As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 11, 1998
Registration No. 2-91683
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM N-14
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES
/ X / OF 1933
/ / PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO.
/ /OST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO.
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
1-212-323-0200
(Registrant's Telephone Number)
Andrew J. Donohue, Esq.
Executive Vice President & General Counsel
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
(212) 323-0256
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
As soon as practicable after the Registration Statement becomes effective.
(Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering)
It is proposed that this filing will become effective on September 10, 1998,
pursuant to Rule 488.
Pursuant to Rule 429, this Registration Statement relates to shares previously
registered by the Registrant on Form N-1A (Reg. No. 2-91683; 811-4054).
<PAGE>
CONTENTS OF REGISTRATION STATEMENT
This Registration Statement contains the following pages and documents:
Front Cover
Contents Page
Cross-Reference Sheet
Part A
Proxy Statement for The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
and
Prospectus for Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
Part B
Statement of Additional Information
Part C
Other Information
Signatures
Exhibits
<PAGE>
FORM N-14
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
Cross Reference Sheet
Part A of
Form N-14
Item No. Proxy Statement and Prospectus Heading and/or Title of Document
- --------- --------------------------------------------------------------------
1 (a) Cross Reference Sheet
(b) Front Cover Page
(c) *
2 (a) *
(b) Table of Contents
3 (a) Comparative Fee Tables
(b) Synopsis
(c) Principal Risk Factors
4 (a) Synopsis; Approval of the Reorganization; Comparison between
The New
York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. and Oppenheimer New York
Municipal Fund; Miscellaneous
(b) Approval of the Reorganization - Capitalization Table
5 (a) Registrant's Prospectus; Comparison Between The New York
Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc. and Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
(b) *
(c) *
(d) *
(e) Miscellaneous
(f) Miscellaneous
6 (a) Prospectus of The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.;Annual
Report of Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund; Comparison
Between The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. and
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
(b) Miscellaneous
(c) *
(d) *
7 (a) Synopsis; Information Concerning the Meeting
(b) *
(c) Synopsis; Information Concerning the Meeting
8 (a) Proxy Statement
(b) *
9 *
Part B of
Form N-14
Item No. Statement of Additional Information Heading
- --------- -----------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
10 Cover Page
11 Table of Contents
12 (a) Registrant's Statement of Additional Information
(b) *
(c) *
13 (a) Statement of Additional Information about The New York
Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
(b) *
(c) *
14 Registrant's Statement of Additional Information; Statement of
Additional Information about The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund,
Inc. and Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund; Annual Report of The
New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. at 10/31/97 and Semi Annual
Report as of 4/30/98; Registrant's Annual Report at 9/30/97 and Semi
Annual Report as of 3/31/98
Part C of
Form N-14
Item No. Other Information Heading
- --------- --------------------------------
15 Indemnification
16 Exhibits
17 Undertakings
- ---------------
* Not Applicable or negative answer
merge\875.n14
<PAGE>
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
PROXY FOR SPECIAL SHAREHOLDERS MEETING
TO BE HELD NOVEMBER 3, 1998
The undersigned shareholder of The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
(the "Fund"), does hereby appoint George C. Bowen, Rendle Myer, Robert Bishop
and Scott Farrar, and each of them acting individually, as attorneys-in-fact and
proxies of the undersigned, with full power of substitution, to attend the
Special Meeting of Shareholders of the Fund to be held on November 3, 1998, at
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado, at 10:00 A.M., MST, and at all
adjournments thereof, and to vote the shares held in the name of the undersigned
on the record date for said meeting for the Proposal specified on the reverse
side. Said attorneys-in-fact shall vote in accordance with their best judgment
as to any other matter.
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, WHO RECOMMENDS A
VOTE FOR THE PROPOSAL ON THE REVERSE SIDE. THE SHARES REPRESENTED HEREBY WILL BE
VOTED AS INDICATED ON THE REVERSE SIDE OR FOR IF NO CHOICE IS INDICATED.
Please mark your proxy, date and sign it on the reverse side and return it
promptly in the accompanying envelope, which requires no postage if mailed in
the United States.
The Proposal:
Approval of the Reorganization, including the Reorganization Agreement,
which contemplates the transfer of substantially all the assets of the
Fund to Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund ("ONYMF") in exchange for
Class A shares of ONYMF and the distribution of such shares of ONYMF to
the shareholders of the Fund (other than those that have properly
exercised dissenter's rights under Minnesota law) in complete liquidation
of the Fund, the deregistration of the Fund as an investment company under
the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the cancellation of
the outstanding shares of the Fund.
FOR____AGAINST____ABSTAIN____
Dated:___________________________, 1998
(Month) (Day)
-----------------------------------
Signature(s)
-----------------------------------
<PAGE>
Signature(s)
Please read both sides of this ballot.
NOTE: PLEASE SIGN EXACTLY AS YOUR NAME(S) APPEAR HEREON. When signing as
custodian, attorney, executor, administrator, trustee, etc., please give your
full title as such. All joint owners should sign this proxy. If the account is
registered in the name of a corporation, partnership or other entity, a duly
authorized individual must sign on its behalf and give his or her title.
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
6803 South Tucson Way
Englewood, Colorado 80112
September 14, 1998
Dear Shareholder:
Enclosed for your consideration are proxy materials relating to the
proposed reorganization (the "Reorganization") of The New York Tax-Exempt Income
Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") involving the transfer of the Fund's assets to
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund ("ONYMF") in exchange for Class A shares of
ONYMF, the distribution of those ONYMF shares to Fund shareholders in a complete
liquidation of the Fund and the cancellation of its outstanding shares. As
described in the accompanying materials, the value of the ONYMF shares received
will be equivalent to the net asset value of the Fund assets sold to ONYMF.
As a result of the Reorganization, shareholders of the Fund would
become shareholders of ONYMF. As more fully described in the accompanying proxy
materials, the shares of ONYMF would be received by Fund shareholders without
payment of a sales charge and may be redeemed by shareholders on any business
day.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION, NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON
THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROXY STATEMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
Shareholders are urged to carefully review the accompanying proxy
materials, including all exhibits thereto, in considering the proposed
transaction.
Very truly yours,
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
By: __________________
Andrew J. Donohue, Secretary
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
6803 South Tucson Way
Englewood, Colorado 80112
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD NOVEMBER 3, 1998
To the Shareholders of The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.:
Notice is hereby given that a Special Meeting of the Shareholders of The
New York Tax- Exempt Income Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") will be held at 6803 South
Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado, 80112, at 10:00 A.M., MST time, on November 3,
1998, or any adjournments thereof (the "Meeting"), for the following purposes:
1. To approve or disapprove an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the
"Reorganization Agreement"), by and between the Fund and Oppenheimer New York
Municipal Fund ("ONYMF"), and the transactions contemplated thereby (the
"Reorganization"), including (a) the transfer of substantially all the assets
of the Fund to ONYMF in exchange for Class A shares of ONYMF, (b) the
distribution of such ONYMF shares to the shareholders of the Fund (other than
shareholders who have properly exercised their dissenters' rights under
Minnesota law) in complete liquidation of the Fund and (c) the cancellation
of the outstanding shares of the Fund. A vote in favor of the Reorganization
by a shareholder of the Fund will also constitute a vote in favor of the
liquidation of the Fund and the termination of its registration under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
2. To act upon such other matters as may properly come before the Meeting.
Shareholders of record at the close of business on August 24, 1998 are
entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting. A copy of Section 302A.471
and 302A.473 of the Minnesota Business Corporation Act, which sets forth the
procedures to be followed by Fund shareholders who choose to exercise
dissenters' rights under Minnesota law, is attached as Exhibit C to the
accompanying Proxy Statement and Prospectus. The Proposal is more fully
discussed in the Proxy Statement and Prospectus. Please read it carefully before
telling us, through your proxy or in person, how you wish your shares to be
voted. The Board of Directors of the Fund recommends a vote in favor of the
Reorganization. WE URGE YOU TO SIGN, DATE AND MAIL THE ENCLOSED PROXY PROMPTLY.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
Andrew J. Donohue, Secretary
September 14, 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders who do not expect to attend the Meeting are requested to indicate
voting instructions on the enclosed proxy and to sign, date and return it in the
accompanying postage-paid envelope. To avoid unnecessary duplicate mailings, we
ask your cooperation in promptly mailing your proxy no matter how large or small
your holdings may be.
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
6803 South Tucson Way
Englewood, Colorado 80112
1-800-647-7374
PROXY STATEMENT
--------------------
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
1-800-525-7048
PROSPECTUS
--------------------
FOR A SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS OF THE NEW YORK
TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1998
This Proxy Statement of The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. (the "Fund")
relates to the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the "Reorganization
Agreement") and the transactions contemplated thereby (the "Reorganization")
between the Fund and Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund ("ONYMF"). This Proxy
Statement also constitutes a Prospectus of ONYMF included in a Registration
Statement on Form N-14 filed by ONYMF with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "SEC"). Such Registration Statement relates to the registration
of shares of ONYMF to be offered to the shareholders of the Fund pursuant to the
Reorganization Agreement.
This Proxy Statement and Prospectus sets forth information about ONYMF and the
Reorganization that shareholders of the Fund should know before voting on the
Reorganization. A copy of the Prospectus for ONYMF, dated January 12, 1998, as
supplemented May 15, 1998 is enclosed, and incorporated herein by reference. A
Statement of Additional Information about ONYMF, dated January 12, 1998, as
supplemented May 15, 1998, has been filed with the SEC and is available without
charge upon written request to OppenheimerFunds Services, the transfer and
shareholder servicing agent for ONYMF, at P.O. Box 5270, Denver, Colorado 80217,
or by calling the toll-free number shown above. The Statement of Additional
Information for ONYMF, which is incorporated herein by reference, contains more
detailed information about ONYMF and its management. A Statement of Additional
Information relating to the Reorganization, dated September 14, 1998, has been
filed with the SEC as part of the ONYMF Registration Statement on Form N-14 and
is incorporated herein by reference, and is available by written request to
OppenheimerFunds Services at the same address listed above or by calling the
toll-free number shown above.
Investors are advised to read and retain this Proxy Statement and Prospectus for
future reference.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED ON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF
THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
This Proxy Statement and Prospectus is dated September 14, 1998.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROXY STATEMENT AND PROSPECTUS
Page
Introduction.............................................................
General..............................................................1
Record Date; Vote Required; Share Information........................2
Proxies..............................................................3
Costs of the Solicitation and the Reorganization.....................4
Comparative Fee Table...................................................5
Synopsis................................................................8
Parties to the Reorganization........................................9
The Reorganization .............................................9
Tax Consequences of the Reorganization..............................10
Reasons for the Reorganization......................................10
Investment Objectives and Policies..................................11
Investment Advisory and Distribution and Service Plan Fees............
Purchases, Exchanges and Redemptions................................12
Principal Risk Factors.................................................13
The Reorganization (The Proposal)......................................16
Reasons for the Reorganization......................................16
The Reorganization Agreement........................................18
Tax Aspects of the Reorganization...................................19
Capitalization Table (Unaudited)....................................21
The Reorganization - Statutory Rights to Receive Payment for Shares.21
Comparison of Investment Objectives and Policies
Investment Objectives and Policies..................................22
Special Investment Methods..........................................24
Investment Restrictions.............................................33
Description of Brokerage Practices..................................37
Expense Ratios and Performance......................................39
Shareholder Services................................................39
Rights of Shareholders..............................................40
Management and Distribution Arrangements............................42
Purchase of Additional Shares.......................................44
Dividends and Distributions.........................................44
Method of Carrying Out the Reorganization .............................45
Additional Information.................................................47
Financial Information...............................................47
Public Information..................................................47
Other Business.........................................................48
Exhibit A - Agreement and Plan of Reorganization by and between The New
York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. and Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund A-1
Exhibit B - Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods Ended 6/30/98... B-1
<PAGE>
INTRODUCTION
General
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. (the "Fund"), a Minnesota corporation
registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") as a
closed-end investment company, is furnishing this Proxy Statement and Prospectus
to its shareholders in connection with the solicitation by the Board of
Directors of the Fund (the "Board") of proxies to be used at the Special Meeting
of Shareholders of the Fund to be held at 6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood,
Colorado, 80112, at 10:00 A.M., MST, on November 3, 1998, and any adjournments
thereof (the "Meeting"). It is expected that this Proxy Statement and Prospectus
will be mailed on or about September 14, 1998.
At the Meeting, shareholders of the Fund will be asked to consider and vote upon
an agreement and plan of reorganization (the "Reorganization Agreement"), by and
between the Fund and Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund ("ONYMF"), a
Massachusetts business trust registered with the SEC as an open-end investment
company, and the transactions contemplated by the Reorganization Agreement (the
"Reorganization"). The Reorganization Agreement provides for the transfer of
substantially all of the assets of the Fund to ONYMF in exchange for Class A
shares of ONYMF, the distribution of such ONYMF shares to the shareholders of
the Fund (other than shareholders who have properly exercised their dissenters'
rights under Minnesota law) in complete liquidation of the Fund, the
deregistration of the Fund as an investment company under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") and the cancellation of the outstanding
shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Fund (the "Common
Shares"). A copy of the Reorganization Agreement is attached hereto as Exhibit A
and is incorporated by reference herein.
ONYMF is an open-end management investment company with the investment objective
of seeking the maximum current income exempt from Federal, New York State and
New York City income taxes for individual investors that is consistent with the
preservation of capital. ONYMF currently offers three classes of shares: Class A
shares, with a sales charge imposed at the time of purchase subject to certain
exceptions; Class B shares, with a declining sales charge imposed on a
contingent deferred basis on most redemptions of such shares within six years of
their purchase; and Class C shares, with a sales charge imposed on a contingent
deferred basis on most redemptions of shares within one year of purchase. Class
B and Class C shares are also subject to an asset-based sales charge. The shares
to be issued by ONYMF pursuant to the Reorganization will be Class A shares
issued at net asset value without a sales charge. Unless otherwise specified
herein and unless the context otherwise requires, all further references in this
Proxy Statement and Prospectus to shares of ONYMF and shareholders of ONYMF
shall be deemed to refer to Class A shares of ONYMF and holders of Class A
shares of ONYMF, respectively. Further information relating to Class B and Class
C shares of ONYMF is set forth in the current Prospectus of ONYMF accompanying
this Proxy Statement and Prospectus and is incorporated herein by reference.
As a result of the Reorganization, each Fund shareholder will receive that
number of full and fractional ONYMF shares equal in value to such shareholder's
pro rata interest in the assets transferred to ONYMF as of the close of business
of the New York Stock Exchange on the business day immediately preceding the
closing date (the "Valuation Time") scheduled for the Reorganization (the
"Closing Date").
As described elsewhere in this Proxy Statement and Prospectus, holders of Common
Shares outstanding at the Valuation Time who have not voted in favor of the
Reorganization and who have elected to receive payment with respect thereto
pursuant to Sections 302A 471 and 302A.473 of the Minnesota
<PAGE>
Business Corporation Act will not be entitled to receive ONYMF shares as
provided above but will only be entitled to receive payment of the "fair value"
of Common Shares as to which they have dissented. See "The Reorganization
Statutory Rights to Receive Payment for Shares."
Record Date; Vote Required; Share Information
The Board of Directors of the Fund has fixed the close of business on August 24,
1998 as the record date (the "Record Date") for the determination of
shareholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting. An affirmative
vote of the holders of at least 662/3% of the outstanding common stock is
required to approve the Reorganization. Each shareholder will be entitled to one
vote for each share and a fractional vote for each fractional share held of
record at the close of business on the Record Date. Only shareholders of the
Fund will vote on the Reorganization. The vote of shareholders of ONYMF is not
being solicited.
This Proxy Statement and Prospectus is being furnished to the shareholders of
the Fund in connection with the solicitation by the Board of proxies to be used
at the Special Meeting of Shareholders of the Fund to be held at 6803 South
Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112, at 10:00 A.M., MST, on November 3, 1998,
and any adjournments thereof. At the Meeting, Fund shareholders will consider
and vote upon the Reorganization Agreement, and the transactions contemplated
thereby, including the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the Fund
to ONYMF in exchange for shares of ONYMF, the distribution of such ONYMF shares
to the shareholders of the Fund (other than shareholders who have properly
exercised their dissenters' rights under Minnesota law) in complete liquidation
of the Fund, the deregistration of the Fund as an investment company under the
1940 Act and the cancellation of the Common Shares.
As of the close of business on the Record Date, there were _________ Common
Shares issued and outstanding; the Common Shares are the only authorized shares
of capital stock of the Fund. To the knowledge of the Fund, as of the Record
Date, no person owned of record or beneficially owned 5% or more of its
outstanding shares except for_____________
Proxies
The enclosed form of proxy, if properly executed and returned, will be voted (or
counted as an abstention or withheld from voting) in accordance with the choices
specified thereon, and will be included in determining whether there is quorum
to conduct the Meeting. The proxy will be voted in favor of the Proposal unless
a choice is indicated to vote against or to abstain from voting on the Proposal.
Shares owned of record by broker-dealers for the benefit of their customers
("street account shares") will be voted by the broker-dealer based on
instructions received from its customers. If no instructions are received, the
broker-dealer may (if permitted under applicable stock exchange rules), as
record holder, vote such shares on the Proposal in the same proportion as that
broker-dealer votes street account shares for which voting instructions were
received in time to be voted. Broker "non- votes" exist where a proxy received
from a broker indicates that the broker does not have discretionary authority to
vote the shares on the matter. Shares represented in person or by proxy
(including shares which abstain on the Proposal, including broker "non-votes")
will be counted for purposes of determining the number of shares that are
present and are entitled to vote on the Proposal, but will not be counted as a
vote in favor of such Proposal. Accordingly, an abstention from voting on the
Proposal or a broker "non-vote" will have the same legal effect as a vote
against the Proposal. The proxy may be revoked at any time prior to the voting
thereof by: (i) writing to
<PAGE>
the Secretary of the Fund at 6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
(if received in time to be acted upon); (ii) attending the Meeting and voting in
person; or (iii) signing and returning a new proxy (if returned and received in
time to be voted).
If at the time any session of the Meeting is called to order a quorum is not
present, in person or by proxy, the persons named as proxies may vote those
proxies which have been received to adjourn the Meeting to a later date. In the
event that a quorum is present but sufficient votes in favor of the Proposal
have not been received, the persons named as proxies may propose one or more
adjournments of the Meeting to permit further solicitation of proxies. All such
adjournments will require the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares
present in person or by proxy at the session of the Meeting to be adjourned. The
persons named as proxies will vote those proxies which they are entitled to vote
in favor of the Proposal, in favor of such an adjournment, and will vote those
proxies required to be voted against the Proposal, against any such adjournment.
A vote may be taken on the Proposal in this proxy statement prior to any such
adjournment if sufficient votes for its approval have been received and it is
otherwise appropriate. Any adjourned session or sessions may be held within 120
days after the date set for the original Meeting without the necessity of
further notice.
Costs of the Solicitation and the Reorganization
All expenses of this solicitation, including the cost of printing and mailing
this Proxy Statement and Prospectus, will be borne by the Fund. Any documents
such as existing prospectuses or annual reports that are included in that
mailing will be a cost of the fund issuing the document. In addition to the
solicitation of proxies by mail, proxies may be solicited by officers of the
Fund or officers and employees of the transfer agent for the Fund, Shareholder
Financial Services, Inc., personally or by telephone or telegraph; any expenses
so incurred will be borne by Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. Proxies may
also be solicited by a proxy solicitation firm hired at the Fund's expense for
such purpose. Brokerage houses, banks and other fiduciaries may be requested to
forward soliciting material to the beneficial owners of shares of the Fund and
to obtain authorization for the execution of proxies. For those services, if
any, they will be reimbursed by the Fund for their reasonable out-of-pocket
expenses.
With respect to the Reorganization, the Fund and ONYMF will bear the cost of
their respective tax opinions. Any other out-of-pocket expenses of the Fund and
ONYMF associated with the Reorganization, including legal, accounting and
transfer agent expenses, will be borne by the Fund and ONYMF, respectively, in
the amounts so incurred by each.
COMPARATIVE FEE TABLE
The Fund and ONYMF each pay a variety of expenses for management of their
assets, administration, distribution of their shares and other services, and
those expenses are reflected in each fund's net asset value per share.
Shareholders pay other expenses directly, such as sales charges. The following
table is provided to help you compare the direct expenses of investing in the
Fund with the direct expenses of investing in each class of ONYMF and the pro
forma expenses of the surviving fund after giving effect to the reorganization.
<PAGE>
The Fund
Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on
Purchases (as a % of offering price) None
Maximum Deferred Sales Load None
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None
Redemption Fee* None
Exchange Fee N/A
- - ------------------------
* Purchases and sales made on the American Stock Exchange are generally
subject to brokerage commissions. Customarily, these are approximately 1%
but may be less or more than 1% depending on the size of the transaction,
the broker selected and other factors. There are no redemption fees
charged by the Fund.
ONYMF and ONYMF as the Surviving Fund
Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Class A Class B Class C
Shares Shares Shares
Shareholder Transaction Expenses
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge 4.75% None None
on Purchases (as a %
of offering price)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum
Deferred Sales None(1) 5% in the(2) 1% if(2)
Charge (as a % first year shares
of the lower declining are
of the original to 1% in redeemed
purchase price the sixth within 12
or redemption year and months of
proceeds) eliminated purchase
thereafter
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum
Sales Charge on None None None
Reinvested Dividends
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exchange Fee None None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Redemption Fee None None None
<PAGE>
(1) If you invest more than $1 million ($500,000 or more for purchases by
"Retirement Plans," as defined in "Class A Contingent Deferred Sales Charge" in
ONYMF's Prospectus) in Class A shares, you may have to pay a sales charge of up
to 1% if you sell your shares within 18 calendar months from the end of the
calendar month during which you purchased those shares. (2) See "How to Buy
Shares - Buying Class B Shares" and "How to Buy Shares - Buying Class C Shares"
in ONYMF's Prospectus.
Annual Fund Operating Expenses. The following tables are the operating expenses
of shares of the Fund and the operating expenses of Class A, Class B and Class C
shares of ONYMF. These tables are based on expenses for the twelve month period
ended June 30, 1998. The pro forma information is an estimate of the business
expenses of the surviving ONYMF after giving effect to the reorganization. All
amounts shown are a percentage of net assets of each class of each of the funds.
The Fund ONYMF
Class A Class B Class C
Management Fees 0.50% 0.52% 0.52% 0.52%
12b-1 Plan Fees none 0.23% 1.00% 1.00%
Other Expenses 0.37% 0.12% 0.12% 0.12%
Total Fund Operating
Expenses 0.87% 0.87% 1.64% 1.64%
Pro Forma Surviving ONYMF
Class A Class B Class C
Management Fees 0.52% 0.52% 0.52%
12b-1 Plan Fees 0.23% 1.00% 1.00%
Other Expenses 0.12% 0.12% 0.12%
Total Fund Operating
Expenses 0.87% 1.64% 1.64%
The 12b-1 fees for Class A shares of ONYMF are service plan fees. The service
plan fees are a maximum of 0.25% of average annual net assets of Class A shares
of ONYMF. The 12b-1 fees for Class B and Class C shares of ONYMF are
Distribution and Service Plan fees which include a service fee of 0.25% and an
asset-based sales charge of 0.75%.
Examples
To try and show the effect of the expenses on an investment over time, the
hypothetical examples shown below have been created. Assume that you make a
$1,000 investment in shares of the Fund, or Class A, Class B and Class C shares
of ONYMF, or Class A, Class B and Class C shares of the
<PAGE>
pro forma surviving ONYMF and that the annual return is 5% and that the
operating expenses for each fund are the ones shown in the chart above. If you
were to redeem your shares at the end of each period shown below, your
investment would incur the following expenses by the end of each period shown.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 year 3 years 5 years 10 years*
The Fund $9 $27 $47 $105
ONYMF
Class A Shares $56 $74 $93 $149
Class B Shares $67 $81 $109 $154
Class C Shares $27 $51 $89 $193
Pro Forma Surviving ONYMF
Class A Shares $56 $74 $93 $149
Class B Shares $67 $81 $109 $154
Class C Shares $27 $51 $89 $193
If you did not redeem your investment, it would incur the following expenses:
1 year 3 years 5 years 10 years*
The Fund $9 $27 $47 $105
ONYMF
Class A Shares $56 $74 $93 $149
Class B Shares $17 $51 $89 $154
Class C Shares $17 $51 $89 $193
Pro Forma Surviving ONYMF
Class A Shares $56 $74 $93 $149
Class B Shares $17 $51 $89 $154
Class C Shares $17 $51 $89 $193
</TABLE>
* In the first example for ONYMF, expenses include the Class A initial sales
charge and the applicable Class B or Class C contingent deferred sales charge.
In the second example for ONYMF, Class A expenses include the initial sales
charge, but Class B and Class C expenses do not include contingent deferred
sales charges. Purchases and sales made of shares of the Fund on the American
Stock Exchange are generally subject to brokerage commissions which are not
included in these examples. The Class B expenses in years 7 through 10 are based
on the Class A expenses shown above, because ONYMF automatically converts your
Class B shares into Class A shares after 6 years. Long term Class B and C
shareholders could pay the economic equivalent of more than the maximum
front-end sales charge allowed under applicable regulations, because of the
effect of the
<PAGE>
asset-based sales charge and contingent deferred sales charge. The automatic
conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares is designed to minimize the
likelihood that this will occur.
The examples show the effect of expenses on an investment, but are not meant to
state or predict actual or expected costs or investment returns of the funds,
all of which may be more or less than the amounts shown.
SYNOPSIS
The following is a synopsis of certain information contained in or incorporated
by reference in this Proxy Statement and Prospectus and presents key
considerations for shareholders of the Fund to assist them in determining
whether to approve the Reorganization. This synopsis is only a summary and is
qualified in its entirety by the more detailed information contained in or
incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement and Prospectus and by the
Reorganization Agreement, a copy of which is attached as Exhibit A hereto.
Shareholders should carefully review this Proxy Statement and Prospectus and the
Reorganization Agreement in their entirety and, in particular, the current
Prospectus of ONYMF which accompanies this Proxy Statement and Prospectus and is
incorporated herein by reference.
Parties to the Reorganization
The Fund was incorporated in 1987 as a Minnesota corporation and has operated as
a closed-end investment company registered with the SEC. The Fund is managed by
a Board of Directors, who are elected annually by the shareholders of the Fund.
ONYMF is registered with the SEC as an open-end management investment company
and is organized as a Massachusetts business trust. ONYMF is managed by a Board
of Trustees which has overall responsibility for the management of ONYMF. ONYMF
is not required to hold annual shareholder meetings.
There are certain differences between open-end and closed-end investment
companies and between Minnesota corporations and Massachusetts business trusts.
Such differences, as well as additional information about the parties, is set
forth below. See "Comparison of Investment Objectives and Policies" and
"Additional Information." below.
The Reorganization
The Reorganization Agreement provides for the transfer of substantially all the
assets of the Fund to ONYMF in exchange for Class A shares of ONYMF. The net
asset value of ONYMF Class A shares issued in the exchange will equal the value
of the assets of the Fund received by ONYMF. Following the Closing Date, the
Fund will distribute the shares of ONYMF received by the Fund on the Closing
Date to holders of Common Shares issued and outstanding as of the Valuation Time
(other than shareholders who have properly exercised their dissenters' rights
under Minnesota law) in complete liquidation of the Fund and the Fund will
thereafter be deregistered under the 1940 Act.
<PAGE>
As a result of the Reorganization, each Fund shareholder will receive that
number of full and fractional ONYMF shares equal in value to such shareholder's
pro rata interest in the assets transferred to ONYMF as of the Valuation Time.
