, 2000.
Section 7.13 Corporate Offices. Following the Effective Time, DRI shall
maintain its corporate offices in Richmond, Virginia but shall continue to
maintain a significant operating office in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Section 7.14 Expenses. Subject to Section 7.1 and Section 9.3, all costs and
expenses incurred in connection with this Agreement and the transactions
contemplated hereby shall be paid by the party incurring such expenses, except
that those expenses incurred in connection with printing the Joint
Proxy/Registration Statement, as well as the filing fee relating thereto,
shall be shared equally by DRI, on the one hand, and CNG, on the other hand.
In addition, prior to the Effective Time, CNG may establish an escrow account
and pay into such account cash in an amount sufficient to permit payment from
such escrow account of any and all real estate transfer taxes that may be due
from CNG or its shareholders in connection with the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement.
Section 7.15 Community Support. DRI acknowledges that after the Effective
Time, it intends to provide charitable contributions and community support
within the service areas of the parties and their respective subsidiaries at
levels consistent with past practice.
Section 7.16 Further Assurances.
(a) Each of CNG and DRI shall, and shall cause its subsidiaries to, execute
such further documents and instruments and take such further actions as may
reasonably be requested by the other in order to consummate the Merger and
other transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and to use its best efforts
to take or cause to be taken all actions, and to do or cause to be done all
things, necessary, proper or advisable under applicable laws and regulations
to consummate and make effective the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated hereby (subject to the votes of its shareholders described in
Sections 4.10 and 5.10, respectively), including fully cooperating with the
other in obtaining the CNG Required Statutory Approvals, the DRI Required
Statutory Approvals and all other approvals and authorizations of any
Governmental Authorities necessary or advisable to consummate the transactions
contemplated hereby.
(b) CNG and DRI shall be responsible for the taking of any action necessary
or advisable to obtain the CNG Required Statutory Approvals and to obtain the
DRI Required Statutory Approvals, respectively. CNG and DRI agree to cooperate
in obtaining the necessary approvals from the NRC, the FERC and the SEC under
the 1935 Act, the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and from the applicable
state authorities. CNG and DRI shall each provide the other with copies of any
filings made with any Governmental Authorities in connection with the
foregoing.
ARTICLE VIII
Conditions
Section 8.1 Conditions to Each Party's Obligation to Effect the Merger. The
respective obligations of each party to effect the Merger shall be subject to
the satisfaction on or prior to the Closing Date of the following conditions,
except, to the extent permitted by applicable law, that such conditions may be
waived in writing pursuant to Section 9.5:
(a) Shareholder Approvals. The CNG Shareholders' Approval and the DRI
Shareholders' Approval shall have been obtained.
(b) No Injunction. No temporary restraining order or preliminary or
permanent injunction or other order by any federal or state court
preventing consummation of the Merger shall have been issued and
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continuing in effect, and the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated hereby shall not have been prohibited under any applicable
federal or state law or regulation.
(c) Registration Statement. The Registration Statement shall have become
effective in accordance with the provisions of the Securities Act, and no
stop order suspending such effectiveness shall have been issued and remain
in effect.
(d) Listing of Shares. The shares of DRI Common Stock issuable in the
Merger pursuant to Article II shall have been approved for listing on the
NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance.
(e) Pooling. Each of DRI and CNG shall have received letters of its
independent public accountants, one dated the date the Registration
Statement is declared effective and the other dated the Closing Date, in
form and substance reasonably satisfactory to CNG and DRI, respectively,
stating that the Merger will qualify as a pooling-of-interests transaction
under GAAP and applicable SEC regulations.
(f) Statutory Approvals. The DRI Required Statutory Approvals and the CNG
Required Statutory Approvals shall have been obtained at or prior to the
Effective Time, such approvals shall have become Final Orders (as
hereinafter defined), and no Final Order shall impose terms or conditions
that would have, or would be reasonably likely to have a material adverse
effect on the business, operations, properties, assets, condition
(financial or otherwise), prospects or results of operations of DRI and CNG
and their subsidiaries on a consolidated basis as if the Merger had been
consummated (but without giving effect to the impact of such material
adverse effect). A "Final Order" means action by the relevant regulatory
authority that has not been reversed, stayed, enjoined, set aside, annulled
or suspended, with respect to which any waiting period prescribed by law
before the transactions contemplated hereby may be consummated has expired,
and as to which all conditions to the consummation of such transactions
prescribed by law, regulation or order have been satisfied, and as to which
all opportunities for rehearing are exhausted (whether or not any appeal
thereof is pending).
Section 8.2 Conditions to Obligation of CNG to Effect the Merger. The
obligation of CNG to effect the Merger shall be further subject to the
satisfaction, on or prior to the Closing Date, of the following conditions,
except as may be waived by CNG in writing pursuant to Section 9.5:
(a) Performance of Obligations of DRI. DRI shall have performed in all
material respects its agreements and covenants contained in or contemplated
by this Agreement required to be performed by it at or prior to the
Effective Time.
(b) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of
DRI set forth in this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the date
hereof and as of the Closing Date as if made on and as of the Closing Date,
except as otherwise contemplated by this Agreement, except for such
failures of representations or warranties to be true and correct (without
giving effect to any materiality qualification or standard contained in any
such representation or warranties) which, individually or in the aggregate,
would not be reasonably likely to result in a DRI Material Adverse Effect.
(c) Closing Certificates. CNG shall have received a certificate signed by
the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of DRI, dated the
Closing Date, to the effect that, to the best of each such officer's
knowledge, the conditions set forth in Section 8.2(a) and Section 8.2(b)
have been satisfied.
(d) DRI Material Adverse Effect. No DRI Material Adverse Effect shall
have occurred and there shall exist no fact or circumstance that would
have, or would be reasonably likely to have, a DRI Material Adverse Effect.
(e) Tax Opinion. CNG shall have received an opinion of counsel, in form
and substance satisfactory to CNG, dated the Closing Date, which opinion
may be based on appropriate representations of DRI and CNG that are in form
and substance reasonably satisfactory to such counsel, to the effect that
the Merger will be treated as a transaction described in Section 368(a) of
the Code and that no gain or loss will be recognized by the stockholders of
CNG who exchange CNG Common Stock solely for DRI Common Stock pursuant to
the Merger (except with respect to cash received in lieu of fractional
shares).
(f) DRI Required Consents. The DRI Required Consents shall have been
obtained.
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Section 8.3 Conditions to Obligation of DRI to Effect the Merger. The
obligation of DRI to effect the Merger shall be further subject to the
satisfaction, on or prior to the Closing Date, of the following conditions,
except as may be waived by DRI in writing pursuant to Section 9.5:
(a) Performance of Obligations of CNG. CNG shall have performed in all
material respects its agreements and covenants contained in or contemplated
by this Agreement required to be performed by it at or prior to the
Effective Time.
(b) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of
CNG set forth in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material
respects as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date as if made on and
as of the Closing Date, except as otherwise contemplated by this Agreement,
except for such failures of representations or warranties to be true and
correct (without giving effect to any materiality qualification or standard
contained in any such representations or warranties) which, individually or
in the aggregate, would not be reasonably likely to result in a CNG
Material Adverse Effect.
(c) Closing Certificates. DRI shall have received a certificate signed by
the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of CNG, dated the
Closing Date, to the effect that, to the best of each such officer's
knowledge, the conditions set forth in Section 8.3(a) and Section 8.3(b)
have been satisfied.
(d) CNG Material Adverse Effect. No CNG Material Adverse Effect shall
have occurred and there shall exist no fact or circumstance that would
have, or would be reasonably likely to have, a CNG Material Adverse Effect.
(e) Tax Opinion. DRI shall have received an opinion of counsel, in form
and substance satisfactory to DRI, dated the Closing Date, which opinion
may be based on appropriate representations of DRI and CNG that are in form
and substance reasonably satisfactory to such counsel, to the effect that
the Merger will be treated as a transaction described in Section 368(a) of
the Code.
(f) CNG Required Consents. The CNG Required Consents shall have been
obtained.
ARTICLE IX
Termination, Amendment and Waiver
Section 9.1 Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior
to the Closing Date, whether before or after approval by the shareholders of
the respective parties hereto contemplated by this Agreement:
(a) by mutual written consent of the Boards of Directors of DRI and CNG;
(b) by DRI or CNG, by written notice to the other, if the Effective Time
shall not have occurred on or before January 31, 2000; provided, however,
that such date shall automatically be extended to July 31, 2000 if, on
January 31, 2000: (i) the condition set forth in Section 8.1(f) has not
been satisfied or waived; (ii) the other conditions to the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby are then capable of being satisfied;
and (iii) any approvals required by Section 8.1(f) that have not yet been
obtained are being pursued with diligence; provided further, that the right
to terminate this Agreement under this Section 9.1(b) shall not be
available to any party whose failure to fulfill any obligation under this
Agreement has been the cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the
Effective Time to occur on or before the termination date;
(c) by DRI or CNG, by written notice to the other party, if the DRI
Shareholders' Approval shall not have been obtained at a duly held DRI
Special Meeting, including any adjournments thereof, or the CNG
Shareholders' Approval shall not have been obtained at a duly held CNG
Special Meeting, including any adjournments thereof;
(d) by DRI or CNG, if any state or federal law, order, rule or regulation
is adopted or issued, that has the effect, as supported by the written,
reasoned opinion of outside counsel for such party, of prohibiting the
Merger or causing a DRI Material Adverse Effect or CNG Material Adverse
Effect, or if any court of competent jurisdiction in the United States or
any State shall have issued an order, judgment or decree
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permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the Merger or
causing a DRI Material Adverse Effect or CNG Material Adverse Effect, and
such order, judgment or decree shall have become final and nonappealable;
(e) by CNG, upon two (2) days' prior notice to DRI, if, as a result of a
tender offer by a party other than DRI or any of its affiliates or any
written offer or proposal with respect to a merger, sale of a material
portion of its assets or other business combination (each, a "Business
Combination") by a party other than DRI or any of its affiliates, the Board
of Directors of CNG determines in good faith that the fiduciary obligations
of such directors under applicable law require that such tender offer or
other written offer or proposal be accepted; provided, however, that (i)
(A) the Board of Directors of CNG has reasonably concluded in good faith
(after consultation with its financial advisors) that the person or group
proposing the Business Combination will have adequate sources of financing
to consummate the Business Combination and that the Business Combination is
more favorable to CNG's shareholders than the Merger and (B) the Board of
Directors of CNG shall have been advised in a written, reasoned opinion by
outside counsel that, notwithstanding a binding commitment to consummate an
agreement of the nature of this Agreement entered into in the proper
exercise of their applicable fiduciary duties, and notwithstanding all
concessions that may be offered by DRI in negotiations entered into
pursuant to clause (ii) below, such fiduciary duties would also require the
directors to reconsider such commitment as a result of such tender offer or
such written offer or proposal and (ii) prior to any such termination, CNG
shall, and shall cause its respective financial and legal advisors to,
negotiate with DRI to make such adjustments in the terms and conditions of
this Agreement as would enable CNG to proceed with the transactions
contemplated herein; provided further, that DRI and CNG acknowledge and
affirm that, notwithstanding anything in this Section 9.1(e) to the
contrary, DRI and CNG intend this Agreement to be an exclusive agreement
and, accordingly, nothing in this Agreement is intended to constitute a
solicitation of an offer or proposal for a Business Combination, it being
acknowledged and agreed that any such offer or proposal would interfere
with the strategic advantages and benefits that DRI and CNG expect to
derive from the Merger and other transactions contemplated hereby;
(f) by DRI, upon two (2) days' prior notice to CNG, if, as a result of a
tender offer by a party other than CNG or any of its affiliates or any
written offer or proposal with respect to a Business Combination by a party
other than CNG or any of its affiliates, the Board of Directors of DRI
determines in good faith that the fiduciary obligations of such directors
under applicable law require that such tender offer or other written offer
or proposal be accepted; provided, however, that (i) (A) the Board of
Directors of DRI has reasonably concluded in good faith (after consultation
with its financial advisors) that the person or group proposing the
Business Combination will have adequate sources of financing to consummate
the Business Combination and that the Business Combination is more
favorable to DRI's shareholders than the Merger and (B) the Board of
Directors of DRI shall have been advised in a written, reasoned opinion by
outside counsel that, notwithstanding a binding commitment to consummate an
agreement of the nature of this Agreement entered into in the proper
exercise of their applicable fiduciary duties, and notwithstanding all
concessions that may be offered by CNG in negotiations entered into
pursuant to clause (ii) below, such fiduciary duties would also require the
directors to reconsider such commitment as a result of such tender offer or
such written offer or proposal and (ii) prior to any such termination, DRI
shall, and shall cause its respective financial and legal advisors to,
negotiate with CNG to make such adjustments in the terms and conditions of
this Agreement as would enable DRI to proceed with the transactions
contemplated herein; provided further, that DRI and CNG acknowledge and
affirm that, notwithstanding anything in this Section 9.1(f) to the
contrary, DRI and CNG intend this Agreement to be an exclusive agreement
and, accordingly, nothing in this Agreement is intended to constitute a
solicitation of an offer or proposal for a Business Combination, it being
acknowledged and agreed that any such offer or proposal would interfere
with the strategic advantages and benefits that DRI and CNG expect to
derive from the Merger and other transactions contemplated hereby;
(g) by CNG, by written notice to DRI, if (i) there exist breaches of the
representations and warranties of DRI made herein as of the date hereof
which breaches, individually or in the aggregate, would or would be
reasonably likely to result in a DRI Material Adverse Effect, and such
breaches shall not have been
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remedied within twenty (20) days after receipt by DRI of notice in writing
from CNG, specifying the nature of such breaches and requesting that they
be remedied, (ii) DRI (and/or its appropriate subsidiaries) shall not have
in all material respects performed and complied with its agreements and
covenants contained in Section 6.2 (Dividends), Section 6.3 (Issuance of
Securities) and Section 6.7 (Indebtedness) or shall have failed to perform
and comply with, in all material respects, its other agreements and
covenants hereunder and such failure to perform or comply with shall not
have been remedied within twenty (20) days after receipt by DRI of a notice
in writing from CNG, specifying the nature of such failure and requesting
that it be remedied; or (iii) the Board of Directors of DRI or any
committee thereof (A) shall withdraw or modify in any manner adverse to CNG
its approval or recommendation of this Agreement or the Merger, (B) shall
fail to reaffirm such approval or recommendation upon CNG's request, (C)
shall approve or recommend any acquisition of DRI or a material portion of
DRI's assets or any tender offer for shares of capital stock of DRI, in
each case, by a party other than CNG or any of its affiliates or (D) shall
resolve to take any of the actions specified in clause (A), (B) or (C).
