<PAGE> 1
Tax Free Mutual Funds
VOYAGER
- ----------------------------- --------------
Arizona Tax Free Funds
California Tax Free Funds
Colorado Tax Free Funds
Florida Tax Free Funds
Idaho Tax Free Fund
Iowa Tax Free Fund
Kansas Tax Free Fund
Minnesota Tax Free Funds
Missouri Insured Tax Free Fund
New Mexico Tax Free Fund
New York Tax Free Fund
North Dakota Tax Free Fund
Oregon Insured Tax Free Fund
Utah Tax Free Fund
Washington Insured Tax Free Fund
Wisconsin Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Funds (Not part of prospectus); dated May 1, 1997.
<PAGE> 2
T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Fees and Expenses
Financial Highlights
The Funds
Investment Objectives and Policies
Risks and Special Investment Considerations
Investment Restrictions
How to Purchase Shares
How to Sell Shares
Reinstatement Privilege
Exchange Privilege
Management
Determination of Net Asset Value
Distributions to Shareholders and Taxes
Investment Performance
General Information
</TABLE>
Voyageur Funds (Not part of prospectus); dated May 1, 1997.
<PAGE> 3
Prospectus
Dated May 1, 1997
Each fund listed on this page (individually, a "Fund" and together, the
"Funds") is a series of an open end management investment company, commonly
referred to as a mutual fund. Three styles of funds are contained in this
combined Prospectus: limited term tax free funds (the "Limited Term Tax Free
Funds"), longer term tax free funds (the "Tax Free Funds") and longer term
insured tax free funds (the "Insured Funds"). The investment objective of each
Limited Term Tax Free Fund is to provide investors with preservation of capital
and, secondarily, current income exempt from federal income tax and the
personal income tax, if any, of the Fund's particular state, by maintaining a
weighted average portfolio maturity of 10 years or less. The investment
objective of each Tax Free Fund and Insured Fund is to seek as high a level of
current income exempt from federal income tax and from the personal income tax,
if any, of the Fund's particular state, as is consistent with preservation of
capital. The weighted average maturity of the investment portfolio of each Tax
Free Fund and Insured Fund is expected to be approximately 15 to 25 years.
There is no assurance that any Fund will achieve its investment objective.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Voyageur Arizona Limited Term Tax Free Fund Voyageur Minnesota Limited Term Tax Free Fund(1)
Voyageur Arizona Insured Tax Free Fund(1) Voyageur Minnesota Insured Fund(1)
Voyageur Arizona Tax Free Fund Voyageur Minnesota Tax Free Fund(1)
Voyageur California Limited Term Tax Free Fund Voyageur Missouri Insured Tax Free Fund
Voyageur California Insured Tax Free Fund(1) Voyageur New Mexico Tax Free Fund
Voyageur California Tax Free Fund Voyageur New York Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Colorado Limited Term Tax Free Fund Voyageur North Dakota Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Colorado Tax Free Fund(1) Voyageur Oregon Insured Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Florida Limited Term Tax Free Fund Voyageur Utah Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Florida Insured Tax Free Fund(1) Voyageur Washington Insured Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Florida Tax Free Fund Voyageur Wisconsin Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Idaho Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Iowa Tax Free Fund
Voyageur Kansas Tax Free Fund
</TABLE>
(1) Diversified Series
Each Fund's investment adviser is either Voyageur Fund Managers, Inc.
("Voyageur") or Delaware Management Company, Inc. ("Delaware") as outlined
below under "Management." Voyageur and Delaware may be referred to
individually or collectively as the "Adviser." The address of Voyageur and
Delaware is One Commerce Square, 2005 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
19103 and the address of the Funds is 1818 Market Street, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania 19103.
AN INVESTMENT IN ANY OF THE FUNDS IS NOT A DEPOSIT OR OBLIGATION OF,
OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED BY, ANY BANK AND IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT, THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION, THE
FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD OR ANY OTHER FEDERAL AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN ANY OF THE
FUNDS INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISK, INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL DUE TO
FLUCTUATIONS IN THE APPLICABLE FUND'S NET ASSET VALUE.
This Prospectus sets forth certain information about the Funds that a
prospective investor ought to know before investing. Investors should read and
retain this Prospectus for future reference. The Funds have filed a Statement
of Additional Information (dated April 28, 1997) with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. The Statement of Additional Information is available free
of charge by telephone (800-523-4640) and is incorporated by reference herein
in its entirety.
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.
The Funds offer investors a choice among classes of shares which offer
different sales charges and bear different expenses. These alternatives permit
an
1 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 4
investor to choose the method of purchasing shares that is most beneficial
given the amount of the purchase, the length of time the investor expects to
hold the shares and other circumstances.
Class A Shares
An investor who purchases Class A shares pays a sales charge at the time of
purchase. As a result, Class A shares are not subject to any charges when they
are redeemed (except for sales at net asset value in excess of $1 million or
sales subject to special promotions identified from time to time by the Funds'
distributor which in either case are subject to a contingent deferred sales
charge). The initial sales charge may be reduced or waived for certain
purchases. Class A shares of each Fund are subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee payable
at an annual rate of .25% of a Fund's average daily net assets attributable to
Class A shares. See "How to Purchase Shares--Class A Shares."
Class B Shares
Class B shares are sold without an initial sales charge, but are subject to a
contingent deferred sales charge of up to 5% if redeemed within six years of
purchase. Class B shares are also subject to a higher Rule 12b-1 fee than Class
A shares. The Rule 12b-1 fee for Class B shares will be paid at an annual rate
of 1% of a Fund's average daily net assets attributable to Class B shares.
Class B shares will automatically convert to Class A shares at net asset value
approximately eight years after purchase. Class B shares provide an investor
the benefit of putting all of the investor's dollars to work from the time the
investment is made but until conversion will have a higher expense ratio and
pay lower dividends than Class A shares due to the higher Rule 12b-1 fee. See
"How to Purchase Shares--Class B Shares."
Class C Shares
Class C shares are sold without an initial sales charge but are subject to a
contingent deferred sales charge of 1% if redeemed within one year of purchase.
Class C shares are also subject to a higher Rule 12b-1 fee than Class A shares.
The Rule 12b-1 fee for Class C shares of each Fund will be paid at an annual
rate of 1% of the Fund's average daily net assets attributable to Class C
shares. Class C shares provide an investor the benefit of putting all of the
investor's dollars to work from the time the investment is made, but will have
a higher expense ratio and pay lower dividends than Class A shares due to the
higher Rule 12b-1 fee. See "How to Purchase Shares--Class C Shares." Class C
shares do not convert to any other class of shares.
The decision as to which class of shares provides a more suitable
investment for an investor depends on a number of factors, including the amount
and intended length of the investment. Investors making investments that
qualify for reduced sales charges might consider Class A shares. Other
investors might consider Class B or Class C shares because all of the purchase
price is invested immediately. The Funds' transfer agent will treat orders for
Class B shares for $250,000 or more as orders for Class A shares or such orders
will be declined. Sales personnel may receive different compensation depending
on which class of shares they sell.
SHARES OF THE FUNDS COVERED BY THIS PROSPECTUS ARE NOT REGISTERED IN ALL
STATES. SHARES THAT ARE NOT REGISTERED IN ONE OR MORE STATES ARE NOT BEING
OFFERED AND SOLD IN SUCH STATES.
2 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 5
FEES AND EXPENSES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXAMPLE OF EXPENSES
AN INVESTOR IN A VOYAGEUR
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES FUND WOULD PAY
SHAREHOLDER AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE FOLLOWING DOLLAR
TRANSACTION AVERAGE NET ASSETS TOTAL FUND AMOUNT OF EXPENSES ON
EXPENSES AFTER FEE WAIVERS AND OPERATING A $1,000 INVESTMENT
---------------------- REIMBURSEMENT ARRANGEMENTS EXPENSES ASSUMING (a) A 5%
MAXIMUM ---------------------------------- WITHOUT ANNUAL RETURN AND
FRONT END MAXIMUM TOTAL VOLUNTARY (b) REDEMPTION AT THE END
SALES LOAD CDSC MANAGE- FUND WAIVER AND OF EACH PERIOD
IMPOSED ON IMPOSED ON MENT 12B-1 OTHER OPERATING REIMBURS- ----------------------------------
VOYAGEUR FUNDS(4) PURCHASES REDEMPTIONS FEE FEE EXPENSES EXPENSES EMENT(5) 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
STATE LONG TERM FUNDS
Arizona Tax Free - Class A 3.75% 1.00%(2) 0% 0.25% 0.21% 0.46% 1.25% $42 $52 $62 $ 93
Arizona Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0 0.90 0.21 1.11 2.00 613 75(3) 81(3) 117
Arizona Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0 1.00 0.21 1.21 2.00 223 38 66 147
California Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0 0.25 0.02 0.27 1.25 40 46 52 71
California Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0 0.48 0.02 0.50 2.00 553 56(3) 48(3) 56
California Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0 0.76 0.02 0.78 2.00 183 25 43 97
Colorado Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.50 0.12 0.16 0.78 0.91 45 61 79 130
Colorado Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.50 0.92 0.16 1.58 1.65 66(3) 90(3) 106(3) 166
Colorado Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.16 1.66 1.66 27(3) 52 90 197
Florida Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0 0.25 0.08 0.33 1.25 41 48 55 78
Florida Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0 0.60 0.16 0.76 2.00 58(3) 64(3) 62(3) 82
Florida Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0 1.00 0.15 1.15 2.00 22(3) 37 63 140
Idaho Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0 0.25 0.35 0.60 1.10 43 56 70 110
Idaho Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0 0.75 0.36 1.11 1.85 61(3) 75(3) 81(3) 121
Idaho Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0 1.00 0.33 1.33 1.82 24(3) 42 73 160
Iowa Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.49 0.12 0.31 0.92 1.06 47 66 87 146
Iowa Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.49 0.81 0.31 1.61 1.81 66(3) 91(3) 108(3 172
Iowa Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.49 0.95 0.31 1.75 1.81 28(3) 55 95 206
Kansas Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.25 0.12 0.46 0.83 1.21 46 63 82 136
Kansas Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.25 0.86 0.50 1.61 2.00 66(3) 91(3) 108(3) 170
Kansas Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.25 1.00 0.52 1.77 2.00 28(3) 56 96 208
Minnesota Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.50 0.25 0.17 0.92 0.92 47 66 87 146
Minnesota Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.50 0.83 0.17 1.50 1.67 65(3) 87(3) 102(3) 163
Minnesota Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.17 1.67 1.67 27(3) 53 91 198
New Mexico Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.50 0.06 0.32 0.88 1.07 46 65 84 142
New Mexico Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.50 0.79 0.32 1.61 1.82 66(3) 913 108(3) 171
New Mexico Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.50 0.91 0.33 1.74 1.83 28(3) 55 94 205
New York Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0 0.13 0.84 0.97 1.12 47 67 89 152
New York Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0 1.00 0.87 1.87 2.00 69(3) 99(3) 121(3) 195
New York Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0 1.00 0.84 1.84 2.00 29(3) 58 100 216
North Dakota Tax Free -
Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.50 0.05 0.33 0.88 1.08 46 65 84 142
North Dakota Tax Free -
Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.50 0.53 0.33 1.36 1.83 64(3) 83(3) 94(3) 150
North Dakota Tax Free -
Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.50 0.92 0.33 1.75 1.75 28(3) 55 95 206
Utah Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0 0.03 0.65 0.68 1.25 44 58 74 119
Utah Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0 0.80 0.66 1.46 2.00 65(3) 86(3) 100(3) 153
Utah Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0 1.00 0.65 1.65 2.00 27(3) 52 90 195
Wisconsin Tax Free - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.46 0.18 0.34 0.98 1.09 47 68 90 153
Wisconsin Tax Free - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.46 0.84 0.36 1.66 1.85 67(3) 92(3) 110(3) 178
Wisconsin Tax Free - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.46 0.96 0.33 1.75 1.83 28(3) 55 95 206
STATE INSURED FUNDS
Arizona Insured - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.50 0.12 0.20 0.82 0.95 46 63 81 135
Arizona Insured - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.50 0.89 0.20 1.59 1.70 66(3) 90(3) 107(3) 168
Arizona Insured - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.20 1.70 1.70 27(3) 54 92 201
California Insured - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.31 0.25 0.26 0.82 1.01 46 63 81 135
California Insured - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.31 0.65 0.25 1.21 1.76 62(3) 78(3) 86(3) 136
California Insured - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.31 1.00 0.27 1.58 1.77 26(3) 50 86 188
Colorado Insured - Class A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.50 0.25 0.25 1.00 1.25 47 68 91 155
Colorado Insured - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.50 1.00 0.25 1.75 2.00 68(3) 95(3) 115(3) 186
Colorado Insured - Class C N/A(1) 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.25 1.75 2.00 28(3) 55 95 206
FloridaoInsuredd -Classs A 3.75 1.00(2) 0.49 0.03 0.21 0.73 0.96 45 60 77 125
Florida Insured - Class B N/A(1) 5.00 0.49 0.53 0.22 1.24 1.72 63(3) 79(3) 88(3) 136
</TABLE>
3 Voyageur Funds (Prospectus)
<PAGE> 6
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXAMPLE OF EXPENSES
SHAREHOLDER ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES AN INVESTOR IN A VOYAGEUR
TRANSACTION AS A PERCENTAGE OF AVERAGE NET ASSETS FUND WOULD PAY
EXPENSES AFTER FEE WAIVERS AND THE FOLLOWING DOLLAR
--------------------- REIMBURSEMENT ARRANGEMENTS AMOUNT OF EXPENSES ON
MAXIMUM --------------------------------------------------- A $1,000 INVESTMENT
FRONT TOTAL FUND ASSUMING
END OPERATING (a) A 5% ANNUAL RETURN AND
SALES EXPENSES (b) REDEMPTION AT THE END
LOAD MAXIMUM TOTAL WITHOUT OF EACH PERIOD
IMPOSED CDSC FUND VOLUNTARY --------------------------
ON IMPOSED ON MANAGEMENT 12B-1 OTHER OPERATING WAIVER AND 1 3 5 10
VOYAGEUR FUNDS(4) PURCHASES REDEMPTIONS FEE FEE EXPENSES EXPENSES REIMBURSEMENT5 YEAR YEARS YEARS YEARS
- ----------------- --------- ----------- ---------- ----- -------- --------- -------------- ----- ----- ----- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
STATE INSURED FUNDS (CONTINUED)
Minnesota Insured-Class A 3.75% 1.00%(2) 0.50% 0.17% 0.92% 0.92% $47 $66 $ 87 $146
Minnesota Insured-Class B N/A(1) 5 0.5 0.89 0.17 1.56 1.68 66(3) 89(3) 105(3) 168
Minnesota Insured-Class C N/A(1) 1 0.5 1 0.18 1.68 1.68 27(3) 53 91 199
Missouri Insured-Class A 3.75 1.002 0.34 0.1 0.27 0.71 1.03 44 59 76 122
Missouri Insured-Class B N/A(1) 5 0.34 0.67 0.28 1.62 1.78 26(3) 51(3) 88(3) 192
Missouri Insured-Class C N/A(1) 1 0.34 1 0.28 1.62 1.78 26(3) 51 88 192
Oregon Insured-Class A 3.75 1.002 0.24 0.15 0.32 0.71 1.07 44 59 76 122
Oregon Insured-Class B N/A(1) 5 0.24 0.68 0.33 1.25 1.83 63(3) 80(3) 89(3) 136
Oregon Insured-Class C N/A(1) 1 0.24 1 0.31 1.55 1.82 26(3) 49 84 185
Washington Insured-Class A 3.75 1.002 0 0.07 0.37 0.44 1.25 42 51 61 91
Washington Insured-Class B N/A(1) 5 0 0.83 0.38 1.21 2 62(3) 78(3) 86(3) 125
Washington Insured-Class C N/A(1) 1 0 1 0.37 1.37 2 24(3) 43 75 165
STATE LIMITED TERM FUNDS
Arizona Limited Term-Class A 2.75 0.502 0.4 0.25 0.35 1 1.25 37 58 81 147
Arizona Limited Term-Class B N/A(1) 4 0.4 1 0.35 1.75 2 58(3) 85(3) 105(3) 186
Arizona Limited Term-Class C N/A(1) 0.5 0.4 1 0.35 1.75 2 23(3) 55 95 206
California Limited Term-Class A 2.75 0.502 0.4 0.25 0.35 1 1.25 37 58 81 147
California Limited Term-Class B N/A(1) 4 0.4 1 0.35 1.75 2 58(3) 85(3) 105(3) 186
California Limited Term-Class C N/A(1) 0.5 0.4 1 0.35 1.75 2 23(3) 55 95 206
Colorado Limited Term-Class A 2.75 0.502 0.4 0.25 0.35 1 1.25 37 58 81 147
Colorado Limited Term-Class B N/A(1) 4 0.4 1 0.35 1.75 2 58(3) 85(3) 105(3) 186
Colorado Limited Term-Class C N/A(1) 0.5 0.4 1 0.35 1.75 2 23(3) 55 95 206
Florida Limited-Class A 2.75 0.502 0 0.05 0.61 0.66 1.25 34 48 63 107
Florida Limited-Class B N/A(1) 4 0 0.83 0.65 1.48 2 55(3) 77(3) 91(3) 154
Florida Limited-Class C N/A(1) 0.5 0 1 0.55 1.55 2 21(3) 49 85 185
Minnesota Limited Term-Class A 2.75 0.502 0.4 0.25 0.24 0.89 0.89 36 55 75 134
Minnesota Limited Term-Class B N/A(1) 4 0.4 0.92 0.24 1.56 1.62 56(3) 79(3) 95(3) 167
Minnesota Limited Term-Class C N/A(1) 0.5 0.4 1 0.24 1.64 1.64 22(3) 52 89 194
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Class B and Class C shares are sold without a front end sales charge,
but their Rule 12b-1 fees may cause long term shareholders to pay more
than the economic equivalent of the maximum permitted front end sales
charges.
(2) A contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% is imposed on certain
redemptions of Class A shares (.50% for Class A shares of the Limited
Term Tax Free Funds) that were purchased without an initial sales
charge as part of an investment of $1 million or more.
(3) Class B and Class C share expenses would be lower assuming no
redemption at the end of the period.
(4) Delaware Distributors, L.P. (the "Underwriter") pays broker-dealers
and financial institutions an annual fee equal to .25% of the
average daily net assets attributable to the Class A shares (.15% for
Class A shares of the Limited Term Tax Free Funds), .15% of the
average daily net assets attributable to the Class B shares, and .90%
of the average daily net assets attributable to the Class C shares
held by their customers. The fee is paid quarterly commencing when
such shares are sold for Class A and Class B shares. The fee is paid
quarterly commencing in the thirteenth month after such shares are
sold for Class C shares.
(5) The expense ratios reflect the effect of gross expenses attributable
to earnings credits on uninvested cash balances received by each Fund.
4 Voyageur Funds (Prospectus)
<PAGE> 7
THE EXAMPLES CONTAINED IN THE TABLE SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED A
REPRESENTATION OF PAST OR FUTURE EXPENSES. ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE GREATER OR
LESS THAN THOSE SHOWN. The purpose of the above Fees and Expenses table is to
assist the investor in understanding the various costs and expenses that
investors in the Funds will bear directly or indirectly. The information set
forth in the table under the heading "Annual Fund Operating Expenses as a
Percentage of Average Net Assets After Fee Waivers and Reimbursement
Arrangements" reflects expenses incurred during the year ended December 31,
1996 after voluntary fee waivers and expense reimbursements ("Voluntary
Waivers"). In connection with a merger transaction pursuant to which Voyageur
became a subsidiary of Delaware Management Holdings, Inc., and DMC became
investment manager to certain Funds, Voyageur, DMC and their parent companies
have agreed until April 30, 1999, to pay certain operating expenses of each
Fund which exceed 1.00% (excluding Rule 12b-1 fees) of the Funds' average daily
net assets on an annual basis ("Additional Waiver"), as further discussed in
"Management-Expenses of the Funds." Absent the Voluntary Waivers, Total Fund
Operating Expenses for such period would be equivalent to the corresponding
percentages disclosed under the column "Total Fund Operating Expenses Without
Voluntary Waiver and Reimbursement." The examples have been calculated based on
the "Total Fund Operating Expenses" information after voluntary fee waiver and
expense reimbursement arrangements. To the extent that there are any voluntary
fee waivers or expense reimbursements for the Funds' current fiscal year, under
no circumstances will the total operating expenses for any Fund be higher than
what appears in the column labeled "Total Fund Operating Expenses Without
Voluntary Waiver and Reimbursement."
5 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 8
Financial Highlights
The following table shows certain per share data and selected information for a
share outstanding during the indicated periods for each Fund. This information
has been audited by KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent auditors, and should be
read in conjunction with the financial statements of each Fund contained in its
annual report. An annual report of each Fund is available without charge by
contacting the Funds at 800-523-4640. In addition to financial statements, the
annual reports contain further information about the performance of the Funds.