The Board has determined that the interests of existing Fund shareholders will
not be diluted as a result of the Reorganization. For the reasons set forth
below under "The Reorganization - Reasons for the Reorganization," the Board,
including the directors who are not "interested persons" of the Fund
("Independent Directors"), as that term is defined in the 1940 Act, has
concluded that the Reorganization is in the best interests of the Fund and its
shareholders and recommends approval of the Reorganization by Fund shareholders.
If the Reorganization is not approved, the Fund will continue in existence and
the Board will determine whether to pursue alternative actions.
Tax Consequences of the Reorganization
In the opinion of Deloitte & Touche LLP, tax adviser to the Fund, the
Reorganization will qualify as a tax-free reorganization for Federal income tax
purposes. As a result, it is expected that no gain or loss will be recognized by
either fund, or by the shareholders of either fund for Federal income tax
purposes as a result of the Reorganization. For further information about the
tax consequences of the Reorganization, see "The Reorganization - Tax Aspects of
the Reorganization" below.
Reasons for the Reorganization
The Fund is a small closed-end fund that has historically traded on the American
Stock Exchange at a premium to its net asset value, however, the Fund has
recently begun trading at a discount because of a decline in its net investment
income. Recognizing the fact that it is not possible to accurately predict when
the interest income of the Fund might increase and in reviewing the fact that
the Fund is now trading at a discount, the Board considered what action it might
take to limit or remove that discount. The Board considered a number of
different options including reducing or eliminating the market value discount by
having the Fund either repurchase shares in the open market or make a tender
offer for a portion of the shares at net asset value. The Board also considered
liquidating the Fund, converting the Fund to an open-end mutual fund,
reorganizing the Fund with a larger open-end fund that had a similar investment
objective or permitting the Fund to continue as it exists today. Because the
Fund is a relatively small fund, the Board determined that it was not practical
to repurchase shares in the open market or make a tender offer for a portion of
the shares of the Fund or to simply open-end the Fund. In each case, this would
not be economically beneficial because the ongoing costs per share to the
remaining shareholders of the Fund would increase significantly with such a
small fund. Additionally, many closed-end funds have experienced a large number
of redemptions when they converted from closed-end to open-end mutual funds and
therefore if the Fund was simply converted to an open-end fund, it is likely
that the size of the Fund would be further reduced which would have the
practical effect of further increasing the expense ratios of the Fund. The Board
also believed that the liquidation of the Fund would not be in the shareholder's
best interests because such a liquidation would be a taxable event for the
shareholders and would force the shareholders to recognize any gains or losses
at a time when it may not be in their best interests. It would also prevent the
shareholders from continuing to invest in a product they desired to hold.
Allowing the Fund to continue to trade at a discount would also not be in the
best interests of shareholders because shareholders would not be able to sell
their shares
<PAGE>
except at a discount to their net asset value.
Accordingly, the Board felt that it was in the best interests of the
shareholders of the Fund for the Fund to be reorganized into ONYMF, an open-end
mutual fund with similar investment objectives and strategies. The shareholders
of the Fund would benefit from a reorganization at net asset value with ONYMF
because such a reorganization would immediately remove the discount and allow
shareholders the ability to recognize the net asset value of their shares.
Additionally, due to the open-end structure of ONYMF, shareholders would be able
to take advantage of the other shareholder features available to shareholders of
ONYMF such as the ability to redeem shares, without brokerage commissions, as
well as other shareholder features such as checkwriting privileges and the
ability to exchange their shares for shares of other Oppenheimer funds. These
privileges are described in more detail in the prospectus for ONYMF.
The Board considered the fact that, on a percentage basis, the total expenses of
the Fund were comparable to the total expenses of ONYMF. (Please see the
"Comparative Fee Table" above). After the Reorganization, the shareholders of
the Fund would be shareholders of a larger fund that could, if the combined fund
were to grow in size, incur lower management, operating, transfer agency and
other expenses. Thus economies of scale may benefit shareholders of the Fund.
In addition, the Board considered information with respect to the historical
performance of the Fund and ONYMF which shows that the performance of both funds
was comparable. The Board also considered that the Reorganization would be a tax
free reorganization, and there would be no sales charge imposed in effecting the
Reorganization. The Board concluded that the Reorganization would not result in
dilution to shareholders of the Fund.
The Board did considered reorganizing the Fund into another existing New York
municipal open-end mutual fund in the OppenheimerFunds family of mutual funds.
Based on the fact that the other New York municipal fund was run in a different
manner and was managed by a different portfolio team, the Board concluded that a
reorganization of the Fund into ONYMF was a more appropriate choice. ONYMF and
the Fund have been managed by the same portfolio team using similar investment
techniques and styles. The Board also considered the fact that shareholders of
the Fund could always exchange their shares of ONYMF for shares of any of the
other Oppenheimer funds after the Reorganization if the shareholders wished to
own shares managed by a different portfolio team. Based on the foregoing, the
Board concluded that the Reorganization of the Fund into ONYMF was in the best
interests of the shareholders of the Fund.
Investment Objectives and Policies
While the investment objectives and restrictions of the Fund and ONYMF are
substantially the same, there are differences that should be considered by Fund
shareholders.
The Fund's primary investment objective is to provide to the holders of the
Fund's Common Stock, through investment in a professionally managed portfolio of
tax-exempt New York Municipal Securities, current interest income exempt from
both federal income tax and New York State and New York City income taxes. It
also has a secondary objective to preserve and enhance the Fund's
<PAGE>
net asset value through investments in tax-exempt New York Municipal Securities
that, in the opinion of the Manager, are underrated or represent municipal
market sectors that are undervalued. The Fund seeks to achieve its objective by
investing substantially all of its assets in Municipal Securities (as defined in
"Comparison of Investment Objectives and Policies"). Except during temporary
defensive periods, the Fund will, as a fundamental policy, invest at least 80%
of its net assets in tax-exempt New York Municipal Securities. As a
non-fundamental policy, 80% of the Fund's net assets will be securities rated at
the time of purchase within the four highest grades for long-term securities or
within the two highest grades for short-term loans, notes and commercial paper
or, if unrated, judged by the Manager to be of comparable quality to Municipal
Securities rated within such grades. The Fund emphasizes investments in New York
Municipal Securities with long-term maturities, but the degree of such emphasis
depends upon market conditions existing at the time of investment. The Fund may
invest up to 20% of its net assets in unrated New York Municipal Securities or
in New York Municipal Securities rated lower than the four highest grades for
long-term securities, but no more than half of this amount (10% of the Fund's
net assets) will be invested in such lower rated New York Municipal Securities.
The investment objective of ONYMF is to seek the maximum current income exempt
from Federal, New York State and New York City income taxes for individual
investors that is consistent with preservation of capital. ONYMF seeks to
achieve this objective by investing in municipal obligations, the income from
which is tax-exempt as described above. Under normal market conditions, ONYMF
attempts to invest 100% of its invested assets, and, as a matter of fundamental
policy, to invest at least 80% of its assets, in Municipal Securities. In
addition, under normal market conditions, as a matter of fundamental policy,
ONYMF will invest at least 65% of its total assets in New York Municipal
Securities. Additionally, under normal market conditions, at least 75% of the
total assets of ONYMF must be invested in Municipal Securities rated within the
four highest rating categories or, if unrated, judged to be of comparable
quality by the Manager. Not more than 25% of ONYMF's total assets will be
invested in Municipal Securities that are rated below investment grade, that is
below the four highest rating categories.
In times of unstable market or economic conditions, when the Manager deems it
appropriate to do so, both the Fund and ONYMF may assume a temporary defensive
position and invest an unlimited amount of their assets in certain taxable
obligations including U.S. Government securities or securities rated at the time
of purchase within the two highest grades (three highest grades for ONYMF) or,
if unrated, judged by the Manager to be of comparable quality to Municipal
Securities rated within such grades, the income on which may be subject to
either or both of New York State and New York City income taxes or to both
federal and New York income taxes. ONYMF may also use certain special investment
methods not employed by the Fund. For further discussion, see "Comparison of
Investment Objectives and Policies."
Investment Advisory and Distribution and Service Plan Fees
Both the Fund and ONYMF obtain investment management services from the Manager.
Under its Advisory Agreement, the Fund pays the Manager monthly an advisory fee
at the rate of .50% per annum computed on the average weekly net assets of the
Fund. ONYMF pays a management fee monthly to OppenheimerFunds, Inc. computed on
the net assets of ONYMF as of the close of
<PAGE>
business each day at the following annual rate: 0.60% of the first $200 million
of average annual net assets, 0.55% of the next $100 million, 0.50% of the next
$200 million, 0.45% of the next $250 million, 0.40% of the next $250 million,
and 0.35% of average annual net assets in excess of $1 billion. ONYMF's
management fee for its last fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 was 0.51% of
average annual net assets for Class A, Class B and Class C shares.
ONYMF has adopted separate distribution plans pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the
1940 Act for its Class A, Class B and Class C shares, pursuant to which ONYMF
will reimburse or compensate OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (the
"Distributor"), the distributor of ONYMF's shares, quarterly for all or a
portion of the Distributor's costs incurred in connection with the distribution
of the shares of that class and distribution-related services. The Distributor
will use the fees received from ONYMF (i) to compensate dealers, brokers, banks
or other institutions ("Recipients") each quarter for providing personal service
and maintenance of accounts that hold Class A, Class B and Class C shares. The
services to be provided under each plan include, but are not limited to, the
following: answering routine inquiries from the Recipient's customers concerning
ONYMF, providing such customers with information on their investment in shares,
assisting in the establishment and maintenance of accounts or sub-accounts in
ONYMF, making ONYMF's investment plans and dividend payment options available,
and providing such other information and customer liaison services and
maintenance of accounts as the Distributor or ONYMF may reasonably request. The
current maximum annual fee payable by ONYMF pursuant to its distribution plans
for Class A shares is 0.25% and for Class B and Class C shares is 1.00%,
respectively, of average annual net assets. The Fund does not have a
distribution plan. See "Additional Information - Financial Information" for
additional information.
Purchases, Exchanges and Redemptions
ONYMF, through the Distributor, continuously offers redeemable securities to
investors at a price based on ONYMF's net asset value at the time of issuance
plus a sales charge as described in the ONYMF Prospectus. Pursuant to the
Reorganization, however, shares of ONYMF issued to shareholders of the Fund will
be issued at net asset value and sold without a sales charge. ONYMF's net asset
value per share is calculated daily by dividing the value of ONYMF's portfolio
securities plus all cash and other assets (including accrued interest and
dividends received) less all liabilities (including accrued expenses) by the
number of shares of ONYMF outstanding. ONYMF's net asset value is published
daily by leading financial publications.
Shareholders of ONYMF may exchange their shares of ONYMF for shares of any of
over 45 equity, fixed-income and money market funds for which the Distributor or
an affiliate acts as the distributor. Shares of ONYMF received by Fund
shareholders pursuant to the Reorganization will be eligible for exchanges at
net asset value, without sales charge, pursuant to the ONYMF "Exchange
Privilege" as described in the ONYMF Prospectus.
Shareholders of ONYMF may redeem their shares through checkwriting privileges,
or provided that there has not been an address change in the prior 30 days, by
written request, by telephone request, by facsimile request or by Internet
request in an amount up to $50,000 in any seven-day period, or they may arrange
to have share redemption proceeds sent to a pre-designated account at another
<PAGE>
financial institution that is an Automated Clearing House member ("AccountLink
redemption"). Other redemptions may be requested by sending the transfer agent
signature guaranteed instructions. Shareholders of ONYMF may reinvest redemption
proceeds within six months of a redemption at net asset value in shares of ONYMF
or any of numerous "Eligible Funds" within the OppenheimerFunds complex. ONYMF
may redeem accounts valued at less than $200 if the account has fallen below
such stated amount for reasons other than market value fluctuations and may
redeem shares in amounts sufficient to compensate the Distributor for any loss
due to cancellation of a share purchase order. Generally, payment for redeemed
shares is made in cash; however, under certain unusual circumstances, shares may
be redeemed in kind. Pursuant to the notification of election filed by ONYMF
with the SEC pursuant to Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act, cash payment for
redeemed shares made to any one shareholder during any 90-day period may be
limited to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of ONYMF at the
beginning of the 90-day period; all excess amounts may be paid by ONYMF in
assets other than cash. ONYMF also offers an Automatic Withdrawal Plan.
Unlike ONYMF, the Fund is a closed-end investment company which does not redeem
its shares or offer to exchange them for shares of any other investment company,
and does not engage in the continuous offering of new shares.
PRINCIPAL RISK FACTORS
Since the Fund and ONYMF invest in similar types of securities and have
substantially similar investment objectives, the Board believes that the
investment risks in the Fund and ONYMF are substantially similar. In evaluating
whether to approve the Reorganization and invest in ONYMF shareholders should
carefully consider the following risk factors, the information set forth in this
Proxy Statement and Prospectus and the more complete description of risk factors
set forth in the documents incorporated by reference herein, including the
prospectuses of the funds and their respective Statements of Additional
Information.
Investment Risks. All investments carry risks to some degree, whether they are
risks that market prices of the investment will fluctuate (this is known as
"market risk") or that the underlying issuer will experience financial
difficulties and may default on its obligation under a fixed-income investment
to pay interest and repay principal (this is referred to as "credit risk").
These general investment risks affect the value of both funds' investments,
their investment performance, and the prices of their shares. Changes in the
overall market conditions and prices can occur at any time. There can be no
assurance that either the Fund or ONYMF will achieve its investment objective,
and the value of a share of the Fund or ONYMF upon sale or redemption could be
worth more or less than the investor's cost.
Interest Rate Risks. Both funds primarily invest in municipal securities. Debt
securities are subject to changes in their values due to changes in prevailing
interest rates. When prevailing interest rates fall, the value of already-issued
debt securities generally rise. When interest rates rise, the values of
already-issued debt securities generally decline. The magnitude of these
fluctuations will often be greater for longer-term debt securities than
shorter-term debt securities. Each fund's share prices
<PAGE>
can go up or down when interest rates change because of the effect of the change
on the value of the fund's portfolio of debt securities.
Hedging and Derivative Investments Risks. Both funds may use certain hedging
instruments and invest in a number of different kinds of "derivative"
investments. The use of hedging instruments requires special skills and
knowledge of investment techniques that are different than what is required for
normal portfolio management. If the Manager uses a hedging instrument at the
wrong time or judges market conditions incorrectly, hedging strategies may
reduce the fund's return. Losses could also be experienced if the prices of its
futures and options positions were not correlated with its other investments or
if it could not close out a position because of an illiquid market for the
future or option. Options trading involves the payment of premiums and has
special tax effects on the funds. There are also special risks in particular
hedging strategies. Derivative investments are specially designed investments
whose performance is linked to the performance of another investment or
security. The company issuing the instrument may fail to pay the amount due on
the maturity of the instrument. Also, the underlying investment or security on
which the derivative is based, and the derivative itself, may not perform the
way the Manager expected it to perform. The performance of derivative
investments may also be influenced by stock market and interest rate changes in
the U.S. and abroad. All of this can mean that the fund may realize less
principal or income from the investment than expected. Certain derivative
investments held by the funds may trade in the over-the counter market and may
be illiquid.
Lower-Grade Securities Risks. Both funds can invest a portion of their assets in
securities rated below the four highest rating categories however, ONYMF has the
ability to invest a greater percentage of its assets in below investment grade
debt securities. These "lower-grade" securities are commonly known as "junk
bonds". High yield, lower-grade securities, whether rated or unrated, often have
speculative characteristics and special risks that make them riskier investments
than investment grade securities. They may be subject to greater market
fluctuations and risk of loss of income and principal than lower yielding,
investment grade securities. There may be less of a market for them and
therefore they may be harder to sell at an acceptable price. During an economic
downturn, lower-grade securities might decline in value more than investment
grade securities. These risks mean that the Fund may not achieve the expected
income from lower-grade securities, and that the Fund's net asset value per
share may be affected by declines in value of these securities.
Other Risks. ONYMF is permitted to invest in certain taxable securities;
distributions derived from net interest income on such taxable investments will
be taxable when distributed to ONYMF shareholders. The Fund generally does not
invest in taxable securities (although it may do so on a temporary basis).
Additionally, both funds are subject to certain risks associated with investing
in New York municipal securities because of risk factors affecting New York
state and its cities and instrumentalities. Also, ONYMF is organized as a
Massachusetts business trust and, pursuant to Massachusetts law, beneficial
owners of the business trust could be held personally liable as partners for
ONYMF's obligations; however, the risk of an ONYMF shareholder incurring any
financial loss is limited to the relatively remote circumstances in which the
Fund is unable to meet its obligations. See "Comparison of Investment Objectives
and Policies - Rights of Shareholders."
THE REORGANIZATION
<PAGE>
Reasons for the Reorganization
The Board, including the Independent Directors, has determined that the
Reorganization is in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders. In
recommending the Reorganization to the shareholders of the Fund, the Board
considered that the Reorganization would have the following potential benefits
for shareholders of the Fund:
1. Shareholders of the Fund would have a continued participation in the tax-free
bond markets through investment in ONYMF which, like the Fund, is permitted to
invest in New York municipal obligations, the interest from which is not subject
to Federal or New York City or New York State individual income tax. The Board
concluded that both funds have substantially similar investment objectives and
techniques.
2. Through the Reorganization, shareholders of the Fund will acquire, in
exchange for shares of the Fund, shares of ONYMF as a tax-free event. If the
Fund were liquidated, shareholders would recognize gains or losses for tax
purposes.
3. Although the Fund had been trading at a premium to its net asset value as
recently as February, 1998, the Fund was, as of the time of this proxy
statement, trading at a discount because of a decline in its investment income.
Therefore, if shareholders were to sell their shares they would realize an
amount less that the net asset value of their shares of the Fund. The
Reorganization of the Fund at net asset value would therefore benefit the
shareholders of the Fund by immediately eliminating any such discount.
4. Due to the open-end structure of ONYMF, shareholders will have the option of
redeeming their ONYMF shares at net asset value on any business day, without
brokerage commissions, as provided in the ONYMF Prospectus. Shareholders would
also be able to take advantage of the other shareholder features available to
shareholders of ONYMF such as checkwriting and exchanges to other Oppenheimer
funds.
5. In considering the proposed Reorganization, the Board reviewed information
which demonstrated that the Fund is a relatively small fund, with approximately
$24.3 million in net assets as of June 30, 1998. In comparison, ONYMF had net
assets of approximately $716.4 million as of the same date. It is not
anticipated that the Fund will increase substantially in size in the near
future. After the Reorganization, the shareholders of the Fund will be
shareholders of a larger fund that might, if the combined fund were to grow in
size, incur lower operating, transfer agency and other expenses. Thus economies
of scale may benefit shareholders of the Fund.
6. The Board considered the fact that the total expenses of the Fund and ONYMF
were comparable and that ONYMF had a service plan as permitted by Rule 12b-1
under the Investment Company Act (see "Investment Advisory and Distribution and
Service Plan Fees" above), which allows ONYMF to compensate brokers and dealers
who sell shares of ONYMF for continuing to provide services to shareholders of
ONYMF. The Board believes that this is an essential element for an open-end
mutual fund and will be of benefit to the shareholders of the combined fund.
<PAGE>
7. The Board also considered information with respect to the historical
performance of the Fund and ONYMF including the performance information
contained in Exhibit B, and concluded that the performance of the funds was
comparable including the dividend yields and the average annual total returns of
the funds. Additionally, the Board considered the expense ratios of the Fund and
found those to be comparable. (Please see "Expense Ratios and Performance,"
below for more information.)
The Reorganization Agreement
The Board has approved and recommended to the shareholders of the Fund that they
approve the Reorganization, including the Reorganization Agreement. The terms
and conditions under which the Reorganization would be consummated are set forth
in the Reorganization Agreement and are summarized below. This summary is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the Reorganization Agreement, a copy
of which is attached as Exhibit A to this Proxy Statement and Prospectus.
The Reorganization Agreement contemplates a reorganization under which (i) the
assets of the Fund consisting of portfolio securities, cash (other than cash
amounts retained by the Fund as a "Cash Reserve" in the amount estimated by the
Fund as sufficient to discharge its liabilities and the payment by the Fund, if
any, in respect of dissenting shares), and receivables would be transferred,
free and clear of all liens (other than the obligation, if any, to pay the
purchase price of portfolio securities purchased by the Fund which have not
settled (the "Permitted Liens")) to ONYMF on the Closing Date in exchange for
shares of ONYMF, (ii) such ONYMF shares would be distributed to the shareholders
of the Fund at the Valuation Time, (iii) the Fund would be liquidated and (iv)
the outstanding shares of the Fund would be canceled. ONYMF will not assume and
will not otherwise be responsible for any of the Fund's liabilities except for
the Permitted Liens, if any.
The number of ONYMF shares to be delivered to the Fund will be determined by
dividing the value of the Fund assets acquired by ONYMF by the net asset value
of an ONYMF share; these values will be calculated as of the Valuation Time
after the Fund's declaration and payment of any distribution by such date, using
the valuation procedures consistently used by ONYMF in the ordinary course and
based on information extracted from an independent portfolio pricing service. As
an illustration, if at the Valuation Time the Fund were to have securities with
a market value of $95,000 and cash in the amount of $10,000 (of which $5,000 was
to be retained by it as the Cash Reserve), the value of the assets which would
be transferred to ONYMF would be $100,000. If the net asset value per share of
ONYMF were $10 per share at the close of business at the Valuation Time, the
number of shares to be issued to the Fund would be 10,000 ($100,000 / $10).
These 10,000 shares of ONYMF would be distributed by the Fund to its
shareholders. This illustration does not necessarily bear any relationship to
the dollar amounts or shares expected to be involved in the Reorganization.
As soon as practicable after the Closing Date, the Fund will distribute pro rata
to its shareholders of record, except as hereinafter discussed, the ONYMF shares
it receives. ONYMF will, in accordance with a shareholder list supplied by the
Fund, cause its transfer agent to credit and confirm an appropriate number of
shares of ONYMF to shareholders of the Fund Shareholders of the Fund who wish
certificates representing their shares of ONYMF must, after receipt of their
confirmations,
<PAGE>
make a written request to OppenheimerFunds Services, the transfer agent for
ONYMF, at P.O. Box 5270, Denver, Colorado 80217. Shareholders of the Fund
holding certificates representing their shares of the Fund will not be required
to surrender their certificates to anyone in connection with the Reorganization.
After the Reorganization, however, it will be necessary for such shareholders to
surrender such certificates (or provide indemnities reasonably acceptable to
ONYMF in respect of lost certificates) in order to receive certificates
representing shares of ONYMF or to redeem, transfer or exchange their shares of
ONYMF received through this reorganization.
The effect of the Reorganization will be that shareholders of the Fund who vote
their shares in favor of the Reorganization will be electing to exchange their
interests in the Fund for shares of ONYMF having a net asset value equal to the
net asset value of their Common Shares at the Valuation Time calculated after
subtracting the Cash Reserve. This exchange would be effected without a sales
charge and, it is expected, without recognition of taxable gain or loss for
Federal income tax purposes. See "Tax Aspects of the Reorganization" below. The
Reorganization Agreement provides that on the Closing Date, the Fund will
transfer to ONYMF only those assets the acquisition of which will permit ONYMF
to be in compliance with all of its investment policies and restrictions. The
Fund will recognize capital gain or loss on any sales of securities made prior
to the Closing Date in order to comply with the foregoing. As noted in "Tax
Aspects of the Reorganization" below, if the Fund realizes net capital gain from
the sale of securities prior to the Closing Date, such gain, to the extent not
offset by capital loss carryforwards, will be distributed to shareholders prior
to the Closing Date and will be taxable to shareholders as capital gain.
Tax Aspects of the Reorganization
Immediately prior to the Valuation Date referred to in the Reorganization
Agreement, the Fund will pay a dividend or dividends which, together with all
previous dividends, will have the effect of distributing to the Fund's
shareholders all of the Fund's investment company taxable income for taxable
years ending on or prior to the Closing Date (computed without regard to any
deduction for dividends paid) and all of its net capital gain, if any, realized
in taxable years ending on or prior to the Closing Date (after reduction for any
available capital loss carry-forward). Such dividends will be included in the
taxable income (except for any portion of the dividend which may be exempt from
Federal, New York State or New York City taxes) of the Fund's shareholders as
ordinary income and capital gain, respectively.
The exchange of the assets of the Fund for Class A shares of ONYMF and the
assumption by ONYMF of certain liabilities of the Fund is intended to qualify
for Federal income tax purposes as a tax-free reorganization under Section
368(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The
Fund has represented to Deloitte & Touche LLP, tax adviser to the Fund, that to
the Fund's best knowledge there is no plan or intention by any Fund shareholder
who owns 5% or more of the Fund's outstanding shares, and there is no plan or
intention on the part of the remaining Fund shareholders, to redeem, sell,
exchange or otherwise dispose of a number of ONYMF Class A shares received in
the transaction that would reduce the Fund shareholders' ownership of ONYMF
shares to a number of shares having a value, as of the Closing Date, of less
than 50% of the value of all the formerly outstanding Fund shares as of the same
date. ONYMF and the Fund have each represented to Deloitte & Touche LLP, that,
as of the Closing Date, each will qualify as a regulated
<PAGE>
investment company or will meet the diversification test of Section
368(a)(2)(F)(ii) of the Code.
As a condition to the closing of the Reorganization, ONYMF and the Fund will
receive the opinion of Deloitte & Touche LLP to the effect that, based on the
Reorganization Agreement, the above representations, existing provisions of the
Code, Treasury Regulations issued thereunder, current Revenue Rulings, Revenue
Procedures and court decisions, for Federal income tax purposes:
1. The transactions contemplated by the Reorganization Agreement will qualify
as a tax-free "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1)(c)
of the Code.
2. The Fund and ONYMF will each qualify as "a party to a reorganization"
within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code.
3. No gain or loss will be recognized by the shareholders of the Fund upon the
distribution of Class A shares of beneficial interest in ONYMF to the
shareholders of the Fund pursuant to Section 354(a)(1) of the Code.
4. Under Section 361(a) of the Code no gain or loss will be recognized by the
Fund by reason of the transfer of its assets solely in exchange for Class A
shares of ONYMF.
5. Under Section 1032(a) of the Code no gain or loss will be recognized by
ONYMF by reason of the transfer of the Fund's assets solely in exchange for
Class A shares of ONYMF.
6. The shareholders of the Fund will have the same tax basis and holding
period for the shares of beneficial interest in ONYMF that they receive as
they had for the Fund stock that they previously held, pursuant to Sections
358(a)(1) and 1223(1) of the Code, respectively.
7. The securities transferred by the Fund to ONYMF will have the same tax
basis and holding period in the hands of ONYMF as they had for the Fund,
pursuant to Sections 362(b) and 1223(2) of the Code, respectively.
8. Cash received by a dissenting shareholder of the Fund in exchange for such
shareholder's Common Shares will be treated as having been received by such
shareholder as a distribution in redemption of such shareholder's Common
Shares, subject to the provisions and limitations of Section 302 of the
Code.
Shareholders of the Fund should consult their tax advisors regarding the effect,
if any, of the Reorganization in light of their individual circumstances. Since
the foregoing discussion relates only to the Federal income tax consequences of
the Reorganization, shareholders of the Fund should also consult their tax
advisors as to state and local tax consequences, if any, of the Reorganization.
Capitalization Table (Unaudited)
The following table sets forth the capitalization of the Fund and ONYMF as of
June 30, 1998 and on a pro forma combined basis as if the Reorganization had
occurred on that date.