(h) by DRI, by written notice to CNG, if (i) there exist breaches of the
representations and warranties of CNG made herein as of the date hereof
which breaches, individually or in the aggregate, would or would be
reasonably likely to result in a CNG Material Adverse Effect, and such
breaches shall not have been remedied within twenty (20) days after receipt
by CNG of notice in writing from DRI, specifying the nature of such
breaches and requesting that they be remedied, (ii) CNG (and/or its
appropriate subsidiaries) shall not have in all material respects performed
and complied with its agreements and covenants contained in Section 6.2
(Dividends), Section 6.3 (Issuance of Securities) and Section 6.7
(Indebtedness) or shall have failed to perform and comply with, in all
material respects, its other agreements and covenants hereunder and such
failure to perform or comply with shall not have been remedied within
twenty (20) days after receipt by CNG of a notice in writing from DRI,
specifying the nature of such failure and requesting that it be remedied;
or (iii) the Board of Directors of CNG or any committee thereof (A) shall
withdraw or modify in any manner adverse to DRI its approval or
recommendation of this Agreement or the Merger, (B) shall fail to reaffirm
such approval or recommendation upon DRI's request, (C) shall approve or
recommend any acquisition of CNG or a material portion of CNG's assets or
any tender offer for shares of capital stock of CNG, in each case, by a
party other than DRI or any of its affiliates or (D) shall resolve to take
any of the actions specified in clause (A), (B) or (C).
Section 9.2 Effect of Termination. In the event of termination of this
Agreement by either DRI or CNG pursuant to Section 9.1, there shall be no
liability on the part of either DRI or CNG or their respective officers or
directors hereunder, except that Section 7.14 and Section 9.3 and the
agreement contained in the second to the last sentence of Section 7.1 shall
survive any such termination.
Section 9.3 Termination Fee; Expenses.
(a) Expenses Payable upon Breach. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant
to one (but not both) of Section 9.1(g)(i) or (ii)or Section 9.1(h)(i) or
(ii), then (i) the breaching party (the "Nonterminating Party") shall promptly
(but not later than five business days after receipt of notice of the amount
due from the other party) pay to the terminating party an amount equal to all
documented out-of-pocket expenses and fees incurred by such terminating party
(including, without limitation, fees and expenses payable to all legal,
accounting, financial, public relations and other professional advisors
arising out of, in connection with or related to the Merger or the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement) not to exceed $25 million in the
aggregate ("Out-of-Pocket Expenses"); provided, however, that, if this
Agreement is terminated by a party as a result of a willful breach or failure
to perform or comply with agreements and covenants by the Nonterminating
Party, the Nonterminating Party shall in addition to the other parties' Out-
of-Pocket Expenses, be liable to the other party for such party's actual
damages as a result of such breach.
(b) Termination Fee Payable upon Acceptance of a Proposal. If this Agreement
is terminated pursuant to one of Section 9.1(e) or Section 9.1(f) but not the
other on the basis of a good faith determination made as provided in such
Section 9.1(e) or Section 9.1(f) that the fiduciary obligations of the
directors of the terminating
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party under applicable law require acceptance of a tender offer or other
written offer or proposal with respect to a Business Combination and such
terminating party (or an affiliate thereof) enters into an agreement (whether
or not such agreement is embodied in a definitive manner) to consummate a
Business Combination with a third party within two (2) years of such
termination, then the terminating party shall promptly (but not later than
five (5) business days after receipt of notice of the amount due from the
other party), but prior to entering into such agreement with the third party,
pay to the other party an amount equal to Out-of-Pocket Expenses plus $200
million.
(c) Termination Fee In Certain Other Events. If this Agreement is terminated
(i) pursuant to Section 9.1(g)(iii) or Section 9.1(h)(iii), or (ii)(x)
pursuant to Section 9.1(b), (y) following a failure of the shareholders of CNG
or DRI to grant the necessary approvals described in Section 4.10 or Section
5.10, as the case may be (a "Shareholder Disapproval"), or (z) as a result of
a material breach of Section 7.4, and in the case of a termination pursuant to
clause (ii) hereof, at the time of such termination (or, in the case of any
termination following a Shareholder Disapproval, prior to the shareholder
meeting at which such Shareholder Disapproval occurred), there shall have been
a third-party tender offer for shares of, or a third-party offer or proposal
with respect to a Business Combination involving, CNG or DRI (as the case may
be, the "Target Party") or the affiliates thereof which, at the time of such
termination (or of the meeting of the Target Party's shareholders, as the case
may be) shall not have been (A) rejected by the Target Party and its Board of
Directors and (B) withdrawn by the third party, then promptly (but not later
than five business days after receipt of notice of the amount due from the
other party) after the termination of this Agreement (1) if DRI is the Target
Party or the termination is pursuant to Section 9(g)(iii), DRI shall pay to
CNG a termination fee equal to $200 million plus Out-of-Pocket Expenses and
(2) if CNG is the Target Party or the termination is pursuant to Section
9(h)(iii), CNG shall pay to DRI a termination fee equal to $200 million plus
Out-of-Pocket Expenses; provided, however, that no such amounts shall be
payable if and to the extent the party to make such payment shall have paid
such amounts pursuant to Section 9.3(a) or Section 9.3(b).
(d) Expenses. The parties agree that the agreements contained in this
Section 9.3 are an integral part of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement and constitute liquidated damages and not a penalty. If one party
fails to promptly pay to the other any fees due hereunder, such defaulting
party shall pay the costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) in
connection with any action, including the filing of any lawsuit or other legal
action, taken to collect payment, together with interest on the amount of any
unpaid fee at the publicly announced prime rate of Citigroup, N.A. in effect
from time to time from the date such fee was required to be paid.
Section 9.4 Amendment. This Agreement may be amended by the parties hereto
pursuant to action of the respective Boards of Directors of each of DRI and
CNG, at any time before or after approval hereof by the shareholders of DRI
and CNG and prior to the Effective Time, but after such approvals, no such
amendment shall (a) alter or change the amount or kind of shares, rights or
any of the proceedings of the exchange and/or conversion under Article II, or
(b) alter or change any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement if any
of the alterations or changes, alone or in the aggregate, would materially and
adversely affect the rights of holders of CNG Common Stock, except for
alterations or changes that could otherwise be adopted by the Board of
Directors of DRI and/or CNG, without the further approval of such
shareholders, as applicable. This Agreement may not be amended except by an
instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.
Section 9.5 Waiver. At any time prior to the Effective Time, the parties
hereto may (a) extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations
or other acts of the other parties hereto, (b) waive any inaccuracies in the
representations and warranties contained herein or in any document delivered
pursuant hereto and (c) waive compliance with any of the agreements or
conditions contained herein. Any agreement to any such extension or waiver
shall be valid only if set forth in an instrument in writing signed by a duly
authorized officer of each party.
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ARTICLE X
General Provisions
Section 10.1 Non-Survival of Representations, Warranties, Covenants and
Agreements. None of the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements
in this Agreement shall survive the Merger, except the covenants and
agreements contained in this Section 10.1 and in Article II (Treatment of
Shares), the second to the last sentence of Section 7.1 (Access to
Information), Section 7.5 (Directors' and Officers' Indemnification), Section
7.9 (Certain Employee Agreements), Section 7.10 (Incentive, Stock and Other
Plans), Section 7.12 (DRI Board of Directors), Section 7.13 (Corporate
Offices), Section 7.14 (Expenses), Section 7.15 (Community Support) and
Section 10.7 (Parties in Interest), each of which shall survive in accordance
with its terms.
Section 10.2 Brokers. DRI represents and warrants that, except for Lehman
Brothers Inc., its investment banking firm, no broker, finder or investment
banker is entitled to any brokerage, finder's or other fee or commission in
connection with the Merger or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
based upon arrangements made by or on behalf of DRI. CNG represents and
warrants that, except for Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated,
its investment banking firm, no broker, finder or investment banker is
entitled to any brokerage, finder's or other fee or commission in connection
with the Merger or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement based upon
arrangements made by or on behalf of CNG.