Per share data is not presented for all Funds or all classes since not all
Funds and classes of shares were outstanding during the periods presented
below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME FROM
INVESTMENT OPERATIONS LESS DISTRIBUTIONS
------------------------- --------------------------
NET NET
NET ASSET NET REALIZED AND DIVIDENDS DISTRI- ASSET
VALUE INVEST- UNREALIZED FROM NET BUTIONS VALUE TOTAL
BEGINNING MENT GAINS (LOSS) INVESTMENT FROM CAPITAL END OF INVESTMENT
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS OF PERIOD INCOME ON SECURITIES INCOME GAINS PERIOD RETURN(4)
- -------------------------- ------------ -------- --------------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ARIZONA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 $10.75 0.58 (0.01) (0.58) (0.04) $10.70 5.48%
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 10.00 0.46 0.84 (0.46) (0.09) 10.75 13.27
Class B - 12/31/96 10.74 0.51 (0.01) (0.51) (0.04) 10.69 4.84
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.30 0.26 (0.53) (0.26) (0.09) 10.74 7.74
Class C - 12/31/96 10.76 0.50 (0.01) (0.50) (0.04) 10.71 4.70
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.20 0.30 0.65 (0.30) (0.09) 10.76 9.43
ARIZONA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 11.15 0.53 (0.09) (0.53) -- 11.06 4.09
Class A - 12/31/95 9.86 0.54 1.31 (0.56) -- 11.15 19.10
Class A - 12/31/94 11.31 0.55 (1.37) (0.53) (0.10)(7) 9.86 (7.41)
Class A - 12/31/93 10.71 0.58 0.74 (0.58) (0.14) 11.31 12.64
Class A - 12/31/92 10.39 0.61 0.38 (0.61) (0.06) 10.71 9.86
Class A - 12/31/91(1) 10.00 0.50 0.47 (0.50) (0.08) 10.39 9.98
Class B - 12/31/96 11.14 0.45 (0.09) (0.45) -- 11.05 3.32
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.44 0.38 0.69 (0.37) -- 11.14 10.36
Class C - 12/31/96 11.15 0.43 (0.09) (0.43) -- 11.06 3.18
Class C - 12/31/95 9.86 0.45 1.31 (0.47) -- 11.15 18.10
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 10.48 0.27 (0.56) (0.25) (0.08)(7) 9.86 (2.84)
CALIFORNIA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 10.64 0.60 (0.18) (0.60) (0.03) 10.43 4.21
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 10.00 0.47 0.70 (0.47) (0.06) 10.64 11.97
Class B - 12/31/96 10.65 0.56 (0.18) (0.56) (0.03) 10.44 3.77
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 9.96 0.20 0.74 (0.19) (0.06) 10.65 9.52
Class C - 12/31/96 10.07 0.37 0.38 (0.37) (0.03) 10.42 7.58
CALIFORNIA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 10.65 0.52 (0.15) (0.52) -- 10.50 3.63
Class A - 12/31/95 9.33 0.53 1.34 (0.55) -- 10.65 20.51
Class A - 12/31/94 9.51 0.10 (0.18) (0.09) (0.01) 9.33 (0.84)
Class A - 10/31/94 11.08 0.55 (1.52) (0.54) (0.06) 9.51 (8.97)
Class A - 10/31/93 10.02 0.60 1.11 (0.60) (0.05) 11.08 17.29
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 10.00 -- 0.02 -- -- 10.02 0.20
Class B - 12/31/96 10.65 0.48 (0.15) (0.48) -- 10.50 3.22
Class B - 12/31/95 19.33 0.50 1.33 (0.51) -- 10.65 20.01
Class B - 12/31/94 9.51 0.08 (0.17) (0.08) (0.01) 9.33 (0.92)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 10.68 0.31 (1.16) (0.30) (0.02) 9.51 (7.93)
Class C - 12/31/96 10.65 0.44 (0.19) (0.44) -- 10.46 2.47
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.19 0.25 0.53 (0.32) -- 10.65 7.77
COLORADO TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 10.9 0.56 (0.13) (0.55) -- 10.78 4.08
Class A - 12/31/95 9.53 0.54 1.38 (0.55) -- 10.90 20.54
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET RATIO OF RATIO OF RATIO OF EXPENSES
ASSETS EXPENSES TO NET INVESTMENT TO AVERAGE NET
END OF AVERAGE INCOME TO PORTFOLIO ASSETS ASSUMING NO
PERIOD NET AVERAGE NET TURNOVER VOLUNTARY WAIVERS
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS (000S) ASSETS(2) ASSETS RATE AND REIMBURSEMENTS
------------ ----------- --------------- ----------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ARIZONA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 $9,755 0.46% 5.43% 70.14% 1.25%
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 6,225 0.52(4) 5.19(4) 38.05 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 3,441 1.11 4.77 70.14 2.00
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 1,629 0.99(4) 4.60(4) 38.05 2.00(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 23 1.21 4.68 70.14 2.00
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 27 1.20(4) 4.65(4) 38.05 2.00(4)
ARIZONA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 209,258 0.82 4.89 42.76 0.95
Class A - 12/31/95 238,114 0.69 5.07 42.96 0.95
Class A - 12/31/94 231,736 0.72 5.20 25.18 0.92
Class A - 12/31/93 263,312 0.59 5.00 33.80 1.03
Class A - 12/31/92 124,120 0.35 5.60 40.29 1.16
Class A - 12/31/91(1) 38,322 --(5) 6.58(4) 177.66 1.24(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 3,110 1.59 4.11 42.76 1.70
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 2,048 1.33(4) 4.08(4) 42.96 1.60(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 554 1.70 4.01 42.76 1.70
Class C - 12/31/95 541 1.54 4.18 42.96 1.69
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 326 1.50(4) 4.10(4) 25.18 1.71(4)
CALIFORNIA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 1,218 0.27 5.71 7.87 1.25
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 1,012 0.46(4) 5.57(4) 39.51 1.22(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 660 0.50 5.34 7.87 2.00
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 128 0.60(4) 5.33(4) 39.51 1.93(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 94 0.78 5.13(4) 7.87 2.00
CALIFORNIA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 30,551 0.82 5.05 54.52 1.01
Class A - 12/31/95 33,860 0.70 5.23 107.45 1.02
Class A - 12/31/94 27,994 0.10(4) 6.30(4) 7.28 1.24(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 27,282 0.20 5.37 18.34 1.25
Class A - 10/31/93 12,509 -- 5.26 24.19 1.25
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 2,056 -- -- 7.31 --
Class B - 12/31/96 6,717 1.21 4.64 54.52 1.76
Class B - 12/31/95 6,029 1.10 4.75 107.45 1.75
Class B - 12/31/94 2,219 0.57(4) 5.54(4) 7.28 1.94(4)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 1,427 0.73(4) 4.82(4) 18.34 1.95(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 55 1.58 4.02 54.52 1.77
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 53 1.53(4) 4.25(4) 107.45 1.77(4)
COLORADO TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 358,328 0.78 5.27 40.35 0.91
Class A - 12/31/95 392,815 0.76 5.18 82.83 0.93
</TABLE>
6 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 9
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME FROM
INVESTMENT OPERATIONS LESS DISTRIBUTIONS
------------------------- --------------------------
NET NET
NET ASSET NET REALIZED AND DIVIDENDS DISTRI- ASSET
VALUE INVEST- UNREALIZED FROM NET BUTIONS VALUE TOTAL
BEGINNING MENT GAINS (LOSS) INVESTMENT FROM CAPITAL END OF INVESTMENT
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS OF PERIOD INCOME ON SECURITIES INCOME GAINS PERIOD RETURN(4)
- -------------------------- ------------ -------- --------------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Class A - 12/31/94 11.10 0.55 (1.54) (0.54) (0.04) 9.53 (9.12)
Class A - 12/31/93 10.57 0.56 0.85 (0.56) (0.32) 11.10 13.72
Class A - 12/31/92 10.27 0.58 0.45 (0.58) (0.15) 10.57 10.42
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET RATIO OF RATIO OF RATIO OF EXPENSES
ASSETS EXPENSES TO NET INVESTMENT TO AVERAGE NET
END OF AVERAGE INCOME TO PORTFOLIO ASSETS ASSUMING NO
PERIOD NET AVERAGE NET TURNOVER VOLUNTARY WAIVERS
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS (000S) ASSETS(2) ASSETS RATE AND REIMBURSEMENTS
------------ ----------- --------------- ----------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Class A - 12/31/94 354,138 0.66 5.35 69.32 0.72
Class A - 12/31/93 399,218 0.75 4.97 58.61 0.75
Class A - 12/31/92 202,165 0.80 5.59 69.72 0.80
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
7 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 10
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME FROM
INVESTMENT OPERATIONS LESS DISTRIBUTIONS
-------------------------- --------------------------
NET DISTRI- NET
NET ASSET NET REALIZED AND DIVIDENDS BUTIONS ASSET TOTAL
VALUE INVEST- UNREALIZED FROM NET FROM VALUE INVEST-
BEGINNING MENT GAINS (LOSS) INVESTMENT CAPITAL END OF MENT
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS OF PERIOD INCOME ON SECURITIES INCOME GAINS PERIOD RETURN(4)
- ---------------------------- -------------- --------- --------------- ------------ ------------ ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
COLORADO TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class A - 12/31/91 $10.02 0.61 0.43 (0.61) (0.18) -- 10.80%
Class A - 12/31/90 10.00 0.64 0.02 (0.64) -- 10.02 6.81
Class A - 12/31/89 9.74 0.67 0.32 (0.67) (0.06) 10.00 10.73
Class A - 12/31/88 9.43 0.69 0.34 (0.69) (0.03) 9.74 10.57
Class A - 12/31/87(1) 9.58 0.49 (0.15) (0.49) -- 9.43 3.27
Class B - 12/31/96 10.90 0.47 (0.13) (0.46) -- 10.78 3.25
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.25 0.35 0.65 (0.35) -- 10.90 9.96
Class C - 12/31/96 10.90 0.46 (0.13) (0.45) -- 10.78 3.17
Class C - 12/31/95 9.53 0.45 1.37 (0.45) -- 10.90 19.44
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 10.21 0.29 (0.67) (0.27) (0.03) 9.53 (3.75)
FLORIDA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 10.73 0.59 (0.21) (0.59) -- 10.52 3.74
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 10.00 0.47 0.75 (0.47) (0.02) 10.73 12.49
Class B - 12/31/96 10.73 0.56 (0.20) (0.56) -- 10.53 3.51
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.37 0.15 0.38 (0.15) (0.02) 10.73 5.10
Class C - 12/31/96 10.73 0.37 (0.21) (0.37) (0.02) 10.52 2.97
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.20 0.33 0.56 (0.34) (0.02) 10.73 8.88
FLORIDA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 10.94 0.53 (0.23) (0.53) -- 10.71 2.90
Class A - 12/31/95 9.52 0.54 1.44 (0.56) -- 10.94 21.22
Class A - 12/31/94 9.64 0.10 (0.12) (0.09) (0.01) 9.52 (0.11)
Class A - 10/31/94 11.15 0.55 (1.46) (0.54) (0.06) 9.64 (8.38)
Class A - 10/31/93 10.11 0.58 1.12 (0.58) (0.08) 11.15 17.27
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 10.00 0.51 0.15 (0.51) (0.04) 10.11 6.74
Class B - 12/31/96 10.94 0.48 (0.23) (0.48) -- 10.71 2.40
Class B - 12/31/95 9.52 0.50 1.44 (0.52) -- 10.94 20.76
Class B - 12/31/94 9.63 0.09 (0.11) (0.08) (0.01) 9.52 (0.03)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 10.82 0.31 (1.19) (0.30) (0.01) 9.63 (8.10)
FLORIDA LIMITED TERM
Class A - 12/31/96 10.56 0.42 (0.08) (0.47) -- 10.43 3.34
Class A - 12/31/95 9.64 0.44 1.01 (0.49) (0.04) 10.56 15.14
Class A - 12/31/94(1) 10.00 0.18 (0.36) (0.18) -- 9.64 (1.55)
Class B - 12/31/96 10.56 0.34 (0.09) (0.39) -- 10.42 2.47
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.58 0.10 0.03 (0.11) (0.04) 10.56 1.13
Class C - 12/31/96 10.55 0.33 (0.09) (0.37) -- 10.42 2.37
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.08 0.25 0.55 (0.29) (0.04) 10.55 7.95
IDAHO TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 11.02 0.58 (0.12) (0.57) -- 10.91 4.36
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 10.00 0.60 1.10 (0.60) (0.08) 11.02 17.48
Class B - 12/31/96 11.01 0.52 (0.13) (0.51) -- 10.89 3.75
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.50 0.42 0.59 (0.42) (0.08) 11.01 9.86
Class C - 12/31/96 11.02 0.50 (0.13) (0.49) -- 10.90 3.48
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.04 0.50 (1.06) (0.50) (0.08) 11.02 15.81
IOWA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 9.83 0.44 (0.21) (0.44) -- 9.62 2.56
Class A - 12/31/95 8.56 0.45 1.29 (0.47) -- 9.83 20.80
Class A - 12/31/94 9.26 0.17 (0.72) (0.15) -- 8.56 (5.86)
Class A - 8/31/94(1) 10.00 0.49 (0.74) (0.49) -- 9.26 (2.67)
Class B - 12/31/96 9.83 0.38 (0.22) (0.38) -- 9.61 1.76
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 9.18 0.31 0.64 (0.30) -- 9.83 10.62
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET RATIO OF RATIO OF EXPENSES
ASSETS RATIO OF NET INVESTMENT TO AVERAGE NET
END OF EXPENSES TO INCOME TO PORTFOLIO ASSETS ASSUMING NO
PERIOD AVERAGE AVERAGE NET TURNOVER VOLUNTARY WAIVERS
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS (000S) NET ASSETS ASSETS(2) RATE AND REIMBURSEMENTS
- ------------------------------ ------------- ------------ ----------------- -------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
COLORADO TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class A - 12/31/91 104,863 0.82% 6.15% 92.42 0.82%
Class A - 12/31/90 53,987 01.00 66.38 69.64 1.00
Class A - 12/31/89 34,625 1.00 6.37 33.06 1.00
Class A - 12/31/88 19,767 1.00 6.77 56.31 1.00
Class A - 12/31/87(1) 5,546 1.00(4) 6.49(4) 92.80 1.00(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 4,172 1.58 4.45 40.35 1.65
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 1,643 1.39(4) 3.96(4) 82.83 1.60(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 1,522 1.66 4.40 40.35 1.66
Class C - 12/31/95 1,042 1.66 4.20 82.83 1.66
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 465 1.80(4) 4.23(4) 69.32 1.81(4)
FLORIDA TAX FREE
Class A- 12/31/96 5,761 0.33 5.66 70.17 1.25
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 4,421 0.32(4) 5.26(4) 63.52 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 1,635 0.76 5.23 70.17 2.00
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 101 0.44(4) 4.88(4) 63.52 2.00(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 16 1.15 4.83 70.17 2.00
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 9 1.11(4) 4.57(4) 63.52 2.00(4)
FLORIDA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 192,171 0.73 5.02 57.18 0.96
Class A - 12/31/95 242,425 0.51 5.24 101.48 0.95
Class A - 12/31/94 240,228 0.20(4) 6.24(4) 2.51 1.06(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 259,702 0.44 5.24 49.12 0.96
Class A - 10/31/93 289,682 0.18 5.18 53.51 1.12
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 50,666 -- 5.38(4) 208.24 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96(1) 3,222 1.24 4.51 57.18 1.72
Class B - 12/31/95 2,814 0.89 4.80 101.48 1.68
Class B - 12/31/94 1,477 0.59(4) 5.68(4) 2.51 1.81(4)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 1,135 1.00(4) 4.63(4) 49.12 1.28(4)
FLORIDA LIMITED TERM
Class A - 12/31/96 3,159 0.66 4.63 63.06 1.25
Class A - 12/31/95 859 0.63 4.28 27.76 1.25
Class A - 12/31/94(1) 592 -- 4.19(4) -- 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 1,042 1.48 3.81 63.06 2.00
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 41 1.52(4) 3.32(4) 27.76 2.00(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 54 1.55 3.74 63.06 2.00
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 54 1.62(4) 3.10(4) 27.76 2.00(4)
IDAHO TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 27,684 0.60 5.29 34.68 1.10
Class A - 12/31/95(1) 13,540 0.26(4) 5.24(4) 41.97 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 4,945 1.11 4.78 34.68 1.85
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 1,977 0.79(4) 4.68(4) 41.97 1.90(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 822 1.33 4.57 34.68 1.82
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 789 1.05(4) 4.48(4) 41.97 2.00(4)
IOWA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 40,037 0.92 4.68 14.56 1.06
Class A - 12/31/95 42,374 0.72 4.88 21.67 1.06
Class A - 12/31/94 32,373 0.11(4) 5.71(4) 7.18 1.25(4)
Class A - 8/31/94(1) 38,669 0.12 4.89 119.35 1.25
Class B - 12/31/96 1,645 1.61 3.97 14.56 1.81
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 819 1.28(4) 4.06(4) 21.67 1.65(4)
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
8 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 11
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME FROM
INVESTMENT OPERATIONS LESS DISTRIBUTIONS
------------------------- ------------------------
NET DISTRI-
NET ASSET NET REALIZED AND DIVIDENDS BUTIONS TOTAL
VALUE INVEST- UNREALIZED FROM NET FROM NET ASSET INVEST-
BEGINNING MENT GAINS (LOSS) INVESTMENT CAPITAL VALUE END MENT
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS OF PERIOD INCOME ON SECURITIES INCOME GAINS OF PERIOD RETURN(4)
- --------------------------- ------------ --------- -------------- ---------- ------------ ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
IOWA TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class C - 12/31/96 $9.83 0.36 (0.22) (0.36) -- 9.61 1.56
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 8.55 0.37 1.28 (0.37) -- 9.83 19.66
KANSAS TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 10.73 0.52 (0.17) (0.52) -- 10.56 3.43
Class A - 12/31/95 9.50 0.56 1.22 (0.55) -- 10.73 19.13
Class A - 12/31/94 9.63 0.09 (0.13) (0.09) -- 9.50 (0.38)
Class A - 10/31/94 10.85 0.57 (1.21) (0.57) (0.01) 9.63 (6.10)
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 10.00 0.56 0.85 (0.56) -- 10.85 14.49
Class B - 12/31/96 10.74 0.45 (0.17) (0.45) -- 10.57 2.69
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.19 0.34 0.54 (0.33) -- 10.74 8.76
Class C - 12/31/96 10.72 0.43 (0.17) (0.43) -- 10.55 2.52
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.20 0.32 0.51 (0.31) -- 10.72 8.29
MINNESOTA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 12.63 0.63 (0.23) (0.63) -- 12.40 3.33
Class A - 12/31/95 11.33 0.62 1.32 (0.64) -- 12.63 17.49
Class A - 12/31/94 12.85 0.63 (1.48) (0.61) (0.06)(6) 11.33 (6.73)
Class A - 12/31/93 12.21 0.64 0.87 (0.64) (0.23) 12.85 12.70
Class A - 12/31/92 12.07 0.70 0.23 (0.70) (0.09) 12.21 7.97
Class A - 12/31/91 11.67 0.75 0.49 (0.75) (0.09) 12.07 11.04
Class A - 12/31/90 11.68 0.77 0.02 (0.77) (0.03) 11.67 7.03
Class A - 12/31/89 11.48 0.80 0.22 (0.80) (0.02) 11.68 9.11
Class A - 12/31/88 11.16 0.80 0.32 (0.80) -- 11.48 10.31
Class A - 12/31/87 11.85 0.81 (0.66) (0.81) (0.03) 11.16 1.38
Class B - 12/31/96 12.62 0.56 (0.22) (0.56) -- 12.40 2.83
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 11.90 0.45 0.71 (0.44) -- 12.62 9.95
Class C - 12/31/96 12.63 0.54 (0.22) (0.54) -- 12.41 2.64
Class C - 12/31/95 11.33 0.53 (1.32) (0.55) -- 12.63 16.62
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 11.96 0.34 (0.61) (0.32) (0.04) 11.33 (2.30)
MINNESOTA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 10.73 0.52 (0.13) (0.52) -- 10.60 3.75
Class A - 12/31/95 9.61 0.51 1.14 (0.53) -- 10.73 17.52
Class A - 12/31/94 11.02 0.54 (1.39) (0.52) (0.04) 9.61 (7.88)
Class A - 12/31/93 10.27 0.54 0.84 (0.54) (0.09) 11.02 13.80
Class A - 12/31/92 10.07 0.59 0.25 (0.59) (0.05) 10.27 8.57
Class A - 12/31/91 9.65 0.60 0.48 (0.60) (0.06) 10.07 11.59
Class A - 12/31/90 9.64 0.61 0.02 (0.61) (0.01) 9.65 6.63
Class A - 12/31/89 9.48 0.63 0.20 (0.63) (0.04) 9.64 8.96
Class A - 12/31/88 9.19 0.67 0.29 (0.67) -- 9.48 10.70
Class A - 12/31/87(1) 9.51 0.46 (0.32) (0.46) -- 9.19 1.48
Class B - 12/31/96 10.72 0.45 (0.14) (0.45) -- 10.58 3.03
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.14 0.38 0.58 (0.38) -- 10.72 9.59
Class C - 12/31/96 10.73 0.44 (0.13) (0.44) -- 10.60 2.98
Class C - 12/31/95 9.61 0.43 1.14 (0.45) -- 10.73 16.63
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 10.23 0.30 (0.62) (0.28) (0.02) 9.61 (3.14)
MINNESOTA LIMITED TERM
Class A - 12/31/96 11.14 0.51 (0.15) (0.51) -- 10.99 3.46
Class A - 12/31/95 10.50 0.51 0.64 (0.51) -- 11.14 11.00
Class A - 12/31/94 11.16 0.45 (0.66) (0.45) -- 10.50 (1.91)
Class A - 12/31/93 10.83 0.47 0.37 (0.47) (0.04) 11.16 7.88
Class A - 12/31/92 10.69 0.51 0.18 (0.51) (0.04) 10.83 6.62
Class A - 12/31/91 10.32 0.55 0.37 (0.55) -- 10.69 9.24
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET RATIO OF RATIO OF EXPENSES
ASSETS RATIO OF NET INVESTMENT TO AVERAGE NET
END OF EXPENSES TO INCOME TO PORTFOLIO ASSETS ASSUMING NO
PERIOD AVERAGE AVERAGE NET TURNOVER VOLUNTARY WAIVERS
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS (000S) NET ASSETS ASSETS(2) RATE AND REIMBURSEMENTS
- --------------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------------ ----------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
IOWA TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class C - 12/31/96 $670 1.75% 3.82% 14.56% 1.81%
