<PAGE>
DEAN WITTER
WORLD WIDE INVESTMENT TRUST
PROSPECTUS--MAY 27, 1994
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DEAN WITTER WORLD WIDE INVESTMENT TRUST (THE "FUND") IS AN OPEN-END DIVERSIFIED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY WHOSE INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE IS TOTAL RETURN ON ITS
ASSETS PRIMARILY THROUGH LONG-TERM CAPITAL GROWTH AND TO A LESSER EXTENT FROM
INCOME. THE FUND WILL SEEK TO ACHIEVE SUCH OBJECTIVE THROUGH INVESTMENTS IN ALL
TYPES OF COMMON STOCKS AND EQUIVALENTS, PREFERRED STOCKS AND BONDS AND OTHER
DEBT OBLIGATIONS OF DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN COMPANIES AND GOVERNMENTS AND
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS.
Shares of the Fund are continuously offered at net asset value without the
imposition of a sales charge. However, redemptions and/or repurchases are
subject in most cases to a contingent deferred sales charge, scaled down from 5%
to 1% of the amount redeemed, if made within six years of purchase, which charge
will be paid to the Fund's Distributor, Dean Witter Distributors Inc. (See
"Redemptions and Repurchases--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge.") In addition,
the Fund pays the Distributor a Rule 12b-1 distribution fee pursuant to a Plan
of Distribution at the annual rate of 1% of the lesser of the (i) average daily
aggregate net sales or (ii) average daily net assets of the Fund. (See "Purchase
of Fund Shares--Plan of Distribution.")
This Prospectus sets forth concisely the information you should know before
investing in the Fund. It should be read and retained for future reference.
Additional information about the Fund is contained in the Statement of
Additional Information, dated May 27, 1994, which has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, and which is available at no charge upon
request of the Fund at the address or telephone numbers listed on this page. The
Statement of Additional Information is incorporated herein by reference.
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<S> <C>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Prospectus Summary................................ 2
Summary of Fund Expenses.......................... 3
Financial Highlights.............................. 4
The Fund and its Management....................... 5
Investment Objective and Policies................. 6
Investment Restrictions........................... 8
Purchase of Fund Shares........................... 9
Shareholder Services.............................. 11
Redemptions and Repurchases....................... 13
Dividends, Distributions and Taxes................ 14
Performance Information........................... 15
Additional Information............................ 15
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SHARES OF THE FUND ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED
BY, ANY BANK, AND THE SHARES ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT
INSURANCE CORPORATION, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY.
DEAN WITTER
WORLD WIDE INVESTMENT TRUST
TWO WORLD TRADE CENTER
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10048
(212) 392-2550
(800) 526-3143
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THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE
ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
DEAN WITTER DISTRIBUTORS INC., DISTRIBUTOR
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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
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THE FUND The Fund is organized as a trust, commonly known as a Massachusetts business trust, and
is an open-end diversified management investment company investing in all types of
common stocks and equivalents (such as convertible debt securities and warrants),
preferred stocks and bonds and other debt obligations of domestic and foreign companies
and governments and international organizations.
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SHARES OFFERED Shares of beneficial interest with $.01 par value (see page 15).
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OFFERING At net asset value without sales charge (see page 9). Shares redeemed within six years
PRICE of purchase are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge under most circumstances
(see page 13).
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MINIMUM Minimum initial investment, $1,000; minimum subsequent investment, $100 (see page 9).
PURCHASE
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INVESTMENT The investment objective of the Fund is total return on its assets primarily through
OBJECTIVE long-term capital growth and to a lesser extent from income.
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INVESTMENT The Fund maintains a flexible investment policy and invests in a diversified portfolio
POLICIES of securities of companies and countries located throughout the world. The percentage of
the Fund's assets invested in particular geographic sectors will shift from time to time
in accordance with the judgment of the Investment Manager and the Investment Advisers
(see page 6).
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INVESTMENT Dean Witter InterCapital Inc. ("InterCapital") is the Fund's Investment Manager with
ADVISERS responsibility for investments in North and South American securities and provides
various administrative services. Daiwa International Capital Management Corp. ("DICAM")
is the Fund's Investment Adviser with responsibility for investments in Pacific Basin
securities. NatWest Investment Management Limited ("NWIM") is the Fund's Investment
Adviser with responsibility for investments in European and other countries' securities
(see page 5).
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MANAGEMENT AND InterCapital, DICAM and NWIM receive monthly fees at the annual rates of 0.55%, 0.225%
ADVISORY FEES and 0.225%, respectively, for a total of 1.0% of the Fund's average daily net assets up
to $500 million, and 0.5225%, 0.21375% and 0.21375%, respectively, for a total of 0.95%
of the Fund's average daily net assets over $500 million. Although the total fee is
higher than that paid by most other investment companies, the fee reflects the
specialized nature of the Fund's investment policies.
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DIVIDENDS AND Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net capital gains are paid
CAPITAL GAINS at least once per year. Dividends and capital gains distributions are automatically
DISTRIBUTIONS reinvested in additional shares at net asset value unless the shareholder elects to
receive cash (see page 14).
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DISTRIBUTOR Dean Witter Distributors Inc. The Distributor receives from the Fund a distribution fee
accrued daily and payable monthly at the rate of 1.0% per annum of the lesser of (i) the
Fund's average daily aggregate net sales or (ii) the Fund's average daily net assets.
This fee compensates the Distributor for the services provided in distributing shares of
the Fund and for sales-related expenses. The Distributor also receives the proceeds of
any contingent deferred sales charges (see pages 9 and 13).
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REDEMPTION-- Shares are redeemable by the shareholder at net asset value. An account may be
CONTINGENT involuntarily redeemed if the total value of the account is less than $100. Although no
DEFERRED commission or sales charge is imposed upon the purchase of shares, a contingent deferred
SALES CHARGE sales charge (scaled down from 5% to 1%) is imposed on any redemption of shares if after
such redemption the aggregate current value of an account with the Fund is less than the
aggregate amount of the investor's purchase payments made during the six years preceding
the redemption. However, there is no charge imposed on redemption of shares purchased
through reinvestment of dividends or distributions (see page 13).
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RISKS The Fund is intended for long-term investors who can accept the risks involved in
investments in the securities of companies and countries located throughout the world.
It should be recognized that investing in such securities involves different risks and
may involve greater risks than are customarily associated with securities of domestic
companies or trading in domestic markets. In addition, investors should consider risks
inherent in an international portfolio, including exchange fluctuations and exchange
controls, and certain of the investment policies which the Fund may employ, including
transactions in forward foreign currency exchange contracts (see page 6).
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THE ABOVE IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY THE DETAILED INFORMATION APPEARING
ELSEWHERE IN THIS PROSPECTUS
AND IN THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
2
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SUMMARY OF FUND EXPENSES
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The following table illustrates all expenses and fees that a shareholder of the
Fund will incur. The expenses and fees set forth in the table are for the fiscal
year ended March 31, 1994.