Section 10.3 Notices. All notices and other communications hereunder shall
be in writing and shall be deemed given (a) if delivered personally, or (b) if
sent by overnight courier service (receipt confirmed in writing), or (c) if
delivered by facsimile transmission (with receipt confirmed), or (d) five days
after being mailed by registered or certified mall (return receipt requested)
to the parties, in each case to the following addresses (or at such other
address for a party as shall be specified by like notice):
(i) If to CNG, to:
Stephen E. Williams
Senior Vice President and General Counsel
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
CNG Tower
625 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222
Fax: (412) 690-7633
with a copy to:
Cahill Gordon & Reindel
80 Pine Street
New York, New York 10005
Attn: Gary W. Wolf
Fax: (212) 269-5420
(ii) If to DRI, to:
James F. Stutts
Vice President and General Counsel
Dominion Resources, Inc.
120 Tredegar Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Fax: (804) 819-2233
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with a copy to:
LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae L.L.P.
125 West 55th Street
New York, New York 10019
Attn: Douglas W. Hawes
Fax: (212) 424-8500
and
McGuire, Woods, Battle & Booth LLP
901 East Cary Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Attn: Robert L. Burrus
Fax: (804) 698-2170
Section 10.4 Miscellaneous. This Agreement (including the documents and
instruments referred to herein): (a) constitutes the entire agreement and
supersedes all other prior agreements and understandings, both written and
oral, among the parties, or any of them, with respect to the subject matter
hereof other than the Confidentiality Agreement; and (b) shall not be assigned
by operation of law or otherwise. This Agreement shall be governed by and
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to
contracts executed in and to be fully performed in such State, without giving
effect to its conflicts of laws statutes, rules or principles. The invalidity
or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect the
validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which
shall remain in full force and effect. The parties hereto shall negotiate in
good faith to replace any provision of this Agreement so held invalid or
unenforceable with a valid provision that is as similar as possible in
substance to the invalid or unenforceable provision.
Section 10.5 Interpretation. When reference is made in this Agreement to
Articles, Sections or Exhibits, such reference shall be to an Article, Section
or Exhibit of this Agreement, as the case may be, unless otherwise indicated.
The table of contents and headings contained in this Agreement are for
reference purposes and shall not affect in any way the meaning or
interpretation of this Agreement. Whenever the words "include", "includes", or
"including" are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed to be followed by
the words "without limitation." Whenever "or" is used in this Agreement it
shall be construed in the nonexclusive sense.
Section 10.6 Counterparts; Effect. This Agreement may be executed in one or
more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of
which shall constitute one and the same agreement.
Section 10.7 Parties in Interest. This Agreement shall be binding upon and
inure solely to the benefit of each party hereto, and, except for rights of
Indemnified Parties as set forth in Section 7.5 (Directors' and Officers'
Indemnification), nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended
to confer upon any person any rights or remedies of any nature whatsoever
under or by reason of this Agreement.
Section 10.8 Specific Performance. The parties hereto agree that irreparable
damage would occur in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement
were not performed in accordance with their specific terms or were otherwise
breached. It is accordingly agreed that the parties hereto shall be entitled
to an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to
enforce specifically the terms and provisions hereof in any court of the
United States or any state having jurisdiction, this being in addition to any
other remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity.
Section 10.9 WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY WAIVES, TO THE
FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL
BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR
RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTION CONTEMPLATED HEREBY (WHETHER
BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT OR ANY OTHER THEORY). EACH PARTY HERETO (A) CERTIFIES
THAT NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED
A-30
<PAGE>
EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF
LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER AND (B) ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT
AND THE OTHER PARTIES HERETO HAVE BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT
BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, DRI and CNG have caused this Agreement to be signed by
their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the date first above
written.
Dominion Resources, inc.
/s/ Thos. E. Capps
By: _________________________________
Name: Thos. E. Capps
Title: Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
/s/ George A. Davidson, Jr.
By: _________________________________
Name: George A. Davidson, Jr.
Title: Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer
A-31
<PAGE>
INDEX OF DEFINED TERMS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Term Page
- ---- ----
<S> <C>
1935 Act................................................................... A-5
affiliate.................................................................. A-8
Agreement.................................................................. A-1
Alternative Merger......................................................... A-1
Articles of Merger......................................................... A-6
Atomic Energy Act.......................................................... A-6
Book Entry Shares.......................................................... A-3
Business Combination....................................................... A-26
Certificate................................................................ A-3
Certificate of Merger...................................................... A-4
Closing.................................................................... A-4
Closing Date............................................................... A-4
CNG........................................................................ A-1
CNG Budget................................................................. A-14
CNG Common Stock........................................................... A-2
CNG Disclosure Schedule.................................................... A-9
CNG Employee Benefit Plans................................................. A-12
CNG Financial Statements................................................... A-11
CNG Material Adverse Effect................................................ A-10
CNG Required Consents...................................................... A-11
CNG Required Statutory Approvals........................................... A-11
CNG Rights................................................................. A-13
CNG Rights Agreement....................................................... A-13
CNG SEC Reports............................................................ A-11
CNG Shareholders' Approval................................................. A-12
CNG Shares................................................................. A-3
CNG Special Meeting........................................................ A-19
Code....................................................................... A-1
Confidentiality Agreement.................................................. A-18
Conversion Ratio........................................................... A-2
DGCL....................................................................... A-1
Disclosure Schedules....................................................... A-20
DRI........................................................................ A-1
DRI Budget................................................................. A-14
DRI Common Stock........................................................... A-2
DRI Disclosure Schedule.................................................... A-4
DRI Employee Benefit Plans................................................. A-7
DRI Financial Statements................................................... A-4
DRI Material Adverse Effect................................................ A-4
DRI Required Consents...................................................... A-6
DRI Required Statutory Approvals........................................... A-6
DRI SEC Reports............................................................ A-6
DRI Shareholders' Approval................................................. A-8
DRI Shares................................................................. A-3
DRI Special Meeting........................................................ A-19
Effective Time............................................................. A-2
Environmental Laws......................................................... A-6
ERISA...................................................................... A-7
Exchange Act............................................................... A-6
</TABLE>
A-32
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Term Page
- ---- ----
<S> <C>
Exchange Agent............................................................. A-2
FERC....................................................................... A-6
Final Order................................................................ A-24
GAAP....................................................................... A-1
Gas Act.................................................................... A-11
Gas Policy Act............................................................. A-11
Governmental Authority..................................................... A-6
Hazardous Materials........................................................ A-6
HSR Act.................................................................... A-18
Indemnified Parties........................................................ A-19
Indemnified Party.......................................................... A-19
Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus........................................... A-7
Joint Proxy/Registration Statement......................................... A-18
Joint venture.............................................................. A-5
Liens...................................................................... A-5
Merger..................................................................... A-1
Merger Sub................................................................. A-1
Nonterminating Party....................................................... A-27
NRC........................................................................ A-6
NYSE Composite Transition Reports.......................................... A-3
Out-of-Pocket Expenses..................................................... A-27
Permits.................................................................... A-6
Power Act.................................................................. A-6
Registration Statement..................................................... A-7
Representatives............................................................ A-17
SEC........................................................................ A-1
Securities Act............................................................. A-6
Shareholder Disapproval.................................................... A-28
Significant Subsidiary..................................................... A-4
Stock Plan................................................................. A-21
Subsidiary................................................................. A-4
subsidiary company......................................................... A-8
Takeover Proposal.......................................................... A-22
Target Party............................................................... A-28
Task Force................................................................. A-17
Violation.................................................................. A-5
VSCA....................................................................... A-2
</TABLE>
A-33
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT A
[Date]
Dominion Resources, Inc.
120 Tredegar Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I have been advised that as of the date hereof, I may be deemed to be an
"affiliate" of Consolidated Natural Gas Company, a Delaware corporation (the
"Company"), as such term (i) is defined for purposes of paragraphs (c) and (d)
of Rule 145 of the Rules and Regulations (the "Rules and Regulations") of the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or (ii) is used in and for
purposes of Accounting Series Releases 130 and 135, as amended, of the
Commission. Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as
of February 19, 1999, as it may be amended, supplemented or modified from time
to time (the "Merger Agreement"), between the Company and Dominion Resources,
Inc., a Virginia corporation ("DRI"), the Company will be merged into DRI (the
"Merger"). Capitalized terms used herein but not defined herein shall have the
meanings ascribed to such terms in the Merger Agreement.
I further understand that the Merger will be treated for financial
accounting purposes as a "pooling of interests" in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles and that the Staff of the Commission has issued
certain guidelines that should be followed to ensure the pooling of entities.
I hereby represent and warrant that, since 30 days prior to the closing and
including the date hereof, I have not sold, transferred or otherwise disposed
of any shares of Common Stock, par value $2.75 per share, of the Company (the
"Company Common Stock").
In consideration of the agreements contained herein, DRI's reliance on this
letter in connection with the consummation of the Merger and for other good
and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby
acknowledged, I hereby represent, warrant and agree that (i) I will not make
any sale, transfer or other disposition of Company Common Stock prior to the
earlier of the Effective Time or the termination of the Merger Agreement, (ii)
I will not make any sale, transfer or other disposition of Common Stock, no
par value of DRI (the "DRI Common Stock") received by me pursuant to the
Merger until after such time as results covering at least 30 days of combined
operations of the Company and DRI have been published by DRI, in the form of a
quarterly earnings report, an effective registration statement filed with the
Commission, a report to the Commission on Form 10-K, 10-Q or 8-K, or any other
public filing or announcement which includes such combined results of
operations, and (iii) I will not make any sale, transfer or other disposition
of any shares of DRI Common Stock received by me pursuant to the Merger in
violation of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. I
have been advised that the issuance of the shares of DRI Common Stock pursuant
to the Merger will have been registered with the Commission under the
Securities Act on a Registration Statement on Form S-4. I have also been
advised, however, that since I may be deemed to be an affiliate of the Company
at the time the Merger is submitted for a vote of the shareholders of the
Company, the DRI Common Stock received by me may be disposed by me only (i)
pursuant to an effective registration under the Securities Act, (ii) in
conformity with the volume and other limitations of Rule 145 promulgated by
the Commission under the Securities Act, or (iii) in reliance upon an
exemption from registration that is available under the Securities Act.
I also understand that instructions will be given to DRI's transfer agent
with respect to the DRI Common Stock to be received by me pursuant to the
Merger and that there will be placed on the certificates representing such
shares of DRI Common Stock, or any substitutes therefor, a legend stating in
substance as follows:
"THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE BEEN ISSUED IN A
TRANSACTION TO WHICH RULE 145 PROMULGATED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933,
A-34
<PAGE>
AS AMENDED, APPLIES AND MAY ONLY BE SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED IN
COMPLIANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 145 OR PURSUANT TO A REGISTRATION
STATEMENT UNDER THAT ACT OR AN EXEMPTION FROM SUCH REGISTRATION."
It is understood and agreed that the legend set forth above shall be removed
upon surrender of certificates bearing such legend by delivery of substitute
certificates without such legend if I shall have delivered to DRI an opinion
of counsel, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to DRI, to the
effect that (i) the sale or disposition of the shares represented by the
surrendered certificates may be effected without registration of the offering,
sale and delivery of such shares under the Securities Act, and (ii) the shares
to be so transferred may be publicly offered, sold and delivered by the
transferee thereof without compliance with the registration provisions of the
Securities Act.
I further understand and agree that DRI is under no obligation to register
the sale, transfer or other disposition of the DRI Common Stock by me or on my
behalf under the Securities Act or to take any other action necessary in order
to make compliance with an exemption form such registration available.