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 462 1.61(4) 3.74(4) 21.67 1.72(4)
KANSAS TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 10,176 0.83 4.97 56.77 1.21
Class A - 12/31/95 10,677 0.37 5.32 19.71 1.11
Class A - 12/31/94 7,355 0.01(4) 5.88(4) -- 1.25(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 6,469 0.06 5.30 38.96 1.25
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 2,057 -- 5.26(4) 28.87 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96(1) 2,402 1.61 4.16 56.77 2.00
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 677 0.94(4) 4.63(4) 19.71 1.68(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 90 1.77 4.02 56.77 2.00
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 40 1.27(4) 4.21(4) 19.71 1.79(4)
MINNESOTA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 428,380 0.92 5.13 27.67 0.92
Class A - 12/31/95 455,220 0.93 5.11 50.84 0.93
Class A - 12/31/94 406,497 0.90 5.29 24.26 0.90
Class A - 12/31/93 458,145 1.02 5.02 31.77 1.02
Class A - 12/31/92 331,314 0.96 5.73 23.60 1.04
Class A - 12/31/91 251,594 0.83 6.44 26.40 0.98
Class A - 12/31/90 197,629 0.82 6.68 20.54 1.02
Class A - 12/31/89 172,476 0.77 6.85 22.84 0.77
Class A - 12/31/88 150,031 0.77 7.01 9.56 0.77
Class A - 12/31/87 124,082 0.78 7.10 13.84 0.78
Class B - 12/31/96 6,233 1.50 4.53 27.67 1.67
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 2,701 1.38(4) 4.43(4) 50.84 1.63(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 3,083 1.67 4.38 27.67 1.67
Class C - 12/31/95 2,319 1.67 4.33 50.84 1.67
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 1,061 1.72(4) 4.56(4) 24.26 1.72(4)
MINNESOTA INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 304,877 0.92 4.93 14.04 0.92
Class A - 12/31/95 307,734 0.87 4.92 53.72 0.92
Class A - 12/31/94 284,132 0.61 5.29 24.75 0.94
Class A - 12/31/93 311,187 0.70 4.93 18.25 1.02
Class A - 12/31/92 162,728 0.37 5.66 14.11 1.06
Class A - 12/31/91 68,250 0.78 6.13 43.68 1.16
Class A - 12/31/90 29,394 0.74 6.30 15.12 1.25
Class A - 12/31/89 8,217 0.78 6.55 28.34 1.00
Class A - 12/31/88 4,707 0.86 7.08 68.09 1.00
Class A - 12/31/87(1) 2,759 0.76(4) 7.93(4) 20.66 1.00(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 6,817 1.56 4.29 14.04 1.68
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 4,655 1.34(4) 4.15(4) 53.72 1.64(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 3,126 1.68 4.18 14.04 1.68
Class C - 12/31/95 3,166 1.66 4.11 53.72 1.67
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 1,525 1.36(4) 4.68(4) 24.75 1.68(4)
MINNESOTA LIMITED TERM
Class A - 12/31/96 66,024 0.89 4.69 28.18 0.89
Class A - 12/31/95 72,405 0.91 4.61 40.28 0.91
Class A - 12/31/94 84,168 0.92 4.18 42.06 0.92
Class A - 12/31/93 75,374 0.99 4.18 19.13 0.99
Class A - 12/31/92 48,210 1.09 4.71 25.56 1.09
Class A - 12/31/91 27,268 1.23 5.35 43.39 1.23
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
9 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 12
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME FROM
INVESTMENT OPERATIONS LESS DISTRIBUTIONS
------------------------- -------------------------
NET
NET ASSET NET REALIZED AND DIVIDENDS DISTRI- TOTAL
VALUE INVEST- UNREALIZED FROM NET BUTIONS NET ASSET INVEST-
BEGINNING MENT GAINS (LOSS) INVESTMENT FROM CAPITAL VALUE END MENT
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS OF PERIOD INCOME ON SECURITIES INCOME GAINS OF PERIOD RETURN(4)
- ------------------------------- ----------- --------- -------------- ---------- ------------- --------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MINNESOTA LIMITED TERM (CONTINUED)
Class A - 12/31/90 $10.26 0.60 0.06 (0.60) -- $10.32 6.59
Class A - 12/31/89 10.21 0.59 0.05 (0.59) -- 10.26 6.43
Class A - 12/31/88 10.17 0.53 0.04 (0.53) -- 10.21 6.02
Class A - 12/31/87 10.43 0.55 (0.25) (0.55) (0.01) 10.17 2.97
Class B - 12/31/96 11.14 0.44 (0.15) (0.44) -- 10.99 2.74
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.95 0.17 0.19 (0.17) -- 11.14 3.26
Class C - 12/31/96 11.13 0.43 (0.14) (0.43) -- 10.99 2.69
Class C - 12/31/95 10.50 0.42 0.63 (0.42) -- 11.13 10.18
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 10.74 0.24 (0.24) (0.24) -- 10.50 (0.03)
MISSOURI INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 10.54 0.52 (0.18) (0.51) -- 10.37 3.41
Class A - 12/31/95 9.27 0.52 1.29 (0.54) -- 10.54 19.96
Class A - 12/31/94 9.37 0.10 (0.11) (0.09) -- 9.27 (0.07)
Class A - 10/31/94 10.82 0.55 (1.43) (0.54) (0.03) 9.37 (8.28)
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 10.00 0.55 0.89 (0.55) (0.07) 10.82 14.74
Class B - 12/31/96 10.54 0.46 (0.18) (0.45) -- 10.37 2.93
Class B - 12/31/95 9.27 0.48 1.28 (0.49) -- 10.54 19.18
Class B - 12/31/94 9.37 0.08 (0.10) (0.08) -- 9.27 (0.14)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 10.30 0.33 (0.94) (0.32) -- 9.37 (6.16)
Class C - 12/31/96 10.54 0.43 (0.18) (0.42) -- 10.37 2.48
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.36 0.06 0.17 (0.05) -- 10.54 2.24
NEW MEXICO TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 10.89 0.54 (0.11) (0.53) -- 10.79 4.13
Class A - 12/31/95 9.59 0.52 1.33 (0.55) -- 10.89 19.64
Class A - 12/31/94 9.77 0.11 (0.20) (0.09) -- 9.59 (0.90)
Class A - 10/31/94 10.92 0.56 (1.16) (0.55) -- 9.77 (5.56)
Class A - 10/31/93 10.00 0.57 (0.98) (0.57) (0.06) 10.92 15.77)
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 10.00 -- -- -- -- 10.00 --
Class B - 12/31/96 10.89 0.46 (0.11) (0.45) -- 10.79 3.39
Class B - 12/31/95 9.59 0.46 1.32 (0.48) -- 10.89 18.84
Class B - 12/31/94 9.77 0.09 (0.19) (0.08) -- 9.59 (0.98)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 10.69 0.31 (0.93) (0.30) -- 9.77 (5.84)
Class C - 12/31/96 10.41 0.28 0.37 (0.27) -- 10.79 6.30
NEW YORK TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96(9) 10.72 0.12 0.01 (0.12) (0.04) 10.69 1.21
Class A - 9/30/96 10.87 0.55 (0.13) (0.55) (0.02) 10.72 3.94
Class A - 9/30/95 10.74 0.57 0.17 (0.59) (0.02) 10.87 7.31
Class A - 9/30/94 10.81 0.15 (0.06) (0.16) -- 10.74 0.79
Class A - 6/30/94 11.51 0.62 (0.54) (0.62) (0.16) 10.81 0.63
Class A - 6/30/93 11.03 0.65 0.65 (0.66)(9) (0.16) 11.51 12.19
Class A - 6/30/92 10.57 0.66 0.62 (0.66) (0.16) 11.03 12.53
Class A - 6/30/91 10.27 0.48 0.30 (0.48) -- 10.57 5.49
Class A - 9/30/90 10.50 0.67 (0.22) (0.67) (0.01) 10.27 4.44
Class A - 9/30/89 10.30 0.72 0.20 (0.72) -- 10.50 9.21
Class A - 9/30/88(1) 10.00 0.64 0.30 (0.64) -- 10.30 10.09
Class B - 12/31/96 10.69 0.10 -- (0.10) (0.04) 10.65 0.95
Class B - 9/30/96 10.84 0.47 (0.13) (0.47) (0.02) 10.69 3.14
Class B - 9/30/95(1) 10.34 0.43 0.54 (0.45) (0.02) 10.84 9.46
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET RATIO OF RATIO OF EXPENSES
ASSETS RATIO OF NET INVESTMENT TO AVERAGE NET
END OF EXPENSES TO INCOME TO PORTFOLIO ASSETS ASSUMING NO
PERIOD AVERAGE AVERAGE NET TURNOVER VOLUNTARY WAIVERS
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS (000S) NET ASSETS ASSETS(2) RATE AND REIMBURSEMENTS
- --------------------------- ------------- --------------- ----------------- ----------- ------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MINNESOTA LIMITED TERM (CONTINUED)
Class A - 12/31/90 $22,526 1.18% 5.81% 51.47% 1.18%
Class A - 12/31/89 21,884 0.84 5.74 68.23 0.84
Class A - 12/31/88 24,157 0.84 5.15 16.13 0.84
Class A - 12/31/87 29,063 0.84 5.14 24.79 0.84
Class B - 12/31/96 408 1.56 3.99 28.18 1.62
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 27 1.30(4) 3.93(4) 40.28 1.55(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 1,137 1.64 3.94 28.18 1.64
Class C - 12/31/95 694 1.63 3.82 40.28 1.63
Class C - 12/31/94(1) 341 1.71(4) 3.35(4) 42.05 1.71(4)
MISSOURI INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 49,301 0.71 5.05 28.26 1.03
Class A - 12/31/95 50,211 0.50 5.25 31.69 1.07
Class A - 12/31/94 37,790 0.11(4) 6.00(4) 8.85 1.12(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 37,384 0.15 5.39 32.02 1.13
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 30,270 -- 4.82(4) 76.51 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 10,432 1.29 4.46 28.26 1.78
Class B - 12/31/95 6,195 0.97 4.70 31.69 1.81
Class B - 12/31/94 2,742 0.60(4) 5.32(4) 8.85 1.84(4)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 1,701 0.49(4) 4.89(4) 32.02 1.83(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 152 1.62 4.10 28.26 1.78
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 20 1.22(4) 4.09(4) 31.69 1.55(4)
NEW MEXICO TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 20,133 0.88 5.06 42.12 1.07
Class A - 12/31/95 21,402 0.87 5.07 55.72 1.09
Class A - 12/31/94 19,706 0.06(4) 6.38(4) 2.21 1.25(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 23,096 0.29 5.26 22.94 1.16
Class A - 10/31/93 17,302 -- 5.10 30.76 1.25
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 361 -- -- -- --
Class B - 12/31/96 794 1.61 4.31 42.12 1.82
Class B - 12/31/95 605 1.53 4.33 55.72 1.83
Class B - 12/31/94 272 0.75(4) 5.60(4) 2.21 2.00(4)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 264 0.98(4) 4.57(4) 22.94 1.86(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 341 1.74(4) 4.21 (4) 42.12 1.83(4)
NEW YORK TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96(9) 10,044 0.97(4) 5.31(4) 5 1.12(4)
Class A - 9/30/96 10,548 1.34 5.14 12.00 1.55
Class A - 9/30/95 11,931 1.31 5.66 10.00 1.82
Class A - 9/30/94 12,797 1.09(4) 5.74(4) -- 1.09(4)
Class A - 6/30/94 12,851 0.99 5.55 4.00 1.09
Class A - 6/30/93 13,915 0.99 5.74 17.00 1.05
Class A - 6/30/92 14,943 1.00 6.15 19.00 1.26
Class A - 6/30/91 15,592 1.23(4) 6.08(4) 18.00 1.48(4)
Class A - 9/30/90 27,065 1.09 6.35 31.00 1.49
Class A - 9/30/89 23,069 0.60 6.75 11.00 1.70
Class A - 9/30/88(1) 9,260 0.45 6.87 18.00 2.04
Class B - 12/31/96 254 1.87(4) 4.43(4) 5.00 2.00(4)
Class B - 9/30/96 448 2.09 4.39 12.00 2.30
Class B - 9/30/95(1) 266 2.09(4) 4.68(4) 10.00 2.60(4)
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
10 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 13
Financial Highlights (continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME FROM
INVESTMENT OPERATIONS LESS DISTRIBUTIONS
----------------------- --------------------------------
NET
NET ASSET NET REALIZED AND DIVIDENDS
VALUE INVEST- UNREALIZED FROM NET DISTRI- NET ASSET TOTAL
BEGINNING MENT GAINS (LOSS) INVESTMENT BUTIONS VALUE END INVESTMENT
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS OF PERIOD INCOME ON SECURITIES INCOME FROM CAPITAL GAINS OF PERIOD RETURN(4)
- ---------------------- ----------- ------- -------------- ----------- ------------------- ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NEW YORK TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class C - 12/31/96 $10.70 0.10 -- (0.10) (0.04) $10.66 0.95%
Class C - 9/30/96 10.85 0.47 (0.13) (0.47) (0.02) 10.70 3.14
Class C - 9/30/95(1) 10.79 0.21 0.06 (0.21) -- 10.85 2.54
NORTH DAKOTA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 11.00 0.54 (0.13) (0.53) -- 10.88 3.89
Class A - 12/31/95 9.85 0.54 1.18 (0.57) -- 11.00 17.81
Class A - 12/31/94 11.07 0.56 (1.15) (0.53) (0.10)(8) 9.85 (5.47)
Class A - 12/31/93 10.59 0.58 0.58 (0.58) (0.10) 11.07 11.20
Class A - 12/31/92 10.34 0.62 0.34 (0.62) (0.09) 10.59 9.70
Class A - 12/31/91(1) 10.00 0.49 0.41 (0.49) (0.07) 10.34 9.23
Class B - 12/31/96 11.00 0.49 (0.13) (0.48) -- 10.88 3.39
Class B - 12/31/95 9.85 0.48 1.18 (0.51) -- 11.00 17.24
Class B - 12/31/94(1) 10.31 0.30 (0.39) (0.27) (0.10)(8) 9.85 (0.77)
Class C - 12/31/96 11.00 0.44 (0.14) (0.43) -- 10.87 2.81
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 10.51 0.17 0.50 (0.18) -- 11.00 6.47
OREGON INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 10.05 0.48 (0.18) (0.48) -- 9.87 3.15
Class A - 12/31/95 8.92 0.49 1.14 (0.50) -- 10.05 18.71
Class A - 12/31/94 9.00 0.09 (0.09) (0.08) -- 8.92 0.06
Class A - 10/31/94 10.24 0.50 (1.24) (0.50) -- 9.00 (7.35)
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 10.00 0.13 0.24 (0.13) -- 10.24 3.64
Class B - 12/31/96 10.05 0.43 (0.18) (0.43) -- 9.87 2.61
Class B - 12/31/95 8.92 0.44 1.14 (0.45) -- 10.05 18.10
Class B - 12/31/94 9.00 0.08 (0.09) (0.07) -- 8.92 0.03
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 9.85 0.27 (0.85) (0.27) -- 9.00 (5.95)
Class C - 12/31/96 10.05 0.40 (0.17) (0.40) -- 9.88 2.38
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 9.63 0.19 0.41 (0.18) -- 10.05 6.35
UTAH TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 11.04 0.55 (0.20) (0.55) -- 10.84 3.35
Class A - 12/31/95 9.80 0.59 1.24 (0.59) -- 11.04 19.06
Class A - 12/31/94 9.94 0.10 (0.15) (0.09) -- 9.80 (0.41)
Class A - 10/31/94 11.07 0.60 (1.07) (0.60) (0.06) 9.94 (4.50)
Class A - 10/31/93 10.00 0.65 1.07 (0.65) -- 11.07 17.54
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 10.00 -- -- -- -- 10.00 --
Class B - 12/31/96 11.04 0.47 (0.21) (0.47) -- 10.83 2.47
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.63 0.30 0.39 (0.28) -- 11.04 6.60
WASHINGTON INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 10.44 0.54 (0.14) (0.54) -- 10.30 3.98
Class A - 12/31/95 9.21 0.59 1.21 (0.57) -- 10.44 19.94
Class A - 12/31/94 9.37 0.09 (0.16) (0.09) -- 9.21 (0.69)
Class A - 10/31/94 10.67 0.55 (1.26) (0.57) (0.02) 9.37 (6.85)
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 10.00 0.15 0.67 (0.15) -- 10.67 8.05
Class B - 12/31/96 10.44 0.47 (0.14) (0.46) -- 10.31 3.32
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 10.18 0.09 0.25 (0.08) -- 10.44 3.30
Class C - 12/31/96 10.43 0.45 (0.14) (0.44) -- 10.30 3.12
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 9.94 0.31 0.48 (0.30) -- 10.43 8.13
WISCONSIN TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 9.78 0.46 (0.14) (0.46) -- 9.64 3.49
Class A - 12/31/95 8.74 0.48 1.04 (0.48) -- 9.78 17.74
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET RATIO OF EXPENSES
ASSETS RATIO OF RATIO OF TO AVERAGE NET
END OF EXPENSES TO NET INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO ASSETS ASSUMING NO
PERIOD AVERAGE INCOME TO TURNOVER VOLUNTARY WAIVERS
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS (000s) NET ASSETS(2) AVERAGE NET ASSETS RATE AND REIMBURSEMENTS
- ---------------------------- -------------- ---------------- -------------------- ---------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NEW YORK TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class C - 12/31/96 $53 1.84%(4) 4.45%(4) 5.00% 2.00%(4)
Class C - 9/30/96 52 2.09 4.39 12.00 2.30
Class C - 9/30/95(1) 51 2.09(4) 4.44(4) 10.00 2.60(4)
NORTH DAKOTA TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 33,713 0.88 5.01 57.60 1.08
Class A - 12/31/95 36,096 0.81 5.07 45.34 1.05
Class A - 12/31/94 33,829 0.46 5.36 32.60 1.14
Class A - 12/31/93 34,880 0.59 5.11 27.39 1.25
Class A - 12/31/92 15,846 0.40 5.78 26.27 1.25
Class A - 12/31/91(1) 4,914 0.16(4) 6.43(4) 126.37 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 700 1.36 4.52 57.60 1.83
Class B - 12/31/95 375 1.29 4.56 45.34 1.79
Class B - 12/31/94(1) 144 0.99(4) 4.97(4) 32.60 1.89(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 40 1.75 4.06 57.60 1.75
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 20 1.73(4) 4.00(4) 45.34 1.73(4)
OREGON INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 20,913 0.71 4.92 39.54 1.07
Class A - 12/31/95 21,590 0.54 5.12 41.08 1.11
Class A - 12/31/94 14,650 0.05(4) 5.79(4) -- 1.25(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 14,086 0.03 5.17 48.98 1.25
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 4,609 -- 4.61(4) 11.08 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 4,758 1.25 4.37 39.54 1.83
Class B - 12/31/95 2,786 1.04 4.57 41.08 1.86
Class B - 12/31/94 1,303 0.60(4) 5.19(4) -- 2.00(4)
Class B - 10/31/94(1) 1,146 0.75(4) 4.43(4) 48.98 2.00(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 360 1.55 4.03 39.54 1.82
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 250 1.39(4) 4.00(4) 41.08 1.74(4)
UTAH TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 3,861 0.68 5.14 39.58 1.25
Class A - 12/31/95 4,142 0.38 5.51 35.28 1.25
Class A - 12/31/94 3,728 0.11(4) 6.38(4) -- 1.14(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 4,054 0.10 5.64 2.77 1.25
Class A - 10/31/93 3,913 -- 5.65 44.54 1.25
Class A - 10/31/92(1) 19 -- -- -- --
Class B - 12/31/96 397 1.46 4.34 39.58 2.00
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 363 0.92(4) 4.74(4) 35.28 2.00(4)
WASHINGTON INSURED
Class A - 12/31/96 2,382 0.44 5.29 33.30 1.25
Class A - 12/31/95 2,099 0.28 5.57 50.54 1.25
Class A - 12/31/94 2,049 0.10(4) 6.18(4) -- 1.25(4)
Class A - 10/31/94 2,118 0.14 5.44 -- 1.25
Class A - 10/31/93(1) 2,108 -- 5.50(4) 45.14 1.25(4)
Class B - 12/31/96 516 1.21 4.47 33.30 2.00
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 15 1.04(4) 4.44(4) 50.54 2.00(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 19 1.37 4.36 33.30 2.00
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 19 1.30(4) 4.45(4) 50.54 2.00(4)
WISCONSIN TAX FREE
Class A - 12/31/96 28,292 0.98 4.90 38.54 1.09
Class A - 12/31/95 26,449 0.88 5.05 12.10 1.09
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Highlights
11 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 14
Financial Highlights (continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INCOME FROM
INVESTMENT OPERATIONS LESS DISTRIBUTIONS
--------------------------- -------------------------
NET
NET ASSET NET REALIZED AND DIVIDENDS DISTRI- TOTAL
VALUE INVEST- UNREALIZED FROM NET BUTIONS FROM NET ASSET INVEST-
BEGINNING MENT GAINS (LOSS) INVESTMENT CAPITAL VALUE END MENT
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS OF PERIOD INCOME ON SECURITIES INCOME GAINS OF PERIOD RETURN(4)
------------- --------- ---------------- ----------- ------------ ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
WISCONSIN TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class A - 12/31/94 $9.28 0.16 (0.55) (0.15) -- $ -- (4.12)%
Class A - 8/31/94(1) 10.00 0.49 (0.72) (0.49) -- 9.28 (2.40)
Class B - 12/31/96 9.77 0.41 (0.14) (0.41) -- 9.63 2.84
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 9.39 0.28 0.37 (0.27) -- 9.77 7.08
Class C - 12/31/96 9.79 0.39 (0.13) (0.39) -- 9.66 2.74
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 9.34 0.30 0.44 (0.29) -- 9.79 8.06
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET RATIO OF RATIO OF EXPENSES
ASSETS RATIO OF NET INVESTMENT TO AVERAGE NET
END OF EXPENSES TO INCOME TO PORTFOLIO ASSETS ASSUMING NO
PERIOD AVERAGE AVERAGE NET TURNOVER VOLUNTARY WAIVERS
VOYAGEUR STATE FUNDS (000s) NET ASSETS(2) ASSETS RATE AND REIMBURSEMENTS
--------------- ---------------- --------------- ------------ --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
WISCONSIN TAX FREE (CONTINUED)
Class A - 12/31/94 $20,167 0.08%(4) 5.54%(4) 20.52% 1.25%(4)
Class A - 8/31/94(1) 16,093 0.04 4.89 86.26 1.25
Class B - 12/31/96 1,339 1.66 4.37 38.54 1.85
Class B - 12/31/95(1) 725 1.45(4) 4.31(4) 12.10 1.70(4)
Class C - 12/31/96 555 1.75 4.12 38.54 1.83
Class C - 12/31/95(1) 73 1.77(4) 4.04(4) 12.10 1.77(4)
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Highlights
12 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 15
NOTES TO FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(1) The information is for the period from each Fund's commencement of
operations to the Fund's year end. The classes of each Fund commenced
operations on the following dates:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Arizona Tax Free Fund Idaho Tax Free Fund North Dakota Tax Free Fund
Class A March 2, 1995 Class A January 4, 1995 Class A April 1, 1991
Class B June 29, 1995 Class B March 16, 1995 Class B May 10, 1994
Class C May 13, 1995 Class C January 11, 1995 Class C July 29, 1995
Arizona Insured Tax Free Fund Iowa Tax Free Fund Oregon Insured Tax Free Fund
Class A April 1, 1991 Class A September 1, 1993 Class A August 1, 1993
Class B March 10, 1995 Class B March 24, 1995 Class B March 12, 1994
Class C May 26, 1994 Class C January 4, 1995 Class C July 7, 1995
California Tax Free Fund Kansas Tax Free Fund Utah Tax Free Fund
Class A March 3, 1995 Class A November 30, 1992 Class A October 5, 1992