Net Asset
Shares Value
Net Assets Outstanding Per Share
<PAGE>
The Fund
$24,413,169 2,517,983 $9.70
ONYMF
Class A $610,670,884 47,103,859 $12.96
Class B $105,229,386 8,115,239 $12.97
Class C $5,899,341 455,012 $12.97
ONYMF (Pro Forma Surviving Fund)
Class A $635,084,053 48,987,591 $12.96
Class B $105,229,386 8,115,239 $12.97
Class C $5,899,341 455,012 $12.97
Reflects issuance of 1,883,732 of Class A shares of ONYMF in a tax-free exchange
for the net assets of the Fund, aggregating $24,413,169.
Statutory Rights to Receive Payment for Shares
Under Section 302A.471 and 302A.473 of the Minnesota Business Corporation
Act, if the Reorganization is consummated, holders of record of Common Shares
outstanding at the Valuation Time who make an election in accordance with
Section may be entitled to be paid the "fair value" of their Common Shares. The
following summary of Section 302A.473 sets forth the procedures for demanding
these statutory rights. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference
to Section 302A.473, the text of which is attached to this Proxy Statement and
Prospectus as Exhibit C.
Filing Written Objection. Prior to the shareholder vote with respect to the
Reorganization, a holder of Common Shares who intends to enforce his or her
rights under Minnesota law to receive payment of the "fair value" of such shares
if the Reorganization is consummated must file with the Fund a written objection
to the proposed Reorganization. The written objection must include a notice of
such shareholder's election to dissent, his or her name and residence address,
the number of shares as to which he or she dissents and a demand for payment of
the "fair value" of his or her shares if the Reorganization is consummated. Such
written objection may be sent to the Fund at 6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood,
Colorado 80112, Attention: George C. Bowen, Treasurer. The return of a proxy or
proxies by a Fund shareholder with instructions to vote the shares represented
thereby against the Reorganization (or an abstention from voting) is not
sufficient to satisfy the requirement of delivering written objection to the
Fund. At the time of filing the notice of election to dissent or within one
month thereafter, a Fund shareholder whose shares are represented by
certificates shall submit such certificates to the Fund, or to its transfer
agent, which shall forthwith note conspicuously thereon that a notice of
election has been filed and shall return the certificates to the shareholder or
other person who submitted them on behalf of such shareholder.
No Vote in Favor of the Reorganization. Shares for which dissenters' rights
are sought must not be voted in favor of the proposal to approve the
Reorganization. The submission of a signed blank proxy card will be counted as a
vote in favor of the Reorganization and, therefore, will serve to waive
dissenters' rights. Failure to return a proxy card or to vote or an abstention
from voting, however, will not waive dissenters' rights.
Notice by the Fund. After the Reorganization has been approved by the Board
and the shareholders, the Fund will send a notice to each shareholder of the
Fund who has filed a notice of election to dissent and whose Common Shares were
not voted in favor of the Reorganization that contains (i) the address to which
a demand for payment and certificates must be sent in order to obtain
<PAGE>
payment and the day by which they must be received; (ii) any restrictions on the
transfer of uncertificated shares that will apply after the demand for payment
is received; (iii) a form to be used to certify the date on while the
shareholder, or the beneficial owner on whose behalf the shareholder dissents,
acquired the shares or an interest in them and to demand payment; and (iv) a
copy of section 302A.471 and section 302A.473 and a brief description to be
followed under these sections.
Loss of Dissenter's Rights. Any dissenting shareholder of the Fund will
have the right to withdraw his or her notice of election of dissenters' rights
at any time prior to his or her returning the notice of election and to accept
the terms offered in the Reorganization Agreement, including the exchange of
Common Shares for shares of ONYMF. In the event of a loss of dissenters' rights,
the shareholder will be reinstated to all rights as a shareholder of the Fund as
of the date of consummation of the Reorganization, including any intervening
preemptive rights and the right to payment of any intervening dividend or other
distribution, and will be obligated to exchange his or her Common Shares for
ONYMF shares based on the net asset value of an ONYMF share at the close of
business on the effective day of the loss of dissenters' rights, or if such day
is not a business day, the next succeeding business day.
Exclusive Remedy. The enforcement by a shareholder of his or her right to
receive payment for his or her shares in the manner provided by Section 302A.471
and 302A.473 shall exclude the enforcement by such shareholder of any other
right to which he or she might otherwise be entitled by virtue of share
ownership, except as provided in "Loss of Dissenters' Rights" above and except
that Section 623 shall not exclude the right of such shareholder to bring or
maintain an appropriate action to obtain relief on the ground that such
corporate action will be or is unlawful or fraudulent as to him or her.
Loss of Rights as Shareholder. Any shareholder who has elected to dissent
pursuant to Section 302A.471 and 302A.473 shall not thereafter be entitled to
notice of any meeting of shareholders of the Fund or to vote his or her Common
Shares for any purpose and shall not be entitled to the payment of dividends or
other distributions on the Common Shares.
The receipt of cash pursuant to the enforcement of dissenters' rights will
be a taxable event for federal income tax purposes. See "Tax Aspects of the
Reorganization" above. Any Fund shareholder who desires to enforce dissenters'
rights should carefully review the Minnesota Business Corporation Act and is
urged to consult his or her legal or tax advisor before electing or attempting
to exercise such rights.
COMPARISON OF INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
Investment Objectives and Policies
As its investment objective, both the Fund and ONYMF seek as high a level of
current income which is exempt from Federal, New York State and New York City
income taxes as is available from investing in tax-exempt New York Municipal
Securities, while attempting to preserve capital. The Fund also seeks as a
secondary objective to preserve and enhance the Fund's net asset value through
investments in tax-exempt New York Municipal Securities that, in the opinion of
the Manager, are underrated or represent municipal market sectors that are
undervalued.
Under normal market conditions, the Fund, as a matter of fundamental policy,
will invest at least 80% of its net assets, in tax-exempt New York Municipal
Securities. Under normal market conditions, ONYMF, as a matter of fundamental
policy, will invest at least 80% of its net assets, in
<PAGE>
Municipal Securities and at least 65% of its total assets in New York Municipal
Securities.
Both funds generally invest a substantial portion of their assets in higher
rated securities. As a non- fundamental policy, 80% of the Fund's net assets
will be securities rated at the time of purchase within the four highest grades
for long-term securities or within the two highest grades for short-term loans,
notes and commercial paper or, if unrated, judged by the Manager to be of
comparable quality to Municipal Securities rated within such grades. At least
75% of the total assets of ONYMF must be invested in Municipal Securities rated
within the four highest rating categories or, if unrated, judged by the Manager
to be of comparable quality to Municipal Securities rated within such grades. A
reduction in the rating of a security after its purchase by either fund will not
require the fund to dispose of such security.
ONYMF is permitted to invest up to 25% of its total assets in Municipal
Securities rated below "investment grade," that is, below the four highest
rating categories. The Fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in unrated
New York Municipal Securities or in New York Municipal Securities rated lower
than the four highest grades for long-term securities, but no more than half of
this amount (10% of the Fund's net assets) will be invested in such lower rated
New York Municipal Securities. To the extent that either fund invests in unrated
or lower-rated securities, there may be somewhat greater risk because such
unrated or lower rated Municipal Securities, although generally offering a
higher current yield than higher rated securities, are generally less liquid and
involve a greater risk of non-payment of principal and interest than higher
rated securities. As a non- fundamental policy, the Fund will invest in only
unrated New York Municipal Securities which, in the opinion of the Manager, have
credit characteristics equivalent to New York Municipal Securities which have
ratings qualifying them for investment by the Fund. Also as a non-fundamental
policy, the Fund will not invest in any rated New York (a) municipal bonds rated
lower than "Ba" by Moody's or "BB" by S&P, Fitch or Duff & Phelps, (b) municipal
notes rated "SP-2" by S&P, "MIG2" by Moody's or "F-2" by Fitch, or (c) if
unrated municipal securities, judged by the Manager to be of comparable quality
to municipal securities rated within the grades described in (a) or (b) above,
or within comparable rating grades by another nationally recognized statistical
rating organization.
<PAGE>
Special Investment Methods
ONYMF and the Fund use the special investment methods summarized below.
Investments in Taxable Securities and Temporary Defensive Investment Strategy.
As a non- fundamental policy, during temporary defensive periods (e.g. times
when temporary imbalances of supply and demand or other temporary dislocations
in the tax-exempt bond market adversely affect the price at which New York
Municipal Securities are available), both funds may invest any percentage of
their assets in temporary investments which include obligations issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities or
corporate securities rated at the time of purchase within the two highest grades
(three highest grades for ONYMF) or, for the Fund, if unrated, judged by the
Manager to be of comparable quality to Municipal Securities rated within such
grades. ONYMF may also invest in certificates of deposit of domestic banks with
assets of $1 billion or more. The income on these investments may be subject to
either or both of New York State and New York City income taxes or to both
federal and New York income taxes. Under normal market conditions, both funds
may invest up to 20% of their assets in taxable investments including repurchase
agreements and private activity bonds.
When-Issued Securities. ONYMF may invest without limit in securities offered on
a "when- issued" or "delayed delivery" basis. The Fund is limited to investing
no more than 20% of its net assets in such securities. The price, which on these
debt securities is generally expressed in yield terms, is fixed at the time the
commitment is made, but delivery and payment for when-issued securities take
place at a later date. No income accrues to the fund until it takes delivery of
when- issued securities and the fund is subject to the risk of adverse market
fluctuations between purchase and settlement.
Hedging Instruments. Both the Fund and ONYMF may purchase and sell certain kinds
of futures contracts, and options on futures and broadly-based municipal bond
indices, or enter into interest rate swap agreements. ONYMF may also purchase
and sell put and call options These are all referred to as "hedging
instruments." Neither fund uses hedging instruments for speculative purposes,
and both funds have limits on the use of them. The funds may buy and sell
options and futures for a number of purposes. They may do so to try to manage
their exposure to the possibility that the prices of their portfolio securities
may decline, or to establish a position in the securities market as a temporary
substitute for purchasing individual securities. They may do so to try to manage
their exposure to changing interest rates. Some of these strategies, such as
selling futures, buying puts and writing covered calls, hedge the fund's
portfolio against price fluctuations. Other hedging strategies, such as buying
futures and call options, tend to increase the fund's exposure to the market.
Writing covered call options may also provide income to the funds for liquidity
purposes or to raise cash to distribute to shareholders.
The Fund may attempt to hedge all or a portion of its investment portfolio
against market risk by engaging in transactions in financial futures contracts
or options on financial futures, including options that either are based on an
index of long-term Municipal Securities or relate to debt securities whose
prices are anticipated by the Manager to correlate with the prices of the
Municipal Securities owned by the Fund. To accomplish such hedging, the Fund may
take a position in a futures contract or in an option which is expected to move
in the opposite direction from the position being hedged. The use of futures and
options for hedging purposes can be expected to result in taxable income to the
shareholders of the Fund. With respect to its engaging in transactions involving
the purchase or writing of put and
<PAGE>
call options on debt securities or indexes, the Fund will not purchase such
options if more than 5% of its assets would be invested such in options, and it
will only write "covered" or "secured" options, wherein the securities or cash
required to be delivered upon exercise are held by the Fund, with such cash
being maintained in a segregated account.
ONYMF may buy and sell futures contracts that relate to (1) broadly-based
municipal bond indices and (2) interest rates. It may also buy calls only on
securities, broadly-based municipal bond indices, Municipal Bond Index Futures
or Interest Rate Futures, or to terminate its obligation on a call ONYMF
previously wrote. ONYMF may write (that is, sell) covered call options.
Additionally, ONYMF may purchase put options that relate to (1) securities that
ONYMF owns, (2) broadly- based municipal bond indices, (3) Municipal Bond Index
Futures or (4) Interest Rate Futures. ONYMF can buy a put on a Municipal Bond
Future or Interest Rate Future whether or not ONYMF owns the particular Future
in its portfolio. ONYMF may not sell a put other than a put that it previously
purchased.
ONYMF may buy and sell puts and calls only if certain conditions are met: (1)
after ONYMF writes a call, not more than 25% of ONYMF's total assets may be
subject to calls; (2) calls ONYMF buys or sells must be listed on a securities
or commodities exchange, or quoted on the Automated Quotation System (NASDAQ)of
The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc., or traded in the over-the-counter market; (3)
each call ONYMF writes must be "covered" while it is outstanding. That means
ONYMF owns the investment on which the call was written; (4) ONYMF may write
calls on Futures contracts it owns, but these calls must be covered by
securities or other liquid assets ONYMF owns and segregates to enable it to
satisfy its obligations if the call is exercised; (5) a call or put option may
not be purchased if the value of all of ONYMF's put and call options would
exceed 5% of ONYMF's total assets. In addition, ONYMF may purchase interest rate
swaps, with respect to more than 25% of its total assets. The Manager does not
believe that ONYMF's net asset value or income will be significantly adversely
affected by its use of hedging instruments.
Inverse Floaters and Other Derivative Investments. Both funds may invest in
certain municipal "derivative investments." The funds may use some derivative
investments for hedging purposes, and may invest in others because they offer
the potential for increased income and principal value. In general, a
"derivative investment" is a specially-designed investment whose performance is
linked to the performance of another investment or security, such as an option,
future or index. In the broadest sense, derivative investments include
exchange-traded options and futures contracts as described in "Hedging
Instruments," above.
Both funds may invest in "inverse floater" variable rate bonds, a type of
derivative investment whose yields move in the opposite direction as short-term
interest rates change. As interest rates rise, inverse floaters produce less
current income. Their price may be more volatile than the price of a comparable
fixed-rate security. Some inverse floaters have a "cap" whereby if interest
rates rise above the "cap," the security pays additional interest income. If
rates do not rise above the "cap," the fund will have paid an additional amount
for a feature that proves worthless. Both funds may also invest in municipal
securities that pay interest that depends on an external pricing mechanism, also
a type of derivative investment. Examples of external pricing mechanisms are
interest rate swaps or caps and municipal bond or swap indices. The funds
anticipate that under normal
<PAGE>
circumstances neither will invest more than 10% of their net assets in inverse
floaters.
Loans of Portfolio Securities. To attempt to increase income, ONYMF may lend its
portfolio securities (other than in repurchase transactions) to brokers, dealers
and other financial institutions meeting specified credit conditions if the loan
is collateralized in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and if,
after any loan, the value of the securities loaned does not exceed 25% of the
value of ONYMF's net assets. ONYMF presently does not intend that the value of
securities loaned in the current fiscal year will exceed 5% of the value of its
total assets.
Repurchase Agreements. Both funds may acquire securities subject to repurchase
agreements to generate income while providing liquidity. If the vendor fails to
pay the agreed-upon resale price on the delivery date, the funds's risks may
include any costs of disposing of such collateral, and any loss from any delay
in foreclosing on the collateral.
Investment Restrictions
Each of the Fund and ONYMF have certain investment restrictions that, together
with their investment objectives, are fundamental policies, changeable only by
shareholder approval. Set forth below is a summary of these investment
restrictions which are different for each fund. Other investment restrictions
for each fund are substantially the same:
Under these fundamental policies:
o The Fund will not write or purchase put or call options, except to the
extent that the purchase of a stand-by commitment may be considered the
purchase of a put, and except for transactions involving options within the
limits described herein; ONYMF may purchase and write put and call options
as described above however it cannot purchase securities other than hedging
instruments on margin; however, it may obtain such short-term credits as
may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of securities.
Additionally, ONYMF cannot buy or sell futures contracts other than
Interest Rate Futures or Municipal Bond Index Futures.
o The Fund will not borrow money, except from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes or for repurchase of its shares, and then only in an
amount not exceeding one-third of the value of the Fund's total assets
including the amount borrowed. While any such borrowings exceed 5% of the
Fund's total assets, no additional purchases of investment securities will
be made. ONYMF cannot borrow money in excess of 10% of the value of its
total assets or make any investment when borrowings exceed 5% of the value
of its total assets; it may borrow only as a temporary measure for
extraordinary or emergency purposes.
o The Fund will not purchase or sell commodities or commodities contracts,
except for transactions involving futures contracts within the limits
described in the Fund's prospectus
o The Fund will not make loans, other than by entering into repurchase
agreements and through the purchase of Municipal Securities or temporary
investments in accordance with its investment objectives, policies and
limitations. ONYMF may make loans as described above.
<PAGE>
o The Fund will not invest in securities other than New York Municipal
Securities and temporary investments, as those terms are defined herein.
o The Fund will not pledge, mortgage or hypothecate its assets, except that,
to secure permitted borrowings, it may pledge securities having a market
value at the time of pledge not exceeding 20% of the value of the Fund's
total assets. ONYMF cannot pledge, mortgage or otherwise encumber, transfer
or assign any of its assets to secure a debt; however collateral
arrangements for premium and margin payments in connection with hedging
instruments are not deemed to be a pledge of assets.
o The Fund will not invest more than 10% of its total assets in repurchase
agreements maturing in more than seven days. ONYMF follows the same policy
as a non-fundamental policy.
o ONYMF cannot invest in other open-end investment companies except in a
merger, consolidation, reorganization or acquisition of assets.
Unless the prospectus of either fund states that a percentage restriction
applies on an ongoing basis, it applies only at the time that fund makes an
investment and the fund need not sell securities to meet the percentage limits
if the value of the investment increases in proportion to the size of the fund.
Description of Brokerage Practices
Brokerage practices are the same for the Fund and ONYMF. As most purchases made
by the Fund and ONYMF are principal transactions at net prices, both funds incur
little or no brokerage costs. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997 and the
six months ended April 30, 1998 (unaudited), the Fund's portfolio turnover rates
were 33.2% and 37.6%, respectively, and for the fiscal year ended September 30,
1997 and the six months ended March 31, 1998 (unaudited), ONYMF's portfolio
turnover rates were 20.5% and 14.2%, respectively.
Expense Ratios and Performance
The ratios of expenses to average net assets for the Fund for the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1997 and the six months ended April 30, 1998 (unaudited) were
0.85% and 0.89% (annualized), respectively. The ratios of expenses to average
net assets for ONYMF for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 and the six
months ended March 31, 1998 (unaudited) were 0.86% and 0.87% (annualized),
respectively. Further details are set forth under "Fund Expenses" and "Condensed
Financial Information" in the ONYMF Prospectus accompanying this Proxy Statement
and Prospectus, and in the Fund's and ONYMF's respective Annual Reports as of
October 31, 1997 and September 30, 1997, respectively, and Semi-Annual Reports
as of April 30, 1998 and March 31, 1998, respectively, which are included in the
Additional Statement. The Fund's average annual total returns at net asset value
for the one and five year periods ended June 30, 1998 were 7.60% and 5.43%,
respectively. ONYMF's average annual total return for Class A shares at net
asset value for the one and five year periods June 30, 1998 were 8.08% and
5.67%, respectively. These total returns include the change in share price and
assume that all dividends and distributions were reinvested into
<PAGE>
the fund. No sales charges or brokerage costs were included and the returns
would have been lower had such charges been deducted. The dividend yield for the
Fund and Class A shares of ONYMF for the 30 day period ended June 30, 1998 were
5.32% and 5.01%, respectively. These yields have been annualized and are based
on the net asset values of each fund. Please remember that past performance
cannot guarantee future results. More performance information can be found in
Exhibit B.
Shareholder Services
Generally, the minimum initial investment in ONYMF is $1,000 ($25 if made
pursuant to an Asset Builder Plan or military allotment plan), with subsequent
purchases in a minimum amount of $25. The minimum initial and subsequent
purchase requirements are waived on purchases made by reinvesting dividends from
any of the other Oppenheimer funds listed in the ONYMF prospectus as "Eligible
Funds" or by reinvesting distributions from unit investment trusts for which
reinvestment arrangements have been made with the Distributor. Pursuant to the
Reorganization, shareholders of the Fund will be deemed to have met the minimum
investment requirement upon the exchange of their shares for shares of ONYMF.
ONYMF offers the following privileges: (i) Rights of Accumulation, (ii) Letters
of Intent, (iii) reinvestment of dividends and distributions at net asset value,
(iv) net asset value purchases by certain individuals and entities, (v) Asset
Builder (Automatic Investment) Plans, (vi) Automatic Withdrawal Plans for
shareholders who own shares of the fund valued at $5,000 or more, (vii)
reinvestment of net redemption proceeds at net asset value within six months of
a redemption, (viii) AccountLink Arrangements, (ix) exchanges of shares for
shares of certain other funds, (x) checkwriting ($100 minimum check amount), and
(xi) telephone and Internet exchange privileges.
Rights of Shareholders
The Fund was incorporated in Minnesota on August 10, 1987. Its authorized
capital stock consists of a single class of 250,000,000 shares of Common Stock,
par value $.01 per share. All shares have equal noncumulative voting rights and
equal rights with respect to dividends, assets and liquidation. Shares are fully
paid and non-assessable when issued and have no pre-emptive, conversion or
exchange rights. There were ________ Common Shares issued and outstanding as of
the Record Date.
Each Common Share is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to the vote
of shareholders, and the Fund's By-Laws provide that at all meetings at which a
quorum is present, a majority vote of the shares present shall constitute the
act of the shareholders unless a greater number is required under the Fund's
certificate of incorporation or applicable law. Pursuant to the Articles of
Incorporation of the Fund, an affirmative vote of at least 662/3% of the
outstanding common stock is required for the Fund to merge or consolidate,
reorganize, or sell all or substantially all of its assets.
The American Stock Exchange rules require a meeting of the Fund's shareholders
to be held annually to elect directors and to conduct any other business of the
Fund. For this purpose, directors are elected by the vote of a plurality of
Common Shares represented at the meeting. In addition, shareholders may have the
right to call a shareholder's meeting under certain other circumstances
<PAGE>
as defined in the By-Laws and as provided for under Minnesota law.
ONYMF is a Massachusetts business trust established in 1984 pursuant to a
Declaration of Trust. ONYMF's authorized capital consists of an unlimited number
of shares of beneficial interest without par value. The Board of Trustees of
ONYMF is empowered to issue full and fractional shares of one or more series and
classes of shares. Each class of shares represents an identical interest in
ONYMF but each class has different dividends, distributions and expenses, and
may have different net asset values. Three classes of shares have been
authorized. Shares of ONYMF represent an interest in ONYMF proportionately equal
to the interest of each other share of the same class and entitle their holders
to one vote per share (and a fractional vote for a fractional share) on matters
submitted to their vote. Only shareholders of a particular class vote on matters
affecting only that class. Shares do not have cumulative voting rights or
preemptive or subscription rights.
ONYMF's Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder or
Trustee liability for ONYMF's obligations, and provides for indemnification and
reimbursement of expenses out of its property for any shareholder held
personally liable for its obligations. The Declaration of Trust also provides
that ONYMF shall, upon request, assume a defense of any claim made against any
shareholder for any act or obligation of ONYMF and shall satisfy any judgment
thereon. Thus, while Massachusetts law permits a shareholder of a trust (such as
ONYMF) to be held personally liable as a "partner" under certain circumstances,
the risk of an ONYMF shareholder incurring financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is highly unlikely and is limited to the relatively remote
circumstances in which ONYMF would be unable to meet the obligations described
above. Any person doing business with ONYMF and any shareholder of ONYMF agrees
under ONYMF's Declaration of Trust to look solely to the assets of ONYMF for
satisfaction of any claim or demand which may arise out of any dealings with
ONYMF, and the Trustees shall have no personal liability to any such person, to
the extent permitted by law.
It is not contemplated that regular annual meetings of ONYMF shareholders will
be held. ONYMF will hold meetings when required to do so by the 1940 Act or
other applicable law, or when a shareholder meeting is called by the Trustees or
upon proper request of the shareholders. Shareholders have the right, upon the
declaration in writing or vote of two-thirds of the outstanding shares of ONYMF,
to remove a Trustee. The Trustees will call a meeting of shareholders to vote on
the removal of a Trustee upon the written request of the shareholders of 10% of
its outstanding shares. In addition, if the Trustees receive a request from at
least 10 shareholders (who have been shareholders for at least six months)
holding in the aggregate shares of ONYMF valued at $25,000 or more or holding 1%
or more of ONYMF's outstanding shares, whichever is less, that they wish to
communicate with other shareholders to request a meeting to remove a Trustee,
the Trustees will then either give the applicants access to ONYMF's shareholder
list, mail their communication to all other shareholders at the applicants'
expense, or take alternative action as set forth in Section 16(c) of the 1940
Act.
Management and Distribution Arrangements
The Manager, located at Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203,
acts as the investment adviser for both the Fund and ONYMF. The terms and
conditions of the investment advisory agreement for each fund are substantially
the same. The monthly management fee payable
<PAGE>
to the Manager by each fund is set forth under "Synopsis - Investment Advisory
and Distribution and Service Plan Fees". The 12b-1 Distribution and Service Plan
fees paid by ONYMF with respect to Class A, Class B and Class C shares for ONYMF
are set forth above under "Synopsis - Investment Advisory and Distribution and
Service Plan Fees." No Distribution and Service Plan fees are paid by the Fund.
Pursuant to each investment advisory agreement, the Manager supervises the
investment operations of the funds and the composition of their portfolios, and
furnishes advice and recommendations with respect to investments, investment
policies and the purchase and sale of securities. Both investment advisory
agreements require the Manager to provide the Fund and ONYMF with adequate
office space, facilities and equipment and to provide and supervise the
activities of all administrative and clerical personnel required to provide
effective administration for the funds, including the compilation and
maintenance of records with respect to their operations, the preparation and
filing of specified reports, and composition of proxy materials and registration
statements for continuous public sale of shares of each fund.
Expenses not expressly assumed by the Manager under each fund's advisory
agreement or by OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc., ONYMF's distributor, under
the General Distributor's Agreement are paid by the funds. The advisory
agreements list examples of expenses paid by the funds, the major categories of
which relate to interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, fees to certain
Directors, legal and audit expenses, custodian and transfer agent expenses,
share issuance costs, certain printing and registration costs and non-recurring
expenses, including litigation costs. The management fee paid by the Fund for
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997 was $120,378. For the fiscal year ended
September 30, 1997, the management fee paid by ONYMF was $3,912,050. The funds'
investment advisory agreements contain no expense limitation.
The Manager is controlled by Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp., a holding company
owned in part by senior management of the Manager and ultimately controlled by
Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, a mutual life insurance company
that also advises pension plans and investment companies. The Manager has
operated as an investment company adviser since 1959. The Manager and its
affiliates currently advise investment companies with combined net assets
aggregating over $85 billion as of June 30, 1998, with more than 4.2 million
shareholder accounts. OppenheimerFunds Services, a division of the Manager, acts
as transfer and shareholder servicing agent on an at-cost basis for the Fund and
ONYMF and for certain other open-end funds managed by the Manager and its
affiliates.
The Distributor, under a General Distributor's Agreement for each of the funds,
acts as the principal underwriter in the continuous public offering of Class A,
Class B and Class C shares of ONYMF. During ONYMF's fiscal year ended September
30, 1997, the aggregate sales charges on sales of ONYMF's Class A shares were
$835,127, of which the Distributor and an affiliated broker-dealer retained in
the aggregate $161,226. During ONYMF's fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, the
contingent deferred sales charges collected on ONYMF's Class B and Class C
shares totaled $260,864 and $5,113, respectively, all of which the Distributor
retained. For additional information about distribution of ONYMF' shares and the
payments made by ONYMF to the Distributor in connection with such activities,
please refer to "Distribution and Service Plans," in ONYMF's Statement of
Addition Information.
<PAGE>
Purchase of Additional Shares
Class A shares of ONYMF may be purchased with an initial sales charge of 4.75%
for purchases of less than $50,000. The sales charge of 4.75% is reduced for
purchases of Class A shares of $50,000 or more. For purchases of $1 million or
more ($500,000 or more for purchases by "Retirement Plans", as defined in
ONYMF's prospectus) if those shares are redeemed within 18 calendar months (a
different holding period may apply to shares purchased period to June 1, 1998)
of the end of the calendar month of their purchase, a contingent sales charge
may be deducted from the redemption proceeds. Class B shares of ONYMF are sold
at net asset value without an initial sales charge, however, if Class B shares
are redeemed within six years of the end of the calendar month of their
purchase, a contingent deferred sales charge may be deducted of up to 5%,
depending upon how long such shares had been held. Class C shares of ONYMF may
be purchased without an initial sales charge, but if sold within 12 months of
buying them, a contingent deferred sales charge of 1% may be deducted.