Execution of this letter should not be considered an admission on my part
that I am an "affiliate" of the Company as described in the first paragraph of
this letter, or as a waiver of any rights I may have to object to any claim
that I am such an affiliate on or after the date of this letter.
This letter agreement constitutes the complete understanding between DRI and
me concerning the subject matter hereof. Any notice required to be sent to
either party hereunder shall be sent by registered or certified mail, return
receipt requested, using the addresses set forth herein or such other address
as shall be furnished in writing by the parties. This letter agreement shall
be governed by and construed and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of
the State of New York.
If you are in agreement with the foregoing, please so indicate by signing
below and returning a copy of this letter to the undersigned, at which time
this letter shall become a binding agreement between us.
Very truly yours,
_____________________________________
Name:
Accepted this day
of , 19
Dominion Resources, Inc.
By: _________________________________
Name:
Title
A-35
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT B
[Date]
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
CNG Tower
625 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Gentlemen:
I have been advised that as of the date hereof, I may be deemed to be an
"affiliate" of Dominion Resources, Inc., a Virginia corporation ("DRI"), as
such term (i) is defined for purposes of paragraphs (c) and (d) of Rule 145 of
the Rules and Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"Commission") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or (ii) is used in
and for purposes of Accounting Series Releases 130 and 135, as amended, of the
Commission. Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
as of February 19, 1999, as it may be amended, supplemented or modified from
time to time, between DRI and Consolidated Natural Gas Company ("CNG"), CNG
will be merged with and into DRI (the "Merger"). Capitalized terms used herein
but not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the
Merger Agreement.
I further understand that the Merger will be treated for financial
accounting purposes as a "pooling of interests" in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles and that the Staff of the Commission has issued
certain guidelines that should be followed to ensure the pooling of the
entities.
I hereby represent and warrant that, since 30 days prior to the closing and
including the date hereof, I have not sold, transferred or otherwise disposed
of any shares of Common Stock, no par value, of DRI ("DRI Common Stock").
In consideration of the agreements contained herein, CNG's reliance on this
letter in connection with the consummation of the Merger and for other good
and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby
acknowledged, I hereby represent, warrant and agree that I will not make any
sale, transfer, or other disposition of DRI Common Stock until after such time
as results covering at least 30 days of combined operations of DRI and CNG
have been published by DRI, in the form of a quarterly earnings report, an
effective registration statement filed with the Commission, a report to the
Commission on Form 10-K, 10-Q or 8-K, or any other public filing or
announcement which includes such combined results of operations.
Execution of this letter should not be considered an admission on my part
that I am an "affiliate" of DRI as described in the first paragraph of this
letter, or as a waiver of any rights I may have to object to any claim that I
am such an affiliate on or after the date of this letter.
This letter agreement constitutes the complete understanding between the CNG
and me concerning the subject matter hereof. Any notice required to be sent to
either party hereunder shall be sent by registered or certified mail, return
receipt requested, using the addresses set forth herein or such other address
as shall be furnished in writing by the parties. This letter agreement shall
be governed by and construed and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of
the State of New York.
A-36
<PAGE>
If you are in agreement with the foregoing, please so indicate by signing
below and returning a copy of this letter to the undersigned, at which time
this letter shall become a binding agreement between us.
Very truly yours,
_____________________________________
Name:
Accepted this th day
of , 19
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
By: _________________________________
Name:
Title:
A-37
<PAGE>
Annex B
February 19, 1999
Board of Directors
Dominion Resources, Inc.
901 East Byrd Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Members of the Board:
We understand that Dominion Resources, Inc. ("DRI") and Consolidated Natural
Gas Company ("CNG"), are proposing to enter into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger, dated as of February 19, 1999 (the "Merger Agreement"), which provides
for the merger (the "Merger") of CNG into DRI. Upon the effectiveness of the
Merger, each issued and outstanding share of common stock of CNG (the "CNG
Common Stock"), will be converted into the right to receive 1.52 (the
"Exchange Ratio") shares of common stock of DRI (the "DRI Common Stock"),
subject to adjustment as provided in the Merger Agreement. The terms and
conditions of the Merger are more fully set forth in the Merger Agreement.
We have been requested by the Board of Directors of DRI to render our
opinion with respect to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to DRI
of the Exchange Ratio to be paid in connection with the Merger. We have not
been requested to opine as to, and our opinion does not in any manner address,
DRI's underlying business decision to proceed with or effect the Merger.
In arriving at our opinion, we reviewed and analyzed: (1) the Merger
Agreement and the specific terms of the Merger, (2) such publicly available
information concerning DRI and CNG that we believe to be relevant to our
analysis, including their respective Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended 1997 and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended September 30, 1998, (3) financial and operating information with respect
to the business, operations and prospects of DRI and CNG furnished to us by
DRI and CNG, respectively, (4) a trading history of the DRI Common Stock from
January 1, 1994 to the present and a comparison of that trading history with
those of other companies that we deemed relevant, including CNG (5) a trading
history of the CNG Common Stock from January 1, 1994 to the present and a
comparison of that trading history with those of other companies that we
deemed relevant, including DRI, (6) a comparison of the historical financial
results and present financial condition of DRI and CNG with those of other
companies that we deemed relevant, (7) a comparison of the financial terms of
the Merger Agreement with the financial terms of certain other recent
transactions that we deemed relevant, (8) the relative pro forma financial
contributions of DRI and CNG to the combined company upon consummation of the
Merger, (9) the potential pro forma impact of the Merger on DRI (including the
cost savings, operating synergies and strategic benefits expected by the
management's of DRI and CNG and DRI's outside consultant to result from the
Merger), and (10) certain estimates of reserves and production by DRI and CNG.
In addition, we have had discussions with the management of DRI and CNG
concerning their respective businesses, operations, assets, financial
conditions and prospects (including the cost savings, operating synergies and
strategic benefits expected by the management's of DRI and CNG and DRI's
outside consultant to result from the Merger) and have undertaken such other
studies, analyses and investigations as we deemed appropriate.
In arriving at our opinion, we have assumed and relied upon the accuracy and
completeness of the financial and other information used by us without
assuming any responsibility for independent verification of such information
and have further relied upon the assurances of management of DRI and CNG that
they are not aware
of any facts or circumstances that would make such information inaccurate or
misleading. With respect to the financial projections of DRI and CNG, upon
advice of DRI and CNG, as the case may be, we have assumed that such
projections have been reasonably prepared on a basis reflecting the best
currently available estimates and
B-1
<PAGE>
judgments of the managements of DRI and CNG, as the case may be, as to their
respective future financial performance and that DRI and CNG will perform in
accordance with such projections. With respect to the cost savings, operating
synergies and strategic benefits projected by the managements of DRI and CNG
to result from the Merger, we have assumed that such cost savings, operating
synergies and strategic benefits will be realized substantially in accordance
with such projections. In arriving at our opinion, we have not conducted a
physical inspection of the properties and facilities of DRI or CNG and have
not made or obtained any evaluations or appraisals of the assets or
liabilities of DRI or CNG. In addition, we have assumed that the Merger will
qualify for "pooling-of-interests" accounting treatment. Our opinion
necessarily is based upon market, economic and other conditions as they exist
on, and can be evaluated as of, the date of this letter.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion as of the
date hereof that, from a financial point of view, the Exchange Ratio is fair
to DRI.
We have acted as financial advisor to DRI in connection with the Merger and
will receive a fee for our services, a portion of which is contingent upon the
consummation of the Merger. In addition, DRI has agreed to indemnify us for
certain liabilities that may arise out of the rendering of this opinion. We
also have performed investment banking services for DRI in the past and have
received customary fees for such services. In the ordinary course of our
business, we actively trade in the debt and equity securities of DRI and CNG
for our own account and for the accounts of our customers and, accordingly,
may at any time hold a long or short position in such securities.
This opinion is for the use and benefit of the Board of Directors of DRI and
is rendered to the Board of Directors in connection with its consideration of
the Merger. This opinion is not intended to be and does not constitute a
recommendation to any stockholder of DRI as to how such stockholder should
vote with respect to the Merger.
Very truly yours,
LEHMAN BROTHERS
B-2
<PAGE>
Annex C
Investment
Banking
Corporate and
Institutional
Client Group
One Houston
Center
1221 McKinney
Suite 2700
Houston, Texas
77010
713 759 2500
FAX 713 759
2580
February 19,
1999
Board of Directors
Consolidated Natural Gas Company
CNG Tower
625 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-3199
Gentlemen:
Consolidated Natural Gas Company (the "Company") and Dominion Resources,
Inc. ("Dominion") propose to enter into an agreement (the "Agreement")
pursuant to which the Company will be merged with and into Dominion in a
transaction (the "Merger") in which each outstanding share of the Company's
stock, par value $2.75 per share (the "Shares"), will be converted into the
right to receive 1.520 shares (the "Exchange Ratio") of the common stock of
Dominion (the "Dominion Shares"). The Merger is expected to be considered by
the stockholders of the Company and Dominion at special stockholders' meetings
and consummated following such meetings. The terms and conditions of the
Merger are more fully set forth in the Agreement.
You have asked us whether, in our opinion, the Exchange Ratio to be received
in the Merger by the holders of the Shares other than Dominion and its
affiliates is fair to such stockholders from a financial point of view.
In arriving at the opinion set forth below, we have, among other things:
(1) Reviewed the Company's Annual Reports, Forms 10-K and related financial
information for the five fiscal years ended December 31, 1997 and the
Company's Form 10-Q and the related unaudited financial information for
the quarterly periods ending March 31, 1998, June 30, 1998 and
September 30, 1998;
(2) Reviewed Dominion's Annual Reports, Forms 10-K and related financial
information for the five fiscal years ended December 31, 1997 and
Dominion's Form 10-Q and the related unaudited financial information
for the quarterly periods ending March 31, 1998, June 30, 1998 and
September 30, 1998;
(3) Reviewed certain information, including financial forecasts, relating
to the business, earnings, cash flow, assets and prospects of each of
the Company and Dominion, furnished to us by the Company and Dominion;
(4) Conducted discussions with members of senior management of the Company
and Dominion concerning their respective businesses and prospects;
(5) Reviewed the historical market prices and trading activity for the
Shares and Dominion Shares and compared them with equivalent data of
certain publicly traded companies which we deemed to be reasonably
similar to the Company and Dominion, respectively;
C-1
<PAGE>
(6) Compared the results of operations of the Company and Dominion with
those of certain companies which we deemed to be reasonably similar to
the Company and Dominion, respectively;
(7) Compared the proposed financial terms of the transactions contemplated
by the Agreement with the financial terms of certain other mergers and
acquisitions which we deemed to be relevant;
(8) Reviewed a draft of the Agreement dated February 19, 1999; and
(9) Reviewed such other financial studies and analyses and performed such
other investigations and taken into account such other matters as we
deemed necessary, including our assessment of general economic, market
and monetary conditions.