Class B August 23, 1995 Class B April 8, 1995 Class B May 27, 1995
Class C April 9, 1996 Class C April 12, 1995
Washington Insured Tax Free Fund
California Insured Tax Free Fund Minnesota Tax Free Fund Class A August 1, 1993
Class A October 15, 1992 Class B March 11, 1995 Class B October 24, 1995
Class B March 1, 1994 Class C May 4, 1994 Class C April 21, 1995
Class C April 12, 1995
Minnesota Insured Fund Wisconsin Tax Free Fund
Colorado Tax Free Fund Class A May 1, 1987 Class A September 1, 1993
Class A April 23, 1987 Class B March 7, 1995 Class B April 22, 1995
Class B March 22, 1995 Class C May 4, 1994 Class C March 28, 1995
Class C May 6, 1994
Minnesota Limited Term Tax Free Fund
Florida Tax Free Fund Class B August 15, 1995
Class A March 2, 1995 Class C April 30, 1994
Class B September 15, 1995
Class C April 22, 1995 Missouri Insured Tax Free Fund
Class A November 2, 1992
Florida Insured Tax Free Fund Class B March 12, 1994
Class A January 1, 1992 Class C November 11, 1995
Class B March 11, 1994
New Mexico Tax Free Fund
Florida Limited Term Tax Free Fund Class A October 5, 1992
Class A May 1, 1994 Class B March 3, 1994
Class B September 15, 1995 Class C May 7, 1996
Class C March 23, 1995
New York Tax-Free Fund
Class A November 6, 1987
Class B November 14, 1994
Class C April 26, 1995
</TABLE>
(2) Beginning in the year ended December 31, 1995, the expense ratio reflects
the effect of gross expenses attributable to earnings credits on uninvested
cash balances received by the Fund. Prior period expense ratios have not
been adjusted.
(3) Total investment return is based on the change in net asset value of a
share during the period and assumes reinvestment of distributions at net
asset value and does not reflect the impact of a sales charge.
(4) Adjusted to an annual basis.
(5) The Adviser also paid $25,631 for Arizona Insured Tax Free Fund for the
period ended December 31, 1991.
(6) Includes (.01) in excess of net realized gains.
13 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 16
(7) Includes (.06) and (.04) in excess of net realized gains for Class A and
Class C shares, respectively.
(8) Includes (.02) and (.02) in excess of net realized gains for Class A and
Class B shares, respectively.
(9) Includes (.01) in excess distributions of net investment income.
14 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 17
T h e F u n d s
Each of the Funds is a separate series of one of the parent corporate or trust
entities described herein under the heading "General Information." The series
which are diversified, as such term is defined in the Investment Company Act of
1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") are designated as such by a footnote on the
cover page of this Prospectus. All other series are non-diversified. Each
non-diversified Fund will be able to invest, subject to certain federal tax
requirements, a relatively higher percentage of its assets in the securities of
a limited number of issuers which may result in such Fund's securities being
more susceptible to any single economic, political or regulatory occurrence
than the securities of a diversified Fund. The investment objectives and
policies of each Fund are described below. Except where noted, an investment
objective or policy description applies to all Funds.
I n v e s t m e n t O b j e c t i v e s a n d P o l i c i e s
The investment objective of each Limited Term Tax Free Fund is to provide
investors with preservation of capital and, secondarily, current income exempt
from federal income tax and the personal income tax, if any, of the Fund's
particular state, by maintaining a weighted average portfolio maturity of 10
years or less. The investment objective of each Tax Free Fund and Insured Fund
is to seek as high a level of current income exempt from federal income tax and
from the personal income tax, if any, of the Fund's particular state, as is
consistent with preservation of capital. The weighted average maturity of the
investment portfolio of each Tax Free Fund and Insured Fund is expected to be
approximately 15 to 25 years. Each of Florida Limited Term Tax Free Fund,
Florida Tax Free Fund and Florida Insured Tax Free Fund will seek to select
investments that will enable its shares to be exempt from the Florida
intangible personal property tax.
During times of adverse market conditions when a defensive investment
posture is warranted, each Fund may temporarily select investments without
regard to the foregoing policy. There are risks in any investment program, and
there is no assurance that a Fund's investment objective will be achieved. The
value of each Fund's shares will fluctuate with changes in the market value of
its investments. Each Fund's investment objective and certain other investment
policies explicitly designated herein as such are fundamental, which means that
they cannot be changed without the vote of its respective shareholders as
provided in the 1940 Act.
Each Fund anticipates that, in normal market conditions, it will
invest substantially all of its assets in Tax Exempt Obligations (as defined
below), the interest on which is exempt from federal income tax and from the
personal income tax, if any, of its respective state (and with respect to New
York Fund, New York City personal income tax). As a fundamental policy, New
York Fund will invest at least 80% of the value of its net assets in such
obligations under normal market conditions (not including obligations subject
to the alternative minimum tax). Up to 20% of the securities owned by each such
Fund may generate interest that is an item of tax preference for purposes of
federal and state alternative minimum tax ("AMT"), except that the Minnesota
Insured Fund may invest without limitation in such securities and the Minnesota
Tax Free Fund may not invest in such AMT securities. New York Fund may also
invest in such securities which generate an item of tax preference for purposes
of New York City alternative minimum tax.
Tax Free and Limited Term Tax Free Funds
Each Tax Free Fund and each Limited Term Tax Free Fund may invest without
limitation in securities rated "investment grade," i.e., within the four
highest investment
15 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 18
grades, at the time of investment by Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
("Moody's") or Standard & Poor's Ratings Services ("S&P") or, if unrated,
judged by the Adviser to be of comparable quality. Bonds included in the lowest
investment grade rating category involve certain speculative characteristics,
and changes in economic conditions or other circumstances are more likely to
lead to a weakened capacity to make principal and interest payments than is the
case for higher rated bonds. Up to 20% of the Tax Exempt Obligations purchased
by the Funds may be rated lower than investment grade; however, all bonds must
be rated "B" or better by Moody's or S&P (or, if unrated, judged by the Adviser
to be of comparable quality). Such bonds are often referred to as "junk" bonds
or "high yield" bonds. Bonds rated below "BBB" have a greater vulnerability to
default than higher grade bonds. See "Risks and Special Investment
Considerations--General" for a discussion of the risks of investing in lower
grade Tax Exempt Obligations. A description of the ratings assigned by Moody's
and S&P is set forth in Appendix A to the Statement of Additional Information.
The following table sets forth the weighted average percentage of
total investments with respect to the portfolios of certain Funds during the
year ended as of December 31, 1996.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Moody's Rating Aaa Aa A Baa Ba B Unrated
(S&P Rating) (AAA) (AA) (A) (BBB) (BB) (B) Bonds Total
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Voyageur Tax Free Funds
Colorado 32% 21% 19% 24% -- -- 4% 100%
Florida 28% 20% 17% 17% -- -- 18% 100%
Idaho 28% 11% 28% 23% -- -- 10% 100%
Kansas 58% 18% 2% 17% -- -- 5% 100%
Minnesota 54% 12% 15% 9% -- -- 10% 100%
North Dakota 38% 27% 16% 18% -- -- 1% 100%
Utah 68% 11% 10% 2% -- -- 9% 100%
Wisconsin 23% 10% 29% 7% 8% -- 23% 100%
Voyageur Limited Term
Tax Free Funds
Florida 65% 8% 6% 16% -- -- 5% 100%
Minnesota 53% 10% 9% 18% -- -- 10% 100%
</TABLE>
Insured Funds
The Tax Exempt Obligations in each Insured Fund's portfolio will consist of (a)
obligations that at all times are fully insured as to scheduled payments of
principal and interest ("insured securities") and (b) "escrow secured" or
"defeased" bonds. Insured securities may consist of bonds covered by Primary
Insurance, Market Insurance or Portfolio Insurance (as defined below). All
insurers must have a triple A-rated claims paying ability (as assigned by
either or both of Moody's and S&P) at the time of investment. Securities that
are covered by either Primary or Secondary Market Insurance will carry a
triple-A rating at the time of investment by the Fund. However, securities that
are not covered by either Primary or Secondary Market Insurance at the time of
investment (or that are not "escrow secured" or "defeased") must be covered by
Portfolio Insurance immediately after their acquisition. The Funds' Adviser
anticipates that such securities, at the time of investment, generally will be
rated investment grade. However, all securities in each Insured Fund's
portfolio, after application of insurance, will be rated Aaa by Moody's and/or
AAA by S&P at the time of investment. Pending the investment or reinvestment of
its assets in longer-term Tax Exempt Obligations, each Insured Fund may invest
up to 35% of its net assets in short-term tax exempt instruments, without
obtaining insurance, provided such instruments carry an A-l+ or
16 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 19
SP-l+ short-term rating or AAA or Aaa long-term rating by S&P or Moody's, and
may invest up to 10% of its net assets in securities of tax exempt money market
mutual funds. The "insured securities" in each Insured Fund's investment
portfolio are insured as to the scheduled payment of all installments of
principal and interest as they fall due. The purpose of such insurance is to
minimize credit risks to such Funds and their shareholders associated with
defaults in Tax Exempt Obligations owned by such Funds. Such insurance does not
insure against market risk and therefore does not guarantee the market value of
the securities in an Insured Fund's investment portfolio or the value of any
Insured Funds' shares.
Certain insurance companies will issue policies guaranteeing the
timely payment of principal of, and interest on, particular Tax Exempt
Obligations or on a portfolio of Tax Exempt Obligations. Insurance may be
purchased by the issuer of a Tax Exempt Obligation or by a third party at the
time of issuance of the Tax Exempt Obligation ("Primary Insurance") or by the
Fund or a third party subsequent to the original issuance of a Tax Exempt
Obligation ("Secondary Market Insurance"). In each case, a single premium is
paid to the insurer by the party purchasing the insurance when the insurance is
obtained. Primary Insurance and Secondary Market Insurance policies are
non-cancelable and remain in effect for so long as the insured Tax Exempt
Obligation is outstanding and the insurer is in business.
The Insured Funds may also purchase insurance covering certain Tax
Exempt Obligations which the Insured Funds intend to purchase for their
portfolios or which the Insured Funds already own ("Portfolio Insurance").
Portfolio Insurance policies guarantee the timely payment of principal of, and
interest on, covered Tax Exempt Obligations only while they are owned by the
Insured Funds. Such policies are non-cancelable and remain in effect until the
Fund terminates, provided the Fund pays the applicable insurance premiums and
the insurer remains in business. Tax Exempt Obligations in the Insured Funds'
portfolios covered by a Portfolio Insurance policy will not be covered by such
policy after they are sold by a Fund unless the Fund elects to obtain some form
of Secondary Market Insurance for them at the time of sale. The Insured Funds
would obtain such Secondary Market Insurance only if, in the Adviser's view, it
would be economically advantageous for the Funds to do so. Further information
about insurance (including its limitations) is set forth in the Statement of
Additional Information.
All Funds
The foregoing policies as to credit quality of portfolio investments will apply
only at the time of the purchase of a security, and the Funds are not required
to dispose of securities in the event that Moody's or S&P downgrades its
assessment of the credit characteristics of a particular issuer or, in the case
of unrated securities, in the event the Adviser reassesses its view with
respect to the credit quality of the issuer thereof. In no event, however, will
more than 5% of each Fund's total assets consist of securities that have been
downgraded to a rating lower than the minimum rating in which each Fund is
permitted to invest or, in the case of unrated securities, that the Adviser has
determined to have a quality lower than such minimum rating. With respect to
the Insured Funds, up to 35% of each such Fund's total assets may consist of
securities that have been downgraded to AA or Aa subsequent to initial
investment in such securities by an Insured Fund.
Each Fund may invest without limitation in short term Tax Exempt
Obligations or in taxable obligations on a temporary, defensive basis due to
market conditions or, with respect to taxable obligations, for liquidity
purposes. Such taxable obligations, whether purchased for liquidity purposes or
on a temporary, defensive basis, may include: obligations of the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities; other debt securities rated
within the three highest grades by either Moody's or S&P; commercial paper
rated in the highest grade by either of such rating services (Prime-1 or A-1,
respectively); certificates of deposit and bankers' acceptances of domestic
banks which
17 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 20
have capital, surplus and undivided profits of over $100 million; high-grade
taxable municipal bonds; and repurchase agreements with respect to any of the
foregoing investments. Each Fund also may hold its assets in cash and in
securities of tax exempt money market mutual funds.
Tax Exempt Obligations
As used in this Prospectus, the term "Tax Exempt Obligations" refers to debt
obligations issued by or on behalf of a state or territory or its agencies,
instrumentalities, municipalities and political subdivisions, the interest
payable on which is, in the opinion of bond counsel, excludable from gross
income for purposes of federal income tax and from the personal income tax, if
any, of the state specified in the Fund's name. The term "Tax Exempt
Obligations" also includes Derivative Tax Exempt Obligations as defined below.
In certain instances the interest on Tax Exempt Obligations may be an item of
tax preference includable in alternative minimum taxable income depending upon
the shareholder's tax status. See "Distributions to Shareholders and
Taxes--Taxes."
Tax Exempt Obligations are primarily debt obligations issued to obtain
funds for various public purposes such as constructing public facilities and
making loans to public institutions. The two principal classifications of Tax
Exempt Obligations are general obligation bonds and revenue bonds. General
obligation bonds are generally secured by the full faith and credit of an
issuer possessing general taxing power and are payable from the issuer's
general unrestricted revenues and not from any particular fund or revenue
source. Revenue bonds are payable only from the revenues derived from a
particular source or facility, such as a tax on particular property or revenues
derived from, for example, a municipal water or sewer utility or an airport.
Tax Exempt Obligations that benefit private parties in a manner different than
members of the public generally (so-called private activity bonds or industrial
development bonds) are in most cases revenue bonds, payable solely from
specific revenues of the project to be financed. The credit quality of private
activity bonds is usually directly related to the creditworthiness of the user
of the facilities (or the creditworthiness of a third-party guarantor or other
credit enhancement participant, if any).
Within these principal classifications of Tax Exempt Obligations,
there is a variety of types of municipal securities. Certain Tax Exempt
Obligations may carry variable or floating rates of interest whereby the rate
of interest is not fixed but varies with changes in specified market rates or
indexes, such as a bank prime rate or a tax exempt money market index.
Accordingly, the yield on such obligations can be expected to fluctuate with
changes in prevailing interest rates. Other Tax Exempt Obligations are zero
coupon securities, which are debt obligations which do not entitle the holder
to any periodic interest payments prior to maturity and are issued and traded
at a discount from their face amounts. The market prices of zero coupon
securities are generally more volatile than the market prices of securities
that pay interest periodically.
Tax Exempt Obligations also include state or municipal leases and
participation interests therein. The Funds may invest in these types of
obligation without limitation. Municipal leases are obligations issued by state
and local governments or authorities to finance the acquisition of equipment and
facilities such as fire, sanitation or police vehicles or telecommunications
equipment, buildings or other capital assets. Municipal lease obligations,
except in certain circumstances, are considered illiquid by the staff of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. Municipal lease obligations held by a Fund
will be treated as illiquid unless they are determined to be liquid pursuant to
guidelines established by the Fund's Boards of Directors or Trustees. Under
these guidelines, the Adviser will consider factors including, but not limited
to (a) whether the lease can be cancelled, (b) what assurance there is that the
assets represented by the lease can be sold, (c) the municipality's general
credit strength (e.g., its debt, administrative, economic and financial
characteristics), (d) the likelihood that the municipality will discontinue
appropriating funding for the leased property because the property is no longer
deemed essential to the operations of the municipality (e.g., the potential for
an "event of non-appropriation"), and
18 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 21
(e) the legal recourse in the event of failure to appropriate. Additionally,
the lack of an established trading market for municipal lease obligations may
make the determination of fair market value more difficult. See "Investment
Policies and Restrictions--Tax Exempt Obligations" in the Statement of
Additional Information.
Each Fund may also acquire Derivative Tax Exempt Obligations, which
are custodial receipts or certificates underwritten by securities dealers or
banks that evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments
or both on certain Tax Exempt Obligations. The sponsor of these certificates or
receipts typically purchases and deposits the securities in an irrevocable
trust or custodial account with a custodian bank, which then issues receipts or
certificates that evidence ownership of the periodic unmatured coupon payments
and the final principal payment on the obligations. Although under the terms of
a custodial receipt, a Fund typically would be authorized to assert its rights
directly against the issuer of the underlying obligation, a Fund could be
required to assert through the custodian bank those rights as may exist against
the underlying issuer. Thus, in the event the underlying issuer fails to pay
principal and/or interest when due, a Fund may be subject to delays, expenses
and risks that are greater than those that would have been involved if a Fund
had purchased a direct obligation of the issuer.