The initial sales charge on Class A shares and contingent deferred sales charge
on Class B and Class C shares of ONYMF will only affect shareholders of the Fund
to the extent that they desire to make additional purchases of shares of ONYMF
in addition to the shares which they will receive as a result of the
Reorganization. The Class A shares to be issued under the Reorganization
Agreement will be issued by ONYMF at net asset value.
Dividends and Distributions
Both funds pay dividends monthly and ONYMF has historically maintained the
practice, to the extent consistent with the amount of ONYMF's net investment
income and other distributable income, of attempting to pay dividends on Class A
shares at a constant level, although the amount of such dividends was subject to
change from time to time depending on market conditions, the composition of
ONYMF's portfolio and expenses borne by it. The practice of attempting to pay
dividends on Class A shares at a constant level required the Manager, consistent
with ONYMF's investment objective and investment restrictions, to monitor
ONYMF's portfolio and select higher yielding securities when deemed appropriate
to maintain necessary net investment income levels. This practice did not affect
the net asset value of ONYMF's Class A shares. The Board of Trustees may change
ONYMF's targeted dividend level at any time, without prior notice to
shareholders; ONYMF does not otherwise have a fixed dividend rate and there can
be no assurance as to the payment of any dividends or the realization of any
capital gains.
Both funds have recently reduced the dividends paid by each fund. In March 1998,
the Fund's dividend was reduced from $0.053 to $0.043 per share and again in
July, 1998 to $0.0405 per share. On August 11, 1998, ONYMF's dividend was
reduced from _____ to ______. These reductions were necessary because the yields
on most municipal bond investments have declined over the last twelve months and
because of the lower interest rates offered, it has become difficult to sustain
income payout levels without taking on additional risk in the funds' portfolios.
Additionally, as yields continue to hold at lower levels, more and more
securities issued during higher interest rate periods are being called.
Consequently, fewer fixed income securities in the market, or in the funds'
portfolios, can provide the same levels of income the funds enjoyed in the past.
<PAGE>
METHOD OF CARRYING OUT THE REORGANIZATION
Under the Reorganization Agreement, all the assets of the Fund, excluding the
Cash Reserve, will be delivered to ONYMF in exchange for Class A shares of
ONYMF. The Cash Reserve to be retained by the Fund will be sufficient in the
discretion of the Board for the payment of the Fund's liabilities, and the
Fund's expenses of liquidation.
Assuming the shareholders of the Fund approve the Reorganization, the actual
exchange of assets is expected to take place on November 6, or as soon
thereafter as is practicable (the "Closing Date") on the basis of net asset
values as of the close of business on the business day preceding the Closing
Date (the "Valuation Date"). The exchange of assets for shares will be done on
the basis of the per share net asset value of the Class A shares of ONYMF, and
the value of the assets of the Fund to be transferred as of the close of
business on the Valuation Date, valued in the manner used by ONYMF in the
valuation of assets. ONYMF is not assuming any of the liabilities of the Fund,
except for portfolio securities purchased which have not settled and outstanding
shareholder redemption and dividend checks.
Under the Reorganization Agreement, within one year after the Closing Date, the
Fund shall: (a) either pay or make provision for all of its debts and taxes; and
(b) either (i) transfer any remaining amount of the Cash Reserve to ONYMF, if
such remaining amount is not material (as defined below) or (ii) distribute such
remaining amount to the shareholders of the Fund who were such on the Valuation
Date. Such remaining amount shall be deemed to be material if the amount to be
distributed, after deducting the estimated expenses of the distribution, equals
or exceeds one cent per share of the number of the Fund shares outstanding on
the Valuation Date. Within one year after the Closing Date, the Fund will
complete its liquidation.
In the event that the Reorganization Agreement is not consummated for any
reason, the Board will consider and may submit to the shareholders other
alternatives.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Financial Information
The transaction will be accounted for by ONYMF as the surviving fund in its
financial statements similar to a pooling. Further financial information as to
the Fund is contained in its Registration Statement on Form N-2, as amended by
amendment no. 12 thereto, dated February 26, 1998 (the "Form N-2") which is
available without charge from Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. P.O. Box
173673, Denver, Colorado 80217 and is incorporated herein, and in its audited
financial statements as of October 31, 1997, and unaudited financial statements
as of April 30, 1998, which are included in the Additional Statement. Financial
information for ONYMF is contained in the ONYMF Prospectus accompanying this
Proxy Statement and Prospectus and incorporated herein, and in its audited
financial statements as of September 30, 1997 and unaudited financial statements
as of March 31, 1998, which are included in the Additional Statement.
Public Information
<PAGE>
Additional information about the Fund and ONYMF is available, as applicable, in
the following documents which are incorporated herein by reference: (i) the
ONYMF Prospectus, accompanying this Proxy Statement and Prospectus and
incorporated herein; (ii) the Form N-2 which may be obtained without charge by
writing to Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. P.O. Box 173673, Denver,
Colorado 80217; (iii) ONYMF's Annual Report as of September 30, 1997 and
Semi-Annual Report as of March 31, 1998, which may be obtained without charge by
writing to OppenheimerFunds Services, P.O. Box 5270, Denver, Colorado 80217; and
(iv) the Fund's Annual Report as of October 31, 1997 and Semi-Annual Report as
of April 30, 1998, which may be obtained without charge by writing to
Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. The foregoing documents with respect to
ONYMF may also be obtained by calling, toll-free, 1-800-525-7048 and with
respect to the Fund may be obtained by calling 1-800-647-7374.
Additional information about the following matters is contained in the
Additional Statement, which incorporates by reference ONYMF's Statement of
Additional Information and the Fund's Form N-2: the organization and operation
of ONYMF and the Fund; more information on investment policies and practices;
information about the Fund's and ONYMF's respective Boards of Directors and
Trustees and their responsibilities; a further description of the services
provided by ONYMF's and the Fund's investment adviser, distributor (as to
ONYMF), and transfer and shareholder servicing agent; dividend policies; tax
matters; an explanation of the method of determining the offering price of the
shares of ONYMF and the Fund; purchase, redemption and exchange programs; and
distribution arrangements.
The Fund and ONYMF are subject to the informational requirements of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and in accordance therewith, file
reports and other information with the SEC. Proxy material, reports and other
information about the Fund and ONYMF which are of public record can be inspected
and copied at public reference facilities maintained by the SEC in Washington,
D.C. and certain of its regional offices, and copies of such materials can be
obtained at prescribed rates from the Public Reference Branch, Office of
Consumer Affairs and Information Services, SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549.
OTHER BUSINESS
Management of the Fund knows of no business other than the matters specified
above and in the Notice of Special Meeting accompanying this Proxy Statement and
Prospectus which will be presented at the Meeting. Matters to be considered at
the Meeting are limited to those specified in, or related to, the matters set
forth in the Notice of Special Meeting. The proxy as solicited confers
discretionary authority with respect to such matters as properly come before the
Meeting, including any adjournment or adjournments thereof, and it is the
intention of the persons named as attorneys-in-fact in the proxy to vote this
proxy in accordance with their judgment on such matters.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
<PAGE>
Andrew J. Donohue,
Secretary
September 14, 1998
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT A
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF REORGANIZATION
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF REORGANIZATION dated this 30th day of July 1998, by
and between The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. (the "Fund"), a Minnesota
corporation, and Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund ("ONYMF"), a Massachusetts
business trust.
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, the Fund is a closed-end investment company and ONYMF is an open-end
investment company, each of the management type and registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"); and
WHEREAS, the parties hereto desire to provide for the reorganization pursuant to
Section 368(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"),
of the Fund through the acquisition by ONYMF of substantially all of the assets
of the Fund solely in exchange for Class A shares of beneficial interest of
ONYMF ("Class A Shares"), and the subsequent distribution by the Fund of those
Class A Shares pro rata to its shareholders in complete liquidation of the Fund;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises herein contained,
the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. The parties hereto hereby adopt this Agreement and Plan of
Reorganization (the "Agreement") pursuant to Section 368(a)(1) of the Code as
follows: The reorganization will be comprised of the acquisition by ONYMF of
substantially all of the properties and assets of the Fund in exchange for Class
A shares of ONYMF and the assumption by ONYMF of certain liabilities of the
Fund, followed by the distribution of such Class A shares of ONYMF shares to the
shareholders of the Fund who have not elected dissenter's rights as set forth in
Section 5 hereof in exchange for their shares of the Fund, all upon and subject
to the terms of the Agreement hereinafter set forth.
The share transfer books of the Fund will be permanently closed at
the close of business on the Valuation Date (as hereinafter defined); redemption
requests received by the Fund after that date shall be treated as requests for
the redemption of the shares of ONYMF to be distributed to the shareholder in
question as provided in Section 5.
2. On the Closing Date (as hereinafter defined), all of the assets of the
Fund on that date, excluding a cash reserve (the "Cash Reserve") to be retained
by the Fund sufficient in its discretion for the payment by it in respect of
Dissenting Shares (as discussed in Section 5 hereof), and the liabilities the
expenses of the Fund's dissolution, but not in excess of the amount contemplated
by Section 10E, shall be delivered as provided in Section 8 to ONYMF, in
exchange for and against delivery to the Fund on the Closing Date of a number of
Class A shares of ONYMF, having an aggregate net asset value equal to the value
of the assets of the Fund so transferred and delivered.
3. The net asset value of Class A shares of ONYMF and the value of the
assets of the Fund to be transferred shall in each case be determined as of the
close of business of the New York Stock Exchange on the Valuation Date. The
computation of the net asset value of the Class A shares of ONYMF and the shares
of the Fund shall be done in the manner used by ONYMF and the Fund,
respectively, in the computation of such net asset value per share as set forth
in their respective prospectuses. The methods used by ONYMF in such computation
shall be applied to the valuation of the assets of the Fund to be transferred to
ONYMF.
The Fund shall declare and pay, immediately prior to the Valuation
Date, a dividend or dividends which, together with all previous such dividends,
shall have the effect of distributing to the Fund's shareholders all of the
Fund's investment company taxable income for taxable years ending on or prior to
the Closing Date (computed without regard to any dividends paid) and all of
<PAGE>
its net capital gain, if any, realized in taxable years ending on or prior to
the Closing Date (after reduction for any capital loss carry-forward).
4. The closing (the "Closing") shall be at the offices of
OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the "Agent"), Two World Trade Center, 34th Floor, New
York, New York 10048, at 4:00 P.M. New York time on November 6, 1998 or at such
other time or place as the parties may designate or as provided below (the
"Closing Date"). The business day preceding the Closing Date is hereinafter
referred to as the "Valuation Date."
In the event that on the Valuation Date either party has, pursuant
to the 1940 Act, or any rule, regulation or order thereunder, suspended the
redemption of its shares or postponed payment therefore, the Closing Date shall
be postponed until the first business day after the date when both parties have
ceased such suspension or postponement; provided, however, that if such
suspension shall continue for a period of 60 days beyond the Valuation Date,
then the other party to the Agreement shall be permitted to terminate the
Agreement without liability to either party for such termination.
5. In conjunction with the closing, the Fund shall distribute on a pro
rata basis to the shareholders of the Fund on the Valuation Date the Class A
shares of ONYMF received by the Fund on the Closing Date in exchange for the
assets of the Fund in complete liquidation of the Fund; for the purpose of the
distribution by the Fund of Class A shares of ONYMF to its shareholders, ONYMF
will promptly cause its transfer agent to: (a) credit an appropriate number of
Class A shares of ONYMF on the books of ONYMF to each shareholder of the Fund in
accordance with a list (the "Shareholder List") of its shareholders received
from the Fund; and (b) confirm an appropriate number of Class A shares of ONYMF
to each shareholder of the Fund; certificates for Class A shares of ONYMF will
be issued upon written request of a former shareholder of the Fund but only for
whole shares, with fractional shares credited to the name of the shareholder on
the books of ONYMF.
The Shareholder List shall indicate, as of the close of business on
the Valuation Date, the name and address of each shareholder of the Fund,
indicating his or her share balance. The Fund agrees to supply the Shareholder
List to ONYMF not later than the Closing Date. Shareholders of the Fund holding
certificates representing their shares shall not be required to surrender their
certificates to anyone in connection with the reorganization. After the Closing
Date, however, it will be necessary for such shareholders to surrender their
certificates in order to redeem, transfer or pledge the shares of ONYMF which
they received.
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, holders of
shares of the Fund outstanding at the Valuation Time who have not voted in favor
of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, including the
Reorganization, and who have elected to receive payment with respect thereto
under Section 302A.471 and in accordance with Section 302A.473 of the Minnesota
Business Corporation Act shall not be considered Shareholders and shall not be
entitled to receive shares of ONYMF as provided above, but shall only be
entitled to receive from the Fund payment of the "fair value" of the shares of
the Fund held on the Valuation Date as to which they have dissented (the
"Dissenting Shares") in accordance with the provisions of such Section 302A.471
and 302A.473; except that each Dissenting Share held by a shareholder who shall
thereafter withdraw such election to receive payment or otherwise lose the right
to receive payment shall thereupon be deemed to have been converted into the
right to receive (promptly following receipt of the payment referred to in the
second following sentence) and ONYMF shall thereupon issue the number of Class A
Shares determined by dividing the Deemed Value of a Dissenting Share (as defined
below) by the net asset value of one Class A Share at the close of business on
the day of receipt of such withdrawal of notice of election and such shareholder
shall thereafter have the rights of a "Shareholder" for the purposes of this
Agreement. The term "Deemed Value of a Dissenting Share" means the quotient
determined by dividing the value of the Assets transferred at the Closing by the
number of outstanding shares of the Fund (excluding the number of Dissenting
Shares) on the Valuation Date. Any amounts determined to be payable for
<PAGE>
Dissenting Shares shall be paid by the Fund out of the Cash Reserve. Except as
set forth herein, ONYMF shall not be liable for any obligations, claims or
liabilities incurred in connection with the subject matter of this paragraph.
The Fund shall give ONYMF prompt notice of any elections to receive payment,
withdrawals or attempted withdrawals of such elections and any other instruments
served pursuant to the Minnesota Business Corporation Act or otherwise received
by the Fund relating to shareholders' rights under Minnesota Business
Corporation Act.
6. Within one year after the Closing Date, the Fund shall (a) either pay
or make provision for payment of all of its liabilities and taxes, and (b)
either (i) transfer any remaining amount of the Cash Reserve to ONYMF, if such
remaining amount (as reduced by the estimated cost of distributing it to
shareholders) is not material (as defined below) or (ii) distribute such
remaining amount to the shareholders of the Fund on the Valuation Date. Such
remaining amount shall be deemed to be material if the amount to be distributed,
after deduction of the estimated expenses of the distribution, equals or exceeds
one cent per share of the Fund outstanding on the Valuation Date.
7. Prior to the Closing Date, there shall be coordination between the
parties as to their respective portfolios so that, after the closing, ONYMF will
be in compliance with all of its investment policies and restrictions. Promptly
after the Closing, the Fund shall deliver to ONYMF two copies of a list setting
forth the securities then owned by the Fund. Promptly after the Closing, the
Fund shall provide ONYMF a list setting forth the respective federal income tax
bases thereof.
8. Portfolio securities or written evidence acceptable to ONYMF of record
ownership thereof by The Depository Trust Company or through the Federal Reserve
Book Entry System or any other depository approved by the Fund pursuant to Rule
17f-4 and Rule 17f-5 under the Act shall be endorsed and delivered, or
transferred by appropriate transfer or assignment documents, by the Fund on the
Closing Date to ONYMF, or at its direction, to its custodian bank, in proper
form for transfer in such condition as to constitute good delivery thereof in
accordance with the custom of brokers and shall be accompanied by all necessary
state transfer stamps, if any. The cash delivered shall be in the form of
certified or bank cashiers' checks or by bank wire or intra-bank transfer
payable to the order of ONYMF for the account of ONYMF. Shares of ONYMF
representing the number of shares of ONYMF being delivered against the assets of
the Fund, registered in the name of the Fund, shall be transferred to the Fund
on the Closing Date. Such shares shall thereupon be assigned by the Fund to its
shareholders so that the shares of ONYMF may be distributed as provided in
Section 5.
If, at the Closing Date, the Fund is unable in the ordinary course
of business to make delivery under this Section 8 to ONYMF of any of its
portfolio securities or cash for the reason that any of such securities
purchased by the Fund, or the cash proceeds of a sale of portfolio securities,
prior to the Closing Date have not yet been delivered to it or the Fund's
custodian, then the delivery requirements of this Section 8 with respect to said
undelivered securities or cash will be waived and the Fund will deliver to ONYMF
by or on the Closing Date and with respect to said undelivered securities or
cash executed copies of an agreement or agreements of assignment in a form
reasonably satisfactory to ONYMF, together with such other documents, including
a due bill or due bills and brokers' confirmation slips as may reasonably be
required by ONYMF.
9. ONYMF shall not assume the liabilities (except for portfolio securities
purchased which have not settled and for shareholder redemption and dividend
checks outstanding) of the Fund, but the Fund will, nevertheless, use its best
efforts to discharge all known liabilities, so far as may be possible, prior to
the Closing Date. The cost of printing and mailing the proxies and proxy
statements will be borne by the Fund. The Fund and ONYMF will bear the cost of
their respective tax opinion. Any documents such as existing prospectuses or
annual reports that are included in that mailing will be a cost of the fund
issuing the document. Any other out-of-pocket expenses of ONYMF and the Fund
associated with this reorganization, including legal, accounting and transfer
agent expenses, will be borne by the Fund and ONYMF, respectively, in the
amounts so incurred by each.
<PAGE>
10. The obligations of ONYMF hereunder shall be subject to the following
conditions:
A. The Board of Directors of the Fund shall have authorized the
execution of the Agreement, and the shareholders of the Fund shall have approved
the Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, and the Fund shall have
furnished to ONYMF copies of resolutions to that effect certified by the
Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Fund; such shareholder approval shall
have been by the affirmative vote of at least 662/3% of the outstanding common
stock of the Fund at a meeting for which proxies have been solicited by the
Proxy Statement and Prospectus (as hereinafter defined).
B. ONYMF shall have received an opinion of counsel to the Fund dated
the Closing Date, to the effect that (i) the Fund is a corporation duly
organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of
Minnesota with full powers to carry on its business as then being conducted and
to enter into and perform the Agreement (Minnesota counsel may be relied upon
for this opinion); and (ii) that all action necessary to make the Agreement,
according to its terms, valid, binding and enforceable on the Fund and to
authorize effectively the transactions contemplated by the Agreement have been
taken by the Fund.
C. The representations and warranties of the Fund contained herein
shall be true and correct at and as of the Closing Date, and ONYMF shall have
been furnished with a certificate of the President, or a Vice President, or the
Secretary or the Assistant Secretary or the Treasurer of the Fund, dated the
Closing Date, to that effect.
D. On the Closing Date, the Fund shall have furnished to ONYMF a
certificate of the Treasurer or Assistant Treasurer of the Fund as to the amount
of the capital loss carry-over and net unrealized appreciation or depreciation,
if any, with respect to the Fund as of the Closing Date.
E. The Cash Reserve shall not exceed 10% of the value of the net
assets, nor 30% in value of the gross assets, of the Fund at the close of
business on the Valuation Date.
F. A Registration Statement on Form N-14 filed by ONYMF under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), containing a preliminary
form of the Proxy Statement and Prospectus, shall have become effective under
the 1933 Act not later than ___________.
G. On the Closing Date, ONYMF shall have received a letter from
Andrew J. Donohue or other senior executive officer of OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
acceptable to ONYMF, stating that nothing has come to his or her attention which
in his or her judgment would indicate that as of the Closing Date there were any
material actual or contingent liabilities of the Fund arising out of litigation
brought against the Fund or claims asserted against it, or pending or, to the
best of his or her knowledge, threatened claims or litigation not reflected in
or apparent from the most recent audited financial statements and footnotes
thereto of the Fund delivered to ONYMF. Such letter may also include such
additional statements relating to the scope of the review conducted by such
person and his or her responsibilities and liabilities as are not unreasonable
under the circumstances.
H. ONYMF shall have received an opinion, dated the Closing Date, of
Deloitte & Touche LLP, to the same effect as the opinion contemplated by Section
11.E. of this Agreement.
I. ONYMF shall have received at the closing all of the assets of the
Fund to be conveyed hereunder, which assets shall be free and clear of all
liens, encumbrances, security interests, restrictions and limitations
whatsoever.
11. The obligations of the Fund hereunder shall be subject to the
following conditions:
A. The Board of Trustees of ONYMF shall have authorized the execution
of the Agreement, and the transactions contemplated thereby, and ONYMF shall
have furnished to the
<PAGE>
Fund copies of resolutions to that effect certified by the Secretary or an
Assistant Secretary of ONYMF.
B. The Fund's shareholders shall have approved the Agreement and the
transactions contemplated hereby, by an affirmative vote of 662/3% of the
outstanding common stock of the Fund, and the Fund shall have furnished ONYMF
copies of resolutions to that effect certified by the Secretary or an Assistant
Secretary of the Fund.
C. The Fund shall have received an opinion dated the Closing Date of
counsel to ONYMF, to the effect that (i) ONYMF is a Massachusetts Business Trust
duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the
State of Massachusetts with full powers to carry on its business as then being
conducted and to enter into and perform the Agreement (Massachusetts counsel may
be relied upon for this opinion); (ii) all action necessary to make the
Agreement, according to its terms, valid, binding and enforceable upon ONYMF and
to authorize effectively the transactions contemplated by the Agreement have
been taken by ONYMF, and (iii) the shares of ONYMF to be issued hereunder are
duly authorized and when issued will be validly issued, fully-paid and
non-assessable.
D. The representations and warranties of ONYMF contained herein
shall be true and correct at and as of the Closing Date, and the Fund shall have
been furnished with a certificate of the President, a Vice President or the
Secretary or an Assistant Secretary or the Treasurer of ONYMF to that effect
dated the Closing Date.
E. The Fund shall have received an opinion of Deloitte & Touche LLP
to the effect that the Federal tax consequences of the transaction, if carried
out in the manner outlined in this Plan of Reorganization and in accordance with
(i) the Fund's representation that there is no plan or intention by any Fund
shareholder who owns 5% or more of the Fund's outstanding shares, and, to the
Fund's best knowledge, there is no plan or intention on the part of the
remaining Fund shareholders, to redeem, sell, exchange or otherwise dispose of a
number of ONYMF shares received in the transaction that would reduce the Fund
shareholders' ownership of ONYMF shares to a number of shares having a value, as
of the Closing Date, of less than 50% of the value of all of the formerly
outstanding Fund shares as of the same date, and (ii) the representation by each
of the Fund and ONYMF that, as of the Closing Date, the Fund and ONYMF will meet
the diversification test of Section 368(a)(2)(F)(ii) of the Code, will be as
follows:
1. The transactions contemplated by the Agreement will qualify
as a tax-free "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the
Code, and under the regulations promulgated thereunder.
2. The Fund and ONYMF will each qualify as a "party to a
reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b)(2) of the Code.
3. No gain or loss will be recognized by the shareholders of
the Fund upon the distribution of shares of beneficial interest in ONYMF to the
shareholders of the Fund pursuant to Section 354 of the Code.
4. Under Section 361(a) of the Code no gain or loss will be
recognized by the Fund by reason of the transfer of substantially all its assets
in exchange for shares of ONYMF.
5. Under Section 1032 of the Code no gain or loss will be
recognized by ONYMF by reason of the transfer of substantially all the Fund's
assets in exchange for Class A shares of ONYMF and ONYMF's assumption of certain
liabilities of the Fund.
6. The shareholders of the Fund will have the same tax basis
and holding period for the Class A shares of beneficial interest in ONYMF that
they receive as they had for the
<PAGE>
Fund shares that they previously held, pursuant to Section 358(a) and 1223(1),
respectively, of the Code.
7. The securities transferred by the Fund to ONYMF will have
the same tax basis and holding period in the hands of ONYMF as they had for the
Fund, pursuant to Section 362(b) and 1223(1), respectively, of the Code.
F. The Cash Reserve shall not exceed 10% of the value of the net
assets, nor 30% in value of the gross assets, of the Fund at the close of
business on the Valuation Date.
G. A Registration Statement on Form N-14 filed by ONYMF under the
1933 Act, containing a preliminary form of the Proxy Statement and Prospectus,
shall have become effective under the 1933 Act not later than ___________.
H. On the Closing Date, the Fund shall have received a letter from
Andrew J. Donohue or other senior executive officer of OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
acceptable to the Fund, stating that nothing has come to his or her attention
which in his or her judgment would indicate that as of the Closing Date there
were any material actual or contingent liabilities of ONYMF arising out of
litigation brought against ONYMF or claims asserted against it, or pending or,
to the best of his or her knowledge, threatened claims or litigation not
reflected in or apparent by the most recent audited financial statements and
footnotes thereto of ONYMF delivered to the Fund. Such letter may also include
such additional statements relating to the scope of the review conducted by such
person and his or her responsibilities and liabilities as are not unreasonable
under the circumstances.
I. The Fund shall acknowledge receipt of the shares of ONYMF.
12. The Fund hereby represents and warrants that:
A. The financial statements of the Fund as of October 31, 1997
(audited) and April 30, 1998 (unaudited) heretofore furnished to ONYMF, present
fairly the financial position, results of operations, and changes in net assets
of the Fund as of those dates, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles applied on a basis consistent with the preceding year; and that from
October 31, 1997 through the date hereof there have not been, and through the
Closing Date there will not be, any material adverse change in the business or
financial condition of the Fund, it being agreed that a decrease in the size of
the Fund due to a diminution in the value of its portfolio shall not be
considered a material adverse change;
B. Contingent upon approval of the Agreement and the transactions
contemplated thereby by the Fund's shareholders, the Fund has authority to
transfer all of the assets of the Fund to be conveyed hereunder free and clear
of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, restrictions and limitations
whatsoever;
C. The Registration Statement of the Fund on Form N-2, as amended,
was, as of the date of the filing of the last Post-Effective Amendment, true,
correct and complete, conformed to the requirements of the Securities Act and
the 1940 Act and did not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit
to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made,
not misleading;
D. Except for this Agreement, there is no material contingent
liability of the Fund and no material claim and no material legal,
administrative or other proceedings pending or, to the knowledge of the Fund,
threatened against the Fund, not reflected in such Registration Statement;
E. Except for this Agreement, there are no material contracts
outstanding to which the Fund is a party other than those ordinary in the
conduct of its business;
F. The Fund is a Minnesota corporation duly organized, validly
existing and in
<PAGE>
good standing under the laws of the State of Minnesota; and has all necessary
and material Federal and state authorizations to own all of its assets and to
carry on its business as now being conducted; and the Fund is duly registered
under the Act and such registration has not been rescinded or revoked and is in
full force and effect;
G. All Federal and other tax returns and reports of the Fund
required by law to be filed have been filed, and all Federal and other taxes
shown due on said returns and reports have been paid or provision shall have
been made for the payment thereof and to the best of the knowledge of the Fund
no such return is currently under audit and no assessment has been asserted with
respect to such returns and to the extent such tax returns with respect to the
taxable year of the Fund ended October 31, 1997 have not been filed, such
returns will be filed when required and the amount of tax shown as due thereon
shall be paid when due; and
H. The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment
company and, for each fiscal year of its operations, the Fund has met the
requirements of Subchapter M of the Code for qualification and treatment as a
regulated investment company and the Fund intends to meet such requirements with
respect to its current taxable year.