In preparing our opinion, we have assumed and relied on the accuracy and
completeness of all information supplied or otherwise made available to us by
the Company and Dominion, discussed with or reviewed by or for us, or publicly
available, and we have not assumed responsibility for independently verifying
such information. We have not undertaken an independent evaluation or
appraisal of any of the assets or liabilities, contingent or otherwise, of the
Company or Dominion or any actuarial analysis with respect to Dominion, nor
have we been furnished with any such evaluation, appraisal or actuarial
analysis. We are not experts in the evaluation of allowances for credit or
loan losses, and we have not made an independent evaluation of the adequacy of
the allowance for credit or loan losses of Dominion nor reviewed any
individual credit or loan files relating to Dominion. In addition, we have not
assumed any obligation to conduct, nor have we conducted any physical
inspection of the properties or facilities of the Company or Dominion. With
respect to the financial forecast information of the Company and Dominion,
including, without limitation, financial forecasts, evaluation of
contingencies and projections regarding, among other things, future economic
conditions pertaining to the Company, and the synergies and cost savings that
may result from the Merger ("Merger Benefits"), furnished to or discussed with
us by the Company and Dominion, we have assumed that they have been reasonably
prepared and reflect the best currently available estimates, allocations and
judgements of the senior management of the Company and Dominion as to the
expected future financial performance of the Company, Dominion or the combined
entity, as the case may be, the Merger Benefits and the other items referred
to above. We express no opinion as to such financial forecast information, the
Merger Benefits or other items or the assumptions upon which they were based.
We have further assumed that the Merger will qualify as a tax-free
reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes and will be accounted for
as a pooling-of-interests under generally accepted accounting principles. We
have also assumed that the final form of the Agreement will be substantially
similar to the last drafts reviewed by us and that the Merger will be
consummated in accordance with the Agreement.
In connection with the preparation of this opinion, we have not been
authorized by the Company or the Board of Directors of the Company to solicit,
nor have we solicited, third-party indications of interest for the acquisition
of all or any part of, or combination with, the Company. Our opinion is
necessarily based on financial, economic, market and other conditions as in
effect on, and the information made available to us as of, the date hereof.
We have acted as financial advisor to the Board of Directors of the Company
in connection with this transaction and will receive a fee for our services.
We have, in the past, provided financial advisory and financing services to
the Company and Dominion and have received fees for the rendering of such
services.
In the ordinary course of our business, we may actively trade the securities
of the Company or Dominion for our own account and for the accounts of
customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short position in
such securities.
It is understood that this letter is for the information of the Board of
Directors of the Company, and does not constitute a recommendation to any
shareholder of the Company as to how a shareholder should vote at the
shareholders' meeting held in connection with the Merger.
C-2
<PAGE>
We are not expressing any opinion herein as to the prices at which the
Dominion Shares will trade following the consummation of the Merger or the
prices at which the Shares will trade between the date hereof and the
consummation of the Merger.
On the basis of, and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion that
the Exchange Ratio to be received in the Merger by the holders of the Shares
other than Dominion and its affiliates is fair to such stockholders from a
financial point of view.
Very truly yours,
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
INCORPORATED
C-3
<PAGE>
PART II--INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
<TABLE>
<C> <S>
2 Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated March 31, 1999,
by and between Dominion Resources, Inc. and Consolidated Natural Gas
Company (filed herewith as Annex A).
3.1 Articles of Incorporation as in effect May 4, 1987 (Exhibit 3 (i), Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-8489,
incorporated by reference).
3.2 Bylaws as in effect on March 5, 1999 (filed herewith).
5 Opinion of James F. Stutts, Vice President and General Counsel of
Dominion Resources regarding validity of securities being registered
(filed herewith).
11 Computation of Earnings Per Share of Common Stock primary and fully
diluted can be found on page 13.
23.1 Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (filed herewith).
23.2 Consent of Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc. (filed herewith).
23.3 Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP (filed herewith).
23.4 Consent of James F. Stutts, Vice President and General Counsel of
Dominion Resources (included in Exhibit 5).
24 Powers of Attorney (included on the signature page of this Form S-4 and
incorporated herein by
reference).
</TABLE>
INDEMNIFICATION OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
Article VI of Dominion Resources' Articles of Incorporation mandates
indemnification of its directors and officers to the full extent permitted by
the Virginia Stock Corporation Act (the Virginia Act) and any other applicable
law. The Virginia Act permits a corporation to indemnify its directors and
officers against liability incurred in all proceedings, including derivative
proceedings, arising out of their service to the corporation or to other
corporations or enterprises that the officer or director was serving at the
request of the corporation, except in the case of willful misconduct or a
knowing violation of a criminal law. Dominion Resources is required to
indemnify its directors and officers in all such proceedings if they have not
violated this standard.
In addition, Article VI of Dominion Resources' Articles of Incorporation
limits the liability of its directors and officers to the full extent
permitted by the Virginia Act as now and hereafter in effect. The Virginia Act
places a limit on the liability of a director or officer in derivative or
shareholder proceedings equal to the lesser of (i) the amount specified in the
corporation's articles of incorporation or a shareholder-approved bylaw; or
(ii) the greater of (a) $100,000 or (b) twelve months of cash compensation
received by the director or officer. The limit does not apply in the event the
director or officer has engaged in willful misconduct or a knowing violation
of a criminal law or a federal or state securities law. The effect of Dominion
Resources' Articles of Incorporation, together with the Virginia Act, is to
eliminate liability of directors and officers for monetary damages in
derivative or shareholder proceedings so long as the required standard of
conduct is met.
Dominion Resources has purchased directors' and officers' liability
insurance policies. Within the limits of their coverage, the policies insure
(1) the directors and officers of Dominion Resources against certain losses
resulting from claims against them in their capacities as directors and
officers to the extent that such losses are not indemnified by Dominion
Resources and (2) Dominion Resources to the extent that it indemnifies such
directors and officers for losses as permitted under the laws of Virginia.
II-1
<PAGE>
UNDERTAKINGS
The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
(1) That prior to any public reoffering of the securities registered
hereunder through use of a prospectus which is a part of this registration
statement, by any person or party who is deemed to be an underwriter within
the meaning of Rule 145(c), the issuer undertakes that such reoffering
prospectus will contain the information called for by the applicable
registration form with respect to reofferings by persons who may be deemed
underwriters, in addition to the information called for by the other items
of the applicable form.
(2) That every prospectus (i) that is filed pursuant to paragraph (1)
immediately preceding, or (ii) that purports to meet the requirements of
Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933 and is used in connection
with an offering of securities subject to Rule 415, will be filed as a part
of an amendment to the registration statement and will not be used until
such amendment is effective, and that, for purposes of determining any
liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective
amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that
time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(3) That for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities
Act of 1933, each filing of the registrant's annual report pursuant to
section 13(a) or section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (and,
where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan's annual report
pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that is
incorporated by reference in the registration statement shall be deemed to
be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein,
and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the
initial bona fide offering hereof.
(4) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and
controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions,
or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the
Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the
event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than
the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director,
officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense
of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, 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 such indemnification by it is against
public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final
adjudication of such issue.
(5) To respond to requests for information that is incorporated by
reference into the prospectus pursuant to Item 4, 10(b), 11 or 13 of this
Form, within one business day of receipt of such request, and to send the
incorporated documents by first class mail or other equally prompt means.
This includes information contained in documents filed subsequent to the
effective date of the Registration Statement through the date of responding
to the request.
(6) To supply by means of a post-effective amendment all information
concerning a transaction, and the company being acquired or involved
therein, that was not the subject of and included in the registration
statement when it became effective.
II-2
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, the registrant has duly
caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Richmond, Commonwealth
of Virginia, on the 5th day of April, 1999.
DOMINION RESOURCES, INC.
By:/s/Thos. E. Capps
--------------------------------
(Thos. E. Capps, Chairman of the
Board of
Directors, President and Chief
Executive Officer)
Pursuant to requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this registration
statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated
and on the 5th day of April, 1999. The officers and directors whose signatures
appear below hereby constitute Patricia A. Wilkerson or W. H. Riggs, Jr.,
either of whom may act, as their true and lawful attorneys-in-fact, with full
power to sign on their behalf individually and in each capacity stated below
and file all amendments and post-effective amendments to the registration
statement making such changes in the registration statement as the registrant
deems appropriate, and generally to do all things in their name and in their
capacities as officers and directors to enable the registrant to comply with
the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933 and all requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
<TABLE>
Signature Title
--------- -----
<S> <C>
/s/ John B. Adams, Jr.
Director
- -----------------------------------
John B. Adams, Jr.
/s/ John B. Bernhardt
Director
- -----------------------------------
John B. Bernhardt
/s/ Thos. E. Capps
Chairman of the Board of
- ----------------------------------- Directors, President and
Thos. E. Capps Chief Executive Officer
/s/ Benjamin J. Lambert, III
Director
- -----------------------------------
Benjamin J. Lambert, III
/s/ Richard L. Leatherwood
Director
- -----------------------------------
Richard L. Leatherwood
/s/ Harvey L. Lindsay, Jr.
Director
- -----------------------------------
Harvey L. Lindsay, Jr.
/s/ K. A. Randall
Director
- -----------------------------------
K. A. Randall
/s/ William T. Roos
Director
- -----------------------------------
William T. Roos
/s/ Frank S. Royal
Director
- -----------------------------------
Frank S. Royal
</TABLE>
II-3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Signature Title
/s/ S. Dallas Simmons
Director
- -----------------------------------
S. Dallas Simmons
/s/ Robert H. Spilman
Director
- -----------------------------------
Robert H. Spilman
/s/ Judith B. Warrick
Director
- -----------------------------------
Judith B. Warrick
/s/ E. M. Roach, Jr.
Executive Vice President
(Chief Financial Officer)
- -----------------------------------
E. M. Roach, Jr.
/s/ J. L. Trueheart
Senior Vice President and
Controller (Principal
- ----------------------------------- Accounting Officer)
J. L. Trueheart
</TABLE>
II-4
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 3.2
Dominion Resources, Inc.
Bylaws
As Amended Effective March 5, 1999
i
<PAGE>
Table of Contents
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Article Page
<S> <C> <C>
I. Name................................................... 1
II. Shareholders' Meetings................................. 1
III. Annual Meeting......................................... 1
IV. Special Meetings....................................... 1
V. Notice of Shareholders' Meetings and Voting Lists...... 2
VI. Waiver of Notice....................................... 3
VII. Quorum................................................. 3
VIII. Proxy and Voting....................................... 4
IX. Board of Directors..................................... 4
X. Powers of Directors.................................... 5
XI. Executive and Other Committees......................... 5
XII. Meetings of Directors and Quorum....................... 7
XIII. Action Without a Meeting............................... 8
XIV. Officers............................................... 8
XV. Eligibility of Officers................................ 8
XVI. Duties and Authority of Chairman of the Board of
Directors, President and Others........................ 9
XVII. Vice Presidents........................................ 9
XVIII. Corporate Secretary.................................... 10
XIX. Treasurer.............................................. 10
XX. Controller............................................. 11
XXI. Resignations and Removals.............................. 11
XXII. Vacancies.............................................. 11
XXIII. Certificates for Shares................................ 12
XXIV. Transfer of Shares..................................... 13
XXV. Record Date............................................ 13
XXVI. Voting of Shares Held.................................. 13
XXVII. Bonds, Debentures and Notes Issued Under an Indenture.. 14
XXVIII. Amendments............................................. 14
XXIX. Emergency Bylaws....................................... 15
XXX. Shareholder Proposals.................................. 17
XXXI. Control Share Acquisitions............................. 17
</TABLE>
ii
<PAGE>
Article I. Name.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The name of the Corporation is Dominion Resources, Inc.