In addition, in the event that the trust or custodial account in which
the underlying security had been deposited is determined to be an association
taxable as a corporation, instead of a non taxable entity, it would be subject
to state (and with respect to New York Fund, potentially New York City) income
tax (but not federal income tax) on the income it earned on the underlying
security, and the yield on the security paid to such Fund and its shareholders
would be reduced by the amount of taxes paid. Furthermore, amounts paid by the
trust or custodial account to a Fund would lose their tax exempt character and
become taxable, for federal and state purposes, in the hands of the Fund and
its shareholders. However, each Fund will only invest in custodial receipts
which are accompanied by a tax opinion stating that interest payable on the
receipts is tax exempt. If a Fund invests in custodial receipts, it is possible
that a portion of the discount at which the Fund purchases the receipts might
have to be accrued as taxable income during the period that the Fund holds the
receipts.
The principal and interest payments on the Tax-Exempt Obligations
underlying custodial receipts or trust certificates may be allocated in a
number of ways. For example, payments may be allocated such that certain
custodial receipts or trust certificates may have variable or floating interest
rates and others may be stripped securities which pay only the principal or
interest due on the underlying Tax-Exempt Obligations. The Funds may also
invest in custodial receipts or trust certificates which are "inverse floating
obligations" (also sometimes referred to as "residual interest bonds"). These
securities pay interest rates that vary inversely to changes in the interest
rates of specified short-term Tax-Exempt Obligations or an index of short-term
Tax-Exempt Obligations. Thus, as market interest rates increase, the interest
rates on inverse floating obligations decrease. Conversely, as market rates
decline, the interest rates on inverse floating obligations increase. Such
securities have the effect of providing a degree of investment leverage, since
the interest rates on such securities will generally change at a rate which is
a multiple of the change in the interest rates of the specified Tax-Exempt
Obligations or index. As a result, the market values of inverse floating
obligations will generally be more volatile than the market values of other
Tax-Exempt Obligations and investments in these types of obligations will
increase the volatility of the net asset value of shares of the Funds.
Investments in Derivative Tax Exempt Obligations, when combined with
investments in below investment grade rated securities, will not exceed 20% of
each Fund's total assets. For a discussion of certain risks involved in
investments in Derivative Tax Exempt Obligations, see "Risks and Special
Investment Considerations--General."
19 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 22
Miscellaneous Investment Practices
Forward Commitments
New issues of Tax Exempt Obligations and other securities are often purchased on
a "when issued" or delayed delivery basis, with delivery and payment for the
securities normally taking place 15 to 45 days after the date of the
transaction. The payment obligation and the interest rate that will be received
on the securities are each fixed at the time the buyer enters into the
commitment. Each Fund may enter into such "forward commitments" if it holds and
maintains, until the settlement date in a segregated account, cash or liquid
securities in an amount sufficient to meet the purchase price. There is no
percentage limitation on each Fund's total assets which may be invested in
forward commitments. Tax Exempt Obligations purchased on a when-issued basis and
the securities held in a Fund's portfolio are subject to changes in value (both
generally changing in the same way, i.e., appreciating when interest rates
decline and depreciating when interest rates rise) based upon the public's
perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and changes, real or
anticipated, in the level of interest rates. Tax Exempt Obligations purchased on
a when-issued basis may expose a Fund to risk because they may experience such
fluctuations prior to their actual delivery. Purchasing Tax Exempt Obligations
on a when-issued basis can involve the additional risk that the yield available
in the market when the delivery takes place actually may be higher than that
obtained in the transaction itself. Any significant commitment by a Fund to the
purchase of securities on a when-issued basis may increase the volatility of the
Fund's net asset value. Although each Fund will generally enter into forward
commitments with the intention of acquiring securities for its portfolio, it may
dispose of a commitment prior to settlement if the Adviser deems it appropriate
to do so. The Funds may realize short-term profits or losses upon the sale of
forward commitments.
Repurchase Agreements
Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with respect to not more than
10% of its total assets (taken at current value), except when investing for
defensive purposes during times of adverse market conditions. Each Fund may
enter into repurchase agreements with respect to any securities which it may
acquire consistent with its investment policies and restrictions.
A repurchase agreement involves the purchase by a Fund of securities
with the condition that, after a stated period of time, the original seller (a
member bank of the Federal Reserve System or a recognized securities dealer)
will buy back the same securities ("collateral") at a predetermined price or
yield. Repurchase agreements involve certain risks not associated with direct
investments in securities. In the event the original seller defaults on its
obligation to repurchase, as a result of its bankruptcy or otherwise, the Fund
will seek to sell the collateral, which action could involve costs or delays.
In such case, the Fund's ability to dispose of the collateral to recover such
investment may be restricted or delayed. While collateral will at all times be
maintained in an amount equal to the repurchase price under the agreement
(including accrued interest due thereunder), to the extent proceeds from the
sale of collateral were less than the repurchase price, a Fund could suffer a
loss. See "Investment Policies and Restrictions--Taxable Obligations" in the
Statement of Additional Information.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements
Certain Funds (Arizona Limited Term Tax Free Fund, Arizona Tax Free Fund,
California Limited Term Tax Free Fund, California Tax Free Fund, Colorado
Limited Term Tax Free Fund, Colorado Insured Tax Free Fund, Florida Limited
Term Tax Free Fund, Florida Tax Free Fund, Idaho Tax Free Fund and New York Tax
Free Fund) may engage in "reverse repurchase agreements" with banks and
securities dealers with respect to not more than 10% of the Fund's total assets.
Reverse repurchase agreements are ordinary repurchase agreements in which the
Fund is the seller of, rather than the
20 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 23
investor in, securities and agrees to repurchase them at an agreed upon time and
price. Use of a reverse repurchase agreement may be preferable to a regular sale
and later repurchase of the securities because it avoids certain market risks
and transaction costs. Because certain of the incidents of ownership of the
security are retained by the Fund, reverse repurchase agreements are considered
a form of borrowing by the Fund from the buyer, collateralized by the security.
At the time a Fund enters into a reverse repurchase agreement, cash or liquid
securities having a value sufficient to make payments for the securities to be
repurchased will be segregated, and will be marked to market daily and
maintained throughout the period of the obligation. Reverse repurchase
agreements may be used as a means of borrowing for investment purposes subject
to the 10% limitation set forth above. This speculative technique is referred to
as leveraging. Leveraging may exaggerate the effect on net asset value of any
increase or decrease in the market value of the Fund's portfolio. Money borrowed
for leveraging will be subject to interest costs which may or may not be
recovered by income from or appreciation of the securities purchased. Because
the Funds do not currently intend to utilize reverse repurchase agreements in
excess of 10% of total assets, the Funds believe the risks of leveraging due to
use of reverse repurchase agreements to principal are reduced. The Adviser
believes that the limited use of leverage may facilitate the Funds' ability to
provide current income without adversely affecting the Funds' ability to
preserve capital.
Options and Futures
Each Fund may utilize put and call transactions, and certain Funds (see "Futures
Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts" below) may utilize futures
transactions to hedge against market risk and facilitate portfolio management.
See "Investment Policies and Restrictions--Options and Futures Transactions" in
the Statement of Additional Information. Options and futures may be used to
attempt to protect against possible declines in the market value of a Fund's
portfolio resulting from downward trends in the debt securities markets
(generally due to a rise in interest rates), to protect a Fund's unrealized
gains in the value of its portfolio securities, to facilitate the sale of such
securities for investment purposes, to manage the effective maturity or
duration of a Fund's portfolio or to establish a position in the securities
markets as a temporary substitute for purchasing particular securities. The use
of options and futures is a function of market conditions. Other transactions
may be used by the Funds in the future for hedging purposes as they are
developed to the extent deemed appropriate by the Board.
Options on Securities
Each Fund may write (i.e., sell) covered put and call options and purchase put
and call options on the securities in which it may invest and on indices of
securities in which it may invest, to the extent such put and call options are
available.
A put option gives the buyer of such option, upon payment of a
premium, the right to deliver a specified amount of a security to the writer of
the option on or before a fixed date at a predetermined price. A call option
gives the purchaser of the option, upon payment of a premium, the right to call
upon the writer to deliver a specified amount of a security on or before a
fixed date, at a predetermined price.
In purchasing a call option, a Fund would be in a position to realize
a gain if, during the option period, the price of the security increased by an
amount in excess of the premium paid. It would realize a loss if the price of
the security declined or remained the same or did not increase during the
period by more than the amount of the premium. In purchasing a put option, a
Fund would be in a position to realize a gain if, during the option period, the
price of the security declined by an amount in excess of the premium paid. It
would realize a loss if the price of the security increased or remained the
same or did not decrease during that period by more than the amount of the
premium. If a put or call option purchased by a Fund were permitted to expire
without being sold or exercised, its premium would be lost by the Fund.
21 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 24
If a put option written by a Fund were exercised, the Fund would be
obligated to purchase the underlying security at the exercise price. If a call
option written by a Fund were exercised, the Fund would be obligated to sell
the underlying security at the exercise price. The risk involved in writing a
put option is that there could be a decrease in the market value of the
underlying security caused by rising interest rates or other factors. If this
occurred, the option could be exercised and the underlying security would then
be sold to the Fund at a higher price than its current market value. The risk
involved in writing a call option is that there could be an increase in the
market value of the underlying security caused by declining interest rates or
other factors. If this occurred, the option could be exercised and the
underlying security would then be sold by the Fund at a lower price than its
current market value. These risks could be reduced by entering into a closing
transaction as described in Appendix B to the Statement of Additional
Information. The Fund retains the premium received from writing a put or call
option whether or not the option is exercised.
Over-the-counter options are purchased or written by a Fund in
privately negotiated transactions. Such options are illiquid, and it may not be
possible for a Fund to dispose of an option it has purchased or terminate its
obligations under an option it has written at a time when a Fund's Adviser
believes it would be advantageous to do so. Over the counter options are
subject to each Fund's 15% illiquid investment limitation. See Appendix B to
the Statement of Additional Information for a further discussion of the general
characteristics and risks of options.
Participation in the options market involves investment risks and
transaction costs to which the Funds would not be subject absent the use of
this strategy. If the Adviser's predictions of movements in the direction of
the securities and interest rate markets are inaccurate, the adverse
consequences to a Fund may leave the Fund in a worse position than if such
strategy was not used. Risks inherent in the use of options include (a)
dependence on the Adviser's ability to predict correctly movements in the
direction of interest rates and securities prices; (b) imperfect correlation
between the price of options and movements in the prices of the securities
being hedged; (c) the fact that the skills needed to use these strategies are
different from those needed to select portfolio securities; (d) the possible
absence of a liquid secondary market for any particular instrument at any time;
and (e) the possible need to defer closing out certain hedged positions to
avoid adverse tax consequences. See "Investment Policies and Restrictions--
Risks of Transactions in Futures Contracts and Options" in the Statement of
Additional Information for further discussion and see Appendix B for a
discussion of closing transactions and other risks.
Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts
Certain Funds (Arizona Limited Term Tax Free Fund, Arizona Tax Free Fund,
California Limited Term Tax Free Fund, California Tax Free Fund, Colorado
Limited Term Tax Free Fund, Colorado Insured Tax Free Fund, Florida Limited
Term Tax Free Fund, Florida Tax Free Fund, Idaho Tax Free Fund and New York Tax
Free Fund) may enter into contracts for the purchase or sale for future
delivery of fixed income securities or contracts based on financial indices
including any index of securities in which the Fund may invest ("futures
contracts") and may purchase and write put and call options to buy or sell
futures contracts ("options on futures contracts"). A "sale" of a futures
contract means the acquisition of a contractual obligation to deliver the
securities called for by the contract at a specified price on a specified date.
The purchaser of a futures contract on an index agrees to take or make delivery
of an amount of cash equal to the difference between a specified dollar
multiple of the value of the index on the expiration date of the contract
("current contract value") and the price at which the contract was originally
struck. Options on futures contracts to be written or purchased by the Fund
will be traded on exchanges or over the counter. The successful use of such
instruments draws upon the Adviser's experience with respect to such
instruments and usually depends upon the Adviser's ability to forecast interest
rate movements correctly. Should
22 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 25
interest rates move in an unexpected manner, the Fund may not achieve the
anticipated benefits of futures contracts or options on futures contracts or
may realize losses and would thus be in a worse position than if such
strategies had not been used. In addition, the correlation between movements in
the price of futures contracts or options on futures contracts and movements in
the prices of the securities hedged or used for cover will not be perfect.
A Fund's use of financial futures and options thereon will in all cases
be consistent with applicable regulatory requirements. To the extent required to
comply with applicable Securities and Exchange Commission releases and staff
positions, when purchasing a futures contract or writing a put option, the Fund
will maintain in a segregated account cash or liquid securities equal to the
value of such contracts, less any margin on deposit. In addition, the rules and
regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission currently require that,
in order to avoid "commodity pool operator" status, the Fund must use futures
and options positions (a) for "bona fide hedging purposes" (as defined in the
regulations) or (b) for other purposes so long as aggregate initial margins and
premiums required in connection with non hedging positions do not exceed 5% of
the liquidation value of the Fund's portfolio. There are no other numerical
limits on a Fund's use of futures contracts and options on futures contracts.
For a discussion of the tax treatment of futures contracts and options on
futures contracts, see "Taxes" in the Statement of Additional Information. For a
further discussion of the general characteristics and risks of futures, see
Appendix B to the Statement of Additional Information.
Concentration Policy
As a fundamental policy, no Fund will invest 25% or more of its total assets in
the securities of any industry, although for purposes of this limitation,
tax-exempt securities and U.S. government obligations are not considered to be
part of any industry. Each Fund may invest 25% or more of its total assets in
industrial development revenue bonds. In addition, it is possible that the
Funds from time to time will invest 25% or more of their total assets in a
particular segment of the municipal bond market such as in housing, health
care, and/or utility obligations. In addition, Arizona Limited Term Tax Free
Fund, Arizona Tax Free Fund, California Limited Term Tax Free Fund, California
Tax Free Fund, Colorado Limited Term Tax Free Fund, Colorado Insured Tax Free
Fund, Florida Limited Term Tax Free Fund, Florida Tax Free Fund and Idaho Tax
Free Fund and New York Tax-Free Fund may invest in transportation, education
and/or industrial obligations. In such circumstances, economic, business,
political and other changes affecting one bond might also affect other bonds in
the same segment, thereby potentially increasing market or credit risk. For a
discussion of these segments of the municipal bond market, see "Investment
Policies and Restrictions--Concentration Policy" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
Each Fund's Board may change any of the foregoing policies that are
not specifically designated fundamental.
R i s k s a n d S p e c i a l I n v e s t m e n t
C o n s i d e r a t i o n s
General
The yields on Tax Exempt Obligations are dependent on a variety of factors,
including the financial condition of the issuer or other obligor thereon or
the revenue source from which debt service is payable, general economic and
monetary conditions, conditions in the relevant market, the size of a
particular issue, maturity of the obligation and the rating of the issue.
Generally, the value of Tax Exempt Obligations will tend to fall as interest
rates rise and will tend to increase as interest rates decrease. In addition,
Tax Exempt Obligations of longer maturity
23 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 26
produce higher current yields than Tax Exempt Obligations with shorter
maturities but are subject to greater price fluctuation due to changes in
interest rates, tax laws and other general market factors. Lower-rated Tax
Exempt Obligations generally produce a higher yield than higher-rated Tax
Exempt Obligations due to the perception of a greater degree of risk as to the
payment of principal and interest. Certain Tax Exempt Obligations held by a
Fund may permit the issuer at its option to "call," or redeem, its securities.
If an issuer were to redeem securities held by a Fund during a time of
declining interest rates, the Fund may not be able to reinvest the proceeds in
securities providing the same investment return as the securities redeemed.
In normal circumstances, each Fund (except for the Insured Funds) may
invest up to 20% of its total assets in Tax Exempt Obligations rated below
investment grade (but not rated lower than B by S&P or Moody's) or in unrated
Tax Exempt Obligations considered by the Fund's investment adviser to be of
comparable quality to such securities. Investment in such lower grade Tax
Exempt Obligations involves special risks as compared with investment in higher
grade Tax Exempt Obligations. The market for lower grade Tax Exempt Obligations
is considered to be less liquid than the market for investment grade Tax Exempt
Obligations, which may adversely affect the ability of a Fund to dispose of
such securities in a timely manner at a price which reflects the value of such
securities in the Adviser's judgment. The market price for less liquid
securities tends to be more volatile than the market price for more liquid
securities. The lower liquidity of and the absence of readily available market
quotations for lower grade Tax Exempt Obligations may make the Adviser's
valuation of such securities more difficult, and the Adviser's judgment may
play a greater role in the valuation of the Fund's lower grade Tax Exempt
Obligations. Periods of economic uncertainty and changes may have a greater
impact on the market price of such bonds and, therefore, the net asset value of
any Fund investing in such obligations.
Lower grade Tax Exempt Obligations generally involve greater credit
risk than higher grade Tax Exempt Obligations and are more sensitive to adverse
economic changes, significant increases in interest rates and individual issuer
developments. Because issuers of lower grade Tax Exempt Obligations frequently
choose not to seek a rating of such securities, a Fund will rely more heavily
on its Adviser's ability to determine the relative investment quality of such
securities than if such Fund invested exclusively in higher grade Tax Exempt
Obligations. A Fund may, if deemed appropriate by its Adviser, retain a
security whose rating has been downgraded below B by S&P or Moody's, or whose
rating has been withdrawn. In no event, however, will more than 5% of each
Fund's total assets consist of securities that have been downgraded to a rating
lower than the minimum rating in which each Fund is permitted to invest or, in
the case of unrated securities, that have been determined by its Adviser to be
of a quality lower than such minimum rating. Additional information concerning
the risks associated with instruments in lower grade Tax Exempt Obligations is
included in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information.
The principal and interest payments on the Derivative Tax Exempt
Obligations underlying custodial receipts may be allocated in a number of ways.
For example, payments may be allocated such that certain custodial receipts may
have variable or floating interest rates and others may be stripped securities
which pay only the principal or interest due on the underlying Tax Exempt
Obligations. The Funds may also invest in custodial receipts which are "inverse
floating obligations" (also sometimes referred to as "residual interest
bonds"). These securities pay interest rates that vary inversely to changes in
the interest rates of specified short term Tax Exempt Obligations or an index
of short term Tax Exempt Obligations. Thus, as market interest rates increase,
the interest rates on inverse floating obligations decrease. Conversely, as
market rates decline, the interest rates on inverse floating obligations
increase. Such securities have the effect of providing a degree of investment
leverage, since the interest rates on such securities will generally change at
a rate which is a multiple of the change in the interest
24 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 27
rates of the specified Tax Exempt Obligations or index. As a result, the market
values of inverse floating obligations will generally be more volatile than the
market values of other Tax Exempt Obligations and investments in these types of
obligations will increase the volatility of the net asset value of shares of
the Funds.
State Considerations
The value of Tax Exempt Obligations owned by the Funds may be adversely
affected by local political and economic conditions and developments within a
particular state. Adverse conditions in an industry significant to a local
economy could have a correspondingly adverse effect on the financial condition
of local issuers. Other factors that could affect Tax Exempt Obligations
include a change in the local, state or national economy, demographic factors,
ecological or environmental concerns, statutory limitations on the issuer's
ability to increase taxes and other developments generally affecting the
revenues of issuers (for example, legislation or court decisions reducing state
aid to local governments or mandatory additional services). A summary
description of certain factors affecting and statistics describing issuers of
Tax Exempt Obligations of each applicable state is set forth below. Such
information has been taken from publicly available offering documents relating
to the relevant state or issuers located in such state. No Fund or its Adviser
has independently verified this information and no Fund or its Adviser makes
any representation regarding such information. See "Special Factors Affecting
the Funds" in the Statement of Additional Information.
Arizona's primary economic sectors include services, trade, tourism
and manufacturing. Arizona maintained a general fund surplus of $399.9 million
(on general fund revenues of approximately $4.663 billion) for its 1996 fiscal
year. Currently there are no general obligation ratings for the state.
California's primary economic sectors are agriculture, services, trade and
manufacturing. In 1994, Orange County, California filed a voluntary petition
under the bankruptcy code. Moody's and Standard & Poor's suspended, reduced to
below investment grade levels, or placed on "Credit Watch" various securities
of the County and the entities participating in the pooled investment fund.
California projects a general fund surplus of $648 million for its 1996-97
fiscal year (on estimated revenues of approximately $48.4 billion). Currently,
California's general obligation bonds are rated A1 by Moody's, A by S&P and "A+"
by Fitch Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch"). Colorado's economy is based
primarily on services. Colorado maintained a generally balanced budget for its
1996 fiscal year (on general fund revenues of approximately $4.269 billion).
Currently there are no general obligation ratings for Colorado. Florida's
economy is based primarily on the services sector and tourism in particular.