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<CAPTION>
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES
<S> <C>
Maximum Sales Charge Imposed on Purchases......... None
Maximum Sales Charge Imposed on Reinvested
Dividends........................................ None
Deferred Sales Charge
(as a percentage of the lesser of original
purchase price or redemption proceeds)........... 5.0%
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A contingent deferred sales charge is imposed at the following declining rates:
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<CAPTION>
YEAR SINCE PURCHASE PAYMENT MADE PERCENTAGE
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<S> <C>
First............................................. 5.0%
Second............................................ 4.0%
Third............................................. 3.0%
Fourth............................................ 2.0%
Fifth............................................. 2.0%
Sixth............................................. 1.0%
Seventh and thereafter............................ None
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Redemption Fees................................... None
Exchange Fee...................................... None
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (AS A PERCENTAGE OF
AVERAGE NET ASSETS)
Management Fees................................... 1.00%
12b-1 Fees*....................................... 0.97%
Other Expenses.................................... 0.43%
Total Fund Operating Expenses..................... 2.40%
<FN>
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* A portion of the 12b-1 fee equal to 0.25% of the Fund's average daily net
assets is characterized as a service fee within the meaning of National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD") guidelines.
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<CAPTION>
10
EXAMPLE 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS YEARS
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<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
You would pay the following expenses on a $1,000
investment, assuming (1) 5% annual return and (2)
redemption at the end of each time period:....... $74 $105 $148 $274
You would pay the following expenses on the same
investment, assuming no redemption:.............. $24 $75 $128 $274
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THE ABOVE EXAMPLE SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED A REPRESENTATION OF PAST OR FUTURE
EXPENSES OR PERFORMANCE. ACTUAL EXPENSES OF THE FUND MAY BE GREATER OR LESS THAN
THOSE SHOWN.
The purpose of this table is to assist the investor in understanding the various
costs and expenses that an investor in the Fund will bear directly or
indirectly. For a more complete description of these costs and expenses, see
"The Fund and its Management," "Plan of Distribution" and "Redemptions and
Repurchases."
Long-term shareholders of the Fund may pay more in sales charges and
distribution fees than the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales
charge permitted by the NASD.
3
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FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
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The following ratios and per share data for a share of beneficial interest
outstanding throughout each period have been audited by Price Waterhouse,
independent accountants. The financial highlights should be read in conjunction
with the financial statements, notes thereto, and the unqualified report of
independent accountants which are contained in the Statement of Additional
Information. Further information about the performance of the Fund is contained
in the Fund's Annual Report to Shareholders, which may be obtained without
charge upon request to the Fund.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31,
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1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
PER SHARE OPERATING
PERFORMANCE:
Net asset value,
beginning of
period.............. $14.72 $14.65 $14.57 $14.84 $14.98 $14.93 $17.36 $15.45 $10.30 $10.58
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Net investment
income (loss)...... (0.05) -0- -0- 0.23 0.11 0.08 0.04 0.11 0.10 0.25
Net realized and
unrealized gain
(loss)............. 4.24 0.39 1.05 0.18 0.82 1.24 (0.07) 3.88 5.30 (0.40)
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Total from
investment
operations......... 4.19 0.39 1.05 0.41 0.93 1.32 (0.03) 3.99 5.40 (0.15)
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Less dividends and
distributions:
Dividends from net
investment
income........... -0- -0- (0.05) (0.23) (0.11) (0.08) (0.15) (0.10) (0.25) (0.13)
Distributions from
capital gains.... (0.71) (0.32) (0.92) (0.45) (0.96) (1.19) (2.25) (1.98) -0- -0-
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Total dividends and
distributions...... (0.71) (0.32) (0.97) (0.68) (1.07) (1.27) (2.40) (2.08) (0.25) (0.13)
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Net asset value, end
of period.......... $18.20 $14.72 $14.65 $14.57 $14.84 $14.98 $14.93 $17.36 $15.45 $10.30
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
--------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
TOTAL INVESTMENT
RETURN+............. 28.40% 2.69% 7.33% 2.80% 6.09% 9.31% 0.39% 28.22% 53.76% (1.44)%
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL
DATA:
Net assets, end of
period (in
thousands)......... $493,568 $217,759 $262,852 $278,676 $306,448 $311,803 $368,026 $469,501 $226,621 $97,872
Ratio of expenses to
average net
assets............. 2.40% 2.42% 2.27% 2.29% 2.21% 2.18% 2.13% 2.10% 2.35%* 2.19%*
Ratio of net
investment income
(loss) to average
net assets......... (0.61%) 0.06% 0.03% 1.53% 0.70% 0.50% 0.23% 0.86% 1.21% 2.33%
Portfolio turnover
rate............... 68 % 139 % 89 % 68 % 75 % 67 % 70 % 65 % 69 % 64 %
<FN>
+DOES NOT REFLECT THE DEDUCTION OF SALES LOAD.
*NET OF EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT.
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
4
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THE FUND AND ITS MANAGEMENT
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Dean Witter World Wide Investment Trust (the "Fund") is an open-end diversified
management investment company organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts as a business trust on July 11, 1983.
Dean Witter InterCapital Inc. ("InterCapital") is the Fund's Investment
Manager with responsibility for investments in securities of North and South
American issuers. InterCapital is also responsible for providing the
administrative services necessary for the operation of the Fund and monitors
compliance with investment policies and restrictions. The address of
InterCapital is Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048. InterCapital,
which was incorporated in July, 1992, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dean
Witter, Discover & Co. ("DWDC"), a balanced financial services organization
providing a broad range of nationally marketed credit and investment products.
InterCapital and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Dean Witter Services Company
Inc., serve in various investment management, advisory, management and
administrative capacities to eighty-five investment companies, thirty of which
are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, with combined total assets of
approximately $68.8 billion at April 30, 1994. InterCapital also manages
portfolios of pension plans, other institutions and individuals which aggregated
approximately $2 billion at such date. InterCapital has retained Dean Witter
Services Company Inc. to perform the above-mentioned administrative services for
the Fund. InterCapital is an affiliate of Dean Witter Trust Company, the Fund's
Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent.
Daiwa International Capital Management Corp. ("DICAM") is the Fund's
Investment Adviser with responsibility for investments in securities of Pacific
Basin issuers. The address of DICAM is One World Financial Center, 200 Liberty
Street, New York, New York 10281. DICAM has entered into a sub-advisory
agreement with its parent, Daiwa International Capital Management Co., Ltd.
("DICAM Ltd."), to assist it in performing its investment advisory functions.
The address of DICAM Ltd. is 2-1 Kyobashi 1-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104, Japan.
DICAM and DICAM Ltd. also act as investment advisers to institutions, pension
funds and individuals with aggregate assets of approximately $24.4 billion at
April 30, 1994. DICAM is an affiliate of Daiwa Securities America Inc., a
broker-dealer.
NatWest Investment Management Limited ("NWIM") is the Fund's Investment
Adviser with responsibility for investments in securities of European issuers
and issuers located outside of North and South America and the Pacific Basin.