Article II. Shareholders' Meetings.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All meetings of the Shareholders shall be held at such place,
within or without of the Commonwealth, as provided in the notice
of the meeting given pursuant to Article V. If the Chairman of
the Board of Directors determines that the holding of any meeting
at the place named in the notice might be hazardous, he may cause
it to be held at some other place deemed by him suitable and
convenient, upon arranging notice to Shareholders who attend at
the first place and reasonable opportunity for them to proceed to
the new place.
Article III. Annual Meeting.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Annual Meeting of the Shareholders shall be held on the third
Friday in April in each year if not a legal holiday, and if a
legal holiday then on the next succeeding Friday not a legal
holiday. In the event that such Annual Meeting is omitted by
oversight or otherwise on the date herein provided for, the Board
of Directors shall cause a meeting in lieu thereof to be held as
soon thereafter as conveniently may be, and any business
transacted or elections held at such meeting shall be as valid as
if transacted or held at the Annual Meeting. Such subsequent
meeting shall be called in the same manner as provided for
Special Shareholders' Meetings.
Article IV. Special Meetings.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Special Meetings of the Shareholders shall be held whenever
called by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the President,
or a majority of the Directors. Special Meetings of the
Shareholders may also be held following the accrual or
termination of voting rights of the Preferred Stock, whenever
requested to be called in the manner provided in the Articles of
Incorporation.
1
<PAGE>
Article V. Notice of Shareholders' Meetings and Voting Lists.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written notice stating the place, day and hour of each
Shareholders' Meeting and the purpose or purposes for which the
meeting is called shall be given not less than 10 nor more than
60 days before the date of the meeting, or such longer period as
is specified below, by, or at the direction of, the Board of
Directors or its Chairman, the President or any Vice President or
the Corporate Secretary or any Assistant Corporate Secretary, by
mail, to each Shareholder of record entitled to vote at the
meeting, at his or her registered address and the person giving
such notice shall make affidavit in relation thereto. Such notice
shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States
mails addressed to the Shareholder at his address as it appears
on the stock transfer books, with postage thereon prepaid.
Notice of a Shareholders' Meeting to act on an amendment of the
Articles of Incorporation, on a plan of merger or share exchange,
on a proposed dissolution of the Corporation, or on a proposed
sale, lease or exchange, or other disposition, of all, or
substantially all, of the property of the Corporation otherwise
than in the usual and regular course of business, shall be given
not less than 25 nor more than 60 days before the date of the
meeting. Any notice of a Shareholders' Meeting to act on an
amendment of the Articles of Incorporation or a plan of merger or
share exchange or a proposed sale, lease or exchange, or other
disposition of all, or substantially all, of the property of the
Corporation otherwise than in the usual and regular course of
business shall be accompanied by a copy of the proposed amendment
or plan of merger or exchange or agreement effecting the
disposition of assets.
Any meeting at which all Shareholders having voting power in
respect of the business to be transacted thereat are present,
either in person or by proxy, or of which those not present waive
notice in writing, whether before or after the meeting, shall be
a legal meeting for the transaction of business notwithstanding
that notice has not been given as herein before provided.
The officer or agent having charge of the share transfer books of
the Corporation shall make, at least 10 days before each meeting
of Shareholders, a complete list of the Shareholders entitled to
vote at such meeting or any adjournment thereof, with the address
of and number of shares held by each. The list shall be arranged
by voting group and within each voting group by class or series
of shares. Such list, for a period of 10 days prior
2
<PAGE>
to such meeting, shall be kept on file at the principal place of
business of the Corporation. Any person who shall have been a
Shareholder of record for at least 6 months immediately preceding
his demand or who shall be the holder of record of at least 5% of
all the outstanding shares of the Corporation, upon demand
stating with reasonable particularity the purpose thereof, shall
have the right to inspect such list, in person, for any proper
purpose if such list is directly connected with such purpose,
during usual business hours within the period of 10 days prior to
the meeting. Such list shall also be produced at the time and
place of the meeting and shall be subject to the inspection of
any Shareholder during the whole time of the meeting for the
purposes thereof.
Article VI. Waiver of Notice.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of any Shareholders' Meeting may be waived by any
Shareholder, whether before or after the date of the meeting.
Such waiver of notice shall be in writing, signed by the
Shareholder and delivered to the Corporate Secretary. Any
Shareholder who attends a meeting shall be deemed to have waived
objection to lack of notice or defective notice of the meeting,
unless the Shareholder at the beginning of the meeting objects to
holding the meeting or transacting business at the meeting and
shall be deemed to have waived objection to consideration of a
particular matter at the meeting that is not within the purpose
or purposes described in the meeting notice, unless the
Shareholder objects to considering the matter when it is
presented.
Article VII. Quorum.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At any meeting of the Shareholders, a majority in number of votes
of all the shares issued and outstanding having voting power in
respect of the business to be transacted there at, represented by
such Shareholders of record in person or by proxy, shall
constitute a quorum, but a lesser interest may adjourn any
meeting from time to time and the meeting may be held as
adjourned without further notice. When a quorum is present at any
meeting, a majority vote represented thereat shall decide any
question brought before such meeting, unless the question is one
upon which by express provision of law or of the Articles of
Incorporation or of these Bylaws a larger or different vote is
required, in which case such express provision shall govern and
control the decision of such question. The
3
<PAGE>
provisions of this Article are, however, subject to the
provisions of the Articles of Incorporation.
Article VIII. Proxy and Voting.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders of record entitled to vote may vote at any meeting
held, in person or by proxy executed in writing or by proxy
authorized by any means permitted by the Virginia Stock
Corporation Act or other applicable law, in each case by the
Shareholder or by his or her duly authorized officer, director,
employee or agent, which proxy shall be filed with or received by
the Corporate Secretary of the meeting before being voted. A
proxy shall designate only one person as proxy, except that
proxies executed pursuant to a general solicitation of proxies
may designate one or more persons as proxies. Proxies shall
entitle the holders thereof to vote at any adjournment of the
meeting, but shall not be valid after the final adjournment
thereof. No proxy shall be valid after 11 months from its date
unless the appointment form expressly provides for a longer
period of validity. Shareholders entitled to vote may also be
represented by an agent personally present, duly designated by
power of attorney, with or without power of substitution, and
such power of attorney shall be produced at the meeting on
request. Each holder of record of shares of any class shall, as
to all matters in respect of which shares of any class have
voting power, be entitled to one vote for each share of stock of
such class standing in his name on the books.
Article IX. Board of Directors.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Board of Directors shall be chosen by ballot at the Annual
Meeting of the Shareholders or at any meeting held in lieu
thereof as herein before provided.
Subject to the rights of holders of any class or series of stock
having a preference over the Common Stock as to dividends or upon
liquidation, nominations for the election of Directors shall be
made by the Board of Directors or a committee appointed by the
Board of Directors or by any Shareholder entitled to vote in the
election of Directors generally. However, any Shareholder
entitled to vote in the election of Directors generally may
nominate one or more persons for election as Directors at a
meeting only if written notice of such Shareholder's intent to
make such nomination or nominations has been given, either by
personal delivery or by
4
<PAGE>
United States mail, postage prepaid, to the Corporate Secretary
of the Corporation not later than 60 days in advance of such
meeting (except that, if public disclosure of the meeting is made
less than 70 days prior to the meeting, the notice need only be
received within 10 days following such public disclosure). Each
such notice shall set forth: (a) the name and address of the
Shareholder who intends to make the nomination and of the person
or persons to be nominated; (b) a representation that the
Shareholder is a holder of record of stock of the Corporation
entitled to vote at such meeting and intends to appear in person
or by proxy at the meeting to nominate the person or persons
specified in the notice; (c) a description of all arrangements or
understandings between the Shareholder and each nominee and any
other person or persons (naming such person or persons) pursuant
to which the nomination or nominations are to be made by the
Shareholder; (d) such other information regarding each nominee
proposed by such Shareholder as would be required to be included
in a proxy statement filed pursuant to the proxy rules of the
Securities and Exchange Commission, had the nominee been
nominated, or intended to be nominated, by the Board of
Directors; and (e) the consent of each nominee to serve as a
Director of the Corporation if so elected. The Chairman of the
meeting may refuse to acknowledge the nomination of any person
not made in compliance with the foregoing procedure.
Article X. Powers of Directors.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All corporate powers shall be exercised by or under the authority
of, and the business and affairs of the Corporation shall be
managed under the direction of, the Board of Directors, subject
to any limitation set forth in the Articles of Incorporation and
so far as this delegation of authority is not inconsistent with
the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, with the Articles of
Incorporation or with these Bylaws.
Article XI. Executive and Other Committees.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Board of Directors, by resolution passed by a majority of the
whole Board, may designate two or more of its number to
constitute an Executive Committee. If a quorum is present, the
Committee may act upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the
Committee members present.
When the Board of Directors is not in session, the Executive
Committee shall have and may exercise all of the authority of the
Board of Directors
5
<PAGE>
except that the Executive Committee shall not (i) approve or
recommend to Shareholders action that Virginia law requires to be
approved by Shareholders; (ii) fill vacancies on the Board of
Directors or any of its Committees or elect officers; (iii) Amend
Articles of Incorporation other than as permitted by statute;
(iv) adopt, amend or repeal these Bylaws; (v) approve a plan of
merger not requiring Shareholder approval; (vi) authorize or
approve a distribution, except according to a general formula or
method prescribed by the Board of Directors; or (vii) authorize
or approve the issuance or sale or contract for sale of shares,
or determine the designation and relative rights, preferences,
and limitations of a class or series of shares, except that the
Board of Directors may authorize the Executive Committee to do so
within limits specifically prescribed by the Board of Directors.
If the Executive Committee is created for any designated purpose,
its authority shall be limited to such purpose. The Executive
Committee shall report its action to the Board of Directors.
Regular and special meetings of the Executive Committee may be
called and held subject to the same requirements with respect to
time, place and notice as are specified in these Bylaws for
regular and special meetings of the Board of Directors.
Members of the Executive Committee shall receive such
compensation for attendance at meetings as may be fixed by the
Board of Directors.
The Board of Directors, by resolution passed by a majority of the
whole Board, may designate four of its number to constitute a
Nominating Committee to nominate future members of the Board of
Directors. Such Nominating Committee shall act to ensure that a
majority of the membership of the Board of Directors of the
Corporation and Virginia Electric and Power Company will be
comprised of Directors serving on the Boards of Directors of both
Corporations.
The Board of Directors likewise may appoint from their number,
from the directors of affiliated corporations or from officers of
the Corporation other Committees from time to time, the number
composing such Committees and the power conferred upon the same
to be subject to the foregoing exceptions for an Executive
Committee but otherwise as determined by vote of the Board of
Directors provided that any Committee empowered to exercise the
authority of the Board of Directors shall be composed only of
members of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may
designate one or more Directors to represent the Corporation at
meetings of committees of affiliated corporations. Members of
such committees,
6
<PAGE>
and Directors so designated, shall receive such compensation for
attendance at meetings as may be fixed by the Board of Directors.
Article XII. Meetings of Directors and Quorum.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regular Meetings of the Board of Directors may be held at such
places within or without the Commonwealth of Virginia and at such
times as the Board by vote may determine from time to time, and
if so determined no notice thereof need be given. Special
Meetings of the Board of Directors may be held at any time or
place either within or without the Commonwealth of Virginia,
whenever called by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the
President, any Vice President, the Corporate Secretary, or three
or more Directors, notice thereof being given to each Director by
the Corporate Secretary or an Assistant Corporate Secretary, the
Directors or the officer calling the meeting, or at any time
without formal notice provided all the Directors are present or
those not present waive notice thereof. Notice of Special
Meetings, stating the time and place thereof, shall be given by
mailing the same to each Director at his residence or business
address at least two days before the meeting, or by delivering
the same to him personally or telephoning or telegraphing the
same to him at his residence or business address at least one day
before the meeting, unless, in case of exigency, the Chairman of
the Board of Directors or the President shall prescribe a shorter
notice to be given personally or by telephoning or telegraphing
each Director at his residence or business address.