13. ONYMF hereby represents and warrants that:
A. The financial statements of ONYMF as of September 30, 1997
(audited) and March 31, 1998 (unaudited) heretofore furnished to the Fund,
present fairly the financial position, results of operations, and changes in net
assets of ONYMF, as of those dates, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles applied on a basis consistent with the preceding year; and
that from September 30, 1997 through the date hereof there have not been, and
through the Closing Date there will not be, any material adverse changes in the
business or financial condition of ONYMF, it being understood that a decrease in
the size of ONYMF due to a diminution in the value of its portfolio and/or
redemption of its shares shall not be considered a material or adverse change;
B. The Prospectus, as amended and supplemented, contained in ONYMF's
Registration Statement under the 1933 Act, is true, correct and complete,
conforms to the requirements of the 1933 Act and does not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. The
Registration Statement, as amended, was, as of the date of the filing of the
last Post-Effective Amendment, true, correct and complete, conformed to the
requirements of the 1933 Act and did not contain any untrue statement of a
material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading;
C. Except for this Agreement, there is no material contingent
liability of ONYMF and no material claim and no material legal, administrative
or other proceedings pending or, to the knowledge of ONYMF, threatened against
ONYMF, not reflected in such Prospectus;
D. Except for this Agreement, there are no material contracts
outstanding to which ONYMF is a party other than those ordinary in the conduct
of its business;
E. ONYMF is a Massachusetts Business Trust duly organized, validly
existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Massachusetts; has
all necessary and material Federal and state authorizations to own all its
properties and assets and to carry on its business as now being conducted; the
shares of ONYMF which it issues to the Fund pursuant to the Agreement will be
duly authorized, validly issued, fully-paid and non-assessable; and will conform
to the description thereof contained in ONYMF's Registration Statement, will be
duly registered under the 1933 Act and in the states where registration is
required; and ONYMF is duly registered under the Act and such registration has
not been revoked or rescinded and is in full force and effect;
F. All Federal and other tax returns and reports of ONYMF required
by law to be filed have been filed, and all Federal and other taxes shown due on
said returns and reports have
<PAGE>
been paid or provision shall have been made for the payment thereof and to the
best of the knowledge of ONYMF no such return is currently under audit and no
assessment has been asserted with respect to such returns and to the extent such
tax returns with respect to the taxable year of ONYMF ended September 30, 1997
have not been filed, such returns will be filed when required and the amount of
tax shown as due thereon shall be paid when due;
G. ONYMF has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company
and, for each fiscal year of its operations, ONYMF has met the requirements of
Subchapter M of the Code for qualification and treatment as a regulated
investment company and ONYMF intends to meet such requirements with respect to
its current taxable year;
H. ONYMF has no plan or intention (i) to dispose of any of the
assets transferred by the Fund, other than in the ordinary course of business,
or (ii) to redeem or reacquire any of the shares issued by it in the
reorganization other than pursuant to valid requests of shareholders; and
I. After consummation of the transactions contemplated by the
Agreement, ONYMF intends to operate its business in a substantially unchanged
manner.
14. Each party hereby represents to the other that no broker or finder has
been employed by it with respect to the Agreement or the transactions
contemplated hereby. Each party also represents and warrants to the other that
the information concerning it in the Proxy Statement and Prospectus will not as
of its date contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a
fact necessary to make the statements concerning it therein not misleading and
that the financial statements concerning it will present the information shown
fairly in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a
basis consistent with the preceding year. Each party also represents and
warrants to the other that the Agreement is valid, binding and enforceable in
accordance with its terms and that the execution, delivery and performance of
the Agreement will not result in any violation of, or be in conflict with, any
provision of any charter, by-laws, contract, agreement, judgment, decree or
order to which it is subject or to which it is a party. ONYMF hereby represents
to and covenants with the Fund that, if the reorganization becomes effective,
ONYMF will treat each shareholder of the Fund who received any of ONYMF's shares
as a result of the reorganization as having made the minimum initial purchase of
shares of ONYMF received by such shareholder for the purpose of making
additional investments in shares of ONYMF, regardless of the value of the shares
of ONYMF received.
15. ONYMF agrees that it will prepare and file a Registration Statement on
Form N-14 under the 1933 Act which shall contain a preliminary form of proxy
statement and prospectus contemplated by Rule 145 under the 1933 Act. The final
form of such proxy statement and prospectus is referred to in the Agreement as
the "Proxy Statement and Prospectus." Each party agrees that it will use its
best efforts to have such Registration Statement declared effective and to
supply such information concerning itself for inclusion in the Proxy Statement
and Prospectus as may be necessary or desirable in this connection. The Fund
covenants and agrees to, as soon as practicable and, upon closing, to cause the
cancellation of its outstanding shares.
16. The obligations of the parties shall be subject to the right of either
party to abandon and terminate the Agreement for any reason and there shall be
no liability for damages or other recourse available to a party not so
terminating this Agreement, provided, however, that in the event that a party
shall terminate this Agreement without reasonable cause, the party so
terminating shall, upon demand, reimburse the party not so terminating for all
expenses, including reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and fees incurred in
connection with this Agreement.
17. The Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which
shall be deemed an original, but all taken together shall constitute one
Agreement. The rights and obligations of each party pursuant to the Agreement
shall not be assignable.
18. All prior or contemporaneous agreements and representations are merged
into the
<PAGE>
Agreement, which constitutes the entire contract between the parties hereto. No
amendment or modification hereof shall be of any force and effect unless in
writing and signed by the parties and no party shall be deemed to have waived
any provision herein for its benefit unless it executes a written acknowledgment
of such waiver.
19. The Fund understands that the obligations of ONYMF under this
Agreement are not binding upon any Trustee or shareholder of ONYMF personally,
but bind only ONYMF and ONYMF's property. The Fund represents that it has notice
of the provisions of the Declaration of Trust of ONYMF disclaiming shareholder
and Trustee liability for acts or obligations of ONYMF.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has caused this Agreement to be
executed and attested by its officers thereunto duly authorized on the date
first set forth above.
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
Attest____________________________ By: ___________________________
Robert Zack, Assistant Secretary Andrew J. Donohue, Secretary
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
Attest____________________________ By: ___________________________
Robert Zack, Assistant Secretary Andrew J. Donohue, Secretary
<PAGE>
Exhibit B
Average Annual Total Returns at Net Asset Value (1)
for the Period Ended 6/30/98
1-year 3-year 5-year 10-year
The Fund(2) 7.60% 7.03% 5.43% 7.24%
1-year 3-year 5-year 10-year
ONYMF Class A Shares(3) 8.08% 7.54% 5.67% 7.68%
Average Annual Total Returns at maximum Offering Price or Trading Price
for the Period Ended 6/30/98
1-year 3-year 5-year 10-year
The Fund(2) (2.51)% 4.44% 2.76% 7.13%
1-year 3-year 5-year 10-year
ONYMF Class A Shares(3) 2.95% 5.81% 4.65% 7.15%
Dividend Yield for the Period Ended 6/30/98
At Maximum Offering or
At NAV Trading Price
The Fund 5.32% 5.43%
ONYMF Class A Shares 5.01%
Please remember that past performance cannot guarantee future results. The
average annual total returns include change in share price and reinvestment of
dividends and capital gains distributions in a hypothetical investment for the
periods shown. The dividend yields are based on the last distribution paid in
the 30 day period ended June 30, 1998 and are annualized. An explanation of the
different performance calculations is in each fund's Prospectus.
(1) Performance would have been lower had the sales charge been deducted.
(2) The inception date for shares of the Fund was October 1987. Purchases and
sales made on the American Stock Exchange are generally subject to brokerage
commissions. Customarily, these are approximately 1% but may be less or more
than 1% depending on the size of the transaction, the broker selected and other
factors. There are no redemption fees charged by the Fund and no fees have been
deducted from the performance figures shown above.
(3) Class A returns for ONYMF include the current maximum initial sales charge
of 4.75%.
<PAGE>
Exhibit C
302A.471. Rights of dissenting shareholders
Subdivision 1. Actions creating rights. A shareholder of a corporation may
dissent from, and obtain payment for the fair value of the shareholder's shares
in the event of, any of the following corporation actions;
(a) An amendment of the articles that materially and adversely affects the
rights or preferences of the shares of the dissenting shareholder in that it:
(1) alters or abolishes a preferential right of the shares;
(2) creates, alters, or abolishes a right is respect of the redemption of
the shares, including a provision respecting a sinking fund for the redemption
or repurchase of the shares;
(3) alters or abolishes a preemptive right of the holder of the shares to
acquire shares, securities other than shares; or rights to purchase shares or
securities other than shares;
(4) excludes or limits the right of a shareholder to vote on a matter, or
to cumulate votes, except as the right may be excluded or limited through the
authorization or issuance of securities of an existing or new class or series
with similar or different voting rights; except that an amendment to the
articles of an issuing public corporation that provides that section 302A.671
does not apply to a control share acquisition does not give rise to the right to
obtain payment under this section;
(b) A sale, lease, transfer, or other disposition of all or substantially
all of the property and assets of the corporation, but not including a
transaction permitted without shareholder approval in section 302A.661,
subdivision 1, or a disposition in dissolution described in section 302A.725,
subdivision 2, or a disposition pursuant to an order of a court, or a
disposition for cash on terms requiring that all or substantially all of the net
proceeds of disposition be distributed to the shareholders in accordance with
their respective interests within one year after the date of disposition;
(c) A plan of merger, whether under this chapter or under chapter 322B, to
which the corporation is a party, except as provided in subdivision 3;
(d) A plan of exchange, whether under this chapter or under chapter 322B,
to which the corporation is a party as the corporation whose shares will be
acquired by the acquiring corporation, if the shares of the shareholder are
entitled to be voted on the plan; or
(e) Any other corporate action taken pursuant to a shareholder vote with
respect to which the articles, the bylaws, or a resolution approved by the board
directs that dissenting shareholders may obtain payment for their shares.
Subdivision 2. Beneficial owners. (a) A shareholder shall not assert
dissenters' rights as to less than all of the shares registered in the name of
the shareholder, unless the shareholder dissents with respect to all the shares
that are beneficially owned by another person but registered in the name of the
shareholder and discloses the name and address of each beneficial owner on whose
behalf the shareholder dissents. In that event, the rights of the dissenter
shall be determined as if the shares as to which the shareholder has dissented
and the other shares were registered in the names of different shareholders.
<PAGE>
(b) The beneficial owner of shares who is not the shareholder may assert
dissenters' rights with respect to shares held on behalf of the beneficial
owner, and shall be treated as a dissenting shareholder under the terms of this
section and section 302A.473, if the beneficial owner submits to the corporation
at the time of or before the assertion of the rights a written consent of the
shareholder.
Subdivision 3. Rights not to apply. (a) Unless the articles, the bylaws, or
a resolution approved by the board otherwise provide, the right to obtain
payment under this section does not apply to a shareholder of the surviving
corporation in a merger, if the shares of the shareholder are not entitled to be
voted on the merger.
(b) If a date is fixed according to section 302A.445, subdivision 1, for
the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote on
an action described in subdivision 1, only shareholders as of the date fixed,
and beneficial owners as of the date fixed who hold through shareholders, as
provided in subdivision 2 may exercise dissenters' rights.
Subdivision 4. Other rights. The shareholders of a corporation who have a
right under this section to obtain payment for their shares do not have a right
at law or in equity to have a corporate action described in subdivision 1 set
aside or rescinded, except when the corporate action is fraudulent with regard
to the complaining shareholder or the corporation.
302A.473. Procedures for asserting dissenters' rights
Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) For purposes of this section, the terms
defined in this subdivision have the meanings given them.
(b) "Corporation" means the issuer of the shares held by a dissenter before
the corporate action referred to in section 302A.471, subdivision 1 or the
successor by merger of that issuer.
(c) "Fair value of the shares" means the value of the shares of a
corporation immediately before the effective date of the corporate action
referred to in section 302A.471, subdivision 1.
(d) "Interest" means interest from the effective date of the corporate
action referred to in section 302A.471, subdivision 1 until the date of payment,
calculated at the rate provided in section 549.09 for interest on verdicts and
judgments.
Subdivision 2. Notice of action. If a corporation calls a shareholder
meeting at which any action described in section 302A.471, subdivision 1 is to
be voted upon, the notice of the meeting shall inform each shareholder of the
right to dissent and shall include a copy of section 302A.471 and this section
and a brief description of the procedure to be followed under these sections.
Subdivision 3. Notice of dissent. If the proposed action must be approved
by the shareholders, a shareholder who wishes to exercise dissenters' rights
must file with the corporation before the vote on the proposed action a written
notice of intent to demand the fair value of the shares owned by the shareholder
and must not vote the shares in favor of the proposed action.
Subdivision 4. Notice of procedure, deposit of shares. (a) After the
proposed action has been approved by the board and, if necessary, the
shareholders, the corporation shall send to all shareholders who have complied
with subdivision 3 and to all shareholders entitled to dissent if no shareholder
vote was required, a notice that contains:
(1) The address to which a demand for payment and certificates of
certificated shares must
<PAGE>
be sent in order to obtain payment and the date by which they must be received;
(2) Any restrictions on transfer of uncertificated shares that will apply
after the demand for payment is received;
(3) A form to be used to certify the date on which the shareholder, or the
beneficial owner on whose behalf the shareholder dissents, acquired the shares
or an interest in them and to demand payment; and
(4) A copy of section 302A.471 and this section and a brief description of
the procedures to be followed under these sections.
<PAGE>
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
1-800-525-7048
PART B
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
________, 1998
-----------------------------------
This Statement of Additional Information of Oppenheimer New York Municipal
Fund ("ONYMF") consists of this cover page and the following documents:
1. ONYMF's Statement of Additional Information dated January 12, 1998, as
supplemented May 15, 1998, which has been previously filed and is incorporated
herein by reference.
2. ONYMF's Annual Report as of September 30, 1997 and its Semi-Annual Report as
of March 31, 1998, which have been previously filed and are incorporated herein
by reference.
3. Registration Statement The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. on Form N-2,
as amended by amendment no. 12 thereto, dated February 26, 1998, which has been
previously filed and is incorporated herein by reference.
4. The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund's Annual Report as of October 31, 1997
and its SemiAnnual Report as of April 30, 1998, which have been previously filed
and are incorporated herein by reference.
This Statement of Additional Information (the "Additional Statement") is
not a Prospectus. This Additional Statement should be read in conjunction with
the Proxy Statement and Prospectus, which may be obtained by written request to
OppenheimerFunds Services, P.O. Box 5270, Denver, Colorado 80217 or by calling
1-800-525-7048.
<PAGE>
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
1-800-525-7048
Statement of Additional Information dated January 12, 1998
This Statement of Additional Information is not a Prospectus. This
document contains additional information about the Fund and supplements
information in the Prospectus dated January 12, 1998. It should be read together
with the Prospectus, which may be obtained by writing to the Fund's Transfer
Agent, OppenheimerFunds Services, at P.O. Box 5270, Denver, Colorado 80217 or by
calling the Transfer Agent at the toll-free number shown above.
Contents
Page
About The Fund
Investment Objective and Policies...................................... 2
Investment Policies and Strategies................................ 2
Special Investment Considerations - New York Municipal Securities. 5
Other Investment Techniques and Strategies........................ 13
Other Investment Restrictions..................................... 19
How the Fund is Managed................................................ 20
Organization and History.......................................... 20
Trustees and Officers of the Fund................................. 21
The Manager and Its Affiliates.................................... 26
Brokerage Policies of the Fund......................................... 28
Performance of the Fund................................................ 29
Distribution and Service Plans......................................... 34
About Your Account
How To Buy Shares...................................................... 36
How To Sell Shares..................................................... 43
How To Exchange Shares................................................. 48
Dividends, Capital Gains and Taxes..................................... 50
Additional Information About the Fund.................................. 52
Financial Information About the Fund
Independent Auditors' Report........................................... 53
Financial Statements................................................... 54
Appendix A: Description of Ratings Categories......................... A-1
Appendix B: Tax-Equivalent Yield Chart................................ B-1
Appendix C: Industry Classifications.................................. C-1
-1-
<PAGE>
ABOUT THE FUND
Investment Objective and Policies
Investment Policies and Strategies. The investment objective and policies of the
Fund are described in the Prospectus. Set forth below is supplemental
information about those policies and the types of securities in which the Fund
may invest, as well as the strategies the Fund may use to try to achieve its
objective. Certain capitalized terms used in this Statement of Additional
Information have the same meaning as those terms used in the Prospectus.
Municipal Securities
|X| Municipal Bonds. The principal classifications of long-term municipal
bonds are "general obligation" and "revenue" or "industrial development" bonds.
o General Obligation Bonds. Issuers of general obligation bonds include
states, counties, cities, towns, and regional districts. The proceeds of these
obligations are used to fund a wide range of public projects, including
construction or improvement of schools, highways and roads, and water and sewer
systems. The basic security behind general obligation bonds is the issuer's
pledge of its full faith and credit and taxing power for the payment of
principal and interest. The taxes that can be levied for the payment of debt
service may be limited or unlimited as to the rate or amount of special
assessments.
o Revenue Bonds. The principal security for a revenue bond is generally
the net revenues derived from a particular facility, group of facilities, or, in
some cases, the proceeds of a special excise or other specific revenue source.
Revenue bonds are issued to finance a wide variety of capital projects
including: electric, gas, water and sewer systems; highways, bridges, and
tunnels; port and airport facilities; colleges and universities; and hospitals.
Although the principal security behind these bonds may vary, many provide
additional security in the form of a debt service reserve fund whose money may
be used to make principal and interest payments on the issuer's obligations.
Housing finance authorities have a wide range of security, including partially
or fully insured mortgages, rent subsidized and/or collateralized mortgages,
and/or the net revenues from housing or other public projects. Some authorities
provide further security in the form of a state's ability (without obligation)
to make up deficiencies in the debt service reserve fund.
o Industrial Development Bonds. Industrial development bonds, which are
considered municipal bonds if the interest paid is exempt from federal income
tax, are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to raise money to finance
various privately operated facilities for business and manufacturing, housing,
sports, and pollution control. These bonds are also used to finance public
facilities such as airports, mass transit systems, ports, and parking. The
payment of the principal and interest on such bonds is dependent solely on the
ability of the facility's user to meet its financial obligations and the pledge,
if any, of real and personal property so financed as security for such payment.
|X| Municipal Notes. Municipal Securities having a maturity when issued of
less than one year are generally known as municipal notes. Municipal notes
generally are used to provide for short-term working capital needs and include:
o Tax Anticipation Notes. Tax anticipation notes are issued to finance
working capital needs of municipalities. Generally, they are issued in
anticipation of various seasonal tax revenue, such as income, sales, use of
business taxes, and are payable from these specific future taxes.
o Revenue Anticipation Notes. Revenue anticipation notes are issued in
expectation of receipt of other types of revenue, such as federal revenues
available under the Federal revenue sharing programs.
o Bond Anticipation Notes. Bond anticipation notes are issued to provide
interim financing until long-term financing can be arranged. In most cases, the
long-term bonds then provide the money for the repayment of the notes.
o Construction Loan Notes. Construction loan notes are sold to provide
construction financing. After successful completion and acceptance, many
projects receive permanent financing through the Federal Housing Administration.
o Tax-Exempt Commercial Paper. Tax-exempt commercial paper is a short-term
obligation with a stated maturity of 365 days or less. It is issued by state and
local governments or their agencies to finance seasonal working capital needs or
as short-term financing in anticipation of longer-term financing.
|X| Municipal Lease Obligations. From time to time the Fund may invest 5%
in municipal lease obligations, some of which may be illiquid and others which
the Manager has determined to be liquid under guidelines set by the Board of
Trustees. Those guidelines require the Manager to evaluate: (1) the frequency of
trades and price quotations for such securities; (2) the number of dealers or
other potential buyers willing to purchase or sell such securities; (3) the
availability of market-makers; and (4) the nature of the trades for such
securities. The Manager will also evaluate the likelihood of a continuing market
for such securities throughout the time they are held by the Fund and the credit
quality of the instrument. Municipal leases may take the form of a lease or an
installment purchase contract issued by a state or local government authority to
obtain funds to acquire a wide variety of equipment and facilities. Although
lease obligations do not constitute general obligations of the municipality for
which the municipality's taxing power is pledged, a lease obligation is
ordinarily backed by the municipality's covenant to budget for, appropriate and
make the payments due under the lease obligation. However, certain lease
obligations contain "non- appropriation" clauses which provide that the
municipality has no obligation to make lease or installment purchase payments in
future years unless money is appropriated for such purpose on a yearly basis. In
addition to the risk of "non-appropriation," municipal lease securities do not
yet have a highly developed market to provide the degree of liquidity of
conventional municipal bonds. Municipal leases, like other municipal debt
obligations, are subject to the risk of non-payment. The ability of issuers of
municipal leases to make timely lease payments may be adversely affected in
general economic downturns and as relative governmental cost burdens are
reallocated among federal, state and local governmental units. Such non-payment
would result in a reduction of income to the Fund, and could result in a
reduction in the value of the municipal lease experiencing non-payment and a
potential decrease in the net asset value of the Fund.
-2-
<PAGE>
|X| Private Activity Municipal Securities. The Tax Reform Act of 1986 (the
"Tax Reform Act") reorganized, as well as amended, the rules governing tax
exemption for interest on Municipal Securities. The Tax Reform Act generally
does not change the tax treatment of bonds issued in order to finance
governmental operations. Thus, interest on obligations issued by or on behalf of
state or local government, the proceeds of which are used to finance the
operations of such governments (e.g., general obligation bonds) continues to be
tax-exempt. However, the Tax Reform Act further limited the use of tax-exempt
bonds for non-governmental (private) purposes. More stringent restrictions were
placed on the use of proceeds of such bonds. Interest on certain private
activity bonds (other than those specified as "qualified" tax-exempt private
activity bonds, e.g., exempt facility bonds including certain industrial
development bonds, qualified mortgage bonds, qualified Section 501(c)(3) bonds,
qualified student loan bonds, etc.) is taxable under the revised rules.
Interest on certain private activity bonds issued after August 7, 1986,
which continues to be tax-exempt, will be treated as a tax preference item
subject to the alternative minimum tax (discussed below) to which certain
taxpayers are subject. Further, a private activity bond which would otherwise be
a qualified tax-exempt private activity bond will not, under Internal Revenue
Code Section 147(a), be a qualified bond for any period during which it is held
by a person who is a "substantial user" of the facilities or by a "related
person" of such a substantial user. This "substantial user" provision is
applicable primarily to exempt facility bonds, including industrial development
bonds. The Fund may not be an appropriate investment for entities which are
"substantial users" (or persons related thereto) of such exempt facilities, and
such persons should consult their own tax advisers before purchasing shares. A
"substantial user" of such facilities is defined generally as a "non-exempt
person who regularly uses part of a facility" financed from the proceeds of
exempt facility bonds. Generally, an individual will not be a "related person"
under the Internal Revenue Code unless such investor or the investor's immediate
family (spouse, brothers, sisters and immediate descendants) own directly or
indirectly in the aggregate more than 50% in value of the equity of a
corporation or partnership which is a "substantial user" of a facility financed
from the proceeds of exempt facility bonds. In addition, the Tax Reform Act
revised downward the limitations as to the amount of private activity bonds
which each state may issue, which will reduce the supply of such bonds. The
value of the Fund's portfolio could be affected if there is a reduction in the
availability of such bonds. That value may also be affected by a 1988 U.S.
Supreme Court decision upholding the constitutionality of the imposition of a
Federal tax on the interest earned on Municipal Securities issued in bearer
form.
A Municipal Security is treated as a taxable private activity bond under a
test for: (a) a trade or business use and security interest, or (b) a private
loan restriction. Under the trade or business use and security interest test, an
obligation is a private activity bond if: (i) more than 10% of bond proceeds are
used for private business purposes and (ii) 10% or more of the payment of
principal or interest on the issue is directly or indirectly derived from such
private use or is secured by the privately used property or the payments related
to the use of the property. For certain types of uses, a 5% threshold is
substituted for this 10% threshold. (The term "private business use" means any
direct or indirect use in a trade or business carried on by an individual or
entity other than a state or municipal governmental unit.) Under the private
loan restriction, the amount of bond proceeds which may be used to make private
loans is limited to the lesser of 5% or $5.0 million of the proceeds. Thus,
certain issues of Municipal Securities could lose their tax-exempt status
retroactively if the issuer fails to meet certain requirements as to the
expenditure of the proceeds of that issue or use of the bond-financed facility.
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The Federal alternative minimum tax is designed to ensure that all
taxpayers pay some tax, even if their regular tax is zero. This is accomplished
in part by including in taxable income certain tax preference items in arriving
at alternative minimum taxable income. The Tax Reform Act made tax-exempt
interest from certain private activity bonds a tax preference item for purposes
of the alternative minimum tax on individuals and corporations. Any
exempt-interest dividend paid by a regulated investment company will be treated
as interest on a specific private activity bond to the extent of its
proportionate share of the interest on such bonds received by the regulated
investment company. The Treasury is authorized to issue regulations implementing
this provision. In addition, corporate taxpayers subject to the alternative
minimum tax may, under some circumstances, have to include exempt-interest
dividends in calculating their alternative minimum taxable income in situations
where the "adjusted current earnings" of the corporation exceeds its alternative
minimum taxable income. The Fund may hold Municipal Securities the interest on
which (and thus a proportionate share of the exempt-interest dividends paid by
the Fund) will be subject to the Federal alternative minimum tax on individuals
and corporations. The Fund anticipates that under normal circumstances it will
not purchase any such securities in an amount greater than 20% of the Fund's
total assets.
|X| Ratings of Municipal Securities. Moody's, S&P's, Fitch's and Duff &
Phelps' ratings (see Appendix A) represent their respective opinions of the
quality of the Municipal Securities they undertake to rate. However, such
ratings are general and are not absolute standards of quality. Consequently,
Municipal Securities with the same maturity, coupon and rating may have
different yields, while Municipal Securities of the same maturity and coupon
with different ratings may have the same yield. Investment in lower quality
securities may produce a higher yield than securities rated in the higher rating
categories described in the Prospectus (or judged by the Manager to be of
comparable quality). However, the added risk of lower quality securities might
not be consistent with a policy of preservation of capital.
Subsequent to its purchase by the Fund, a Municipal Security may cease to
be rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum required for purchase by
the Fund. Neither event requires the Fund to sell the security, but
OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the "Manager") will consider such events in determining
whether the Fund should continue to hold the security. To the extent that
ratings given by Moody's or S&P change as a result of changes in such
organizations or their rating systems, the Fund will attempt to use comparable
ratings as standards for investments in accordance with the Fund's investment
policies.
Special Investment Considerations - New York Municipal Securities. As explained
in the Prospectus, the Trust is highly sensitive to the fiscal stability of New
York State (the "State") and its subdivisions, agencies, instrumentalities or
authorities, including New York City, which issue the Municipal Securities in
which the Trust concentrates its investments. The following information on risk
factors in concentrating in New York Municipal Securities is only a summary,
based on publicly available official statements relating to offerings of New
York issuers of Municipal Securities on or prior to September 29, 1997 with
respect to offerings of the State and September 30, 1997 with respect to
offerings of New York City. No representation is made as to the accuracy of such
information.
During the mid-1970's the State, some of its agencies, instrumentalities
and public benefit corporations (the "Authorities"), and certain of its
municipalities faced serious financial difficulties.
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To address many of these financial problems, the State developed various
programs, many of which were successful in ameliorating the financial crisis.
Any further financial problems experienced by these Authorities or
municipalities could have a direct adverse effect on the New York Municipal
Securities in which the Trust invests.