The address of NWIM is Fenchurch Exchange, 43/44 Crutched Friars, London EC3N
2NX. NWIM acts as investment adviser to other institutions and pension funds
with aggregate assets of approximately $39.5 billion at March 31, 1994. NWIM is
a wholly-owned subsidiary of National Westminster Bank PLC.
Each of the Investment Manager, the Investment Advisers and the Sub-adviser
is a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
InterCapital, DICAM and NWIM are sometimes referred to herein as the "Investment
Advisers."
The Fund's Trustees review the various services provided by the Investment
Advisers to ensure that the Fund's general investment policies and programs are
being properly carried out and that administrative services are being provided
to the Fund in a satisfactory manner. As full compensation for the services and
facilities furnished to the Fund and expenses of the Fund assumed by the
Investment Advisers, the Fund pays the Investment Advisers aggregate monthly
compensation calculated daily by applying the annual rate of 1.0% to the net
assets of the Fund up to $500 million and 0.95% to the net assets of the Fund
over $500 million, determined as of the close of each business day. Pursuant to
their respective agreements with the Fund, InterCapital, DICAM and NWIM receive
fees at the annual rates of 0.55%, 0.225% and 0.225%, respectively, of the
Fund's average daily net assets up to $500 million and 0.5225%, 0.21375% and
0.21375%, respectively, of the Fund's average daily net assets over $500
million. This total fee is greater than that paid by most other investment
companies.
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1994, the Fund accrued total compensation
to the Investment Advisers amounting to 1.0% of the Fund's average daily net
assets and the Fund's total expenses amounted to 2.40% of the Fund's average
daily net assets.
5
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INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
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The investment objective of the Fund is to seek to obtain total return on its
assets primarily through long-term capital growth and to a lesser extent from
income. This objective is fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder
approval. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its objective.
The Fund will seek to achieve such objective through investments in all types of
common stocks and equivalents (such as convertible debt securities and
warrants), preferred stocks and bonds and other debt obligations of domestic and
foreign companies and governments and international organizations. There is no
limitation on the percent or amount of the Fund's assets which may be invested
for growth or income.
The application of the Fund's investment policies is basically dependent upon
the judgment of the Investment Advisers. As a fundamental policy, the Fund will
maintain a flexible investment policy and, based on a worldwide investment
strategy, will invest in a diversified portfolio of securities of companies and
governments located throughout the world.
The percentage of the Fund's assets invested in particular geographic sectors
will shift from time to time in accordance with the judgment of the Investment
Advisers. The Investment Advisers will determine, at least quarterly, the
percentage of assets that shall be allocated to each of the three Investment
Advisers. If the Investment Advisers cannot agree on such allocation,
InterCapital will make the final determination. Each Investment Adviser will
have the responsibility for advising on the investment of assets in the
geographic sector for which it is responsible and will act on behalf of the Fund
in the purchase, sale and disposition of assets in such sector.
Notwithstanding the Fund's investment objective of seeking total return, the
Fund may, for defensive purposes, without limitation, invest in: obligations of
the United States Government, its agencies or instrumentalities; cash and cash
equivalents in major currencies; repurchase agreements; money market
instruments; and high quality commercial paper.
The Fund may also invest in securities of foreign issuers in the form of
American Depository Receipts (ADRs), European Depository Receipts (EDRs) or
other similar securities convertible into securities of foreign issuers. These
securities may not necessarily be denominated in the same currency as the
securities into which they may be converted. ADRs are receipts typically issued
by a United States bank or trust company evidencing ownership of the underlying
securities. EDRs are European receipts evidencing a similar arrangement.
Generally, ADRs, in registered form, are designed for use in the United States
securities markets and EDRs, in bearer form, are designed for use in European
securities markets.
The Fund may purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis,
may purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis and may purchase
securities on a "when, as and if issued" basis.
The Fund may purchase securities which are sold without registration under
the federal securities laws. Such securities may be held by the Fund as liquid
investments pursuant to procedures adopted by the Fund's Trustees.
FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
A forward foreign currency exchange contract ("forward contract") involves an
obligation to purchase or sell a currency at a future date, which may be any
number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a
price set at the time of the contract. The Fund may enter into forward contracts
as a hedge against fluctuations in future foreign exchange rates.
Since investments in foreign companies will usually involve currencies of
foreign countries, and since the Fund may temporarily hold funds in bank
deposits in foreign currencies during the course of investment programs, the
value of the assets of the Fund as measured in United States dollars will be
affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and exchange control
regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversion between
various currencies.
The Fund may enter into forward contracts only under two circumstances.
First, when the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a
security denominated in a foreign currency, it may desire to "lock in" the U.S.
dollar price of the security. By entering into a forward contract for the
purchase or sale, for a fixed amount of dollars, of the amount of foreign
currency involved in the underlying security transactions, the Fund will be able
to protect itself against a possible loss resulting from an adverse change in
the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the subject foreign currency during
the period between the date on which the security is purchased or sold and the
date on which payment is made or received.
Second, when management of the Fund believes that the currency of a
particular foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S.
dollar, it may enter
6
<PAGE>
into a forward contract to sell, for a fixed amount of dollars, the amount of
foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of the Fund's portfolio
securities denominated in such foreign currency. The precise matching of the
forward contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not
generally be possible since the future value of such securities in foreign
currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the value of
those securities between the date the forward contract is entered into and the
date it matures. Management of the Fund does not intend to enter into such
forward contracts under this second circumstance on a regular or continuous
basis.
The Fund's dealing in forward contracts will be limited to the transactions
described above. Of course, the Fund is not required to enter into such
transactions with regard to its foreign currency-denominated securities and will
not do so unless deemed appropriate by the relevant Investment Adviser. The Fund
generally will not enter into a forward contract with a term of greater than one
year.
Although the Fund values its assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, it does
not intend to convert its holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a
daily basis. It may do so from time to time, and investors should be aware of
the costs of currency conversion.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS AND RISKS
The Fund is intended to provide individual and institutional investors with the
opportunity to invest in a diversified portfolio of securities of companies and
governments located throughout the world. In making the allocation of assets
among the various markets, the Investment Advisers will consider such factors as
recent developments in the various countries, the condition and growth potential
of various economies and securities markets, currency and tax considerations and
other pertinent financial, social, national and political factors. The Fund has
an unlimited right to purchase equity securities if they are listed on a stock
exchange and may invest up to 25% of the Fund's total assets in such securities
not listed on any exchange, including not more than 10% of the Fund's total
assets invested in securities for which no readily available market exists.
Investors should carefully consider the risks of investing in securities of
foreign issuers and securities denominated in non-U.S. currencies. Fluctuations
in the relative rates of exchange between the currencies of different nations
will affect the value of the Fund's investments. Changes in foreign currency
exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar will affect the U.S. dollar value of
the Fund's assets denominated in that currency and thereby impact upon the
Fund's total return on such assets.