A written waiver of notice signed by the Director entitled to
such notice, whether before or after the date of the meeting,
shall be equivalent to the giving of such notice. A Director who
attends or participates in a meeting shall be deemed to have
waived timely and proper notice of the meeting unless the
Director, at the beginning of the meeting or promptly upon his
arrival, objects to holding the meeting or transacting business
at the meeting and does not thereafter vote for or assent to
action taken at the meeting.
A majority of the number of Directors fixed at the time in
accordance with the Bylaws shall constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business, but a lesser number may adjourn any
meeting from time to time, and the meeting may be held without
further notice. The foregoing provision is, however, subject to
the Articles of Incorporation. When a quorum is present at any
meeting, a majority of the members present thereat shall decide
any
7
<PAGE>
question brought before such meeting, except as otherwise
provided by law, by the Articles of Incorporation, or by these
Bylaws.
Article XIII. Action Without a Meeting.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Any action required to be taken at a meeting of the Directors, or
any action which may be taken at a meeting of the Directors or of
a Committee, may be taken without a meeting if a consent in
writing (which may be in any number of counterparts), setting
forth the action so to be taken, shall be signed by all of the
Directors, or all of the members of the Committee, as the case
may be, either before or after such action is taken. Such consent
shall have the same force and effect as a unanimous vote.
Article XIV. Officers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The officers of the Corporation shall be a President, one or more
Vice Presidents, a Corporate Secretary, a Treasurer and a
Controller. The Chairman of the Board of Directors shall also be
an officer unless he is not also a full-time employee of the
Corporation. The officers and the Chairman of the Board of
Directors shall be elected or appointed by the Board of Directors
after each election of Directors by the Shareholders, and a
meeting of the Board of Directors may be held without notice for
the purpose of electing officers following the Annual Meeting of
the Shareholders.
The Board of Directors, in its discretion, may appoint one or
more Assistant Corporate Secretaries, one or more Assistant
Treasurers, one or more Assistant Controllers, and such other
officers or agents as it may deem advisable, and prescribe their
duties.
Article XV. Eligibility of Officers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Chairman of the Board of Directors and the President shall be
Directors. Any person may hold more than one office provided,
however, that neither the Corporate Secretary, the Treasurer nor
the Controller shall at the same time hold the office of Chairman
of the Board of Directors or President.
8
<PAGE>
Article XVI. Duties and Authority of Chairman of the Board
of Directors, President and Others.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Chairman of the Board of Directors shall preside at the
meetings of the Board of Directors. He may call meetings of the
Board of Directors and of any Committee thereof whenever he deems
it necessary. He shall call to order, and act as chairman of, all
meetings of the Shareholders and prescribe rules of procedure
therefor. He shall perform the duties commonly incident to his
office and such other duties as the Board of Directors shall
designate from time to time.
The Board of Directors may designate the Chief Executive Officer
of the Corporation.
In the absence of the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the
President shall perform his duties. The President shall perform
the duties commonly incident to his office and such other duties
as the Board of Directors shall designate from time to time. The
Chief Executive Officer, the President and each Vice President
shall have authority to sign certificates for shares of stock,
bonds, deeds and contracts and to delegate such authority in such
manner as may be approved by the Chief Executive Officer or the
President.
Article XVII. Vice Presidents.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each Vice President shall perform such duties and have such other
powers as the Board of Directors shall designate from time to
time. In the event of the absence or disability of the President,
the duties and powers of the President shall be performed and
exercised by the Vice President designated to so act by the line
of succession provided by the Board of Directors, or if not so
provided by the Board of Directors, in accordance with the
following order of priority:
(a) The Executive Vice Presidents in order of their seniority of
first election to such office, or if two or more shall have
been first elected to such office on the same day, in order
of their seniority in age;
(b) The Senior Vice Presidents in order of their seniority of
first election to such office, or if two or more shall have
been first elected to such office on the same day, in order
of their seniority in age;
9
<PAGE>
(c) All other Vice Presidents at the principal office of the
Corporation in the order of their seniority of first
election to such office or if two or more shall have been
first elected to such office on the same day, the order of
their seniority in age; and
(d) Any other persons that are designated on a list that shall
have been approved by the Board of Directors, such persons
to be taken in such order of priority and subject to such
conditions as may be provided in the resolution approving
the list.
Article XVIII. Corporate Secretary.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Corporate Secretary shall keep accurate minutes of all
meetings of the Shareholders, the Board of Directors and the
Executive Committee, respectively, shall perform the duties
commonly incident to his office, and shall perform such other
duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors shall
designate from time to time. The Corporate Secretary shall have
power together with the Chief Executive Officer, the President or
a Vice President, to sign certificates for shares of stock. In
his absence an Assistant Corporate Secretary shall perform his
duties.
Article XIX. Treasurer.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Treasurer, subject to the order of the Board of Directors,
shall have the care and custody of the money, funds and
securities of the Corporation and shall have and exercise under
the supervision of the Board of Directors, all the powers and
duties commonly incident to his office. He shall deposit all
funds of the Corporation in such bank or banks, trust company or
trust companies or with such firm or firms doing a banking
business, as the Directors shall designate. He may endorse for
deposit or collection all checks, notes, et cetera, payable to
the Corporation or to its order, may accept drafts on behalf of
the Corporation, and, together with the Chief Executive Officer,
the President or a Vice President, may sign certificates for
shares of stock.
All checks, drafts, notes and other obligations for the payment
of money except bonds, debentures and notes issued under an
indenture shall be signed either manually or, if and to the
extent authorized by the Board of Directors, through facsimile,
by the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer or such other officer
or agent as the Board of Directors shall authorize.
10
<PAGE>
Checks for the total amount of any payroll may be drawn in
accordance with the foregoing provisions and deposited in a
special fund.
Checks upon this fund may be drawn by such person as the
Treasurer shall designate.
Article XX. Controller.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Controller shall keep accurate books of account of the
Corporation's transactions and shall perform such other duties
and have such other
powers as the Board of Directors shall designate from time to
time.
Article XXI. Resignation and Removals.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Any Director or officer may resign at any time by giving written
notice to the Board of Directors, to the Chairman of the Board of
Directors, to the President or to the Corporate Secretary, and
any member of any Committee may resign by giving written notice
either as aforesaid or to the Committee of which he is a member
or the chairman thereof. Any officer may resign at any time by
delivering notice to the Corporation. Any such resignation shall
take effect at the time specified therein or, if the time be not
specified, upon receipt thereof; and, unless otherwise specified
therein, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be
necessary to make it effective.
The Shareholders, at any meeting called for the purpose, by vote
of a majority of the stock having voting power issued and
outstanding, may remove any Director from office with cause and
elect his successor. The Board of Directors, by vote of a
majority of the entire Board, may remove any officer, agent or
member of any Committees with or without cause from office.
Article XXII. Vacancies.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If the office of any officer or agent, one or more, becomes
vacant by reason of death, disability, resignation, removal,
disqualification or otherwise, the Directors at the time in
office, if a quorum, may, by a majority vote at a meeting at
which a quorum is present, choose a successor or
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successors who shall hold office for the unexpired term or until
his successor is duly elected and qualified or his position is
eliminated.
Article XXIII. Certificates for Shares.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Every Shareholder shall be entitled to a certificate or
certificates for shares of record owned by him in such form as
may be prescribed by the Board of Directors, duly numbered and
setting forth the number and kind of shares to which such
Shareholder is entitled. Such certificates shall be signed by the
President or a Vice President and by the Treasurer or an
Assistant Treasurer or the Corporate Secretary or an Assistant
Corporate Secretary. The Board of Directors may also appoint one
or more Transfer Agents and/or Registrars for its stock of any
class or classes and may require stock certificates to be
countersigned and/or registered by one or more of such Transfer
Agents and/or Registrars. If certificates for shares are signed,
either manually or by facsimile, engraved or printed, by a
Transfer Agent or by a Registrar, the signatures thereon of the
President or a Vice President and the Treasurer or an Assistant
Treasurer or the Corporate Secretary or an Assistant Corporate
Secretary may be facsimiles, engraved or printed. Any provisions
of these Bylaws with reference to the signing of stock
certificates shall include, in cases above permitted, such
facsimiles.
In case any officer or officers who shall have signed, or whose
facsimile signature or signatures shall have been used on, any
such certificate or certificates shall cease to be such officer
or officers of the Corporation, whether because of death,
resignation or otherwise, before such certificate or certificates
shall have been delivered by the Corporation, such certificate or
certificates may nevertheless be issued and delivered as though
the person or persons who signed such certificate or certificates
or whose facsimile signature or signatures shall have been used
thereon had not ceased to be such officer or officers of the
Corporation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board of
Directors may authorize the issue of some or all of the shares of
any or all of its classes or series without certificates. Within
a reasonable time after the issue or transfer of shares without
certificates, the Corporation shall send the Shareholder a
written statement of the information required on certificates by
the Virginia Stock Corporation Act or other applicable law.
12
<PAGE>
Article XXIV. Transfer of Shares.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares may be transferred by delivery of the certificate
accompanied either by an assignment in writing on the back of the
certificate or by a written power of attorney to sell, assign and
transfer the same on the books of the Corporation, signed by the
person appearing by the certificate to be the owner of the shares
represented thereby, and shall be transferable on the books of
the Corporation upon surrender thereof so assigned or endorsed.
The person registered on the books of the Corporation as the
owner of any shares shall be entitled exclusively as the owner of
such shares, to receive dividends and to vote in respect thereof.
It shall be the duty of every Shareholder to notify the
Corporation of his address.
Article XXV. Record Date.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the purpose of determining the Shareholders entitled to
notice of or to vote at any meeting of Shareholders, or any
adjournment thereof, or entitled to receive payment of any
dividend, or in order to make a determination of Shareholders for
any other proper purpose, the Board of Directors may fix in
advance a date as the record date for any such determination of
Shareholders, provided that such date shall not in any case be
more than 70 days prior to the date on which the particular
action, requiring such determination of Shareholders, is to be
taken. If no record date shall be fixed for the determination of
Shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of
Shareholders, or for the determination of the Shareholders
entitled to receive payment of a dividend, the date on which
notice of the meeting is mailed or the date on which the
resolution of the Board of Directors declaring such dividend is
adopted, as the case may be, shall be the record date for such
determination of Shareholders in such cases. A determination of
Shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a Shareholders'
meeting is effective for any adjournment of the meeting unless
the Board of Directors fixes a new record date, which it shall do
if the meeting is adjourned to a date more than 120 days after
the date fixed for the original meeting.