New York City
General. More than any other municipality, the fiscal health of New York
City (the "City") has a significant effect on the fiscal health of the State.
The national economic downturn which began in July 1990 adversely affected the
local economy which had been declining since late 1989. As a result, the City
experienced job losses in 1990 and 1991 and real Gross City Product ("GCP") fell
in those two years. Beginning in 1992, the improvement in the national economy
helped stabilize conditions in the City. Employment losses moderated toward
year-end and real GCP increased, boosted by strong wage gains. After noticeable
improvements in the City's economy during 1994, economic growth slowed in 1995,
and thereafter improved commencing in calendar year 1996, reflecting improved
securities industry earnings and employment in other sectors. The City's current
four-year financial plan assumes that moderate economic growth will exist
through calendar year 2001, with moderate job growth and wage increases.
For each of the 1981 through 1996 fiscal years, the City achieved balanced
operating results as reported in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles ("GAAP"). The City has been required to close substantial gaps
between forecast revenues and forecast expenditures in order to maintain
balanced operating results. There can be no assurance that the City will
continue to maintain balanced operating results as required by State law without
additional tax or other revenue increases or additional reduction in City
services or entitlement programs, which could adversely affect the City's
economic base.
The Mayor is responsible for preparing the City's four-year financial
plan, including the City's current financial plan for the 1998 through 2001
fiscal years (the "1998-2001 Financial Plan", "Financial Plan" or "City Plan").
The City's projections set forth in the City Plan are based on various
assumptions and contingencies which are uncertain and which may not materialize.
Changes in major assumptions could significantly affect the City's ability to
balance its budget as required by State law and to meet its annual cash flow and
financing requirements. Such assumptions and contingencies include the condition
of the regional and local economies, the impact on real estate tax revenues of
the real estate market, wage increases for City employees consistent with those
assumed in the City Plan, employment growth, the ability to implement reductions
in City personnel and other cost reduction initiatives, the ability of the New
York City Health and Hospitals Corporation and the Board of Education to take
actions to offset potential budget shortfalls, the ability to complete revenue
generating transactions, provision of State and Federal aid and mandate relief
and the impact on City revenues and expenditures for Federal and State welfare
reform and any future legislation affecting Medicare or other entitlements.
Implementation of the Financial Plan is also dependent upon the City's
ability to market its securities successfully. The City's financing program for
fiscal years 1998 through 2001 contemplates
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the issuance of $4.9 billion of general obligation bonds and $7.1 billion of
bonds to be issued by the New York City Transitional Finance Authority (the
"Finance Authority") to finance City capital projects. The Finance Authority was
created as part of the City's efforts to assist in keeping the City's
indebtedness within the forecast level of the constitutional restrictions on the
amount of debt the City is authorized to incur. The City is involved in
litigation seeking to have the New York City Transitional Finance Authority Act
declared unconstitutional. In addition, the City issues revenue and tax
anticipation notes to finance its seasonal working capital requirements. The
success of projected public sales of City bonds and notes, New York City
Municipal Water Finance Authority ("Water Authority") bonds and Finance
Authority bonds will be subject to prevailing market conditions. The City's
planned capital and operating expenditures are dependent upon the sale of its
general obligation bonds and notes, and the Water Authority and Finance
Authority bonds. Future developments concerning the City and public discussion
of such developments, as well as prevailing market conditions, may affect the
market for outstanding City general obligation bonds and notes.
The City Comptroller and other agencies and public officials have issued
reports and make public statements which, among other things, state that
projected revenues and expenditures may be different from those forecasted in
the City Plan. It is reasonable to expect that such reports and statements will
continue to be issued and to engender public comment.
1998-2001 Financial Plan. The most recent quarterly modification the
City's financial plan for the 1997 fiscal year projects a balanced budget in
accordance with GAAP for the 1997 fiscal year, after taking into account an
increase in projected tax revenues of $1.2 billion during the 1997 fiscal year
and a discretionary prepayment in the 1997 fiscal year of $1.3 billion of debt
service due in the 1998 and 1999 fiscal years. The Financial Plan projects
revenues and expenditures for the 1998 fiscal year balanced in accordance with
GAAP. The Financial Plan includes increased tax revenue projections; reduced
debt service costs; the assumed restoration of Federal funding for programs
assisting certain legal aliens; additional expenditure for textbooks, computers,
improved education programs and welfare reform, law enforcement, immigrant
naturalization, initiatives proposed by the City Council and other initiatives;
and a proposed discretionary transfer to the 1998 fiscal year of $300 million of
debt service due in the 1999 fiscal year for budget stabilization purposes. In
addition, the Financial Plan reflects the discretionary transfer to the 1997
fiscal year of $1.3 billion of debt service due in the 1998 and 1999 fiscal
years, and includes actions to eliminate a previously projected budget gap for
the 1998 fiscal year. These gap closing actions include (i) additional agency
actions totaling $621 million; (ii) the proposed sale of various assets; (iii)
additional State aid of $294 million, including a proposal that the State
accelerate a $142 million revenue sharing payment to the City from March 1999;
and (iv) entitlement savings of $128 million which would result from certain of
the reductions in Medicaid spending proposed in the Governor's 1997-1998
Executive Budget and the State making available to the City $77 million of
additional Federal block grant aid, as proposed in the Governor's 1997-1998
Executive Budget. The Financial Plan also sets forth projections for the 1999
through 2001 fiscal years and projects gaps of $1.8 billion, $2.8 billion and
$2.6 billion for the 1999 through 2001 fiscal years, respectively.
The Financial Plan assumes approval by the State Legislature and the
Governor of (i) a tax reduction program proposed by the City totaling $272
million, $435 million, $465 million and $481 million in the 1998 through 2001
fiscal years, respectively, which includes a proposed elimination of the 4% City
sales tax on clothing items under $500 as of December 1, 1997, and (ii) a
proposed State
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tax relief program, which would reduce the City property tax and personal income
tax, and which the Financial Plan assumes will be offset by proposed increased
State aid totaling $47 million, $254 million, $472 million and $722 million in
the 1998 through 2001 fiscal years, respectively.
The Financial Plan also assumes (i) approval by the Governor and the State
Legislature of the extension of the 14% personal income tax surcharge, which is
scheduled to expire on December 31, 1999, and of the extension of the 12.5%
personal income tax surcharge, which is scheduled to expire on December 31,
1998; (ii) collection of the projected rent payments for the City's airports;
and (iii) State approval of the cost containment initiatives and State aid
proposed by the City for the 1998 fiscal year, and $115 million in State aid
which is assumed in the Financial Plan but was not provided for in the
Governor's 1997-1998 Executive budget. The Financial Plan reflects the increased
costs which the City is prepared to incur as a result of welfare legislation
recently enacted by Congress. In addition, the economic and financial condition
of the City may be affected by various financial, social, economic and political
factors which could have a material effect on the City.
The City's financial plans have been the subject of extensive public
comment. On September 11, 1997, the New York State Comptroller issued a report
which noted that the ability to deal with future budget gaps could become a
significant issue in the State's 2000-2001 fiscal year, when the cost of tax
cuts increases by $1.9 billion. The report contained projections that, based on
current economic conditions and current law for taxes and spending, showed a gap
in the 2000-2001 State fiscal year of $5.6 billion and of $7.4 billion in the
2001-2002 State fiscal year. The report noted that these gaps would be smaller
if recurring spending reductions produce savings in earlier years. The State
Comptroller also stated that if Wall Street earnings moderate and the State
experiences a moderate recession, the gap for the 2001-2002 State fiscal year
could grow to nearly $12 billion.
Various actions proposed in the Financial Plan are uncertain. If these
measures cannot be implemented, the City will be required to take other actions
to decrease expenditures or increase revenues to maintain a balanced financial
plan.
The projections for the 1998 through 2001 fiscal years reflect the costs
of the settlements with the United Federation of Teachers ("UFT") and the
coalition of unions headed by District Council 37 of the American Federation of
State, County and Municipal Employees ("District Council 37"), which together
represent approximately two-thirds of the City's workforce, and assume that the
City will reach agreement with its remaining municipal unions under terms which
are generally consistent with such settlements. The settlement provides for a
wage freeze in the first two years, followed by a cumulative effective wage
increase of 11% by the end of the five year period covered by the proposed
agreements, ending in fiscal years 2000 and 2001. Additional benefit increases
would raise the total cumulative effective increase to 13% above present costs.
Costs associated with similar settlements for all City-funded employees would
total $49 million, $459 million and $1.2 billion in the 1997, 1998 and 1999
fiscal years, respectively, and exceed $2 billion in each fiscal year after the
1999 fiscal year. Subsequently, the City reached settlements, through agreements
or statutory impasse procedures, with bargaining units which, together with the
UFT and District Council 37, represent approximately 86% of the City's
workforce.
Ratings. On July 10, 1995, Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("Standard &
Poor's") revised downward its rating on City general obligation bonds from A- to
BBB+ and removed City bonds
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from CreditWatch. Standard & Poor's stated that "structural budgetary balance
remains elusive because of persistent softness in the City's economy,
highlighted by weak job growth and growing dependence on the historically
volatile financial services sector." Other factors identified by Standard &
Poor's in lowering its rating on City bonds included a trend of using one-time
measures, including debt refinancings, to close projected budget gaps,
dependence on unratified labor savings to help balance the Financial Plan,
optimistic projections of additional Federal and State aid or mandate relief, a
history of cash flow difficulties caused by State budget delays and continued
high debt levels. Fitch Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch") continues to rate the
City general obligation bonds A-. On February 28, 1996 Fitch placed the City's
general obligation bonds on Fitch Alert with negative implications. Moody's
Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") rating for City general obligation bonds is
Baa1. On July 17, 1997 Moody's changed its outlook on City bonds to positive
from stable. Such ratings reflect only the views of these rating agencies, from
which an explanation of the significance of such ratings may be obtained. There
is no assurance that such ratings will continue for any given period of time or
that they will not be revised downward or withdrawn entirely. Any such downward
revision or withdrawal could have an adverse effect on the market prices of
bonds.
Outstanding Net Indebtedness. As of September 30, 1997, the City and the
Municipal Assistance Corporation for the City of New York had, respectively,
$26.180 billion and $3.777 billion of outstanding net long-term debt.
The City depends on the State for State aid both to enable the City to
balance its budget and to meet its cash requirements. There can be no assurance
that there will not be reductions in State aid to the City from amounts
currently projected; that State budgets in future fiscal years will be adopted
by the April 1 statutory deadline, or interim appropriations enacted; or that
any such reductions or delays will not have adverse effects on the City's cash
flow or expenditures.
Litigation. The City is a defendant in lawsuits pertaining to material
matters, including claims asserted which are incidental to performing routine
governmental and other functions. This litigation includes, but is not limited
to, actions commenced and claims asserted against the City arising out of
alleged torts, alleged breaches of contracts, alleged violations of law and
condemnation proceedings. As of June 30, 1996 and 1995, claims in excess of $380
billion and $311 billion, respectively, were outstanding against the City for
which the City estimates its potential future liability to be $2.8 billion and
$2.5 billion, respectively.
New York State
The State has historically been one of the wealthiest states in the
nation. For decades, however, the State economy has grown more slowly than that
of the nation as a whole, resulting in the gradual erosion of its relative
economic affluence. The causes of this relative decline are varied and complex,
in many cases involving national and international developments beyond the
State's control.
Recent Developments. The national economy has resumed a more robust rate
of growth after a "soft landing" in 1995, with over 14 million jobs added
nationally since early 1992. The State economy has continued to expand, but
growth remains somewhat slower than in the nation. Although the State has added
approximately 300,000 jobs since late 1992, employment growth in the
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State has been hindered during recent years by significant cutbacks in the
computer and instrument manufacturing, utility, defense and banking industries.
Government downsizing has also moderated these job gains.
The 1997-1998 New York State Financial Plan (the "State Plan") is partly
based on the forecast that the State's economy shows moderate expansion during
the first half of the calendar 1997 with the trend continuing through the year.
Although industries that export goods and services are expected to continue to
do well, growth is expected to be moderated by tight fiscal constraints on the
health care and social services industries. On an average annual basis,
employment growth in the State is expected to be up substantially from the 1996
rate. Personal income is expected to record moderate gains in 1997. Bonus
payments in the securities industry are expected to increase further from last
year's record level.
The State Plan is based upon forecasts of national and State economic
activity developed through both internal analysis and review of State and
national economic forecasts prepared by commercial forecasting services and
other public and private forecasters. Economic forecasts have frequently failed
to predict accurately the timing and magnitude of changes in the national and
the State economies. Many uncertainties exist in forecasts of both the national
and State economies, including consumer attitudes toward spending, the extent of
corporate and governmental restructuring, federal fiscal and monetary policies,
the level of interest rates, and the condition of the world economy, which could
have an adverse effect on the State. There can be no assurance that the State
economy will not experience results in the current fiscal year that are worse
than predicted, with corresponding material and adverse effects on the State's
projections of receipts and disbursements.
The 1997-98 Fiscal Year. The State's General Fund (the major operating
Fund of the State) was projected in the State Plan to be balanced on a cash
basis for the 1997-98 fiscal year. Total receipts and transfers from other funds
at $35.09 billion, an increase of $2.05 billion from the prior fiscal year, and
disbursements and transfers to other funds are projected to be $34.60 billion,
an increase of $1.70 billion from the total disbursed in the prior fiscal year.
Projections of total State receipts in the State Financial Plan are based
on the State tax structure in effect during the fiscal year and on assumptions
relating to basic economic factors and their historical relationships to State
tax receipts. In preparing projections of State receipts, economic forecasts
relating to personal income, wages, consumption, profits and employment have
been particularly important. The projection of receipts from most tax or revenue
sources is generally made by estimating the change in yield of such tax or
revenue source caused by economic and other factors, rather than by estimating
the total yield of such tax or revenue source from its estimated tax base. The
forecasting methodology, however, ensures that State fiscal year estimates for
taxes that are based on a computation of annual liability, such as the business
and personal income taxes, are consistent with estimates of total liability
under such taxes.
Projections of total State disbursements are based on assumptions relating
to economic and demographic factors, levels of disbursements for various
services provided by local governments (where cost is partially reimbursed by
the State), and the results of various administrative and statutory mechanisms
in controlling disbursements for State operations. Factors that may affect the
level of disbursements in the fiscal year include uncertainties relating to the
economy of the nation
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and the State, the policies of the federal government, and changes in the demand
for and use of State services.
In recent years, State actions affecting the level of receipts and
disbursements, the relative strength of the State and regional economy, actions
of the federal government and other factors, have created structural gaps for
the State. These gaps resulted from a significant disparity between recurring
revenues and the costs of maintaining or increasing the level of support for
State programs. To address a potential imbalance in any given fiscal year, the
State would be required to take actions to increase receipts and/or reduce
disbursements as it enacts the budget for that year, and under the State
Constitution, the Governor is required to propose a balanced budget each year.
There can be no assurance, however, that the Legislature will enact the
Governor's proposals or that the State's actions will be sufficient to preserve
budgetary balance in a given fiscal year or to align recurring receipts and
disbursements in future fiscal years.
Composition of State Governmental Funds Group. Substantially all State
non-pension financial operations are accounted for in the State's governmental
funds group. Governmental funds include the General Fund, which receives all
income not required by law to be deposited in another fund; Special Revenue
Funds, which receive the preponderance of moneys received by the State from the
Federal government and other income the use of which is legally restricted to
certain purposes; Capital Projects Funds, used to finance the acquisition and
construction of major capital facilities by the State and to aid in certain of
such projects conducted by local governments or public authorities; and Debt
Service Funds, which are used for the accumulation of moneys for the payment of
principal of and interest on long-term debt and to meet lease-purchase and other
contractual-obligation commitments.
Local Government Assistance Corporation ("LGAC"). In 1990, as part of a
State fiscal reform program, legislation was enacted creating LGAC, a public
benefit corporation empowered to issue long-term obligations to fund certain
payments to local governments traditionally funded through the State's annual
seasonal borrowing. The legislation authorized LGAC to issue its bonds and notes
in an amount not in excess of $4.7 billion (exclusive of certain refunding
bonds). Over a period of years, the issuance of these long-term obligations,
which are to be amortized over no more than 30 years, was expected to eliminate
the need for continued short-term seasonal borrowing. The legislation also
dedicated revenues equal to one-quarter of the four cent State sales and use tax
to pay debt service on these bonds. The legislation also imposed a cap on the
annual seasonal borrowing of the State at $4.7 billion, less net proceeds of
bonds issued by LGAC and bonds issued to provide for capitalized interest,
except in cases where the Governor and the legislative leaders have certified
the need for additional borrowing and provided a schedule for reducing it to the
cap. If borrowing above the cap is thus permitted in any fiscal year, it is
required by law to be reduced to the cap by the fourth fiscal year after the
limit was first exceeded. This provision capping the seasonal borrowing was
included as a covenant with LGAC's bondholders in the resolution authorizing
such bonds.
As of June 1995, LGAC had issued bonds and notes to provide net proceeds
of $4.7 billion completing the program. The impact of LGAC's borrowing is that
the State is able to meet its cash flow needs in the first quarter of the fiscal
year without relying on short-term seasonal borrowings.
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Authorities. The fiscal stability of the State is related to the fiscal
stability of its public Authorities. Authorities have various responsibilities,
including those which finance, construct and/or operate revenue-producing public
facilities. Authorities are not subject to the constitutional restrictions on
the incurrence of debt which apply to the State itself, and may issue bonds and
notes within the amounts, and restrictions set forth in their legislative
authorization. As of September 30, 1996, the latest available, there were 17
Authorities that had outstanding debt of $100 million or more, and the aggregate
outstanding debt, including refunding bonds, of these 17 Authorities was $75.4
billion, only a portion of which constitutes State-supported or State-related
debt.
Authorities are generally supported by revenues generated by the projects
financed or operated, such as fares, user fees on bridges or tunnels, highway
tolls, rentals for dormitory rooms and housing units and charges for occupancy
at medical care facilities. In addition, State legislation authorizes several
financing techniques for Authorities. Also, there are statutory arrangements
providing for State local assistance payments otherwise payable to localities to
be made under certain circumstances to Authorities. Although the State has no
obligation to provide additional assistance to localities whose local assistance
payments have been paid to Authorities under these arrangements, if local
assistance payments are diverted the affected localities could seek additional
State assistance. Some Authorities also receive moneys from State appropriations
to pay for the operating costs of certain of their programs.
Ratings. On January 13, 1992, Standard & Poor's reduced its ratings on the
State's general obligation bonds from A to A- and, in addition, reduced its
ratings on the State's moral obligation, lease purchase, guaranteed and
contractual obligation debt. Standard & Poor's also continued its negative
rating outlook assessment on State general obligation debt. On April 26, 1993,
Standard & Poor's revised the rating outlook assessment to stable. On February
14, 1994, Standard & Poor's raised its outlook to positive and, on October 3,
1995, confirmed its A-rating. On August 28, 1997, Standard & Poor's revised its
ratings on the State's general obligation bonds from A- to A and, in addition
revised its ratings on the State's moral obligation, lease purchase, guaranteed
and contractual obligation debt. On January 6, 1992, Moody's reduced its ratings
on outstanding limited-liability State lease purchase and contractual
obligations from A to Baa1. On October 2, 1995, Moody's reconfirmed its A rating
on the State's general obligation long-term indebtedness. On February 10, 1997,
Moody's confirmed its A2 rating on the State's general obligation long-term
indebtedness. Ratings reflect only the respective views of such organizations,
and an explanation of the significance of such ratings may be obtained from the
rating agency furnishing the same. There is no assurance that a particular
rating will continue for any given period of time or that any such rating will
not be revised downward or withdrawn entirely, if in the judgment of the agency
originally establishing the rating, circumstances so warrant. A downward
revision or withdrawal of such ratings, or either of them, may have an effect on
the market price of the State Municipal Securities in which the Fund invests.
General Obligation Debt. As of March 31, 1997, the State had approximately
$5.03 billion in general obligation bonds, including $294 million in bond
anticipation notes outstanding. Principal and interest due on general obligation
bonds and interest due on bond anticipation notes were $749.6 million for the
1996-97 fiscal year and are estimated to be $720.9 million for the State's
1997-98 fiscal year.
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Litigation. The State is a defendant in numerous legal proceedings
pertaining to matters incidental to the performance of routine governmental
operations. Such litigation includes, but is not limited to, claims asserted
against the State arising from alleged torts, alleged breaches of contracts,
condemnation proceedings and other alleged violations of State and Federal laws.
These proceedings could affect adversely the financial condition of the State in
the 1997-1998 fiscal year or thereafter.
The State believes that the State Plan includes sufficient reserves for
the payment of judgments that may be required during the 1997-98 fiscal year.
There can be no assurance, however, that an adverse decision in any of these
proceedings would not exceed the amount the State Plan reserves for the payment
of judgments and, therefore, could affect the ability of the State to maintain a
balanced 1997-1998 Financial Plan. The General Purpose Financial Statements for
the 1996-1997 fiscal year report estimated probable awarded and anticipated
unfavorable judgements of $364 million, of which $134 million is expected to be
paid during the 1997-1998 fiscal year.
In addition, the State is party to other claims and litigations which its
counsel has advised are not probable of adverse court decisions. Although, the
amounts of potential losses, if any, are not presently determinable, it is the
State's opinion that its ultimate liability in these cases is not expected to
have a material adverse effect on the State's financial position in the 1997-98
fiscal year or thereafter.
Other Localities. Certain localities in addition to the City could have
financial problems leading to requests for additional State assistance during
the State's 1997-98 fiscal year and thereafter. The potential impact on the
State of such actions by localities is not included in the projections of the
State receipts and disbursements in the State's 1997-98 fiscal year.
Fiscal difficulties experienced by the City of Yonkers ("Yonkers")
resulted in the creation of the Financial Control Board for the City of Yonkers
(the "Yonkers Board") by the State in 1984. The Yonkers Board is charged with
oversight of the fiscal affairs of Yonkers. Future actions taken by the Governor
or the State Legislature to assist Yonkers could result in increased State
expenditures for extraordinary local assistance.
Other Investment Techniques and Strategies
|X| When-Issued and Delayed Delivery Transactions. As stated in the
Prospectus, the Fund may purchase securities on a "when-issued" basis, and may
purchase or sell such securities on a "delayed delivery" basis. Although the
Fund will enter into such transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities
for its portfolio or for delivery pursuant to options contracts it has entered
into, the Fund may dispose of a commitment prior to settlement. "When-issued" or
"delayed delivery" refers to securities whose terms and indenture are available
and for which a market exists, but which are not available for immediate
delivery. When such transactions are negotiated the price (which is generally
expressed in yield terms) is fixed at the time the commitment is made, but
delivery and payment for the securities take place at a later date. Normally,
the settlement date occurs within six months of the purchase of municipal bonds
and notes. However, the Fund may, from time to time, purchase municipal
securities whose settlement extends beyond six months and possibly as long as
two years or more beyond trade date. Such securities are subject to market
fluctuation; the value at delivery may be less than the purchase price. The Fund
will identify to its Custodian cash, U.S. Government securities or other high
grade debt obligations at least equal to the value of purchase
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commitments until payment is made.
The Fund will engage in when-issued transactions in order to secure what
is considered to be an advantageous price and yield at the time of entering into
the obligation. When the Fund engages in when-issued or delayed delivery
transactions, it relies on the buyer or seller, as the case may be, to
consummate the transaction. Failure to do so may result in the Fund losing the
opportunity to obtain a price and yield considered to be advantageous. If the
Fund chooses to (i) dispose of the right to acquire a when-issued security prior
to its acquisition or (ii) dispose of its right to deliver or receive against a
forward commitment, it may incur a gain or loss. At the time the Fund makes a
commitment to purchase or sell a security on a when-issued or forward commitment
basis, it records the transaction and reflects the value of the security
purchased, or if a sale, the proceeds to be received in determining its net
asset value.
To the extent the Fund engages in when-issued and delayed delivery
transactions, it will do so for the purpose of acquiring or selling securities
consistent with its investment objective and policies and not for the purposes
of investment leverage. The Fund enters into such transactions only with the
intention of actually receiving or delivering the securities, although (as noted
above), when- issued securities and forward commitments may be sold prior to
settlement date. In addition, changes in interest rates in a direction other
than that expected by the Manager before settlement will affect the value of
such securities and may cause loss to the Fund.
When-issued transactions and forward commitments can be used by the Fund
as a defensive technique to use against anticipated changes in interest rates
and prices. For instance, in periods of rising interest rates and falling
prices, the Fund might sell securities in its portfolio on a forward commitment
basis to attempt to limit its exposure to anticipated falling prices. In periods
of falling interest rates and rising prices, the Fund might sell portfolio
securities and purchase the same or similar securities on a when-issued or
forward commitment basis, thereby obtaining the benefit of currently higher cash
yields.
|X| Repurchase Agreements. In a repurchase transaction, the Fund acquires
a security from, and simultaneously resells it to, an approved vendor (a U.S.
commercial bank, the U.S. branch of a foreign bank or a broker-dealer which has
been designated a primary dealer in government securities) for delivery on an
agreed-on future date. The resale price exceeds the purchase price by an amount
that reflects an agreed-upon interest rate effective for the period during which
the repurchase agreement is in effect. The majority of these transactions run
from day to day, and delivery pursuant to resale typically will occur within one
to five days of the purchase. Repurchase agreements are considered loans under
the Investment Company Act, collateralized by the underlying security. The
Fund's repurchase agreements require that at all times while the repurchase
agreement is in effect, the value of the collateral must equal or exceed the
repurchase price to fully collateralize the repayment obligation. Additionally,
the Manager will continuously monitor the collateral's value and will impose
creditworthiness requirements to confirm that the vendor is financially sound.
|X| Loans of Portfolio Securities. The Fund may lend its portfolio
securities subject to the restrictions stated in the Prospectus. Under
applicable regulatory requirements (which are subject to change), the loan
collateral must, on each business day, be at least equal to the market value of
the loaned securities and must consist of cash, bank letters of credit,
securities of the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities, or other
cash equivalents in which the Fund is permitted to invest.
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<PAGE>
To be acceptable as collateral, letters of credit must obligate a bank to pay
amounts demanded by the Fund if the demand meets the terms of the letter. Such
terms and the issuing bank must be satisfactory to the Fund. The Fund receives
an amount equal to the dividends or interest on loaned securities and also
receives one or more of: (a) negotiated loan fees, (b) interest on securities
used as collateral, or (c) interest on short-term debt securities purchased with
such loan collateral; either type of interest may be shared with the borrower.
The Fund may also pay reasonable finder's custodian and administrative fees. The
terms of the Fund's loans must meet certain tests under the Internal Revenue
Code and permit the Fund to reacquire loaned securities on five days' notice or
in time to vote on any important matter. Income from securities loans is not
included in the exempt- interest dividends paid by the Fund. The Fund will not
enter into any securities loans having a duration of more than one year.
|X| Hedging. As described in the Prospectus, the Fund may employ one or
more types of hedging instruments. When hedging to attempt to protect against
declines in the market value of the Fund's portfolio, to permit the Fund to
retain unrealized gains in the value of portfolio securities which have
appreciated, or to facilitate selling securities for investment reasons, the
Fund may: (i) sell Interest Rate Futures or Municipal Bond Index Futures, (ii)
buy puts on such Futures or securities, or (iii) write covered calls on
securities, Interest Rate Futures or Municipal Bond Index Futures (as described
in the Prospectus). Covered calls may also be written on debt securities to
attempt to increase the Fund's income. When hedging to permit the Fund to
establish a position in the debt securities market as a temporary substitute for
purchasing individual debt securities (which the Fund will normally purchase,
and then terminate that hedging position), the Fund may: (i) buy Interest Rate
Futures or Municipal Bond Index Futures, or (ii) buy calls on such Futures or on
securities. The Fund's strategy of hedging with Futures and options on Futures
will be incidental to the Fund's activities in the underlying cash market.