Foreign currency exchange rates are determined by forces of supply and demand
on the foreign exchange markets. These forces are themselves affected by the
international balance of payments and other economic and financial conditions,
government intervention, speculation and other factors. Moreover, foreign
currency exchange rates may be affected by the regulatory control of the
exchanges on which the currencies trade. The foreign currency transactions of
the Fund will be conducted on a spot (i.e., cash) basis or through forward
contracts (see above). The Fund may incur certain costs in connection with these
currency transactions.
Investments in foreign securities will also occasion risks relating to
political and economic developments abroad, including the possibility of
expropriations or confiscatory taxation, limitations on the use or transfer of
Fund assets and any effects of foreign social, economic or political
instability. Political and economic developments in Europe, especially as they
relate to changes in the structure of the European Union and the anticipated
development of a unified common market, may have profound effects upon the value
of a large segment of the Fund's portfolio. Continued progress in the evolution
of, for example, a united European common market may be slowed by unanticipated
political or social events and may, therefore, adversely affect the value of
certain of the securities held in the Fund's portfolio.
Foreign companies are not subject to the regulatory requirements of U.S.
companies and, as such, there may be less publicly available information about
such companies. Moreover, foreign companies are not subject to uniform
accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and requirements
comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies.
Securities of foreign issuers may be less liquid than comparable securities
of U.S. issuers and, as such, their price changes may be more volatile.
Furthermore, foreign exchanges and broker-dealers are generally subject to less
government and exchange scrutiny and regulation than their American
counterparts. Brokerage commissions, dealer concessions and other transaction
costs may be higher on foreign markets than in the U.S. In addition, differences
in clearance and settlement procedures on foreign markets may occasion delays in
settlements of Fund trades effected in such markets. Inability to dispose of
portfolio securities due to settlement delays could result in losses to the Fund
due to subsequent declines in value of such securities and the inability of the
Fund to make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could result
in a failure of the
7
<PAGE>
Fund to make potentially advantageous investments. In addition, the tax
implications of the Fund's investments in passive foreign investment companies
are discussed below under "Dividends, Distributions and Taxes."
The operating expense ratio of the Fund can be expected to be higher than
that of an investment company investing exclusively in domestic securities since
the expenses of the Fund, such as the management fee and the custodial costs,
are higher.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
The Fund's portfolio is actively managed by the Investment Advisers with a view
to achieving the Fund's investment objective. Thomas H. Connelly, Senior Vice
President of InterCapital, has been the primary portfolio manager of the Fund
with respect to investments in securities of North and South American issuers
since the Fund's inception and has been a portfolio manager at InterCapital for
over five years. Nobumasa Wakabayashi, Director of DICAM Tokyo and chief
investment officer for overseas clients, has been the primary portfolio manager
of the Fund with respect to investments in securities of Pacific Basin issuers
since the Fund's inception and has been a portfolio manager at DICAM for over
five years. Paul D.G. Chavasse, Senior Fund Manager and Assistant Director of
NWIM, and Timothy J. Weir, Senior Fund Manager and Associate Director of NWIM,
have been the primary portfolio managers of the Fund with respect to investments
in securities of European issuers and issuers located outside of North and South
America and the Pacific Basin since May, 1994. Mr. Chavasse has been a portfolio
manager at NWIM for over five years. Mr. Weir has been a portfolio manager at
NWIM since August, 1993, prior to which time he was employed as an Associate
Director and Senior Fund Manager for European and other international equities
at Swiss Bank Corporation.
Although the Fund does not intend to engage in short-term trading as a means
of achieving its investment objective, it may sell portfolio securities without
regard to the length of time they have been held when such sale will, in the
opinion of the relevant Investment Adviser, strengthen the Fund's position and
contribute to its investment objective. Pursuant to an order of the Securities
and Exchange Commission, the Fund may effect principal transactions in certain
money market instruments with Dean Witter Reynolds Inc. ("DWR"), a broker-dealer
affiliate of InterCapital. In addition, the Fund may incur brokerage commissions
on transactions conducted through DWR and affiliates of DICAM Ltd.
Except as specifically noted, all investment policies and practices discussed
above are not fundamental policies of the Fund and, as such, may be changed
without shareholder approval.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The investment restrictions listed below are among the restrictions which have
been adopted by the Fund as fundamental policies. Under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act"), a fundamental policy may not be changed
without the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund,
as defined in the Act.
For purposes of the following restrictions: (i) all percentage limitations
apply immediately after a purchase or initial investment; and (ii) any
subsequent change in any applicable percentage resulting from market
fluctuations or other changes in total or net assets does not require
elimination of any security from the portfolio.
The Fund may not:
1. Invest more than 5% of the value of its total assets in the voting
securities of any one issuer or with respect to 75% of the Fund's total
assets invest more than 5% in the securities of any one issuer (other than
obligations of the United States Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities).
2. Purchase more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities or any
class of securities of any one issuer.
3. Invest more than 25% of the value of its total assets in securities
of issuers in any one industry other than for defensive purposes.
4. Invest more than 5% of the value of its total assets in securities
of issuers having a record, together with predecessors, of less than three
years of continuous operation. This restriction shall not apply to any
obligation issued or guaranteed by the United States Government, its
agencies or instrumentalities.
5. Purchase securities of other United States investment companies,
except in connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization or
acquisition of assets. However, the Fund may invest up to 10% of the value
of its total assets in the securities of foreign investment companies.
8
<PAGE>
PURCHASE OF FUND SHARES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fund offers its shares for sale to the public on a continuous basis.
Pursuant to a Distribution Agreement between the Fund and Dean Witter
Distributions Inc. (the "Distributor"), an affiliate of InterCapital, shares of
the Fund are distributed by the Distributor and offered by DWR and other dealers
which have entered into selected dealer agreements with the Distributor
("Selected Broker-Dealers"). The principal executive office of the Distributor
is located at Two World Trade Center, New York, New York, 10048.
The minimum initial purchase is $1,000. Subsequent purchases of $100 or more
may be made by sending a check, payable to Dean Witter World Wide Investment
Trust, directly to Dean Witter Trust Company (the "Transfer Agent") at P.O. Box
1040, Jersey City, NJ 07303 or by contacting an account executive of DWR or
other Selected Broker-Dealer. In the case of investments pursuant to Systematic
Payroll Deduction Plans (including Individual Retirement Plans), the Fund, in
its discretion, may accept investments without regard to any minimum amounts
which would otherwise be required, if the Fund has reason to believe that
additional investments will increase the investment in each account under such
Plans to at least $1,000. The Fund will waive the minimum purchase requirement
for investments in connection with certain Unit Investment Trusts. Certificates
for shares purchased will not be issued unless requested by the shareholder in
writing to the Transfer Agent.
Shares of the Fund are sold through the Distributor on a normal five business
day settlement basis; that is, payment is due on the fifth business day
(settlement date) after the order is placed with the Distributor. Since DWR and
other Selected Broker-Dealers forward investors' funds on settlement date, they
will benefit from the temporary use of the funds if payment is made prior
thereto. As noted above, orders placed directly through the Transfer Agent must
be accompanied by payment. Investors will be entitled to receive income
dividends and capital gain distributions if their order is received by the close
of business on the day prior to the record date for such dividends and
distributions.