Article XXVI. Voting of Shares Held.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unless the Board of Directors shall otherwise provide, the
Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer,
the President, any Vice
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<PAGE>
President, or the Corporate Secretary may from time to time
appoint one or more attorneys-in-fact or agents of the
Corporation, in the name and on behalf of the Corporation, to
cast the votes that the Corporation may be entitled to cast as a
shareholder or otherwise in any other corporation, any of whose
stock or securities of which may be held by the Corporation, at
meetings of the holders of any such other corporations, or to
consent in writing to any action by any such other corporation,
and may instruct the person or persons so appointed as to the
manner of casting such votes or giving such consent, and may
execute or cause to be executed on behalf of the Corporation
such written proxies, consents, waivers or other instruments as
he may deem necessary or proper in the premises; or either the
Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer,
the President or the Corporate Secretary may himself attend any
meeting of the shareholders of any such other corporation and
thereat vote or exercise any or all other powers of the
Corporation as the shareholder of such other corporation.
Article XXVII. Bonds, Debentures and Notes Issued Under
an Indenture.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All bonds, debentures and notes issued under an indenture shall
be signed by the Chief Executive Officer, the President or any
Vice President or such other officer or agent as the Board of
Directors shall authorize and by the Corporate Secretary or any
Assistant Corporate Secretary or by the Treasurer or any
Assistant Treasurer or such other officer or agent as the Board
of Directors shall authorize. The signature of any authorized
officer of the Corporation on bonds, debentures and notes
authenticated by a corporate trustee may be made manually or by
facsimile.
Article XXVIII. Amendments.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Both the Board of Directors and the Shareholders shall have the
power to alter, amend or repeal the Bylaws of the Corporation or
to adopt new Bylaws, but Bylaws enacted by the Shareholders, if
expressly so provided, may not be altered, amended or repealed
by the Directors.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Articles IV and IX of these
Bylaws may not be amended, altered, changed or repealed without
the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the outstanding
shares of the Corporation entitled to vote.
14
<PAGE>
Article XXIX. Emergency Bylaws.
The Emergency Bylaws provided in this Article XXIX shall be
operative during any emergency notwithstanding any different
provision in the preceding Articles of the Bylaws or in the
Articles of Incorporation of the Corporation or in the Virginia
Stock Corporation Act. An emergency exists if a quorum of the
Corporation's Board of Directors cannot readily be assembled
because of some catastrophic event. To the extent not
inconsistent with these Emergency Bylaws, the Bylaws provided in
the preceding Articles shall remain in effect during such
emergency and upon the termination of such emergency the
Emergency Bylaws shall cease to be operative unless and until
another such emergency shall occur.
During any such emergency:
(a) Any meeting of the Board of Directors may be called by any
officer of the Corporation or by any Director. Notice shall
be given by the person calling the meeting. The notice shall
specify the time and place of the meeting. Notice may be
given only to such of the Directors as it may be feasible to
reach at the time and by such means as may be feasible at
the time, including publication or radio. If given by mail,
messenger or telephone, the notice shall be addressed to the
Director's address or such other place as the person giving
the notice shall deem most suitable. Notice shall be
similarly given, to the extent feasible, to the other
persons referred to in (b) below. Notice shall be given at
least two days before the meeting if feasible in the
judgment of the person giving the notice, but otherwise
shall be given any time before the meeting as the person
giving the notice shall deem necessary.
(b) At any meeting of the Board of Directors, a quorum shall
consist of a majority of the number of Directors fixed at
the time by Article IX of the Bylaws. If the Directors
present at any particular meeting shall be fewer than the
number required for such quorum, other persons present, as
determined by the following provisions and in the following
order of priority, up to the number necessary to make up
such quorum, shall be deemed Directors for such particular
meeting:
(i) The Executive Vice Presidents in the order of their
seniority of first election to such office, or if two
or more shall have been
15
<PAGE>
first elected to such office on the same day, in the
order of their seniority in age;
(ii) The Senior Vice Presidents in the order of their
seniority of first election to such office, or if two
or more shall have been first elected to such office
on the same day, in the order of their seniority in
age;
(iii) All other Vice Presidents at the principal office of
the Corporation in the order of their seniority of
first election to such office, or if two or more shall
have been first elected to such office on the same
day, in the order of their seniority in age; and
(iv) Any other persons that are designated on a list that
shall have been approved by the Board of Directors
before the emergency, such persons to be taken in such
order of priority and subject to such conditions as
may be provided in the resolution approving the list.
(c) The Board of Directors, during as well as before any such
emergency, may provide, and from time to time modify, lines
of succession in the event that during such an emergency any
or all officers or agents of the Corporation for any reason
shall be rendered incapable of discharging their duties.
(d) The Board of Directors, before and during any such
emergency, may, effective in the emergency, change the
principal office or designate several alternative principal
offices or regional offices, or authorize the officers so to
do.
No officer, Director or employee shall be liable for any action
taken in good faith in accordance with these Emergency Bylaws.
These Emergency Bylaws shall be subject to repeal or change by
further action of the Board of Directors or by action of the
Shareholders, except that no such repeal or change shall modify
the provisions of the next preceding paragraph with regard to
action or inaction prior to the time of such repeal or change.
Any such amendment of these Emergency Bylaws may make any further
or different provision that may be practical and necessary for
the circumstances of the emergency.
16
<PAGE>
Article XXX. Shareholder Proposals.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To be properly brought before a meeting of Shareholders, business
must be (i) specified in the notice of meeting (or any supplement
thereto) given by or at the direction of the Board of Directors,
(ii) otherwise properly brought before the meeting by or at the
direction of the Board of Directors or (iii) otherwise properly
brought before the meeting by a Shareholder. In addition to any
other applicable requirements, for business to be properly
brought before an Annual Meeting by a Shareholder, the
Shareholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to
the Corporate Secretary of the Corporation. To be timely, a
Shareholder's notice must be given, either by personal delivery
or by United States registered or certified mail, postage
prepaid, to the Corporate Secretary of the Corporation not later
than 90 days prior to the date of the anniversary of the
immediately preceding Annual Meeting. A Shareholder's notice to
the Corporate Secretary shall set forth as to each matter the
Shareholder proposes to bring before the Annual Meeting (i) a
brief description of the business desired to be brought before
the Annual Meeting, including the complete text of any
resolutions to be presented at the Annual Meeting, with respect
to such business, and the reasons for conducting such business at
the meeting, (ii) the name and address of record of the
Shareholder proposing such business, (iii) the class and number
of shares of the Corporation that are beneficially owned by the
Shareholder and (iv) any material interest of the Shareholder in
such business. In the event that a Shareholder attempts to bring
business before an Annual Meeting without complying with the
foregoing procedure, the Chairman of the meeting may declare to
the meeting that the business was not properly brought before the
meeting and, if he shall so declare, such business shall not be
transacted.
Article XXXI. Control Share Acquisitions.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the event that any acquiring person (an "Acquiring Person") as
defined in Section 13.1-728.1 of the Virginia Stock Corporation
Act (the "Act"), either (i) fails to comply with the provisions
of Section 13.1-728.4 of the Act or (ii) fails to obtain the
approval of the Shareholders of the Corporation at any meeting
held pursuant to Section 13.1-728.5, then the Corporation shall
have authority, upon approval by resolution of the Board of
Directors to call for redemption, at anytime within 60 days after
the last acquisition of any such shares by such Acquiring Person
or the date of such meeting, as the case may be, and thereafter
to redeem on such date within such 60-day period as may be
specified in such resolution (the
17
<PAGE>
"Redemption Date") all shares of Common Stock of the Corporation
theretofore acquired by the Acquiring Person in a control share
acquisition (as defined in Section 13.1-728.1 of the Act) and
then owned beneficially by such Acquiring Person, as such number
of shares may be either (i) shown on any control share
acquisition statement or any statement or report filed by the
Acquiring Person with the Securities and Exchange Commission
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or (ii)
otherwise determined by the Board of Directors. The redemption
price shall be paid in cash on the Redemption Date against
delivery at the principal office of the Corporation of
certificates evidencing the shares so redeemed.
All determinations by the Board of Directors as to (i) the status
of any person as an Acquiring Person under the Act, (ii) the
number of shares of the Corporation owned by such Acquiring
Person, (iii) the timeliness of compliance by any Acquiring
Person within Section 13.1-728.4 of the Act, or (iv) the
interpretation of the Act or this Article if made in good faith,
shall be conclusive and binding on all persons.
18
<PAGE>
Exhibit 5
Dominion Resources, Inc.
P.O. Box 26532
Richmond, VA 23261
April 5, 1999
Board of Directors
Dominion Resources, Inc.
P.O. Box 26532
Richmond, VA 23261
Dear Sir/Madam:
I am Vice President and General Counsel of Dominion Resources, Inc. (the
Company), and I have advised the Company in connection with the registration,
pursuant to a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement)
being filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act
of 1933, of 148,500,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock, without par value
(the Common Stock), to be issued pursuant to the amended and restated merger
agreement between the Company and Consolidated Natural Gas (CNG), dated as of
March 31, 1999. In connection with the filing of the Registration Statement, you
have requested my opinion concerning certain corporate matters.
I am of the opinion that the issuance of Common Stock has been duly authorized
and when issued in accordance with the terms and provisions of the merger
agreement and as described in the joint proxy statement/prospectus, the shares
of Common Stock will be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.
I hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as Exhibit 5 to the Registration
Statement. In giving this consent, I do not thereby admit that I am within the
category of persons where consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities
Act of 1933 and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Very truly yours,
/s/ James F. Stutts
James F. Stutts, Esq.
Vice President and General Counsel
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.1
Consent of Independent Accountants
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Joint Proxy
Statement/Prospectus constituting part of this Registration Statement on Form
S-4 of Dominion Resources, Inc. of our report dated February 9, 1999, except as
to the subsequent event described in Note 19 which is as of February 22, 1999,
appearing on page 22 of Appendix I to Consolidated Natural Gas Company proxy
statement for the 1999 annual meeting of stockholders which is incorporated by
reference in its Annual Report on Form 10-K. We also consent to the references
to us under the heading "Experts" in such Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP
600 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219-9954
April 1, 1999
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.2
RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.
[SEAL]
CONSULTANTS - PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS
3555 TIMMONS LANE -SUITE 1105
HOUSTON, TX 77027
(713) 662-8955
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT GEOLOGISTS
---------------------------------
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference into the Joint Proxy
Statement/Prospectus constituting part of this Registration Statement on Form
S-4 of Dominion Resources, Inc. to be filed on or about this date with the
Securities and Exchange Commisson pursuant to the requirements of the Securities
Act of 1933, as amended, of our estimates of company-owned oil and gas reserves
and total gas supply contained in Consolidated Natural Gas Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998. We also consent to any
reference to us under the heading "EXPERTS" as to the matters and to the extent
set forth in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus and to the filing of this
Consent as an exhibit to said Joint Proxy Statement/Propectus.
We further wish to advise that we were not employed on a contingent basis
and that at the time of the preparation our report, as well as at present,
neither Ralph E. Davis Associates, Inc., nor any of its employees had, or now
has, a substantial interest in Consolidated Natural Gas Company, or any of its
subsidiaries, as a holder of its securities, promoter, underwriter, voting
trustee, director, officer, or employee of the said company, Consolidated
Natural Gas Company.
RALPH E. DAVIS ASSOCIATES, INC.
/s/ Thomas N. Sudderth
-----------------------------------
Thomas N. Sudderth
President
Dated: April 1, 1999
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.3
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of
Dominion Resources, Inc. on Form S-4 of our report dated February 8, 1999
(February 22, 1999, as to Note X) appearing in and incorporated by reference in
the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Dominion Resources, Inc. for the year ended
December 31, 1998 and to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in the
Prospectus, which is part of this Registration Statement.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Richmond, Virginia
April 1, 1999