Florida projected unencumbered reserves of $610.1 million for its 1996-1997
fiscal year (on estimated revenues of approximately $15.567 billion). Currently,
Florida's general obligation bonds are rated Aa by Moody's and AA by S&P.
Idaho's primary economic sectors are services, agriculture, manufacturing and
mining. Idaho maintained a fiscal year 1996 general fund surplus of
approximately $11.7 million (on revenues of approximately $1.351 billion).
Currently there are no general obligation ratings for Idaho. Iowa's primary
economic sectors are services, manufacturing and agriculture. Iowa maintained an
unreserved fund balance of approximately $201.6 million (on revenues of
approximately $4.405 billion) for its fiscal year 1996. Currently there are no
general obligation ratings for Iowa. Kansas' economy is based primarily on
agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Kansas projected a positive general
fund balance for its 1997 fiscal year (on estimated general fund revenues of
approximately $3.527 billion). Currently there are no general obligation ratings
for Kansas. Minnesota's economy is based primarily on agriculture, manufacturing
and services. Minnesota projects a balanced general fund at the end of its 1997
biennium of $502.4 million (based on estimated General Fund revenues of $19.1
billion). Currently Minnesota's general obligation bonds are rated Aaa by
Moody's, AA+ by S&P and AAA by Fitch. Missouri's primary economic sectors are
services, manufacturing and agriculture. Missouri had a general fund surplus of
$335.4 million
25 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 28
for its 1996 fiscal year (on revenues of approximately $5.442 billion).
Currently Missouri's general obligation bonds are rated Aaa by Moody's, AAA by
S&P and AAA by Fitch. New Mexico's economy is based primarily on agriculture
but also has tourism, services and mining sectors. New Mexico projected a $144
million general fund surplus for its 1996 fiscal year (on estimated revenues of
approximately $2.757 billion). Currently New Mexico's general obligation bonds
are rated Aa1 by Moody's and AA+ by S&P. New York's economy is based primarily
on services and tourism. New York projects a general fund balance of $358
million for its 1997 fiscal year, and a projected surplus of $1.3 billion for
its 1996-97 General Fund Financial Plan (based on total estimated revenues of
$32.966 billion). The City's 1996-99 Financial Plan successfully implemented a
$3.1 billion gap-closing program for the 1996 fiscal year. Currently, New
York's general obligation bonds are rated A by Moody's and A- by S&P. The
City's general obligation bonds are rated Baa1 by Moody's and A- by S&P. North
Dakota's economy is based primarily on agriculture and services. North Dakota
projects a positive fund balance for its 1997 biennium of $63 million (on
revenues of approximately $1.37 billion). Currently North Dakota's general
obligation bonds are rated Aa by Moody's and AA- by S&P. Oregon's economy is
based primarily on forestry, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism sectors.
Oregon expects to maintain a general fund surplus of approximately $536.3
million for its 1997 biennium (on estimated revenue of approximately $7.399
billion). Currently Oregon's general obligation bonds are rated Aa by Moody's
and AA by S&P. Utah's economy is based primarily on services, agriculture and
mining sectors. Utah maintained a general and Uniform School fund surplus of
approximately $9.1 million for its 1996 fiscal year (on estimated revenues of
approximately $2.67 billion). Currently Utah's general obligation bonds are
rated Aaa by Moody's, AAA by S&P and AAA by Fitch. Washington's economy is
based primarily on manufacturing and service sectors as well as agriculture and
timber production. Washington projected a positive general fund surplus for its
1995-1997 biennium (on estimated revenues of approximately $18.3 billion).
Currently Washington's general obligation bonds are rated Aa by Moody's and AA
by S&P. Wisconsin's economy is based primarily on agriculture, services and
manufacturing. Wisconsin maintained a general fund balance of $442 million for
its 1996 fiscal year (on estimated revenues of approximately $20.686 billion).
Currently Wisconsin's general obligation bonds are rated Aa by Moody's and AA
by S&P.
I n v e s t m e n t R e s t r i c t i o n s
Each Fund has adopted certain investment restrictions in addition to those set
forth above, which are set forth in their entirety in the Statement of
Additional Information. Certain of these restrictions are fundamental and
cannot be changed without shareholder approval, including the restriction
providing that no Fund may borrow money, except from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes in an amount not exceeding 20% of the value of its total
assets (10% for Colorado Tax Free Fund) (certain Funds may also borrow money in
the form of reverse repurchase agreements up to 10% of total assets). Also,
certain Funds may not, as a matter of fundamental policy invest more than 15%
of their net assets in illiquid securities and pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or
otherwise encumber their assets in excess of 10% of net assets. See "Investment
Policies and Restrictions--Investment Restrictions" in the Statement of
Additional Information. Each Fund also has a number of non-fundamental
investment restrictions which may be changed by the Fund's Board without the
shareholder approval. These include restrictions providing that no Fund may (a)
invest more than 5% of its total assets in securities of any single investment
company or (b) invest more than 10% of its total assets in securities of two or
more investment companies. To the extent that a Fund invests in the securities
of other open- end investment companies, the Adviser will take appropriate
action to avoid subjecting such Fund's shareholders to duplicate management and
other fees and expenses.
26 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 29
Any investment restriction or limitation which involves a maximum
percentage of securities or assets shall not be considered to be violated
unless an excess over the percentage occurs immediately after an acquisition of
securities or a utilization of assets and such excess results therefrom.
H o w t o P u r c h a s e S h a r e s
Alternative Purchase Arrangements
The Funds offer investors the choice among three classes of shares which offer
different sales charges and bear different expenses. These alternatives permit
an investor to choose the method of purchasing shares that is most beneficial
given the amount of the purchase, the length of time the investor expects to
hold the shares and other circumstances. Page 2 of the Prospectus contains a
summary of these alternative purchase arrangements.
A broker-dealer may receive different levels of compensation depending
on which class of shares is sold. In addition, the Underwriter from time to
time pays certain additional cash incentives of up to $100 and/or non cash
incentives such as vacations or merchandise to its investment executives and
other broker-dealers and financial institutions in consideration of their
sales of Fund shares. In some instances, the Underwriter pays amounts not to
exceed 1.25% of a Fund's net assets (such as payments related to retention of
shares sold by a particular broker-dealer or financial institution for a
specified period of time), to broker-dealers and financial institutions who
meet certain objective standards developed by the Underwriter.
General Purchase Information
The minimum initial investment in each Fund is $1,000, and the minimum
additional investment is $100. Each Fund's shares may be purchased at the
public offering price from the Underwriter, from other broker-dealers who are
members of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. and who have
selling agreements with the Underwriter, and from certain financial
institutions that have selling agreements with the Underwriter.
When orders are placed for shares of a Fund, the public offering price
used for the purchase will be the net asset value per share next determined,
plus the applicable sales charge, if any. If an order is placed with the
Underwriter or other broker-dealer, the broker-dealer is responsible for
promptly transmitting the order to the Fund. The Fund reserves the right, in
its absolute discretion, to reject any order for the purchase of shares.
Shares of the Funds may be purchased by opening an account either by
mail, by phone or wire.
An investor who may be interested in having shares redeemed shortly
after purchase should consider making unconditional payment by certified check
or other means approved in advance by the Underwriter. Payment of redemption
proceeds will be delayed as long as necessary to verify by expeditious means
that the purchase payment has been or will be collected. Such period of time
typically will not exceed 15 days.
Automatic Investment Plan
Investors may make systematic investments in fixed amounts automatically on a
monthly basis through each Fund's Automatic Investment Plan. Additional
information is available from the Underwriter by calling 800-523-1918.
Purchases by Mail
To open an account by mail, an investment application must be completed, signed
and sent with a check payable to the specific applicable Fund and Class
selected to:
27 YOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 30
Through May 11, 1997:
NW 9369
P.O. Box 1450
Minneapolis, MN 55485-9369
Beginning May 12, 1997:
Delaware Group
1818 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Purchases by Telephone
To open an account by telephone, call 1-800-523-4640 to obtain an account
number and instructions. Information concerning the account will be taken over
the phone. The investor must then request a commercial bank with which he or
she has an account and which is a member of the Federal Reserve System to
transmit Federal Funds by wire to the appropriate Fund as follows:
Through May 11, 1997:
Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A.
ABA#091000019
For Credit of: (insert applicable Fund name)
Checking Account No.: 872-458
Account Number: (assigned by telephone)
Beginning May 12, 1997:
CORESTATES, N.A.
For Credit for: (insert applicable Fund name)
ABA# #031000011
Account Number #1412893401
Information on how to transmit Federal Funds by wire is available at
any national bank or any state bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve
System. The bank may charge the shareholder for the wire transfer. If the phone
order and Federal Funds are received before the close of trading on the
Exchange, the order will be deemed to become effective at that time. Otherwise,
the order will be deemed to become effective as of the close of trading on the
Exchange on the next day the Exchange is open for trading. The investor will be
required to complete the Investment Application and mail it to the Fund after
making the initial telephone purchase.
Class A Shares--Front End Sales Charge Alternative
The public offering price of Class A shares of each Fund is the net asset value
of the Fund's shares plus the applicable front end sales charge ("FESC"), which
will vary with the size of the purchase. The Fund receives the net asset value.
The FESC varies depending on the size of the purchase and is allocated between
the Underwriter and other broker-dealers.
The current sales charges are:
Group 1* Funds
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales Charge Sales Charge Dealer Discount
as % of as % of as % of
Amount of Purchase Net Asset Value Offering Price Offering Price(1)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Less than $50,000 3.90% 3.75% 3.25%
$50,000 but less than $100,000 3.63 3.50 3.00
$100,000 but less than $250,000 2.83 2.75 2.50
</TABLE>
28 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 31
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
$250,000 but less than $500,000 2.04 2.00 1.75
$500,000 but less than $1,000,000 1.78 1.75 1.75
$1,000,000 or more NAV(3) NAV(3) 1.00(2)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Group 2** Funds
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales Charge
Sales Charge as % of Dealer Discount
as % of Offering as % of
Amount of Purchase Net Asset Value Price Offering Price(1)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Less than $50,000 2.83% 2.75% 2.25%
$50,000 but less than $100,000 2.56 2.50 2.00
$100,000 but less than $250,000 1.78 1.75 1.50
$250,000 but less than $500,000 1.01 1.00 0.75
$500,000 but less than $1,000,000 0.76 0.75 0.75
$1,000,000 or more NAV3 NAV3 0.502
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
1 Brokers and dealers who receive 90% or more of the sales charge may be
considered to be underwriters under the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended.
2 The Underwriter intends to pay its investment executives and other
broker-dealers and banks that sell Fund shares, out of its own assets, a
fee of up to 1% (.50% for Group 2 Funds) of the offering price of sales
of $1,000,000 or more, other than on sales not subject to a contingent
deferred sales charge.
3 Purchases of $1,000,000 or more may be subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge at the time of redemption. See "How to Sell
Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge."
* Group 1 Funds: Arizona Tax Free, Arizona Insured Tax Free, California
Tax Free, California Insured Tax Free, Colorado Tax Free, Colorado
Insured Tax Florida Tax Free, Florida Insured Tax Free, Free, Idaho Tax
Free, Iowa Tax Free, Kansas Tax Free, Minnesota Tax Free, Minnesota
Insured, Missouri Insured Tax Free, New Mexico Tax Free, New York
Tax-Free Fund, North Dakota Tax Free, Oregon Insured Tax Free,
Washington Insured Tax Free, Wisconsin Tax Free and Utah Tax Free.
** Group 2 Funds: Arizona Limited Term Tax Free, California Limited Term
Tax Free, Colorado Limited Term Tax Free, Florida Limited Term Tax Free
and Minnesota Limited Term Tax Free.
In connection with the distribution of the Funds' Class A shares, the
Underwriter is deemed to receive all applicable sales charges. The Underwriter,
in turn, pays its investment executives and other broker-dealers selling such
shares a "dealer discount," as set forth above. In the event that shares are
purchased by a financial institution acting as agent for its customers, the
Underwriter or the broker-dealer with whom such order was placed may pay all or
part of its dealer discount to such financial institution in accordance with
agreements between such parties.
Special Purchase Plans--Reduced Sales Charges
Certain investors (or groups of investors) may qualify for reductions in the
sales charges shown above. Investors should contact their broker-dealer or the
Funds for details about the Funds' Combined Purchase Privilege, Cumulative
Quantity Discount and Letter of Intention plans. Descriptions are also included
with the general authorization form and in the Statement of Additional
Information. These special purchase plans may be amended or eliminated at any
time by the Underwriter without notice to existing Fund shareholders.
Rule 12b-1 Fees
29 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 32
Class A shares are subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee payable at an annual rate of
.25% of the average daily net assets of a Fund attributable to Class A shares.
All or a portion of such fees are paid quarterly to financial institutions and
service providers with respect to the average daily net assets attributable to
shares sold or serviced by such institutions and service providers. For
additional information about this fee, see "Management--Plan of Distribution"
below.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
Although there is no initial sales charge on purchases of Class A shares of
$1,000,000 or more, the Underwriter pays investment dealers out of its own
assets, a fee of up to 1% (.50% for Group 2 Funds) of the offering price of
such shares. If these shares are redeemed within two years after purchase (one
year for Group 2 Funds), the redemption proceeds will be reduced by a
contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") of 1%. For additional information,
see "How to Sell Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge."
Waiver of Sales Charges
Purchases of Class A shares may be made at net asset value by current
and former officers, directors and employees (and members of their families) of
Voyageur or Delaware, any of their affiliates, any of the Voyageur or other
Delaware Group funds, certain of their agents and registered representatives
and employees of authorized investment dealers and by employee benefit plans
for such entities. Individual purchases, including those in retirement
accounts, must be for accounts in the name of the individual or a qualifying
family member.
Purchases of Class A shares may also be made by clients of registered
representatives of an authorized investment dealer at net asset value within 12
months after the registered representative changes employment, if the purchase
is funded by proceeds from an investment where a front-end sales charge,
contingent deferred sales charge or other sales charge has been assessed.
Purchases of Class A shares may also be made at net asset value by bank
employees who provide services in connection with agreements between the bank
and unaffiliated brokers or dealers concerning sales of shares of the Voyageur
or other Delaware Group funds. Officers, directors and key employees of
institutional clients of Voyageur or any of its affiliates may purchase Class A
shares at net asset value. Moreover, purchases may be effected at net asset
value for the benefit of the clients of brokers, dealers and registered
investment advisers affiliated with a broker or dealer, if such broker, dealer
or investment adviser has entered into an agreement with the Underwriter
providing specifically for the purchase of Class A shares in connection with
special investment products, such as wrap accounts or similar fee based
programs.
A Fund must be notified in advance that an investment qualifies for
purchase at net asset value.
Class B Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge Alternative
The public offering price of Class B shares of each Fund is the net asset value
of the Fund's shares. Class B shares are sold without an initial sales charge
so that the Fund receives the full amount of the investor's purchase. However,
a CDSC of up to 5% will be imposed if shares are redeemed within six years of
purchase. For additional information, see "How to Sell Shares--Contingent
Deferred Sales Charge." In addition, Class B shares are subject to higher Rule
12b-1 fees as described below. The CDSC will depend on the number of years
since the purchase was made according to the following table:
CDSC as a % of Amount Redeemed*
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Groups 1 Funds Group 2 Funds
CDSC Period CDSC CDSC Period CDSC
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
30 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 33
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1st year after purchase 5% 1st year after purchase 4%
2nd year after purchase 4 2nd year after purchase 3
3rd year after purchase 4 3rd year after purchase 3
4th year after purchase 3 4th year after purchase 2
5th year after purchase 2 5th year after purchase 1
6th year after purchase 1 Thereafter 0
Thereafter 0
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
* The CDSC will be calculated on an amount equal to the lesser of the net
asset value of the shares at the time of purchase or the net asset value at
the time of redemption.
Proceeds from the CDSC are paid to the Underwriter and are used to
defray expenses of the Underwriter related to providing distribution-related
services to the Funds in connection with the sale of Class B shares, such as
the payment of compensation to selected broker-dealers, and for selling Class B
shares. The combination of the CDSC and the Rule 12b-1 fee enables the Funds to
sell the Class B shares without deduction of a sales charge at the time of
purchase. Although Class B shares are sold without an initial sales charge at
the time the shares are sold, the Underwriter pays to brokers who sell Class B
Shares a sales commission equal to 4% (3% for Group 2) of the amount invested
to broker-dealers who sell Class B shares and pays an ongoing annual servicing
fee of .15% (paid quarterly) calculated on the net assets attributable to sales
made by such broker-dealers.
Rule 12b-1 Fees
Class B shares are subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee payable at an annual rate of 1%
of the average daily net assets of a Fund attributable to Class B shares. The
higher 12b-1 fee will cause Class B shares to have a higher expense ratio and
to pay lower dividends than Class A shares. For additional information about
this fee, see "Fees and Expenses" above and "Management--Plan of Distribution"
below.
Conversion Feature
On the first business day of the month eight years after the purchase date,
Class B shares will automatically convert to Class A shares and will no longer
be subject to a higher Rule 12b-1 fee. Such conversion will be on the basis of
the relative net asset values of the two classes. Class A shares issued upon
such conversion will not be subject to any FESC or CDSC. Class B shares
acquired by exchange from Class B shares of another Voyageur Fund (or effective
May 12, 1997 from another fund in the Delaware Group) will convert into Class A
shares based on the time of the initial purchase. Similarly, Class B shares
acquired by exercise of the Reinstatement Privilege will convert into Class A
shares based on the time of the original purchase of Class B shares. See
"Reinstatement Privilege" below. Class B shares acquired through reinvestment
of distributions will convert into Class A shares based on the date of issuance
of such shares.
Class C Shares--Level Load Alternative
The public offering price of Class C shares of each Fund is the net asset value
of the Fund's shares. Class C shares are sold without an initial sales charge
so that the Fund receives the full amount of the investor's purchase. However,
a CDSC of 1% (0.50% for Group 2 Funds) will be imposed if shares are redeemed
within one year of purchase. For additional information see "How to Sell
Shares-- Contingent Deferred Sales Charge." In addition, Class C shares are
subject to higher annual Rule 12b-1 fees as described below.
Rule 12b-1 Fees
Class C shares are subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee payable at an annual rate of 1%
of the average daily net assets of a Fund attributable to Class C shares. The
higher Rule 12b-1 fee will cause Class C shares to have a higher expense ratio
and to pay lower dividends
31 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 34
than Class A shares. For additional information about this fee, see "Fees and
Expenses" and "Management--Plan of Distribution."
Proceeds from the CDSC are paid to the Underwriter and are used to
defray expenses of the Underwriter related to providing distribution-related
services to the Funds in connection with the sale of Class C shares, such as
the payment of compensation to selected broker-dealers and for selling Class C
shares. The combination of the CDSC and the Rule 12b-1 fee enables the Funds to
sell the Class C shares without deduction of a sales charge at the time of
purchase. Although Class C shares are sold without an initial sales charge, the
Underwriter pays to brokers who sell Class C Shares a sales commission equal to
1% of the amount invested and an ongoing annual fee of .90% (paid quarterly
commencing in the thirteenth month after the sale of such shares) calculated on
the net assets attributable to sales made by such broker-dealers.
H o w t o S e l l S h a r e s
Each Fund will redeem its shares in cash at the net asset value next determined
after receipt of a shareholder's written request for redemption in good order
(see below). If shares for which payment has been collected are redeemed,
payment must be made within seven days. Each Fund may suspend this right of
redemption and may postpone payment only when the Exchange is closed for other
than customary weekends or holidays, or if permitted by the rules of the
Securities and Exchange Commission during periods when trading on the Exchange
is restricted or during any emergency which makes it impracticable for such
Fund to dispose of its securities or to determine fairly the value of its net
assets or during any other period permitted by order of the Commission for the
protection of investors.
Each Fund reserves the right and currently plans to redeem Fund shares
and mail the proceeds to the shareholder if at any time the value of Fund
shares in the account falls below a specified value, currently set at $250.
Shareholders will be notified and will have 60 days to bring the account up to
the required value before any redemption action will be taken by a Fund.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
The CDSC will be calculated on an amount equal to the lesser of the net asset
value of the shares at the time of purchase or their net asset value at the
time of redemption. No charge will be imposed on increases in net asset value
above the initial purchase price. In addition, no charge will be assessed on
shares derived from reinvestment of dividends or capital gains distributions.
In determining whether a CDSC is payable with respect to any
redemption, the calculation will be determined in the manner that results in
the lowest rate being charged. Therefore, it will be assumed that shares that
are not subject to the CDSC are redeemed first, shares subject to the lowest
level of CDSC are redeemed next, and so forth.
The CDSC does not apply to: (a) redemptions of Class B shares in
connection with the automatic conversion to Class A shares; (b) redemptions of
shares when a Fund exercises its right to liquidate accounts which are less
than the minimum account size; and (c) redemptions in the event of the death or
disability of the shareholder within the meaning of Section 72(m)(7) of the
Internal Revenue Code.