The offering price will be the net asset value per share next determined
following receipt of an order (see "Determination of Net Asset Value" below).
While no sales charge is imposed at the time shares are purchased, a contingent
deferred sales charge may be imposed at the time of redemption (see "Redemptions
and Repurchases"). Sales personnel of a Selected Broker-Dealer are compensated
for selling shares of the Fund at the time of their sale by the Distributor or
any of its affiliates and/or the Selected Broker-Dealer. In addition, some sales
personnel of the Selected Broker-Dealer will receive non-cash compensation in
the form of trips to educational seminars and merchandise as special sales
incentives. The Fund and the Distributor reserve the right to reject any
purchase orders.
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
The Fund has adopted a Plan of Distribution, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the
Act (the "Plan"), under which the Fund pays the Distributor a fee, which is
accrued daily and payable monthly, at an annual rate of 1.0% of the lesser of:
(a) the average daily aggregate gross sales of the Fund's shares since the
inception of the Fund (not including reinvestments of dividends or capital gains
distributions), less the average daily aggregate net asset value of the Fund's
shares redeemed since the Fund's inception upon which a contingent deferred
sales charge has been imposed or waived, or (b) the Fund's average daily net
assets. This fee is treated by the Fund as an expense in the year it is accrued.
A portion of the fee payable pursuant to the Plan, equal to 0.25% of the Fund's
average daily net assets, is characterized as a service fee within the meaning
of NASD guidelines.
Amounts paid under the Plan are paid to the Distributor to compensate it for
the services provided and the expenses borne by the Distributor and others in
the distribution of the Fund's shares, including the payment of commissions for
sales of the Fund's shares and incentive compensation to and expenses of DWR's
account executives and others who engage in or support distribution of shares or
who service shareholder accounts, including overhead and telephone expenses;
printing and distribution of prospectuses and reports used in connection with
the offering of the Fund's shares to other than current shareholders; and
preparation, printing and distribution of sales literature and advertising
materials. In addition, the Distributor may utilize fees paid pursuant to the
Plan to compensate DWR and other Selected Broker-Dealers for their opportunity
costs in advancing such amounts, which compensation would be in the form of a
carrying charge on any unreimbursed distribution expenses.
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1994, the Fund accrued payments under the
Plan amounting to $2,991,852, which amount is equal to 0.97% of the Fund's
average daily net assets for the fiscal year. The payments accrued under the
Plan were calculated pursuant to clause (a) of the compensation formula under
the Plan.
9
<PAGE>
At any given time, the expenses in distributing shares of the Fund may be in
excess of the total of (i) the payments made by the Fund pursuant to the Plan,
and (ii) the proceeds of contingent deferred sales charges paid by investors
upon the redemption of shares (see "Redemptions and Repurchases--Contingent
Deferred Sales Charge"). For example, if $1 million in expenses in distributing
shares of the Fund had been incurred and $750,000 had been received as described
in (i) and (ii) above, the excess expense would amount to $250,000. The
Distributor has advised the Fund that such excess amount, including the carrying
charge described above, totalled $20,360,022 at March 31, 1994, which was equal
to 4.13% of the Fund's net assets on such date.
Because there is no requirement under the Plan that the Distributor be
reimbursed for all expenses or any requirement that the Plan be continued from
year to year, this excess amount does not constitute a liability of the Fund.
Although there is no legal obligation for the Fund to pay expenses incurred in
excess of payments made to the Distributor under the Plan and the proceeds of
contingent deferred sales charges paid by investors upon redemption of shares,
if for any reason the Plan is terminated the Trustees will consider at that time
the manner in which to treat such expenses. Any cumulative expenses incurred,
but not yet recovered through distribution fees or contingent deferred sales
charges, may or may not be recovered through future distribution fees or
contingent deferred sales charges.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value per share of the Fund is determined once daily at 4:00 p.m.,
New York time, on each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open, by taking
the value of all the assets of the Fund, subtracting all liabilities, dividing
by the number of shares outstanding and adjusting the result to the nearest
cent. The net asset value per share will not be calculated on Good Friday and on
such other federal and non-federal holidays observed by the New York Stock
Exchange.
In the calculation of the Fund's net asset value: (1) an equity security
listed or traded on the New York or American Stock Exchange or other domestic or
foreign stock exchange is valued at its latest sale price on that exchange prior
to the time when assets are valued; if there were no sales that day, the
security is valued at the latest bid price (in cases where securities are traded
on more than one exchange, the securities are valued on the exchange designated
as the primary market by the Trustees); and (2) all other portfolio securities
for which over-the-counter market quotations are readily available are valued at
the latest available bid price prior to the time of valuation. When market
quotations are not readily available, including circumstances under which it is
determined by the applicable Investment Adviser that sale or bid prices are not
reflective of a security's market value, portfolio securities are valued at
their fair value as determined in good faith under procedures established by and
under the general supervision of the Fund's Trustees. For valuation purposes,
quotations of foreign portfolio securities, other assets and liabilities and
forward contracts stated in foreign currency are translated into U.S. dollar
equivalents at the prevailing market rates as of the morning of valuation.
Dividends receivable are accrued as of the ex-dividend date or as of the time
that the relevant ex-dividend date and amounts become known, if after the
ex-dividend date.
Short-term debt securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less at
the time of purchase are valued at amortized cost, unless the Trustees determine
such does not reflect the securities' fair value, in which case these securities
will be valued at their fair value as determined by the Trustees.
Generally, trading in foreign securities, as well as corporate bonds, United
States government securities and money market instruments, is substantially
completed each day at various times prior to the close of the New York Stock
Exchange. The values of such securities used in computing the net asset value of
the Fund's shares are determined as of such times. Foreign currency exchange
rates are also generally determined prior to the close of the New York Stock
Exchange. Occasionally, events which affect the values of such securities and
such exchange rates may occur between the times at which they are determined and
the close of the New York Stock Exchange and will therefore not be reflected in
the computation of the Fund's net asset value. If events materially affecting
the value of such securities occur during such period, then these securities
will be valued at their fair value as determined in good faith under procedures
established by and under the supervision of the Trustees.
Certain of the Fund's portfolio securities may be valued by an outside
pricing service approved by the Fund's Trustees. The pricing service utilizes a
matrix system incorporating security quality, maturity and coupon as the
evaluation model parameters, and/or research and evaluations by its staff,
including review of broker-dealer market price quotations, in determining what
it believes is the fair valuation of the portfolio securities valued by such
pricing service.
10
<PAGE>
SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT OF DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS. All income dividends and
capital gains distributions are automatically paid in full and fractional shares
of the Fund (or, if specified by the shareholder, any other open-end investment
company for which InterCapital serves as investment manager (collectively, with
the Fund, the "Dean Witter Funds")), unless the shareholder requests that they
be paid in cash. Shares so acquired are not subject to the imposition of a
contingent deferred sales charge upon their redemption (see "Redemptions and
Repurchases").