Additional information about the covered calls and hedging instruments the Fund
may use is provided below.
o Writing Covered Call Options. When the Fund writes a call on a security,
it receives a premium and agrees to sell the underlying investment to a
purchaser of a corresponding call during the call period (usually not more than
nine months) at a fixed exercise price (which may differ from the market price
of the underlying investment) regardless of market price changes during the call
period. To terminate its obligation on a call it has written, the Fund may
purchase a corresponding call in a "closing purchase transaction." A profit or
loss will be realized, depending upon whether the net of the option transaction
costs and the premium received on the call written was more or less than the
price of the call subsequently purchased. A profit may also be realized if the
call lapses unexercised, because the Fund retains the underlying investment and
the premium received. Any such profits are considered short-term gains for
Federal tax purposes, as are premiums on lapsed calls, and when distributed by
the Fund are taxable as ordinary income. If the Fund could not effect a closing
purchase transaction due to a lack of a market, it would have to hold the
underlying investment until the call lapsed or were exercised.
o Interest Rate Futures. The Fund may buy and sell futures contracts
relating to debt securities ("Interest Rate Futures") and municipal bond indices
("Municipal Bond Index Futures," discussed below). An Interest Rate Future
obligates the seller to deliver and the purchaser to take the related debt
securities at a specified price on a specified date. No amount is paid or
received upon the purchase or sale of an Interest Rate Future.
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The Fund may concurrently buy and sell Futures contracts in the
expectation that the Future purchased will outperform the Future sold. For
example, the Fund might simultaneously buy Municipal Bond Futures and sell U.S.
Treasury Bond Futures. This type of transaction would be profitable to the Fund
if municipal bonds, in general, outperform U.S. Treasury bonds. Risks of this
type of Futures strategy include the possibility that the Manager does not
correctly assess the relative durations of the investments underlying the
Futures, with the result that the strategy changes the overall duration of the
Fund's portfolio in a manner that increases the volatility of the Fund's price
per share. Duration is a volatility measure that refers to the expected
percentage change in the value of a bond resulting from a change in general
interest rates (measured by each 1% change in the rates on U.S. Treasury
securities). For example, if a bond has an effective duration of three years, a
1% increase in general interest rates would be expected to cause the bond to
decline about 3%.
Upon entering into a Futures transaction, the Fund will be required to
deposit an initial margin payment, equal to a specified percentage of the
contract amount, with the futures commission merchant (the "futures broker").
The initial margin will be deposited with the Fund's Custodian in an account
registered in the futures broker's name; however, the futures broker can gain
access to that account only under specified conditions. As the Future is marked
to market to reflect changes in its market value, subsequent margin payments,
called variation margin, will be made to and from the futures broker on a daily
basis. At any time prior to the expiration of the Future, the Fund may elect to
close out its position by taking an opposite position, at which time a final
determination of variation margin is made and additional cash is required to be
paid by or released to the Fund. Any gain or loss is then realized. Although
Interest Rate Futures by their terms call for settlement by the delivery of debt
securities, in most cases the obligation is fulfilled by entering into an
offsetting transaction. All futures transactions are effected through a
clearinghouse associated with the exchange on which the contracts are traded.
o Municipal Bond Index Futures. A "municipal bond index" assigns relative
values to the municipal bonds in the index, and is used as the basis for trading
long-term municipal bond futures contracts. Municipal Bond Index Futures are
similar to Interest Rate Futures except that settlement is made in cash. The
obligation under such contracts may also be satisfied by entering into an
offsetting contract to close out the futures position. Net gain or loss on
options on Municipal Bond Index Futures depends on the price movements of the
securities included in the index. The strategies which the Fund employs
regarding Municipal Bond Index Futures are similar to those described above with
regard to Interest Rate Futures.
o Purchasing Calls and Puts. When the Fund purchases a call (other than in
a closing purchase transaction), it pays a premium and, except as to calls on
Municipal Bond Index Futures, has the right to buy the underlying investment
from a seller of a corresponding call on the same investment during the call
period at a fixed exercise price. The Fund benefits only if the call is sold at
a profit or if, during the call period, the market price of the underlying
investment is above the sum of the exercise price plus the transaction costs and
premium paid for the call, and the call is exercised. If the call is not
exercised or sold (whether or not at a profit), it will become worthless at its
expiration date and the Fund will lose its premium payment and the right to
purchase the underlying investment.
When the Fund purchases a call or put on a municipal bond index, Municipal
Bond Index Future or Interest Rate Future, it pays a premium, but settlement is
in cash rather than by delivery of
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the underlying investment to the Fund. Gain or loss depends on changes in the
index in question (and thus on price movements in the debt securities market
generally) rather than on price movements in individual futures contracts.
When the Fund buys a put, it pays a premium and, except as to puts on
municipal bond indices, has the right to sell the underlying investment to a
seller of a corresponding put on the same investment during the put period at a
fixed exercise price. Buying a put on a debt security, Interest Rate Future or
Municipal Bond Index Future the Fund owns enables the Fund to protect itself
during the put period against a decline in the value of the underlying
investment below the exercise price by selling such underlying investment at the
exercise price to a seller of a corresponding put. If the market price of the
underlying investment is equal to or above the exercise price and as a result
the put is not exercised or resold, the put will become worthless at its
expiration date and the Fund will lose its premium payment and the right to sell
the underlying investment. The put may, however, be sold prior to expiration
(whether or not at a profit).
An option position may be closed out only on a market which provides
secondary trading for options of the same series, and there is no assurance that
a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular option. The Fund's
option activities may affect its turnover rate and brokerage commissions. The
exercise of calls written by the Fund may cause it to sell underlying
investments, thus increasing its turnover rate in a manner beyond its control.
The exercise by the Fund of puts may also cause the sale of underlying
investments, also causing turnover, since the underlying investment might be
sold for reasons which would not exist in the absence of the put. The Fund will
pay a brokerage commission each time it buys a call or a put or sells a call.
Premiums paid for options are small in relation to the market value of the
related investments and, consequently, put and call options offer large amounts
of leverage. The leverage offered by trading in options could cause the Fund's
net asset value to be more sensitive to changes in the value of the underlying
investments.
o Additional Information about Hedging Instruments and Their Use. The
Fund's Custodian, or a securities depository acting for the Custodian, will act
as the Fund's escrow agent through the facilities of the Options Clearing
Corporation ("OCC"), as to the investments on which the Fund has written calls
traded on exchanges, or as to other acceptable escrow securities, so that no
margin will be required for such transactions. OCC will release the securities
on the expiration of the calls or upon the Fund's entering into a closing
purchase transaction. An option position may be closed out only on a market
which provides secondary trading for options of the same series and there is no
assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular option.
When the Fund writes an over-the-counter("OTC") option, it intends to into an
arrangement with a primary U.S. Government securities dealer, which would
establish a formula price at which the Fund would have the absolute right to
repurchase that OTC option. This formula price would generally be based on a
multiple of the premium received for the option, plus the amount by which the
option is exercisable below the market price of the underlying security
("in-the-money"). For any OTC option the Fund writes, it will treat as illiquid
(for purposes of its restriction on illiquid securities, stated in the
Prospectus) the mark-to-market value of any OTC option held by it, unless the
option is subject to a buy-back agreement by the executing broker. The
Securities and Exchange Commission is evaluating the general issue of whether or
not OTC options should be considered as liquid securities, and the procedure
described above could be affected by the outcome of that evaluation.
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The Fund's option activities may affect its portfolio turnover rate and
brokerage commissions. The exercise of calls written by the Fund may cause the
Fund to sell related portfolio securities, thus increasing its portfolio
turnover rate. The exercise by the Fund of puts on securities will cause the
sale of related investments, increasing portfolio turnover. Although such
exercise is within the Fund's control, holding a put might cause the Fund to
sell the related investments for reasons which would not exist in the absence of
the put. The Fund will pay a brokerage commission each time it buys a call or
put, sells a call, or buys or sells an underlying investment in connection with
the exercise of a call or put. Such commissions may be higher on a relative
basis than those which would apply to direct purchases or sales of such
underlying investments. Premiums paid for options as to underlying investments
are small in relation to the market value of such investments and consequently,
put and call options offer large amounts of leverage. The leverage offered by
trading in options could result in the Fund's net asset value being more
sensitive to changes in the value of the underlying investment.
o Regulatory Aspects of Hedging Instruments. The Fund is required to
operate within certain guidelines and restrictions with respect to its use of
futures and options thereon as established by the Commodities Futures Trading
Commission ("CFTC"). In particular, the Fund is excluded from registration as a
"commodity pool operator" if it complies with the requirements of Rule 4.5
adopted by the CFTC. The Rule does not limit the percentage of the Fund's assets
that may be used for Futures margin and related options premiums for a bona fide
hedging position. However, under the Rule the Fund must limit its aggregate
initial Futures margin and related option premiums to no more than 5% of the
Fund's total assets for hedging strategies that are not considered bona fide
hedging strategies under the Rule.
Transactions in options by the Fund are subject to limitations established
by each of the exchanges governing the maximum number of options which may be
written or held by a single investor or group of investors acting in concert,
regardless of whether the options were written or purchased on the same or
different exchanges or are held in one or more accounts or through one or more
different exchanges or through one or more brokers. Thus, the number of options
which the Fund may write or hold may be affected by options written or held by
other entities, including other investment companies having the same adviser as
the Fund or an affiliated investment adviser. Position limits also apply to
Futures. An exchange may order the liquidation of positions found to be in
violation of those limits and may impose certain other sanctions. Due to
requirements under the Investment Company Act, when the Fund purchases an
Interest Rate Future or Municipal Bond Index Future, the Fund will maintain, in
a segregated account or accounts with its Custodian, cash or readily marketable
short-term (maturing in one year or less) debt instruments in an amount equal to
the market value of the investments underlying such Future, less the margin
deposit applicable to it.
o Tax Aspects of Hedging Instruments and Covered Calls. The Fund intends
to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code
(although it reserves the right not to qualify). That qualification enables the
fund to "pass through" its income and realized capital gains to shareholders
without having to pay tax on them. This avoids a "double tax" on that income and
capital gains, since shareholders normally will be taxed on the dividends and
capital gains they receive from the Fund (unless the fund's shares are held in a
retirement account or the shareholder is otherwise exempt from tax).
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<PAGE>
o Possible Risk Factors in Hedging. In addition to the risks with respect
to Futures and options discussed in the Prospectus and above, there is a risk in
using short hedging by selling Interest Rate Futures and Municipal Bond Index
Futures that the prices of such Futures or the applicable index will correlate
imperfectly with the behavior of the cash (i.e., market value) prices of the
Fund's securities. The ordinary spreads between prices in the cash and futures
markets are subject to distortions due to differences in the natures of those
markets. First, all participants in the futures market are subject to margin
deposit and maintenance requirements. Rather than meeting additional margin
deposit requirements, investors may close out futures contracts through
offsetting transactions which could distort the normal relationship between the
cash and futures markets. Second, the liquidity of the futures market depends on
participants entering into offsetting transactions rather than making or taking
delivery. To the extent participants decide to make or take delivery, liquidity
in the futures market could be reduced, thus producing distortion. Third, from
the point of view of speculators, the deposit requirements in the futures market
are less onerous than margin requirements in the securities market. Therefore,
increased participation by speculators in the futures market may cause temporary
price distortions.
The risk of imperfect correlation increases as the composition of the
Fund's portfolio diverges from the securities included in the applicable index.
To compensate for the imperfect correlation of movements in the price of debt
securities being hedged and movements in the price of the Hedging Instruments,
the Fund may use Hedging Instruments in a greater dollar amount than the dollar
amount of debt securities being hedged if the historical volatility of the
prices of such debt securities being hedged is more than the historical
volatility of the applicable index. It is also possible that where the Fund has
used Hedging Instruments in a short hedge, the market may advance and the value
of debt securities held in the Fund's portfolio may decline. If this occurred,
the Fund would lose money on the Hedging Instruments and also experience a
decline in value of its debt securities. However, while this could occur for a
very brief period or to a very small degree, over time the value of a
diversified portfolio of debt securities will tend to move in the same direction
as the indices upon which the Hedging Instruments are based. If the Fund uses
Hedging Instruments to establish a position in the debt securities markets as a
temporary substitute for the purchase of individual debt securities (long
hedging) by buying Interest Rate Futures, Municipal Bond Index Futures and/or
calls on such Futures or debt securities, it is possible that the market may
decline; if the Fund then concludes not to invest in such securities at that
time because of concerns as to possible further market decline or for other
reasons, the Fund will realize a loss on the Hedging Instruments that is not
offset by a reduction in the price of the debt securities purchased.
Other Investment Restrictions
The Fund's significant investment restrictions are described in the
Prospectus. The following investment restrictions are also fundamental policies
of the Fund, and, together with the fundamental policies and investment
objective described in the Prospectus, can be changed only by the vote of a
"majority" of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. Under the Investment
Company Act, such a "majority" vote is defined as the vote of the holders of the
lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares present or represented by proxy at such
meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares are present,
or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares.
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<PAGE>
Under these additional restrictions, the Fund cannot do any of the
following:
o The Fund cannot invest in real estate, but the Fund may invest in
Municipal Securities or other permitted securities secured by real estate or
interests therein;
o The Fund cannot purchase securities other than Hedging Instruments on
margin; however, the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary
for the clearance of purchases and sales of securities;
o The Fund cannot make short sales of securities;
o The Fund cannot invest in or hold securities of any issuer if those
officers and trustees of the Fund or its adviser beneficially owning
individually more than .5% of the securities of such issuer together own more
than 5% of the securities of such issuer; or
o The Fund cannot invest in other open-end investment companies except in
a merger, consolidation, reorganization or acquisition of assets.
|X| Diversification. For purposes of diversification under the Investment
Company Act and the investment restrictions set forth in the Prospectus and
above, the identification of the "issuer" of a Municipal Security depends on the
terms and conditions of the security. When the assets and revenues of an agency,
authority, instrumentality or other political subdivision are separate from
those of the government creating the subdivision, and the security is backed
only by the assets and revenues of the subdivision, such subdivision would be
deemed to be the sole issuer. Similarly, in the case of an industrial
development bond, if that bond is backed only by the assets and revenues of the
nongovernmental user, then such nongovernmental user would be deemed the sole
issuer. However, if in either case the creating government or some other entity
guarantees the security, such a guarantee would be considered a separate
security and would be treated as an issue of such government or other agency. In
applying these restrictions to its investments, the Manager will consider a
nongovernmental user of facilities financed by industrial development bonds as
being in a particular industry, despite the fact that there is no industry
concentration limitation as to Municipal Securities. Although this application
of the restriction is not technically a fundamental policy of the Fund, it will
not be changed without shareholder approval. The Manager has no present
intention of investing more than 25% of the Fund's assets in securities paying
interest from revenues of similar type projects. This is not a fundamental
policy, and therefore may be changed without shareholder approval. Should any
such change be made, the Prospectus and/or this Statement of Additional
Information will be supplemented accordingly.
For purposes of the Fund's policy not to concentrate its assets, the Fund
has adopted the industry classifications set forth in Appendix C to this
Statement of Additional Information. This is not a fundamental policy.
How the Fund is Managed
Organization and History. As a Massachusetts business trust, the Fund is not
required to hold, and does not plan to hold, regular annual meetings of
shareholders. The Fund will hold meetings when required to do so by the
Investment Company Act or other applicable law, or when a shareholder
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<PAGE>
meeting is called by the Trustees or upon proper request of the shareholders.
Shareholders have the right, upon the declaration in writing or vote of
two-thirds of the outstanding shares of the Fund, to remove a Trustee. The
Trustees will call a meeting of shareholders to vote on the removal of a Trustee
upon the written request of the record holders of 10% of its outstanding shares.
In addition, if the Trustees receive a request from at least 10 shareholders
(who have been shareholders for at least six months) holding shares of the Fund
valued at $25,000 or more or holding at least 1% of the Fund's outstanding
shares, whichever is less, stating that they wish to communicate with other
shareholders to request a meeting to remove a Trustee, the Trustees will then
either make the Fund's shareholder list available to the applicants or mail
their communication to all other shareholders at the applicants' expense, or the
Trustees may take such other action as set forth under Section 16(c) of the
Investment Company Act.
The Fund's Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of
shareholder or Trustee liability for the Fund's obligations, and provides for
indemnification and reimbursement of expenses out of its property for any
shareholder held personally liable for its obligations. The Declaration of Trust
also provides that the Fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim
made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the Fund and satisfy
any judgment thereon. Thus, while Massachusetts law permits a shareholder of a
business trust (such as the Fund) to be held personally liable as a "partner"
under certain circumstances, the risk of a Fund shareholder incurring financial
loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to the relatively remote
circumstances in which the Fund would be unable to meet its obligations
described above. Any person doing business with the Trust, and any shareholder
of the Trust, agrees under the Trust's Declaration of Trust to look solely to
the assets of the Trust for satisfaction of any claim or demand which may arise
out of any dealings with the Trust, and the Trustees shall have no personal
liability to any such person, to the extent permitted by law.
Trustees and Officers of the Fund. The Fund's Trustees and officers and their
principal occupations and business affiliations and occupations during the past
five years are listed below. The address of each Trustee and officer is Two
World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203, unless another address is
listed below. All of the Trustees (except Ms. Macaskill, who is not a director
of Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc.) are also trustees or directors of
Oppenheimer Fund, Oppenheimer Growth Fund, Oppenheimer Global Fund, Oppenheimer
Money Market Fund, Inc., Oppenheimer U.S. Government Trust, Oppenheimer Gold &
Special Minerals Fund, Oppenheimer Enterprise Fund, Oppenheimer Discovery Fund,
Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund, Oppenheimer Multiple Strategies Fund,
Oppenheimer Global Emerging Growth Fund, Oppenheimer Global Growth & Income
Fund, Oppenheimer Municipal Bond Fund, Oppenheimer California Municipal Fund,
Oppenheimer Multi-State Municipal Trust, Oppenheimer Multi-Sector Income Trust,
Oppenheimer World Bond Fund, Oppenheimer Series Fund, Inc. (collectively, the
"New York- based Oppenheimer funds), Oppenheimer Developing Markets Fund and
Oppenheimer International Small Company Fund. Ms. Macaskill, Messrs. Spiro,
Donohue, Bowen, Zack, Bishop and Farrar respectively, hold the same offices with
the other New York-based Oppenheimer funds as with the Fund. As of December 31,
1997, the Trustees and officers of the Trust as a group owned of record or
beneficially less than 1% of each class of shares of the Trust and the Fund
except Leon Levy, who owns beneficially 1,345,407.308 Class A shares
(approximately 2.53% of the outstanding Class A shares). The foregoing statement
does not reflect ownership of shares held of record by an employee benefit plan
for employees of the Manager (for which plan a Trustee and an officer listed
below, Ms. Macaskill, and Mr. Donohue, respectively, are trustees), other than
the shares beneficially owned
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under that plan by the officers of the Fund listed above.
LEON LEVY, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Age 72 31 West 52nd Street, New
York, NY 10019
General Partner of Odyssey Partners, L.P. (investment partnership) (since 1982)
and Chairman of Avatar Holdings, Inc. (real estate development).
ROBERT G. GALLI, Trustee, Age 64
Formerly he held the following positions: Vice Chairman of OppenheimerFunds,
Inc. (the "Manager") (since October 1995); Vice President and Counsel of
Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp. ("OAC"), the Manager's parent holding company;
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and a director of the Manager and
OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (the "Distributor"), Vice President and a
director of HarbourView Asset Management Corporation ("HarbourView") and
Centennial Asset Management Corporation ("Centennial"), investment adviser
subsidiaries of the Manager, a director of Shareholder Financial Services, Inc.
("SFSI") and Shareholder Services, Inc. ("SSI"), transfer agent subsidiaries of
the Manager and an officer of other Oppenheimer funds.
BENJAMIN LIPSTEIN, Trustee, Age 74
591 Breezy Hill Road, Hillsdale, N.Y. 12529
Professor Emeritus of Marketing, Stern Graduate School of Business
Administration, New York University; a director of Sussex Publishers, Inc
(Publishers of Psychology Today and Mother Earth News) and of Spy Magazine, L.P.
BRIDGET A. MACASKILL, President and Trustee*, Age 49
President (since June 1991), Chief Executive Officer (since September 1995) and
a Director (since December 1994) of the Manager and Chief Executive Officer
(since September 1995); President and director (since June 1991) of HarbourView;
Chairman and a director of SSI (since August 1994), and SFSI (September 1995);
President (since September 1995) and a director (since October 1990) of OAC;
President (since September 1995) and a director (since November 1989) of
Oppenheimer Partnership Holdings, Inc., a holding company subsidiary of the
Manager; a director of Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (since July
1996); President and a director (since October 1997) of OppenheimerFunds
International Ltd., an offshore fund manager subsidiary of the Manager ("OFIL")
and Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc (since October 1997); President and a
director of other Oppenheimer funds; a director of the NASDAQ Stock Market, Inc.
and of Hillsdown Holdings plc (a U.K. food company); formerly an Executive Vice
President of the Manager.
ELIZABETH B. MOYNIHAN, Trustee, Age 68
801 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20004
Author and architectural historian; a trustee of the Freer Gallery of Art
(Smithsonian Institution), the Institute of Fine Arts (New York University),
National Building Museum; a member of the Trustees Council, Preservation League
of New York State, and of the Indo-U.S. Sub-Commission on Education and Culture.
- ----------------------
* A Trustee who is an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in the
Investment Company Act.
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<PAGE>
KENNETH A. RANDALL, Trustee, Age 70
6 Whittaker's Mill, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
A director of Dominion Resources, Inc. (electric utility holding company),
Dominion Energy, Inc. (electric power and oil & gas producer), Texan
Cogeneration Company (cogeneration company), Prime Retail, Inc. (real estate
investment trust); formerly President and Chief Executive Officer of The
Conference Board, Inc. (international economic and business research) and a
director of Lumbermens Mutual Casualty Company, American Motorists Insurance
Company and American Manufacturers Mutual Insurance Company.
EDWARD V. REGAN, Trustee, Age 67
40 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10016
Chairman of Municipal Assistance Corporation for the City of New York; Senior
Fellow of Jerome Levy Economics Institute, Bard College; a member of the U.S.
Competitiveness Policy Council; a director of GranCare, Inc. (health care
provider); a director of River Bank America (real estate manager); Trustee,
Financial Accounting Foundation (FASB and GASB); formerly New York State
Comptroller and trustee, New York State and Local Retirement Fund.
RUSSELL S. REYNOLDS, JR., Trustee, Age 66
8 Sound Shore Drive, Greenwich, Connecticut 06830
Founder Chairman of Russell Reynolds Associates, Inc. (executive recruiting);
Chairman of Directorship Inc. (corporate governance consulting); a director of
Professional Staff Limited (U.K); a trustee of Mystic Seaport Museum,
International House and Greenwich Historical Society.
DONALD W. SPIRO, Vice Chairman and Trustee*, Age 72
Chairman Emeritus (since August 1991) and a director (since January 1969) of the
Manager; formerly Chairman of the Manager and the Distributor.
PAULINE TRIGERE, Trustee, Age 85
498 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10018
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Trigere, Inc. (design and sale of
women's fashions).
CLAYTON K. YEUTTER, Trustee, Age 67
1325 Merrie Ridge Road, McLean, Virginia 22101
Of Counsel, Hogan & Hartson (a law firm); a director of B.A.T. Industries, Ltd.
(tobacco and financial services), Caterpillar, Inc. (machinery), ConAgra, Inc.
(food and agricultural products), Farmers Insurance Company (insurance), FMC
Corp. (chemicals and machinery) and Texas Instruments, Inc. (electronics);
formerly (in descending chronological order) IMC Global Inc. (chemicals and
animal feed), Counsellor to the President (Bush) for Domestic Policy, Chairman
of the Republican National Committee, Secretary of the U.S. Department of
Agriculture, and U.S. Trade Representative.
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* A Trustee who is an "interested person" of the Fund as defined in the
Investment Company Act.
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ANDREW J. DONOHUE, Secretary, Age 47
Executive Vice President (since January 1993), General Counsel (since October
1991) and a Director (since September 1995) of the Manager; Executive Vice
President (since September 1993), and a director (since January 1992) of the
Distributor; Executive Vice President, General Counsel and a director of
HarbourView, SSI, SFSI and Oppenheimer Partnership Holdings, Inc. since
(September 1995) and MultiSource Services, Inc. (a broker-dealer) (since
December 1995); President and a director of Centennial (since September 1995);
President and a director of Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (since July
1996); General Counsel (since May 1996) and Secretary (since April 1997) of OAC;
Vice President of OFIL and Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc (since October
1997); an officer of other Oppenheimer funds.
ROBERT E. PATTERSON, Vice President and Portfolio Manager, Age 54 Senior Vice
President of the Manager (since February 1993); an officer of other Oppenheimer
funds.
GEORGE C. BOWEN, Treasurer, Age 61
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
Senior Vice President (since September 1987) and Treasurer (since March 1985) of
the Manager; Vice President (since June 1983) and Treasurer (since March 1985)
of the Distributor; Vice President (since October 1989) and Treasurer (since
April 1986) of HarbourView; Senior Vice President (since February 1992),
Treasurer (since July 1991)and a director (since December 1991) of Centennial;
President, Treasurer and a director of Centennial Capital Corporation (since
June 1989); Vice President and Treasurer (since August 1978) and Secretary
(since April 1981) of SSI; Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary of SFSI
(since November 1989); Treasurer of OAC (since June 1990); Treasurer of
Oppenheimer Partnership Holdings, Inc. (since November 1989); Vice President and
Treasurer of Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (since July 1996); Chief
Executive Officer, Treasurer and a director of MultiSource Services, Inc., a
broker-dealer (since December 1995); an officer of other Oppenheimer funds.
ROBERT G. ZACK, Assistant Secretary, Age 49
Senior Vice President (since May 1985) and Associate General Counsel (since May
1981) of the Manager, Assistant Secretary of SSI (since May 1985), and SFSI
(since November 1989); Assistant Secretary of Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc
(since October 1997); an officer of other Oppenheimer funds.
ROBERT J. BISHOP, Assistant Treasurer, Age 39
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
Vice President of the Manager/Mutual Fund Accounting (since May 1996); an
officer of other Oppenheimer funds; formerly an Assistant Vice President of the
Manager/Mutual Fund Accounting (April 1994-May 1996), and a Fund Controller for
the Manager.
SCOTT T. FARRAR, Assistant Treasurer, Age 32
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
Vice President of the Manager/Mutual Fund Accounting (since May 1996); Assistant
Treasurer of Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc (since October 1997); an officer
of other Oppenheimer funds; formerly an Assistant Vice President of the
Manager/Mutual Fund Accounting (April 1994-May 1996), and a Fund Controller for
the Manager.
|X| Remuneration of Trustees. The officers of the Fund and certain Trustees
of the Fund (Ms. Macaskill and Messrs. Galli and Spiro) who are affiliated with
the Manager receive no salary
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or fees from the Fund. The remaining Trustees of the Fund received the
compensation shown below. The compensation for the Fund was paid during its
fiscal year ended September 30, 1997. The compensation from all of the New
York-based Oppenheimer funds includes the Fund and is compensation received as a
director, trustee or member of a committee of the Board of those funds during
the calendar year 1997:
Retirement
Benefits Total Compensation
Aggregate Accrued as From All
Compensation Part of New York-based
Name and Position From Fund Fund Expenses Oppenheimer Funds1
Leon Levy $0 $(11,393) $152,750
Chairman and Trustee
Benjamin Lipstein $0 $( 6,813) $ 91,350
Study Committee Chairman, Audit Committee
Member and Trustee
Elizabeth B. Moynihan $0 $( 6,813) $ 91,350
Study Committee
Member2 and Trustee
Kenneth A. Randall $0 $( 6,224) $ 83,450
Audit Committee
Chairman and Trustee
Edward V. Regan $0 $( 5,829) $ 78,150
Proxy Committee Chairman,
Audit Committee
Member2 and Trustee
Russell S. Reynolds, Jr. $0 $( 4,386) $ 58,800
Proxy Committee Member
and Trustee
Pauline Trigere, Trustee $0 $( 4,125) $ 55,300
Clayton K. Yeutter $0 $( 4,386) $ 58,800
Proxy Committee Member
and Trustee
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1 For the 1997 calendar year.