If a shareholder exchanges Class A, Class B or Class C shares subject
to a CDSC for Class A, Class B or Class C shares, respectively, of a different
Voyageur Fund, the transaction will not be subject to a CDSC. However, when
shares acquired through the exchange are redeemed, the shareholder will be
treated as if no exchange took place for the purpose of determining the CDSC.
Beginning May 12, 1997, Class A, Class B and Class C shares of funds in the
Delaware Group and the corresponding classes of the Funds
32 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 35
may be exchanged for each other. The same rules concerning treatment of CDSCs
will apply to permissible exchanges. Fund shares are exchangeable for shares
of any Voyageur money market funds. No CDSC will be imposed at the time of any
such exchange; however, the shares acquired in any such exchange will remain
subject to the CDSC and the period during which such shares represent shares of
the money market fund will not be included in determining how long the shares
have been held. Effective July 1, 1997, Class B and Class C shares of the Funds
may not be exchanged into shares of the Voyageur money market funds. Any CDSC
due upon a redemption of Fund shares will be reduced by the amount of any Rule
12b-1 payments made by such money market fund with respect to such shares.
Expedited Redemptions
Each Fund offers several expedited redemption procedures, described below,
which allow a shareholder to redeem Fund shares at net asset value determined
on the same day that the shareholder places the request for redemption of those
shares. Pursuant to these expedited redemption procedures, each Fund will
redeem its shares at their net asset value next determined following the Fund's
receipt of the redemption request. Each Fund reserves the right at any time to
suspend or terminate the expedited redemption procedures or to impose a fee for
this service. There is currently no additional charge to the shareholder for
use of the Funds' expedited redemption procedures.
Expedited Telephone Redemption
Shareholders redeeming at least $1,000 (for which certificates have not been
issued) may redeem by telephoning the Fund directly at 800-523-1918. The
applicable section of the Investment Application must have been completed by
the shareholder and filed with the Fund before the telephone request is
received. The proceeds of the redemption will be paid by check mailed to the
shareholder's address of record or, if requested at the time of redemption, by
wire to the bank designated on the Investment Application. Shareholders should
notify their Funds in writing if they do not wish to have such service
available to their accounts.
Neither the Fund nor its shareholder services and transfer agent is
responsible for any shareholder loss incurred in acting upon written or
telephone instructions for redemption of Fund shares which are reasonably
believed to be genuine. With respect to such telephone transactions, the Fund
will follow reasonable procedures to confirm that instructions communicated by
telephone are genuine (including verification of a form of personal
identification) as, if it does not, the Fund or the shareholder services and
transfer agent may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent
transactions. Instructions received by telephone are generally tape recorded,
and a written conformation will be provided for all purchase and redemption
transactions initiated by telephone. These procedures also apply to written
and telephone exchange requests. By exchanging shares by telephone, you are
acknowledging prior receipt of a prospectus for the fund into which your shares
are being exchanged.
Expedited Redemptions Through Certain Broker Dealers
Certain broker-dealers who have sales agreements with the Underwriter may allow
their customers to effect a redemption of shares of a Fund purchased through
such broker-dealer by notifying the broker-dealer of the amount of shares to be
redeemed. The broker-dealer is then responsible for promptly placing the
redemption request with the Fund on the customer's behalf. Payment will be made
to the shareholder by check or wire sent to the broker-dealer. Broker-dealers
offering this service may impose a fee or additional requirements for such
redemptions.
Good Order
"Good order" means that stock certificates, if issued, must accompany the
written request for redemption and must be duly endorsed for transfer, or must
be accompanied
33 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 36
by a duly executed stock power. If no stock certificates have been issued, a
written request to redeem must be made. Stock certificates will not be issued
for Class B or Class C shares. In any case, the shareholder must execute the
redemption request exactly as the shares are registered. If the redemption
proceeds are to be paid to the registered holder(s), a signature guarantee is
not normally required. A signature guarantee is required in certain other
circumstances, for example, to redeem more than $50,000 or to have a check
mailed other than to the shareholder's address of record. See "Other
Information" in the Statement of Additional Information. The Funds' transfer
agent may waive certain of these redemption requirements at its own risk, but
also reserves the right to require signature guarantees on all redemptions, in
contexts perceived by the Funds' transfer agent to subject the Funds to an
unusual degree of risk.
Monthly Cash Withdrawal Plan
An investor who owns or buys shares of any Fund valued at $5,000 or more
at the current offering price may open a Withdrawal Plan and have monthly
withdrawals of $25 or more paid to the investor or another person. Deferred
sales charges may apply to monthly redemptions of Class B or Class C shares.
See "Monthly Cash Withdrawal Plan" in the Statement of Additional Information.
R e i n s t a t e m e n t P r i v i l e g e
An investor in a Fund whose shares have been redeemed and who has not
previously exercised the Reinstatement Privilege as to such Fund may reinvest
the proceeds of such redemption in Class A shares of any Voyageur Fund or
Delaware Group fund eligible for sale in the shareholder's state of residence.
Reinvestment will be at the net asset value of Fund shares next determined
after the Underwriter receives a check along with a letter requesting
reinstatement. The Underwriter must receive the letter requesting reinstatement
within 365 days following the redemption. Investors who desire to exercise the
Privilege should contact their broker-dealer or the Fund.
Exercise of the Reinstatement Privilege does not alter the income tax
treatment of any capital gains realized on a sale of shares of a Fund, but to
the extent that any shares are sold at a loss and the proceeds are reinvested
within 30 days in shares of such Fund, some or all of the loss may not be
allowed as a deduction, depending upon the number of shares reacquired.
E x c h a n g e P r i v i l e g e
Except as described below, shareholders may exchange some or all of their Fund
shares for shares of another Voyageur Fund, provided that the shares to be
acquired in the exchange are eligible for sale in the shareholder's state of
residence. Class A shareholders may exchange their shares for Class A shares of
other Voyageur Funds. Class B shareholders may exchange their shares for the
Class B shares of other Voyageur Funds and Class C shareholders may exchange
their shares for the Class C shares of other Voyageur Funds. Shares of each
class may also be exchanged for shares of the Voyageur money market funds.
Effective July 1, 1997, however, only Class A shares may be exchanged into such
money market funds.
Beginning May 12, 1997, Class A, Class B and Class C shares of the
Funds may be exchanged into the corresponding classes of shares of the retail
funds in the Delaware Group that have such classes. In addition, each of the
three money market funds in the Delaware Group has class A shares and a
consultant class. The consultant class of each of these funds is subject to a
Rule 12b-1 Plan; however, only the consultant class of Delaware Cash Reserve
currently assesses a fee under its 12b-1 Plan. The Class A
34 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 37
shares of the Funds may be exchanged into either class A shares or the
consultant class of these three funds.
The minimum amount which may be exchanged is $1,000. The exchange will
be made on the basis of the relative net asset values next determined after
receipt of the exchange request. For a discussion of issues relating to the
contingent deferred sales charge upon such exchanges, see "How to Sell
Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge." There is no specific limitation on
exchange frequency; however, the Funds are intended for long term investment
and not as a trading vehicle. The Funds reserve the right to prohibit excessive
exchanges (more than four per quarter). The Funds also reserve the right, upon
60 days' prior notice, to restrict the frequency of, or otherwise modify,
condition, terminate or impose charges upon, exchanges. An exchange is
considered to be a sale of shares on which the investor may realize a capital
gain or loss for income tax purposes. Exchange requests may be placed directly
with the fund in which the investor owns shares, through the Fund's transfer
agent or through other broker-dealers. An investor considering an exchange
should obtain a prospectus of the Fund to be acquired and should read such
prospectus carefully. Contact any of the Funds, the Funds' transfer agent or
any of such other broker-dealers for further information about the exchange
privilege.
M a n a g e m e n t
The Boards of Directors, or Trustees, as the case may be, of the Funds are
responsible for managing the business and affairs of the Funds. The names,
addresses, principal occupations and other affiliations of Directors or Trustees
and executive officers of the Funds are set forth in the Statement of Additional
Information.
Investment Adviser; Portfolio Management
Prior to May 1, 1997, Voyageur had been retained under an investment
advisory contract to act as each Fund's investment adviser, subject to the
authority of the Board of Directors or Trustees, as appropriate for each Fund.
Voyageur is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Dougherty Financial Group,
Inc. ("DFG"). After the close of business on April 30, 1997, Voyageur became
an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Lincoln National Corporation ("LNC") as
a result of LNC's acquisition of DFG. LNC, headquartered in Fort Wayne,
Indiana, owns and operates insurance and investment management businesses,
including Delaware Management Holdings, Inc. ("DMH"). Affiliates of DMH serve
as adviser, distributor and transfer agent for the Delaware Group of Mutual
Funds which currently includes 16 open-end funds and 2 closed-end funds
(comprising 48 separate investment portfolios). DMH, through its subsidiaries,
is responsible for the management of approximately $32 billion.
Because LNC's acquisition of DFG resulted in a change of control of
Voyageur, the Funds' previous investment advisory agreements with Voyageur were
"assigned," as that term is defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, and
the previous agreements therefore terminated upon the completion of the
acquisition. The Boards of Directors and Trustees of the Funds unanimously
approved new investment advisory agreements at a meeting held in person on
February 14, 1997, and called for a shareholders meeting to approve the new
agreements. At a meeting held on April 11, 1997, the shareholders of each Fund
approved its respective investment advisory agreements with either Voyageur or
Delaware to become effective after the close of business on April 30, 1997, the
date the acquisition was completed.
Beginning May 1, 1997, Delaware, an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary
of LNC, was retained as investment manager of Arizona Limited Term Tax Free
Fund, California Limited Term Tax Free Fund, Colorado Insured Tax Free Fund,
Colorado
35 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 38
Limited Term Tax Free Fund, the Florida Funds, and New York Tax Free Fund.
Voyageur was retained as investment manager for the other Funds.
Each Fund pays its respective investment manager a monthly investment
advisory and management fee equivalent on an annual basis to .50% of its
average daily net assets except each Limited Term Tax Free Fund pays .40% of
its average daily net assets.
Andrew M. McCullagh, Jr. has had, since inception, day-to-day
portfolio management responsibility for the Arizona Insured Tax Free and
Arizona Tax Free Funds, California Insured Tax Free and California Tax Free
Funds, Colorado Tax Fee Fund, as well as the New Mexico Fund, North Dakota Fund
and Utah Fund. Mr. McCullagh was a Director of Voyageur and the Voyageur Fund
Distributors, Inc. from 1993 through 1995 and has been Senior Tax Exempt
Portfolio Manager for Voyageur since January 1990. He is President of Colorado
Tax Free Fund and is an Executive Vice President of each of the other Voyageur
Funds. Mr. McCullagh currently has over 23 years experience in municipal bond
trading, underwriting and portfolio management.
Elizabeth H. Howell has had, since 1991, day-to-day portfolio
management responsibility for the Minnesota Funds, as well as, since inception,
the Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Oregon and Washington Funds. In addition, on May
1, 1997, Ms. Howell resumed day-to-day portfolio management responsibility
for the Iowa and Wisconsin Funds, which she managed from their inception to
July 1995. Ms. Howell is a Vice President and Senior Tax Exempt Portfolio
Manager for Voyageur, where she has been employed since 1991 and is a Vice
President of each of the Voyageur Funds. Ms. Howell has over ten years
experience as a securities analyst and portfolio manager.
Patrick P. Coyne and Mitchell L. Conery, each a Vice President/Senior
Portfolio Manager of Florida Tax Free Fund, Florida Insured Tax Free Fund,
Florida Limited Term Tax Free Fund and New York Tax Free Fund assumed primary
responsibility for making day-to-day investment decisions for these Funds on
May 1, 1997. Mr. McCullagh assists Mr. Coyne and Mr. Conery with the
management of the Florida Funds. Mr. Coyne is a graduate of Harvard University
with an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. Prior to
joining joined the Delaware Group's fixed-income department in 1990, Mr. Coyne
was as a manager of Kidder, Peabody & Co. Inc.'s trading desk, and specialized
in trading high grade municipal bonds and municipal futures contracts. Mr.
Coyne is a member of the Municipal Bond Club of Philadelphia. Mr. Conery
joined Delaware Group in January 1997. He holds a bachelor's degree from
Boston University and an MBA in Finance from the State University of New York
at Albany. He has served as an investment officer with Travelers Insurance and
as a research analyst with CS First Boston and MBIA Corporation. Mr. Coyne and
Mr. Conery are also Vice Presidents/Senior Portfolio Managers for Delaware
Group Tax-Free Fund, Inc. and DMC Tax-Free Income Trust - Pennsylvania.
In making investment decisions for the Florida Funds, Mr. Coyne and
Mr. Conery regularly consult with Paul E. Suckow and other members of Delaware
Group's fixed-income department. Mr. Suckow is Executive Vice President/Chief
Investment Officer, Fixed Income of the Funds and each of the other funds in
the Delaware Group. He is a CFA charterholder and a graduate of Bradley
University with an MBA from Western Illinois University. Mr. Suckow was a
fixed-income portfolio manager at the Delaware Group from 1981-1985. He
returned to the Delaware Group in 1993 after eight years with Oppenheimer
Manager Corporation where he served as Executive Vice President and Director of
Fixed Income.
Plan of Distribution
Each Fund has adopted a Plan of Distribution under the 1940 Act (the "Plan")
and has entered into a Distribution Agreement with Delaware Distributors, L.P.
(the "Underwriter"). Pursuant to each Fund's Plan, the Fund pays the
Underwriter a Rule 12b-1 fee, at an annual rate of .25% of the Fund's average
daily net assets attributable to
36 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 39
Class A shares and 1% of the Fund's average daily net assets attributable to
each of Class B and Class C shares for servicing of shareholder accounts and
distribution related services. Payments made under the Plan are not tied
exclusively to expenses actually incurred by the Underwriter and may exceed or
be less than expenses actually incurred by the Underwriter. Please see the
"Fees and Expenses" table at the beginning of this Prospectus for information
with respect to fee waivers, if any.
All of the Rule 12b-1 fee attributable to Class A shares, and a
portion of the fee equal to .25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund
attributable to each of Class B shares and Class C shares constitutes a
shareholder servicing fee designed to compensate the Underwriter for the
provision of certain services to the shareholders. The services provided may
include personal services provided to shareholders, such as answering
shareholder inquiries regarding the Funds and providing reports and other
information, and services related to the maintenance of shareholder accounts.
The Underwriter may use such Rule 12b-1 fee or portion thereof to make payments
to qualifying broker-dealers and financial institutions that provide such
services.
That portion of the Rule 12b-1 fee equal to .75% of the average daily
net assets of the Fund attributable to Class B shares and Class C shares,
respectively, constitutes a distribution fee designed to compensate the
Underwriter for advertising, marketing and distributing the Class B shares and
Class C shares of each Fund. In connection therewith, the Underwriter may
provide initial and ongoing sales compensation to its investment executives and
other broker-dealers for sales of Class B shares and Class C shares and may pay
for other advertising and promotional expenses in connection with the
distribution of Class B shares and Class C shares. The distribution fee
attributable to Class B shares and Class C shares is designed to permit an
investor to purchase such shares through investment executives of the
Underwriter and other broker-dealers without the assessment of an initial
sales charge and at the same time to permit the Underwriter to compensate its
investment executives and other broker-dealers in connection with the sale of
such shares.
Custodian; Dividend Disbursing, Transfer, Administrative and Account Services
Agent
Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A. serves as the custodian of each Fund's portfolio
securities and cash.
Delaware Service Company, Inc. ("DSC") acts as each Fund's dividend
disbursing, transfer, administrative and fund accounting agent to perform
dividend-paying functions, to calculate each Fund's daily share price, to
maintain shareholder records and to perform certain regulatory and compliance
related services for the Funds.
Certain institutions may act as sub-transfer agents for one or more of
the Funds pursuant to contracts with DSC, whereby the institutions will provide
shareholder services to their customers. DSC will pay such sub-administrators'
fees out of its own assets. The fee paid by DSC to any sub-administrator will
be a matter of negotiation between the institution and DSC based on the extent
and quality of the services provided.
Expenses of the Funds
In connection with the merger transaction described above, Voyageur and Delaware
have agreed for a period of two years ending on April 30, 1999, to pay the
operating expenses (excluding interest expense, taxes, brokerage fees,
commissions and Rule 12b-1 fees and, with respect to the Insured Funds, premiums
with respect to Portfolio Insurance or Secondary Market Insurance) of each Fund
which exceed 1% of such Fund's average daily net assets on an annual basis up to
certain limits as set forth in detail in the Statement of Additional
Information. This agreement replaces a similar provision in the Funds'
investment advisory contracts with the Funds' predecessor investment adviser.
In addition, Voyageur, Delaware and the Underwriter reserve the right to
voluntarily waive their fees in whole or part and to voluntarily absorb certain
other of the Funds' expenses.
37 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 40
Each Fund's expenses include, among others, fees of directors,
expenses of directors' and shareholders' meetings, insurance premiums, expenses
of redemption of shares, expenses of the issue and sale of shares (to the
extent not otherwise borne by the Underwriter), expenses of printing and
mailing stock certificates and shareholder statements, association membership
dues, charges of such Fund's custodian, bookkeeping, auditing and legal
expenses, the fees and expenses of registering such Fund and its shares with
the Securities and Exchange Commission and registering or qualifying its shares
under state securities laws and expenses of preparing and mailing prospectuses
and reports to existing shareholders.
Portfolio Transactions
No Fund will effect any brokerage transactions in its portfolio securities with
any broker-dealer affiliated directly or indirectly with a Fund's investment
adviser unless such transactions, including the frequency thereof, the receipt
of commissions payable in connection therewith and the selection of the
affiliated broker-dealer effecting such transactions, are not unfair or
unreasonable to the shareholders of such Fund. It is not anticipated that any
Fund will effect any brokerage transactions with any affiliated broker-dealer,
including the Underwriter, unless such use would be to such Fund's advantage.
The Fund's investment adviser may consider sales of shares of the funds in the
Delaware Group as a factor in the selection of broker-dealers to execute the
Funds' securities transactions.
D e t e r m i n a t i o n o f N e t A s s e t V a l u e
The net asset value of Fund shares is determined once daily, Monday through
Friday, as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange
(ordinarily 4 p.m. Eastern time) each business day the Exchange is open for
trading.
For each Fund, the net asset value per share of each class is
determined by dividing the value of the securities, cash and other assets of
the Fund attributable to such class less all liabilities attributable to such
class by the total number of shares of such class outstanding. For purposes of
determining the net assets of each Fund, tax exempt securities are stated on
the basis of valuations provided by a pricing service, approved by the Boards of
Directors or Trustees, which uses information with respect to transactions in
bonds, quotations from bond dealers, market transactions in comparable
securities and various relationships between securities in determining value.
Market quotations are used when available. Non-tax exempt securities for which
market quotations are readily available are stated at market value which is
currently determined using the last reported sale price, or, if no sales are
reported, as in the case of most securities traded over-the-counter, the last
reported bid price, except that U.S. Government securities are stated at the
mean between the last reported bid and asked prices. Short-term notes having
remaining maturities of 60 days or less are stated at amortized cost which
approximates market. All other securities and other assets are valued in good
faith at fair value by the Adviser in accordance with procedures adopted by the
Boards of Directors or Trustees.
D i s t r i b u t i o n s t o S h a r e h o l d e r s a n d T a x e s
DISTRIBUTIONS
The present policy of each Fund is to declare a distribution from net
investment income on each day that the Fund is open for business. Net
investment income consists of interest accrued on portfolio investments of a
Fund, less accrued expenses. Distributions of net investment income are paid
monthly. Short-term capital gains distributions are taxable to shareholders as
ordinary income. Net realized long term capital gains, if any, are
38 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 41
distributed annually, after utilization of any available capital loss
carryovers. Distributions paid by the Funds, if any, with respect to Class A,
Class B and Class C shares will be calculated in the same manner, at the same
time, on the same day and will be in the same amount, except that the higher
Rule 12b-1 fees applicable to Class B and Class C shares will be borne
exclusively by such shares. The per share distributions on Class B and Class C
shares will be lower than the per share distributions on Class A shares as a
result of the higher Rule 12b-1 fees applicable to Class B and Class C shares.
Shareholders receive distributions from investment income and capital
gains in additional shares of the Fund and class owned by such shareholders at
net asset value, without any sales charge, unless they elect otherwise. Each
Fund sends to its shareholders no less than quarterly statements with details
of any reinvested dividends.
Taxes
Federal Income Taxation
Each Fund is treated as a separate entity for federal income tax purposes. Each
Fund qualified during its last taxable year and each Fund intends to qualify
during its current taxable year as a regulated investment company under the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). Each Fund also intends
to take all other action required to ensure that no federal income taxes will
be payable by the Fund and that the Fund can pay exempt-interest dividends.
Distributions of net interest income from tax exempt obligations that
are designated by a Fund as exempt-interest dividends are excludable from the
gross income of the Fund's shareholders. Distributions paid from other interest
income and from any net realized short-term capital gains are taxable to
shareholders as ordinary income, whether received in cash or in additional
shares. Distributions paid from long-term capital gains (and designated as
such) are taxable as long-term capital gains for federal income tax purposes,
whether received in cash or shares, regardless of how long a shareholder has
held shares in a Fund.