INVESTMENT OF DIVIDENDS OR DISTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED IN CASH. Any shareholder who
receives a cash payment representing a dividend or capital gains distribution
may invest such dividend or distribution at the net asset value next determined
after receipt by the Transfer Agent, by returning the check or the proceeds to
the Transfer Agent within thirty days after the payment date. Shares so acquired
are not subject to the imposition of a contingent deferred sales charge upon
their redemption (see "Redemptions and Repurchases").
EASYINVEST-SM-. Shareholders may subscribe to EasyInvest, an automatic purchase
plan which provides for any amount from $100 to $5,000 to be transferred
automatically from a checking or savings account, on a semi-monthly, monthly or
quarterly basis, to the Transfer Agent for investment in shares of the Fund.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN. A systematic withdrawal plan (the "Withdrawal Plan")
is available for shareholders who own or purchase shares of the Fund having a
minimum value of $10,000 based upon the then current net asset value. The
Withdrawal Plan provides for monthly or quarterly (March, June, September and
December) checks in any dollar amount, not less than $25, or in any whole
percentage of the account balance, on an annualized basis. Any applicable
contingent deferred sales charge will be imposed on shares redeemed under the
Withdrawal Plan (see "Redemptions and Repurchases--Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge"). Therefore, any shareholder participating in the Withdrawal Plan will
have sufficient shares redeemed from his or her account so that the proceeds
(net of any applicable contingent deferred sales charge) to the shareholder will
be the designated monthly or quarterly amount.
Shareholders should contact their DWR or other Selected Broker-Dealer account
executive or the Transfer Agent for further information about any of the above
services.
TAX SHELTERED RETIREMENT PLANS. Retirement plans are available for use by
corporations, the self-employed, Individual Retirement Accounts and Custodial
Accounts under Section 403(b)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code. Adoption of such
plans should be on advice of legal counsel or tax adviser.
For further information regarding plan administration, custodial fees and
other details, investors should contact their DWR or other Selected
Broker-Dealer account executive or the Transfer Agent.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE
The Fund makes available to its shareholders an "Exchange Privilege" allowing
the exchange of shares of the Fund for shares of other Dean Witter Funds sold
with a contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC funds"), and for shares of Dean
Witter Short-Term U.S. Treasury Trust, Dean Witter Limited Term Municipal Trust,
Dean Witter Short-Term Bond Fund and five Dean Witter Funds which are money
market funds (the foregoing eight non-CDSC funds are hereinafter referred to as
the "Exchange Funds"). Exchanges may be made after the shares of the fund
acquired by purchase (not by exchange or dividend reinvestment) have been held
for thirty days. There is no waiting period for exchanges of shares acquired by
exchange or dividend reinvestment.
An exchange to another CDSC fund or any Exchange Fund that is not a money
market fund is on the basis of the next calculated net asset value per share of
each fund after the exchange order is received. When exchanging into a money
market fund from the Fund, shares of the Fund are redeemed out of the Fund at
their next calculated net asset value and the proceeds of the redemption are
used to purchase shares of the money market fund at their net asset value
determined the following business day. Subsequent exchanges between any of the
money market funds and any of the CDSC funds can be effected on the same basis.
No contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") is imposed at the time of any
exchange, although any applicable CDSC will be imposed upon ultimate redemption.
Shares of the Fund acquired in exchange for shares of another CDSC fund having a
different CDSC schedule than that of this Fund will be subject to the CDSC
schedule of this Fund, even if such shares are subsequently reexchanged for
shares of the CDSC fund originally purchased. During the period of time the
shareholder remains in the Exchange Fund (calculated from the last day of the
month in which the Exchange Fund shares were acquired), the holding period (for
the purpose of determining the rate of the CDSC) is frozen. If those shares are
subsequently
11
<PAGE>
reexchanged for shares of a CDSC fund, the holding period previously frozen when
the first exchange was made resumes on the last day of the month in which shares
of a CDSC fund are reacquired. Thus, the CDSC is based upon the time (calculated
as described above) the shareholder was invested in a CDSC fund (see
"Redemptions and Repurchases--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge"). However, in
the case of shares exchanged into an Exchange Fund on or after April 23, 1990,
upon a redemption of shares which results in a CDSC being imposed, a credit (not
to exceed the amount of the CDSC) will be given in an amount equal to the
Exchange Fund 12b-1 distribution fees incurred on or after that date which are
attributable to those shares. (Exchange Fund 12b-1 distribution fees, if any,
are described in the prospectuses for those funds).
In addition, shares of the Fund may be acquired in exchange for shares of
Dean Witter Funds sold with a front-end sales charge ("front-end sales charge
funds"), but shares of the Fund, however acquired, may not be exchanged for
shares of front-end sales charge funds. Shares of a CDSC fund acquired in
exchange for shares of a front-end sales charge fund (or in exchange for shares
of other Dean Witter Funds for which shares of a front-end sales charge fund
have been exchanged) are not subject to any CDSC upon their redemption.
Purchases and exchanges should be made for investment purposes only. A
pattern of frequent exchanges may be deemed by InterCapital to be abusive and
contrary to the best interests of the Fund's other shareholders and, at
InterCapital's discretion, may be limited by the Fund's refusal to accept
additional purchases and/or exchanges from the investor. Although the Fund does
not have any specific definition of what constitutes a pattern of frequent
exchanges, and will consider all relevant factors in determining whether a
particular situation is abusive and contrary to the best interests of the Fund
and its other shareholders, investors should be aware that the Fund and each of
the other Dean Witter Funds may in their discretion limit or otherwise restrict
the number of times this Exchange Privilege may be exercised by any investor.
Any such restriction will be made by the Fund on a prospective basis only, upon
notice to the shareholder not later than ten days following such shareholder's
most recent exchange. Also, the Exchange Privilege may be terminated or revised
at any time by the Fund and/or any of such Dean Witter Funds for which shares of
the Fund have been exchanged, upon such notice as may be required by applicable
regulatory agencies. Shareholders maintaining margin accounts with DWR or
another Selected Broker-Dealer are referred to their account executive regarding
restrictions on exchange of shares of the Fund pledged in the margin account.
The current prospectus for each fund describes its investment objective(s)
and policies, and shareholders should obtain a copy and examine it carefully
before investing. Exchanges are subject to the minimum investment requirement
and any other conditions imposed by each Fund. In the case of a shareholder
holding a share certificate or certificates, no exchanges may be made until all
applicable share certificates have been received by the Transfer Agent and
deposited in the shareholder's account. An exchange will be treated for federal
income tax purposes the same as a repurchase or redemption of shares, on which
the shareholder may realize a capital gain or loss. However, the ability to
deduct capital losses on an exchange may be limited in situations where there is
an exchange of shares within ninety days after the shares are purchased. The
Exchange Privilege is only available in states where an exchange may legally be
made.
If DWR or another Selected Broker-Dealer is the current dealer of record and
its account numbers are part of the account information, shareholders may
initiate an exchange of shares of the Fund for shares of any of the Dean Witter
Funds (for which the Exchange Privilege is available) pursuant to this Exchange
Privilege by contacting their account executive (no Exchange Privilege
Authorization Form is required). Other shareholders (and those shareholders who
are clients of DWR or another Selected Broker-Dealer but who wish to make
exchanges directly by writing or telephoning the Transfer Agent) must complete
and forward to the Transfer Agent an Exchange Privilege Authorization Form,
copies of which may be obtained from the Transfer Agent, to initiate an
exchange. If the Authorization Form is used, exchanges may be made in writing or
by contacting the Transfer Agent at (800) 526-3143 (toll free).
The Fund will employ reasonable procedures to confirm that exchange
instructions communicated over the telephone are genuine. Such procedures
include requiring various forms of personal identification such as name, mailing
address, social security or other tax identification number and DWR or other
Selected Broker-Dealer account number (if any). Telephone instructions may also
be recorded. If such procedures are not employed, the Fund may be liable for any
losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent instructions.
Telephone exchange instructions will be accepted if received by the Transfer
Agent between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. New York time, on any day the New York
Stock Exchange is open. Any shareholder wishing to make an exchange who has
previously filed an Exchange Privilege Authorization Form and who is unable to
reach the Fund by telephone should contact his or her DWR or
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<PAGE>
other Selected Broker-Dealer account executive, if appropriate, or make a
written exchange request. Shareholders are advised that during periods of
drastic economic or market changes, it is possible that the telephone exchange
procedures may be difficult to implement, although this has not been the case
with the Dean Witter Funds in the past.
For further information regarding the Exchange Privilege, shareholders should
contact their account executive or the Transfer Agent.
REDEMPTIONS AND REPURCHASES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REDEMPTION. Shares of the Fund can be redeemed for cash at any time at the net
asset value per share next determined; however, such redemption proceeds will be
reduced by the amount of any applicable contingent deferred sales charge (see
below). If shares are held in a shareholder's account without a share
certificate, a written request to the Fund's Transfer Agent at P.O. Box 983,
Jersey City, NJ 07303 for redemption is required. If certificates are held by
the shareholder, the shares may be redeemed by surrendering the certificates
with a written request for redemption, along with any additional information
required by the Transfer Agent.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE. Shares of the Fund which are held for six
years or more after purchase (calculated from the last day of the month in which
the shares were purchased) will not be subject to any charge upon redemption.
Shares redeemed sooner than six years after purchase may, however, be subject to
a charge upon redemption. This charge is called a "contingent deferred sales
charge" ("CDSC"), which will be a percentage of the dollar amount of shares
redeemed and will be assessed on an amount equal to the lesser of the current
market value or the cost of the shares being redeemed. The size of this
percentage will depend upon how long the shares have been held, as set forth in
the table below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONTINGENT DEFERRED
YEAR SINCE SALES CHARGE
PURCHASE AS A PERCENTAGE OF
PAYMENT MADE AMOUNT REDEEMED
----------------------------------------- -----------------------
<S> <C>
First.................................... 5.0%
Second................................... 4.0%
Third.................................... 3.0%
Fourth................................... 2.0%
Fifth.................................... 2.0%
Sixth.................................... 1.0%
Seventh and thereafter................... None
</TABLE>
A CDSC will not be imposed on: (i) any amount which represents an increase in
value of shares purchased within the six years preceding the redemption; (ii)
the current net asset value of shares purchased more than six years prior to the
redemption; and (iii) the current net asset value of shares purchased through
reinvestment of dividends or distributions and/or shares acquired in exchange
for shares of Dean Witter Funds sold with a front-end sales charge or of other
Dean Witter Funds acquired in exchange for such shares. Moreover, in determining
whether a CDSC is applicable it will be assumed that amounts described in (i),
(ii), and (iii) above (in that order) are redeemed first. In addition, no CDSC
will be imposed on redemptions of shares which were purchased by certain Unit
Investment Trusts (on which a sales charge has been paid) or which are
attributable to reinvestment of distributions from, or the proceeds of, such
Unit Investment Trusts or which were purchased by the employee benefit plans
established by DWR and SPS Transaction Services, Inc. (an affiliate of DWR) for
their employees as qualified under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.
In addition, the CDSC, if otherwise applicable, will be waived in the case of
(i) redemptions of shares held at the time a shareholder dies or becomes
disabled, only if the shares are (a) registered either in the name of an
individual shareholder (not a trust), or in the names of such shareholder and
his or her spouse as joint tenants with right of survivorship, or (b) held in a
qualified corporate or self-employed retirement plan, Individual Retirement
Account or Custodial Account under Section 403(b)(7) of the Internal Revenue
Code, provided in either case that the redemption is requested within one year
of the death or initial determination of disability, and (ii) redemptions in
connection with the following retirement plan distributions: (a) lump-sum or
other distributions from a qualified corporate or self-employed retirement plan
following retirement (or in the case of a "key employee" of a "top heavy" plan,
following attainment of age 59 1/2); (b) distributions from an Individual
Retirement Account or Custodial Account under Section 403(b)(7) of the Internal
Revenue Code following attainment of age 59 1/2; and (c) a tax-free return of an
excess contribution to an IRA. For the purpose of determining disability, the
Distributor utilizes the definition of disability contained in Section 72(m)(7)
of the Internal Revenue Code, which relates to the inability to engage in
gainful employment. All waivers will be granted only following receipt by the
Distributor of confirmation of the shareholder's entitlement.
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<PAGE>
REPURCHASE. DWR and other Selected Broker-Dealers are authorized to repurchase
shares represented by a share certificate which is delivered to any of their
offices. Shares held in a shareholder's account without a share certificate may
also be repurchased by DWR and other Selected Broker-Dealers upon the telephonic
request of the shareholder. The repurchase price is the net asset value next
computed (see "Purchase of Fund Shares") after such repurchase order is received
by DWR or other Selected Broker-Dealer, reduced by any applicable CDSC.
The CDSC, if any, will be the only fee imposed by any of the Fund, the
Distributor, DWR or other Selected Broker-Dealer. The offer by DWR and other
Selected Broker-Dealers to repurchase shares may be suspended by them at any
time. In that event, shareholders may redeem their shares through the Fund's
Transfer Agent as set forth above under "Redemption."
PAYMENT FOR SHARES REDEEMED OR REPURCHASED. Payment for shares presented for
repurchase or redemption will be made by check within seven days after receipt
by the Transfer Agent of the certificate and/or written request in good order.
Such payment may be postponed or the right of redemption suspended under unusual
circumstances, e.g., when normal trading is not taking place on the New York
Stock Exchange. If the shares to be redeemed have recently been purchased by
check, payment of the redemption proceeds may be delayed for the minimum time
needed to verify that the check used for investment has been honored (not more
than fifteen days from the time of receipt of the check by the Transfer Agent).
Shareholders maintaining margin accounts with DWR or another Selected
Broker-Dealer are referred to their account executive regarding restrictions on
redemption of shares of the Fund pledged in the margin account.