Exempt-interest dividends attributable to interest income on certain
tax exempt obligations issued after August 7, 1986 to finance private
activities are treated as an item of tax preference for purposes of computing
the alternative minimum tax for individuals, estates and trusts. Each Fund may
invest up to 20% of its total assets in securities which generate interest
which is treated as an item of tax preference and subject to federal and state
AMT, except that Minnesota Insured Fund may invest without limitation in such
securities and Minnesota Tax Free Fund may not invest in obligations which
generate interest subject to federal and state AMT.
The following is a summary of certain information regarding state
taxation. See "Taxes" in the Statement of Additional Information.
Arizona State Taxation
The portion of exempt-interest dividends that is derived from interest income
on Arizona Tax Exempt Obligations is excluded from the Arizona taxable income
of individuals, estates, trusts, and corporations. Dividends qualifying for
federal income tax purposes as capital gain dividends are to be treated by
shareholders as long-term capital gains under Arizona law.
California State Taxation
Individual shareholders of the California Funds who are subject to California
personal income taxation will not be required to include in their California
gross income that portion of their federally tax exempt dividends which a Fund
clearly identifies as directly attributable to interest earned on California
state or municipal obligations, and dividends which a Fund clearly identifies
as directly attributable to interest earned on obligations of the United
States, the interest on which is exempt from California personal income tax
pursuant to federal law, provided that at least 50% of the value of the Fund's
total assets consists of obligations the interest on which is exempt from
California personal income taxation pursuant to federal or California law.
Distributions
39 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 42
to individual shareholders derived from interest on state or municipal
obligations issued by governmental authorities in states other than California,
short-term capital gains and other taxable income will be taxed as dividends
for purposes of California personal income taxation. Each Fund's long term
capital gains for federal income tax purposes will be taxed as long-term
capital gains to individual shareholders of the Fund for purposes of California
personal income taxation. Gain or loss, if any, resulting from an exchange or
redemption of shares will be recognized in the year of the change or
redemption.
Colorado State Taxation
To the extent that dividends are derived from interest income on Colorado Tax
Exempt Obligations, such dividends will also be exempt from Colorado income
taxes for individuals, trusts, estates, and corporations. Dividends qualifying
for federal income tax purposes as capital gain dividends are to be treated by
shareholders as long-term capital gains under Colorado law.
Florida State Taxation
Florida does not currently impose a tax on the income of individuals, and
individual shareholders of the Florida Funds will thus not be subject to income
tax in Florida on distributions from the Florida Funds or upon the sale of
shares held in such Funds. Florida does, however, impose a tax on intangible
personal property held by individuals as of the first day of each calendar
year. Under a rule promulgated by the Florida Department of Revenue, shares in
the Florida Funds will not be subject to the intangible property tax so long
as, on the last business day of each calendar year, all of the assets of each
Fund consist of obligations of the U. S. government and its agencies,
instrumentalities and territories, and the State of Florida and its political
subdivisions and agencies. If any Florida Fund holds any other types of assets
on that date, then the entire value of the shares in such Fund (except for the
portion of the value of the shares attributable to U. S. government
obligations) will be subject to the intangible property tax. Each Florida Fund
must sell any non-exempt assets held in its portfolio during the year and
reinvest the proceeds in exempt assets prior to December 31. Transaction costs
involved in converting the portfolio's assets to such exempt assets would
likely reduce the Florida Funds' investment return and might, in extraordinary
circumstances, exceed any increased investment return such Funds had achieved
by investing in non-exempt assets during the year. Corporate shareholders in
the Florida Funds may be subject to the Florida income tax imposed on
corporations, depending upon the domicile of the corporation and upon the
extent to which income received from such Fund constitutes "nonbusiness income"
as defined by applicable Florida law.
Idaho State Taxation
The Idaho Fund has received a ruling from the Idaho Department of Revenue that
provides that dividends paid by the Idaho Fund that are attributable to (a)
interest earned on bonds issued by the State of Idaho, its cities and political
subdivisions, and (b) interest earned on obligations of the U.S. government or
its territories and possessions will not be included in the income of Fund
shareholders subject to either the Idaho personal income tax or the Idaho
corporate franchise tax. All other dividends paid by the Idaho Fund will be
subject to the Idaho personal or corporate income tax. Capital gain dividends
qualifying as long-term capital gains for federal tax purposes will be treated
as long-term capital gains for Idaho income tax purposes. Idaho taxes long-term
capital gains at the same rates as ordinary income, while imposing limitations
on the deductibility of capital losses similar to those under federal law.
Iowa State Taxation
The Iowa Fund has received a ruling from the Iowa Department of Revenue and
Finance dated May 21, 1993 to the effect that dividends paid by the Iowa Fund
that are attributable to (a) interest earned on bonds issued by the State of
Iowa, its political
40 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 43
subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities, the interest on which is exempt
from taxation by Iowa statute, and (b) interest earned on obligations of the
U.S. government or its territories and possessions will not be included in the
income of the Fund shareholders subject to either the Iowa personal or the Iowa
corporate income tax, except in the case of shareholders that are financial
institutions subject to the tax imposed by Iowa Code Section 422.60. All other
dividends paid by the Iowa Fund will be subject to the Iowa personal or
corporate income tax. Capital gain dividends qualifying as long-term capital
gains for federal tax purposes will be treated as long-term capital gains for
Iowa income tax purposes.
Kansas State Taxation
Individuals, trusts, estates and corporations will not be subject to Kansas
income tax on the portion of dividends derived from interest on obligations of
Kansas and its political subdivisions issued after December 31, 1987, and
interest on specified obligations of Kansas and its political subdivisions
issued before January 1, 1988. The Fund intends to invest only in Kansas
obligations the interest on which is excludable from Kansas taxable income. All
remaining dividends (except for dividends, if any, derived from interest paid
on obligations of the United States, its territories and possessions),
including dividends derived from capital gains, will be includable in the
taxable income of individuals, trusts, estates, and corporations. Dividends
qualifying for federal income tax purposes as capital gain dividends are to be
treated by shareholders as long-term capital gains. Kansas taxes long-term
capital gains at the same rates as ordinary income, while restricting the
deductibility of capital losses. Dividends received by shareholders will be
exempt from the tax on intangibles imposed by certain counties, cities and
townships.
Minnesota State Taxation
Minnesota taxable net income is based generally on federal taxable income. The
portion of exempt-interest dividends that is derived from interest income on
Minnesota Tax Exempt Obligations is excluded from the Minnesota taxable net
income of individuals, estates and trusts, provided that the portion of the
exempt-interest dividends from such Minnesota sources paid to all shareholders
represents 95 percent or more of the exempt-interest dividends paid by the
respective Fund. Exempt-interest dividends are not excluded from the Minnesota
taxable income of corporations and financial institutions. Dividends qualifying
for federal income tax purposes as capital gain dividends are to be treated by
shareholders as long-term capital gains. Minnesota has repealed the favorable
treatment of long-term capital gains, while retaining restrictions on the
deductibility of capital losses. Exempt interest dividends subject to the
federal alternative minimum tax will also be subject to the Minnesota
alternative minimum tax imposed on individuals, estates and trusts.
The 1995 Minnesota Legislature has enacted a statement of intent that
interest on obligations of Minnesota governmental units and Indian tribes be
included in net income of individuals, estates and trusts for Minnesota income
tax purposes if a court determines that Minnesota's exemption of such interest
unlawfully discriminates against interstate commerce because interest on
obligations of governmental issuers located in other states is so included. This
provision applies to taxable years that begin during or after the calendar year
in which any such court decision becomes final, irrespective of the date on
which the obligations were issued. The Minnesota Limited Term Tax Free Fund,
the Minnesota Insured Fund, and the Minnesota Tax Free Fund are not aware of any
decision in which a court has held that a state's exemption of interest on its
own bonds or those of its political subdivisions or Indian tribes, but not of
interest on the bonds of other states or their political subdivisions or Indian
tribes, unlawfully discriminates against interstate commerce or otherwise
contravenes the United States Constitution. Nevertheless, the Funds cannot
predict the likelihood that interest on the
41 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 44
Minnesota Tax Exempt Obligations held by the Funds would become taxable under
this Minnesota statutory provision.
Missouri State Taxation
The portion of exempt interest dividends that is derived from interest on
Missouri Tax Exempt Obligations is excluded from the taxable income of
individuals, trusts, and estates and of corporations subject to the Missouri
corporate income tax. All remaining dividends (except dividends attributable to
interest on obligations of the United States, its territories and possessions),
including dividends derived from capital gains, will be includable in the
taxable income of individuals, trusts, estates and corporations. Dividends
qualifying for federal income tax purposes as capital gain dividends are to be
treated by shareholders as long-term capital gains. Missouri taxes long-term
capital gains at the same rates as ordinary income, while restricting the
deductibility of capital losses.
New York State and City Taxation
The portion of exempt-interest dividends that is derived from interest income
on New York Tax-Exempt Obligations is excluded from the New York State and New
York City gross income of individuals, estates and trusts; the remaining
portion of such dividends, and dividends that are not tax-exempt interest
dividends, are included in the New York State and New York City gross income of
individuals, estates, and trusts. Exempt-interest dividends are not excluded
from the New York State and New York City gross income of corporations and
banks, and dividends from the Fund will not qualify for the New York State or
New York City dividends-received deduction for corporations and banks.
New Mexico State Taxation
The portion of exempt interest dividends that is derived from interest on New
Mexico Tax Exempt Obligations is excluded from the taxable income of
individuals, trusts, and estates, and of corporations subject to the New Mexico
corporate income tax. The Fund will provide shareholders with an annual
statement identifying income paid to shareholders by source. All remaining
dividends (except for dividends, if any, derived from interest paid on
obligations of the United States, its territories and possessions), including
dividends derived from capital gains, will be includable in the taxable income
of individuals, trusts, estates and corporations. Dividends qualifying for
federal income tax purposes as capital gain dividends are to be treated by
shareholders as long-term capital gains. New Mexico taxes long-term capital
gains at the same rates as ordinary income, while restricting the deductibility
of capital losses.
North Dakota State Taxation
North Dakota taxable income is based generally on federal taxable income. The
portion of exempt interest dividends that is derived from interest income on
North Dakota Tax Exempt Obligations is excluded from the North Dakota taxable
income of individuals, estates, trusts and corporations. Exempt interest
dividends are not excluded from the North Dakota taxable income of banks.
Dividends qualifying for federal income tax purposes as capital gain dividends
are to be treated by shareholders as long-term capital gains under North Dakota
law.
Oregon State Taxation
The portion of exempt interest dividends that is derived from interest on
Oregon Tax Exempt Obligations is excluded from the taxable income of
individuals, trusts and estates. All remaining dividends (except for dividends,
if any, derived from interest paid on obligations of the United States, its
territories and possessions), including dividends derived from capital gains,
will be includable in the taxable income of individuals, trusts and estates.
Furthermore, all dividends, including exempt interest dividends, will be
includable in the taxable income of corporations subject to the Oregon
corporation excise tax. Dividends qualifying for federal income tax purposes as
capital gain dividends are to be treated by shareholders as long-term capital
gains. Oregon taxes long-term capital gains at the same rates as ordinary
income, while restricting the deductibility of capital losses.
42 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 45
Utah State Taxation
All exempt interest dividends, whether derived from interest on Utah Tax Exempt
Obligations or the Tax Exempt Obligations of any other state, are excluded from
the taxable income of individuals, trusts, and estates. Any remaining dividends
(except for dividends, if any, derived from interest paid on obligations of the
United States, its territories and possessions), including dividends derived
from capital gains, will be includable in the taxable income of individuals,
trusts, and estates. Furthermore, all dividends, including exempt interest
dividends, will be includable in the taxable income of corporations subject to
the Utah corporate franchise tax. Dividends qualifying for federal income tax
purposes as capital gain dividends are to be treated by shareholders as
long-term capital gains. Utah taxes long-term capital gains at the same rates
as ordinary income, while restricting the deductibility of capital losses.
Washington State Taxation
Washington does not currently impose an income tax on individuals or
corporations. Therefore, dividends paid to shareholders will not be subject to
tax in Washington.
Wisconsin State Taxation
The Wisconsin Fund has received a ruling from the Wisconsin Department of
Revenue dated July 7, 1993 to the effect that dividends paid by the Wisconsin
Fund that are attributable to (a) interest earned on certain higher education
bonds issued by the State of Wisconsin, certain bonds issued by the Wisconsin
Housing and Economic Development authority, Wisconsin Housing Finance Authority
bonds, and public housing authority bonds and redevelopment authority bonds
issued by Wisconsin municipalities, the interest on which is exempt from
taxation by Wisconsin statute, and (b) interest earned on obligations of the U.
S. government or its territories and possessions will not be included in the
income of the Fund shareholders subject to the Wisconsin personal income tax.
Capital gain dividends qualifying as long-term capital gains for federal tax
purposes will be treated as long-term capital gains for Wisconsin income tax
purposes.
The foregoing discussion relates to federal and state taxation as of
the date of the Prospectus. See "Taxes" in the Statement of Additional
Information. Distributions from the Funds, including exempt-interest dividends,
may be subject to tax in other states. This discussion is not intended as a
substitute for careful tax planning. You are urged to consult your tax adviser
with specific reference to your own tax situation.
I n v e s t m e n t P e r f o r m a n c e
Advertisements and other sales literature for the Funds may refer to "yield,"
"taxable equivalent yield," "average annual total return" and "cumulative total
return" and may compare such performance quotations with published indices and
comparable quotations of other funds. Performance quotations are computed
separately for Class A, Class B and Class C shares of the Funds. When a Fund
advertises any performance information, it also will advertise its average
annual total return as required by the rules of the Securities and Exchange
Commission and will include performance data for Class A, Class B and Class C
shares. All such figures are based on historical earnings and performance and
are not intended to be indicative of future performance. Additionally,
performance information may not provide a basis for comparison with other
investments or other mutual funds using a different method of calculating
performance. The investment return on and principal value of an investment in
any of the Funds will fluctuate, so that an investor's shares, when redeemed,
may be worth more or less than their original cost.
The advertised yield of each Fund will be based on a 30-day period
stated in the advertisement. Yield is calculated by dividing the net investment
income per share deemed earned during the period by the maximum offering price
per share on the last
43 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 46
day of the period. The result is then annualized using a formula that provides
for semiannual compounding of income.
Taxable equivalent yield is calculated by applying the stated income
tax rate only to that portion of the yield that is exempt from taxation. The
tax exempt portion of the yield is divided by the number 1 minus the stated
income tax rate (e.g., 1-28% = 72%). The result is then added to that portion
of the yield, if any, that is not tax exempt.
Average annual total return is the average annual compounded rate of
return on a hypothetical $1,000 investment made at the beginning of the
advertised period. In calculating average annual total return, the maximum
sales charge is deducted from the hypothetical investment and all dividends and
distributions are assumed to be reinvested.
Cumulative total return is calculated by subtracting a hypothetical
$1,000 payment to the Fund from the ending redeemable value of such payment (at
the end of the relevant advertised period), dividing such difference by $1,000
and multiplying the quotient by 100. In calculating ending redeemable value,
all income and capital gain distributions are assumed to be reinvested in
additional Fund shares and the maximum sales load is deducted.
Each Fund may also present total return information that does not
reflect the deduction of the maximum sales charges. In this case, such total
return information would be more favorable than total return information that
includes the deductions of the maximum sales charges.
In addition to advertising total return and yield, comparative
performance information may be used from time to time in advertising the Funds'
shares, including data from Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. and Morningstar.
For Fund performance information and daily net asset value quotations,
investors may call 800-523-4640. For additional information regarding the
calculation of a Fund's yield, taxable equivalent yield, average annual total
return and cumulative total return, see "Calculation of Performance Data" in
the Statement of Additional Information.
G e n e r a l I n f o r m a t i o n
Each Fund sends to its shareholders six-month unaudited and annual audited
financial statements.
The shares of the Funds constitute separate series of the parent
entities listed below. Certain of these parent entities are organized as
Minnesota corporations, and the shares of the series thereof are transferable
common stock, $.01 par value per share, of such corporations. Other parent
entities are organized as business trusts under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, and the shares of the series thereof represent transferable
common shares of beneficial interest. All shares of each corporation and of each
trust are non assessable and fully transferable when issued and paid for in
accordance with the terms thereof and possess no cumulative voting, preemptive
or conversion rights. The Board of each corporation and trust is empowered to
issue other series of common stock or common shares of beneficial interest
without shareholder approval. Set forth below is a listing of the parent
entities and constituent series, form of organization and date of organization
of the parent.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Parent Form of Organization Date Organized
------ -------------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
Voyageur Tax Free Funds, Inc. Minnesota Corporation November 10, 1983
Minnesota Tax Free
North Dakota Tax Free
</TABLE>
44 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 47
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Parent Form of Organization Date Organized
------ -------------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
Voyageur Intermediate Tax Free Funds, Inc. Minnesota Corporation January 21, 1985
Arizona Limited Term Tax Free
California Limited Term Tax Free
Colorado Limited Term Tax Free
Minnesota Limited Term Tax Free
Voyageur Insured Funds, Inc. Minnesota Corporation January 6, 1987
Arizona Insured Tax Free
Colorado Insured Tax Free
Minnesota Insured
Voyageur Investment Trust Massachusetts Business Trust September 16, 1991
California Insured Tax Free
Florida Insured Tax Free
Florida Tax Free
Kansas Tax Free
Missouri Insured Tax Free
New Mexico Tax Free
Oregon Insured Tax Free
Utah Tax Free
Washington Insured Tax Free
Voyageur Investment Trust II Massachusetts Business Trust November 16, 1993
Florida Limited Term Tax Free
Voyageur Mutual Funds, Inc. Minnesota Corporation April 14, 1993
Arizona Tax Free
California Tax Free
</TABLE>
45 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 48
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Parent Form of Organization Date Organized
------ -------------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
Idaho Tax Free
Iowa Tax Free
Wisconsin Tax Free
New York Tax-Free
Voyageur Mutual Funds II, Inc. Minnesota Corporation January 13, 1987
Colorado Tax Free
</TABLE>
The Funds currently offer their shares in multiple classes, each with
different sales arrangements and bearing different expenses. Class A, Class B
and Class C shares each represent interests in the assets of the respective
Funds and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights on the
same terms and conditions except that expenses related to the distribution of
each class are borne solely by such class and each class of shares has
exclusive voting rights with respect to provisions of a Fund's Rule 12b-1
distribution plan which pertain to a particular class and other matters for
which separate class voting is appropriate under applicable law.
Fund shares are freely transferable, subject to applicable securities
laws, are entitled to dividends as declared by the Board, and, in liquidation
of a Fund, are entitled to receive the net assets, if any, of such Fund. The
Funds do not generally hold annual meetings of shareholders and will do so only
when required by law.
Each share of a series has one vote irrespective of the relative net
asset value of the shares. On some issues, such as the election of Board
members, all shares of a corporation or trust vote together as one series of
such corporation or trust. On an issue affecting only a particular series or
class, the shares of the affected series or class vote as a separate series or
class. An example of such an issue would be a fundamental investment
restriction pertaining to only one series.
The assets received by a corporation or trust for the issue or sale of
shares of each series or class thereof, and all income, earnings, profits and
proceeds thereof, subject only to the rights of creditors, are allocated to
such series, and in the case of a class, allocated to such class, and
constitute the underlying assets of such series or class. The underlying assets
of each series or class thereof, are required to be segregated on the books of
account, and are to be charged with the expenses in respect to such series or
class thereof, and with a share of the general expenses of such corporation or
trust. Any general expenses of a corporation or trust not readily identifiable
as belonging to a particular series or class shall be allocated among the
series or classes thereof, based upon the relative net assets of the series or
class at the time such expenses were accrued. Each corporation's Articles of
Incorporation and trust's Declaration of Trust limit the liability of the
respective Board members to the fullest extent permitted by law. For a further
discussion of the above matters, see "Additional Information" in the Statement
of Additional Information.
In the opinion of the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission,
the use of this combined Prospectus may possibly subject all of the Funds to a
certain amount of liability for any losses arising out of any statement or
omission in this Prospectus regarding a particular Fund. In the opinion of the
Funds' executive officers, however, the risk of such liability is not
materially increased by the use of a combined Prospectus.
NO DEALER, SALES REPRESENTATIVE OR OTHER PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY
INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN THIS
PROSPECTUS (AND/OR IN THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REFERRED TO ON
THE COVER PAGE OF THIS PROSPECTUS), AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR
REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE FUNDS
OR DELAWARE DISTRIBUTORS L.P. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR
SOLICITATION BY ANYONE IN THE STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION IS NOT
46 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
<PAGE> 49
AUTHORIZED, OR IN WHICH THE PERSON MAKING SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION IS NOT
QUALIFIED TO DO SO OR TO ANY PERSON TO WHOM IT IS UNLAWFUL TO MAKE SUCH OFFER
OR SOLICITATION.
47 VOYAGEUR FUNDS (PROSPECTUS)