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE. A shareholder who has had his or her shares redeemed or
repurchased and has not previously exercised this reinstatement privilege may,
within thirty days after the date of the redemption or repurchase, reinstate any
portion or all of the proceeds of such redemption or repurchase in shares of the
Fund at the net asset value next determined after a reinstatement request,
together with the proceeds, is received by the Transfer Agent and receive a pro
rata credit for any CDSC paid in connection with such redemption or repurchase.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTION. The Fund reserves the right, on sixty days' notice, to
redeem, at their net asset value, the shares of any shareholder (other than
shares held in an Individual Retirement Account or custodial account under
Section 403(b)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code) whose shares due to redemptions
by the shareholders have a value of less than $100 or such lesser amount as may
be fixed by the Fund's Trustees. However, before the Fund redeems such shares
and sends the proceeds to the shareholder, it will notify the shareholder that
the value of the shares is less than $100 and allow the shareholder sixty days
to make an additional investment in an amount which will increase the value of
the account to $100 or more before the redemption is processed. No CDSC will be
imposed on any involuntary redemption.
DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS. The Fund intends to distribute all of its net
investment income and net capital gains, if any, at least once per year. The
Fund may, however, determine either to distribute or to retain all or part of
any net long-term capital gains in any year for reinvestment.
All dividends and any capital gains distributions will be paid in additional
Fund shares and automatically credited to the shareholder's account without
issuance of a share certificate unless the shareholder requests in writing that
all dividends be paid in cash. (See "Shareholder Services--Automatic Investment
of Dividends and Distributions".)
TAXES. Because the Fund intends to distribute all of its net investment income
and net short-term capital gains to shareholders and otherwise continue to
qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal
Revenue Code, it is not expected that the Fund will be required to pay any
federal income tax on any such income and capital gains, other than any tax
resulting from investing in passive foreign investment companies, as discussed
below. Shareholders will normally have to pay federal income taxes, and any
state and local income taxes, on the dividends and distributions they receive
from the Fund. Such dividends and distributions, to the extent they are derived
from net investment income or short-term capital gains, are taxable to the
shareholder as ordinary income regardless of whether the shareholder receives
such distributions in additional shares or in cash.
Distributions of net long-term capital gains, if any, are taxable to
shareholders as long-term capital gains regardless of how long a shareholder has
held the Fund's shares and regardless of whether the distribution is received in
additional shares or in cash. Capital gains distributions are not eligible for
the corporate dividends received deduction.
The Fund may purchase the securities of certain foreign investment funds or
trusts called passive foreign investment companies. Capital gains on the sale of
such
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<PAGE>
holdings may be deemed to be ordinary income regardless of how long the Fund
holds its investment. In addition, the Fund may be subject to income tax and an
interest charge on certain dividends and capital gains earned from these
investments, regardless of whether such income and gains were distributed to
shareholders.
After the end of the calendar year, shareholders will be sent full
information on their dividends and capital gains distributions for tax purposes.
To avoid being subject to a 31% federal backup withholding tax on taxable
dividends, capital gains distributions and the proceeds of redemptions and
repurchases, shareholders' taxpayer identification numbers must be furnished and
certified as to their accuracy.
Dividends, interest and gains received by the Fund from foreign sources may
give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries. If it
qualifies for and makes the appropriate election with the Internal Revenue
Service, the Fund will report annually to its shareholders the amount per share
of such taxes to enable shareholders to claim United States foreign tax credits
or deductions with respect to such taxes. In the absence of such an election,
the Fund would deduct such foreign taxes in computing the amount of its
distributable income. The Fund does not intend to make such election for its
fiscal year ended March 31, 1994.
Shareholders should consult their tax advisers as to the applicability of the
foregoing to their current situation.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From time to time the Fund may quote its "total return" in advertisements and
sales literature. The total return of the Fund is based on historical earnings
and is not intended to indicate future performance. The "average annual total
return" of the Fund refers to a figure reflecting the average annualized
percentage increase (or decrease) in the value of an initial investment in the
Fund of $1,000 over periods of one, five and ten years. Average annual total
return reflects all income earned by the Fund, any appreciation or depreciation
of the Fund's assets, all expenses incurred by the Fund and all sales charges
which would be incurred by redeeming shareholders for the stated periods. It
also assumes reinvestment of all dividends and distributions paid by the Fund.
In addition to the foregoing, the Fund may advertise its total return over
different periods of time by means of aggregate, average, year-by-year or other
types of total return figures. Such calculations may or may not reflect the
deduction of the contingent deferred sales charge which, if reflected, would
reduce the performance quoted. The Fund may also advertise the growth of
hypothetical investments of $10,000, $50,000 and $100,000 in shares of the Fund.
The Fund from time to time may also advertise its performance relative to
certain performance rankings and indexes compiled by independent organizations,
such as Lipper Analytical Services, Inc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VOTING RIGHTS. All shares of beneficial interest of the Fund are of $0.01 par
value and are equal as to earnings, assets and voting privileges.
The Fund is not required to hold Annual Meetings of Shareholders and in
ordinary circumstances the Fund does not intend to hold such meetings. The
Trustees may call Special Meetings of Shareholders for action by shareholder
vote as may be required by the Act or the Declaration of Trust. Under certain
circumstances the Trustees may be removed by action of the Trustees or by the
shareholders.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a business trust may, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the
Fund. However, the Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of
shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Fund, requires that Fund
obligations include such disclaimer, and provides for indemnification and
reimbursement of expenses out of the Fund's property for any shareholder held
personally liable for the obligations of the Fund. Thus, the risk of a
shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is
limited to circumstances in which the Fund itself would be unable to meet its
obligations. Given the above limitations on shareholder personal liability, and
the nature of the Fund's assets and operations, the possibility of the Fund
being unable to meet its obligations is remote and thus, in the opinion of
Massachusetts counsel to the Fund, the risk to Fund shareholders of personal
liability is remote.
SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES. All inquiries regarding the Fund should be directed to
the Fund at the telephone numbers or address set forth on the front cover of
this Prospectus.
15
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DEAN WITTER
WORLD WIDE INVESTMENT TRUST
TWO WORLD TRADE CENTER
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10048
TRUSTEES
Jack F. Bennett
Michael Bozic
Charles A. Fiumefreddo
Edwin J. Garn
John R. Haire
Dr. John E. Jeuck
Dr. Manuel H. Johnson
Paul Kolton
Michael E. Nugent
Philip J. Purcell
John L. Schroeder
Edward R. Telling
OFFICERS
Charles A. Fiumefreddo
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Sheldon Curtis
Vice President, Secretary and
General Counsel
Thomas H. Connelly
Vice President
Thomas F. Caloia
Treasurer
CUSTODIAN
The Chase Manhattan Bank
One Chase Plaza
New York, New York 10081
TRANSFER AGENT AND DIVIDEND
DISBURSING AGENT
Dean Witter Trust Company
Harborside Financial Center
Plaza Two
Jersey City, New Jersey 07311
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
Price Waterhouse
1177 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036
INVESTMENT ADVISERS
Dean Witter InterCapital Inc.
Daiwa International Capital Management Corp.
NatWest Investment Management Limited
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