2Committee position held during a portion of the period shown. The Study and
Audit Committees meet for all of the New York-based Oppenheimer funds and the
fees are allocated among the funds by the Board.
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The Fund has adopted a retirement plan that provides for payment to a
retired Trustee of up to 80% of the average compensation paid during that
Trustee's five years of service in which the highest compensation was received.
A Trustee must serve in that capacity for any of the New York- based Oppenheimer
funds for at least 15 years to be eligible for the maximum payment. Because each
Trustee's retirement benefits will depend on the amount of the Trustee's future
compensation and length of service, the amount of those benefits cannot be
determined at this time, nor can the Fund estimate the number of years of
credited service that will be used to determine those benefits.
o Deferred Compensation Plan. The Board of Trustees has adopted a Deferred
Compensation Plan for disinterested trustees that enables them to elect to defer
receipt of all or a portion of the annual fees they are entitled to receive from
the Fund. Under the plan, the compensation deferred by a Trustee is periodically
adjusted as though an equivalent amount had been invested in shares of one or
more Oppenheimer funds selected by the Trustee. The amount paid to the Trustee
under the plan will be determined based upon the performance of the selected
funds. Deferral of Trustees' fees under the plan will not materially affect the
Fund's assets, liabilities and net income per share. The plan will not obligate
the Fund to retain the services of any Trustee or to pay any particular level of
compensation to any Trustee. Pursuant to an Order issued by the Securities and
Exchange Commission, the Fund may invest in the funds selected by the Trustee
under the plan without shareholder approval for the limited purpose of
determining the value of the Trustee's deferred fee account.
|X| Major Shareholders. As of December 31, 1997, no person owned of record
or is known by the Fund to own beneficially 5% or more of the Fund's outstanding
Class A or Class B shares. The only persons owning of record or know by the Fund
to own beneficially 5% of the Fund's Class C shares were Merrill Lynch Pierce
Fenner & Smith For the Benefit of its Customers, 4800 Deer Lake Dr. E. Fl. 3,
Jacksonville, FL 32246-6484, who owned of record 37,111.000 shares
(approximately 10.03% of the Fund's outstanding Class C shares), Rose M.
Nurnberger, 228 Lincoln Ave., Island Park, NY 11558-1322, who owned of record
34,759.299 shares (approximately 9.39% of the Fund's outstanding Class C shares)
and Mrs. Gloria Fleckenstein, 145 East 15th Street, Apt. 17B, New York, NY
10003, who owned of record 28,194.581 shares (approximately 7.62% of the Fund's
outstanding Class C shares).
The Manager and Its Affiliates. The Manager is wholly-owned by Oppenheimer
Acquisition Corp. ("OAC"), a holding company controlled by Massachusetts Mutual
Life Insurance Company. OAC is also owned in part by certain of the Manager's
directors and officers, some of whom may also serve as officers of the Fund, and
three of whom (Ms. Macaskill and Messrs. Galli and Spiro) serve as Trustees of
the Fund.
The Manager and the Fund have a Code of Ethics. It is designed to detect
and prevent improper personal trading by certain employees, including portfolio
managers, that would compete with or take advantage of the Fund's portfolio
transactions. Compliance with the Code of Ethics is carefully monitored and
strictly enforced by the Manager.
|X| The Investment Advisory Agreement. The Investment Advisory Agreement
between the Manager and the Fund requires the Manager, at its expense, to
provide the Fund with adequate office space, facilities and equipment, and to
provide and supervise the activities of all administrative and clerical
personnel required to provide effective corporate administration for the Fund,
including the compilation and maintenance of records with respect to its
operations, the preparation and filing
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of specified reports, and the composition of proxy materials and registration
statements for continuous public sale of shares of the Fund.
Expenses not expressly assumed by the Manager under the Investment
Advisory Agreement or by the Distributor under the General Distributor's
Agreement are paid by the Fund. The Investment Advisory Agreement lists examples
of expenses paid by the Fund, the major categories of which relate to interest,
taxes, fees to certain Trustees, legal and audit expenses, custodian and
transfer agent expenses, share issuance costs, certain printing and registration
costs, brokerage commissions, and non-recurring expenses, including litigation
costs.
The Investment Advisory Agreement contains no expense limitation. However,
because of state regulations limiting fund expenses that previously applied, the
Manager had voluntarily undertaken that the Fund's total expenses in any fiscal
year (including the investment advisory fee but exclusive of taxes, interest,
brokerage commissions, distribution plan payments and any extraordinary
non-recurring expenses, including litigation) would not exceed the most
stringent state regulatory limitation applicable to the Fund. Due to changes in
federal securities laws, such state regulations no longer apply and the
Manager's undertaking is therefore inapplicable and has been withdrawn. During
the Fund's last fiscal year, the Fund's expenses did not exceed the most
stringent state regulatory limit and the voluntary undertaking was not invoked.
For the fiscal years ended September 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997, the management
fees paid by the Fund to the Manager were $3,833,144, $4,014,768 and $3,912,050,
respectively.
The advisory agreement provides that in the absence of willful
misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence in the performance of its duties or
reckless disregard for its obligations and duties under the advisory agreement,
the Manager is not liable for any loss sustained by reason of any investment of
Fund assets made with due care and in good faith. The advisory agreement permits
the Manager to act as investment adviser for any other person, firm or
corporation and to use the name "Oppenheimer" in connection with other
investment companies for which it may act as investment adviser or general
distributor. If the Manager shall no longer act as investment adviser to the
Fund, the right of the Fund to use the name "Oppenheimer" as part of its name
may be withdrawn.
|X| The Distributor. Under its General Distributor's Agreement with the
Fund, the Distributor acts as the Fund's principal underwriter in the continuous
public offering of the Fund's Class A, Class B and Class C shares, but is not
obligated to sell a specific number of shares. Expenses normally attributable to
sales, excluding payments under the Distribution and Service Plans but including
advertising and the cost of printing and mailing prospectuses (other than those
furnished to existing shareholders), are borne by the Distributor. During the
Fund's fiscal years ended September 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997, the aggregate sales
charges on sales of the Fund's Class A shares were $1,403,152, $1,211,472 and
$835,127, respectively, of which the Distributor and an affiliated broker-dealer
retained in the aggregate $259,977, $253,441 and $161,226, in those respective
years. During the Fund's fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, the contingent
deferred sales charge collected on the Fund's Class B shares totaled $260,864,
all of which the Distributor retained. During the Fund's fiscal year ended
September 30, 1997, the contingent deferred sales charge collected on the Fund's
Class C shares totaled $5,113, all of which the Distributor retained. For
additional information about distribution of the Fund's shares and the expenses
connected with such activities, please refer to "Distribution and Service
Plans," below.
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<PAGE>
|X| The Transfer Agent. The Fund's Transfer Agent, OppenheimerFunds
Services, a division of the Manager, is responsible for maintaining the Fund's
shareholder registry and shareholder accounting records, and for shareholder
servicing and administrative functions.
Brokerage Policies of the Fund
Brokerage Provisions of the Investment Advisory Agreement. One of the duties of
the Manager under the Investment Advisory Agreement is to arrange the portfolio
transactions for the Fund. The Investment Advisory Agreement contains provisions
relating to the employment of broker-dealers ("brokers") to effect the Fund's
portfolio transactions. In doing so, the Manager is authorized by the Investment
Advisory Agreement to employ such broker-dealers, including "affiliated"
brokers, as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act, as may, in its
best judgment based on all relevant factors, implement the policy of the Fund to
obtain, at reasonable expense, the "best execution" (prompt and reliable
execution at the most favorable price obtainable) of such transactions. The
Manager need not seek competitive commission bidding but is expected to minimize
the commissions paid to the extent consistent with the interest and policies of
the Fund as established by its Board of Trustees.
Under the advisory agreement, the Manager is authorized to select brokers
that provide brokerage and/or research services for the Fund and/or the other
accounts over which the Manager or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The commissions paid to such brokers may be higher than another qualified broker
would have charged if a good faith determination is made by the Manager and the
commission is fair and reasonable in relation to the services provided. Subject
to the foregoing considerations, the Manager may also consider sales of shares
of the Fund and other investment companies managed by the Manager or its
affiliates as a factor in the selection of brokers for the Fund's portfolio
transactions.
Description of Brokerage Practices Followed by the Manager. Subject to the
provisions of the advisory agreement and the procedures and rules described
above, allocations of brokerage are generally made by the Manager's portfolio
traders upon recommendations from the Manager's portfolio managers. In certain
instances, portfolio managers may directly place trades and allocate brokerage,
also subject to the provisions of the Investment Advisory Agreement and the
procedures and rules described above. In either case, brokerage is allocated
under the supervision of the Manager's executive officers. As most purchases
made by the Fund are principal transactions at net prices, the Fund does not
incur substantial brokerage costs. The Fund usually deals directly with the
selling or purchasing principal or market maker without incurring charges for
the services of a broker on its behalf unless it is determined that a better
price or execution may be obtained by utilizing the services of a broker.
Purchases of portfolio securities from underwriters include a commission or
concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter, and purchases from dealers
include a spread between the bid and asked price. The Fund seeks to obtain
prompt execution of orders at the most favorable net prices. When the Fund
engages in an option transaction, ordinarily the same broker will be used for
the purchase or sale of the option and any transaction in the securities to
which the option relates. When possible, concurrent orders to purchase or sell
the same security by more than one of the accounts managed by the Manager or its
affiliates are combined. The transactions effected pursuant to such combined
orders are averaged as to price and allocated in accordance with the purchase or
sale orders actually placed for each account.
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<PAGE>
The research services provided by a particular broker may be useful only
to one or more of the advisory accounts of the Manager and its affiliates, and
investment research received for the commissions of those other accounts may be
useful both to the Fund and one or more of such other accounts. Such research,
which may be supplied by a third party at the instance of a broker, includes
information and analyses on particular companies and industries as well as
market or economic trends and portfolio strategy, receipt of market quotations
for portfolio evaluations, information systems, computer hardware and similar
products and services. If a research service also assists the Manager in a
non-research capacity (such as bookkeeping or other administrative functions),
then only the percentage or component that provides assistance to the Manager in
the investment decision-making process may be paid in commission dollars. The
Board of Trustees has permitted the Manager to use concessions on fixed-price
offerings to obtain research, in the same manner as is permitted for agency
transactions. The Board has also permitted the Manager to use stated commissions
on secondary fixed-income agency trades to obtain research where the broker has
represented to the Manager that (i) the trade is not from or for the broker's
own inventory, (ii) the trade was not executed by the broker on an agency basis
at the stated commission, and (iii) the trade is not a riskless principal
transaction.
The research services provided by brokers broadens the scope and
supplement the research activities of the Manager, by making available
additional views for consideration and comparisons, and by enabling the Manager
to obtain market information for the valuation of securities held in the Fund's
portfolio or being considered for purchase. The Manager provides information as
to the commissions paid to brokers furnishing such services, together with the
Manager's representation that the amount of such commissions was reasonably
related to the value or benefit of such services.
Other funds advised by the Manager have investment objectives and policies
similar to those of the Fund. Such other funds may purchase or sell the same
securities at the same time as the Fund, which could affect the supply and price
of such securities. If two or more of such funds purchase the same security on
the same day from the same dealer, the Manager may average the price of the
transactions and allocate the average among such funds.
During the Fund's fiscal years ended September 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997,
total brokerage commissions paid by the Fund (not including spreads or
concessions on principal transactions on a net trade basis) were $21,875,
$19,390 and $64,250, respectively of that amount. During the same period, no
payments were made to brokers as commissions in return for research services.
Performance of the Fund
As described in the Prospectus, from time to time the "standardized
yield," "dividend yield," "tax-equivalent yield," "average annual total return",
"cumulative total return," "average annual total return at net asset value" and
"total return at net asset value" of an investment in a class of Fund shares may
be advertised. An explanation of how yields and total returns are calculated for
each class and the components of those calculations is set forth below.
The Fund's advertisements of its performance data must, under applicable
rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, include the average annual
total returns for each advertised class of shares of the Fund for the 1, 5 and
10-year periods (or the life of the class, if less) ending as
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of the most recently ended calendar quarter prior to the publication of the
advertisement. This enables an investor to compare the Fund's performance to the
performance of other funds for the same periods. However, a number of factors
should be considered before using such information as a basis for comparison
with other investments. An investment in the Fund is not insured; its yield and
total returns are not guaranteed and normally will fluctuate on a daily basis.
When redeemed, an investor's shares may be worth more or less than their
original cost. Yield and total returns for any given past period are not a
prediction or representation by the Fund of future yields or rates of return.
The yield and total returns of each class of shares of the Fund are affected by
portfolio quality, portfolio maturity, the type of investments the Fund holds
and its operating expenses allocated to the particular class.
|X| Yields
o Standardized Yield. The "standardized yield" (referred to as "yield") is
shown for a class of shares for a stated 30-day period. It is calculated using
the following formula set forth in rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange
Commission designed to assure uniformity in the way that all funds calculated
their yields:
a-b 6
Standardized Yield = 2 ((------ + 1) - 1)
cd
The symbols above represent the following factors:
a = dividends and interest earned during the 30-day period. b = expenses
accrued for the period (net of any expense reimbursements). c = the
average daily number of shares of that class outstanding during the 30-day
period
that were entitled to receive dividends.
d = the maximum offering price per share of that class on the last day
of the period, adjusted for undistributed net investment income.
The standardized yield for a 30-day period may differ from the yield for
other periods. The SEC formula assumes that the standardized yield for a 30-day
period occurs at a constant rate for a six-month period and is annualized at the
end of the six-month period. Additionally, because each class of shares is
subject to different expenses, it is likely that the standardized yields of the
Fund's classes of shares will differ for any 30-day period. For the 30-day
period ended September 30, 1997, the standardized yields for the Fund's classes
of shares were as follows:
Without Deducting Sales Charge With Sales Charge Deducted
Class A: 4.29% 4.51%
Class B: 3.74% N/A
Class C: 3.75% N/A
o Tax-Equivalent Yield. The "tax-equivalent yield" of a class of shares
adjusts the Fund's current yield, as calculated above, by a stated combined
Federal, state and city tax rate. The tax
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<PAGE>
equivalent yield is based on a 30-day period, and is computed by dividing the
tax-exempt portion of the Fund's current yield (as calculated above) by one
minus a stated income tax rate and adding the result to the portion (if any) of
the Fund's current yield that is not tax exempt. The tax equivalent yield may be
used to compare the tax effects of income derived from the Fund with income from
taxable investments at the tax rates stated. Appendix B includes a tax
equivalent yield table, based on various effective tax brackets for individual
taxpayers. Such tax brackets are determined by a taxpayer's Federal, state and
city taxable income (the net amount subject to Federal and state income taxes
after deductions and exemptions). The tax equivalent yield table assumes that
the investor is taxed at the highest bracket, regardless of whether a switch to
non-taxable investments would cause a lower bracket to apply. For taxpayers with
income above certain levels, otherwise allowable itemized deductions are
limited. The Fund's tax-equivalent yields for its Class A, Class B and Class C
shares for the 30-day period ended September 30, 1997, for an individual New
York City resident in the 46.08% combined tax bracket were 7.96%, 6.94% and
6.95%, respectively.
o Dividend Yield. The Fund may quote a "dividend yield" for each class of
its shares. Dividend yield is based on the dividends paid on shares of a class
during the actual dividend period. To calculate dividend yield, the dividends of
a class declared during a stated period are added together and the sum is
multiplied by 12 (to annualize the yield) and divided by the maximum offering
price on the last day of the dividend period. The formula is shown below:
Dividend Yield of the Class =
Dividends of the Class
----------------------------------------------------
Max Offering Price of the Class (last day of period)
Divided by number of days (accrual period) x 365
The maximum offering price for Class A shares includes the maximum initial
sales charge. The maximum offering price for Class B and Class C shares is the
net asset value per share, without considering the effect of contingent deferred
sales charges. The Class A dividend yield may also be quoted without deducting
the maximum initial sales charge.
The dividend yields for the 30-day period ended September 30, 1997 were as
follows:
Without Deducting Sales Charge With Sales Charge Deducted
Class A: 5.10% 5.36%
Class B: 4.59% N/A
Class C: 4.59% N/A
|X| Total Return Information
o Average Annual Total Returns. The "average annual total return" of each
class is an average annual compounded rate of return for each year in a
specified number of years. It is the rate of return based on the change in value
of a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000 ("P" in the formula below) held
for a number of years ("n") to achieve an Ending Redeemable Value ("ERV"),
according to the following formula:
( ERV ) 1/n
(-----) -1 = Average Annual Total Return ( P )
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o Cumulative Total Returns. The cumulative "total return" calculation
measures the change in value of a hypothetical investment of $1,000 over an
entire period of years. Its calculation uses some of the same factors as average
annual total return, but it does not average the rate of return on an annual
basis. Cumulative total return is determined as follows:
ERV - P
------- = Total Return
P
In calculating total returns for Class A shares, the current maximum sales
charge of 4.75% (as a percentage of the offering price) is deducted from the
initial investment ("P") (unless the return is shown at net asset value, as
discussed below). For Class B shares, payment of the contingent deferred sales
charge of 5.0% for the first year, 4.0% for the second year, 3.0% for the third
and fourth years, 2.0% in the fifth year, 1.0% in the sixth year and none
thereafter is applied, as described in the Prospectus. For Class C shares, the
payment of the 1.0% contingent deferred sales charge for the first 12 months is
applied, as described in the Prospectus. Total returns also assume that all
dividends and capital gains distributions during the period are reinvested to
buy additional shares at net asset value per share, and that the investment is
redeemed at the end of the period.
The "average annual total returns" on an investment in Class A shares of
the Fund for the one, five and ten year periods ended September 30, 1997 were
3.61%, 5.56% and 7.52%, respectively. The cumulative "total return" on Class A
shares for the ten year period ended September 30, 1997 was 106.34%. The average
annual total returns on an investment in Class B shares for the fiscal year
ended September 30, 1997 and for the period March 1, 1993 (the date Class B
shares were first publicly offered) through September 30, 1997 were 2.97% and
4.40%, respectively. The cumulative total return on Class B shares for the
period March 1, 1993 through September 30, 1997 was 21.83%. The average annual
total returns for Class C shares for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997
and for the period from August 29, 1995 (the date the Class C shares were
publicly offered) through September 30, 1997 were 6.95% and 7.06%, respectively.
The average annual total return and the cumulative total return on an investment
in Class C shares for the period of August 29, 1995 (the date class shares were
first publicly offered) through September 30, 1997 was 15.29%.
o Total Returns at Net Asset Value. From time to time the Fund may also
quote an average annual total return at net asset value or a cumulative total
return at net asset value for Class A, Class B or Class C shares. Each is based
on the difference in net asset value per share at the beginning and the end of
the period for a hypothetical investment in that class of shares (without
considering front-end or contingent deferred sales charges) and takes into
consideration the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions.
The average annual total returns at net asset value for Class A shares for
the one, five and ten-year periods ended September 30, 1997 were 8.78%, 6.59%
and 8.05%, respectively. The cumulative total return at net asset value for
Class A shares for the ten-year period ended September 30, 1997 was 116.03%. The
average annual total returns at net asset value for Class B shares for the
fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 and for the period March 1, 1993 (the date
Class B shares were first publicly offered) through September 30, 1997 were
7.97% and 4.77%, respectively. The cumulative total return at net asset value
for Class B shares for the period March 1, 1993 through
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September 30, 1997 was 23.78%. The average annual total returns at net asset
value for Class C shares for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997 and for
the period from August 29, 1995 (the date the Class C shares were publicly
offered) through September 30, 1997 were 7.95% and 7.06%, respectively. The
cumulative total return at net asset value on an investment in Class C shares
for the period of August 29, 1995 (the date class shares were first publicly
offered) through September 30, 1997 was 15.29%.
Total return information may be useful to investors in reviewing the
performance of the Fund's Class A, Class B or Class C shares. However, when
comparing total return of an investment in Class A, Class B or Class C shares of
the Fund, a number of factors should be considered before using such information
as a basis for comparison before using such information with other investments.
|X| Other Performance Comparisons. From time to time the Fund may publish
the ranking of the performance of its Class A, Class B or Class C shares by
Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. ("Lipper"), a widely-recognized independent
mutual fund monitoring service. Lipper monitors the performance of regulated
investment companies, including the Fund, and ranks their performance for
various periods based on categories relating to investment objectives. The
performance of the Fund is ranked against (i) all other bond funds, other than
money market funds, and (ii) all other New York municipal bond funds. The Lipper
performance rankings are based on total returns that include the reinvestment of
capital gains distributions and income dividends but do not take sales charges
or taxes into consideration. From time to time the Fund may include in its
advertisement and sales literature performance information about the Fund cited
in other newspapers and periodicals such as The New York Times, which may
include performance quotations from other sources, including Lipper and
Morningstar. The performance of the Fund's Class A, Class B or Class C shares
may be compared in publications to (i) the performance of various market indices
or to other investments for which reliable performance data is available, and
(ii) to averages, performance rankings or other benchmarks prepared by
recognized mutual fund statistical services.
From time to time the Fund may publish the star ranking of the performance
of its Class A, Class B or Class C shares by Morningstar, Inc., an independent
mutual fund monitoring service. Morningstar ranks mutual funds in broad
investment categories: domestic stock funds, international stock funds, taxable
bond funds and municipal bond funds, based on risk-adjusted total investment
return. The Fund is ranked among the municipal bond funds. Investment return
measures a fund's or class's one, three, five and ten-year average annual total
returns (depending on the inception of the fund or class) in excess of 90-day
U.S. Treasury bill returns after considering the fund's sales charges and
expenses. Risk measures a fund's or class's performance below 90-day U.S.
Treasury bill returns. Risk and investment return are combined to produce star
rankings reflecting performance relative to the average fund in a fund's
category. Five stars is the "highest" ranking (top 10%), four stars is "above
average" (next 22.5%), three stars is "average" (next 35%), two stars is "below
average" (next 22.5%) and one star is "lowest" (bottom 10%). The current star
ranking is the fund's or class's 3-year ranking or its combined 3- and 5-year
ranking (weighted 60%/40% respectively, or its combined 3-. 5- and 10-year
ranking (weighted 40%, 30% and 30%, respectively), depending on the inception of
the fund or class. Rankings are subject to change monthly.
The Fund may also compare its performance to that of other funds in its
Morningstar Category. In addition to its star rankings, Morningstar also
categorizes and compares a fund's 3-year
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performance based on Morningstar's classification of the fund's investments and
investment style, rather than how a fund defines its investment objective.
Morningstar's four broad categories (domestic equity, international equity,
municipal bond and taxable bond) are each further subdivided into categories
based on types of investments and investment styles. Those comparisons by
Morningstar are based on the same risk and return measurements as its star
rankings but do not consider the effect of sales charges.
Investors may also wish to compare the Fund's Class A, Class B or Class C
return to the return on fixed income investments available from banks and thrift
institutions, such as certificates of deposit, ordinary interest-paying checking
and savings accounts, and other forms of fixed or variable time deposits, and
various other instruments such as Treasury bills. However, the Fund's returns
and share price are not guaranteed or insured by the FDIC or any other agency
and will fluctuate daily, while bank depository obligations may be insured by
the FDIC and may provide fixed rates of return, and Treasury bills are
guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government.
From time to time, the Fund's Manager may publish rankings or ratings of
the Manager (or Transfer Agent), or, on the investor services provided by them
to shareholders of the Oppenheimer funds, other than the performance rankings of
the Oppenheimer funds themselves. Those ratings or rankings of
shareholder/investor services by a third party may compare the Oppenheimer funds
services to those of other mutual fund families selected by the rating or
ranking services, and may be based upon the opinions of the rating or ranking
service itself, based on its research or judgment, or based upon surveys of
investors, brokers, shareholders or others.
Distribution and Service Plans
The Fund has adopted a Service Plan for Class A shares and Distribution
and Service Plans for Class B and Class C shares of the Fund under Rule 12b-1 of
the Investment Company Act, pursuant to which the Fund makes payments to the
Distributor in connection with the distribution and/or servicing of the shares
of that class, as described in the Prospectus. Each Plan has been approved by a
vote of (i) the Board of Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of the
Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of
voting on that Plan, and (ii) the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the
Investment Company Act) of the shares of each class. For the Distribution and
Service Plan for Class C shares, that vote was cast by the Manager as the sole
initial holder of Class C shares.
In addition, under the Plans the Manager and the Distributor, in their
sole discretion, from time to time, may use their own resources (which, in the
case of the Manager, may include profits from the advisory fee it receives from
the Fund) to make payments to brokers, dealers, or other financial institutions
(each is referred to as a "Recipient" under the Plans) for distribution and
administrative services they perform at no cost to the Fund. The Distributor and
the Manager may, in their sole discretion, increase or decrease the amount of
payments they make from their own resources to Recipients.
Unless terminated as described below, each Plan continues in effect from
year to year but only as long as its continuance is specifically approved at
least annually by the Fund's Board of Trustees and its Independent Trustees by a
vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting
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on such continuance. Each Plan may be terminated at any time by the vote of a
majority of the Independent Trustees or by the vote of the holders of a
"majority" (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the outstanding shares
of that class. In addition, because Class B shares of the Fund automatically
convert into Class A shares after six years, the Fund is required by a
Securities and Exchange Commission Rule to obtain the approval of Class B as
well as Class A shareholders for a proposed amendment to the Class A Plan that
would materially increase payments under the Plan. Such vote must be by a
"majority" of the Class A and Class B shares (as defined in the Investment
Company Act), voting separately by class. No Plan may be amended to increase
materially the amount of payments to be made unless such amendment is approved
by shareholders of the class affected by the amendment. All material amendments
must be approved by the Board and the Independent Trustees.
While the Plans are in effect, the Treasurer of the Fund shall provide
separate written reports to the Fund's Board of Trustees at least quarterly for
its review, detailing the amount of all payments made pursuant to each Plan, the
purpose for which the payment was made and the identity of each Recipient that
received any such payment. The report for the Class B and Class C Plans shall
also include the Distributor's distribution costs for that quarter, and such
costs for previous fiscal periods that have been carried forward, as explained
in the Prospectus and below. Those reports, including the allocations on which
they are based, will be subject to the review and approval of the Independent
Trustees in the exercise of their fiduciary duty. Each Plan further provides
that while it is in effect, the selection and nomination of those Trustees of
the Fund who are not "interested persons" of the Fund is committed to the
discretion of the Independent Trustees. This does not prevent the involvement of
others in such selection and nomination if the final decision as to any such
selection or nomination is approved by a majority of the Independent Trustees.
Under the Plans, no payment will be made to any Recipient in any quarter
if the aggregate net asset value of all Fund shares held by the Recipient for
itself and its customers did not exceed a minimum amount, if any, that may be
determined from time to time by a majority of the Fund's Independent Trustees.
Initially, the Board of Trustees has set the fee at the maximum rate allowed
under the Plans and set no minimum amount.
For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, payments under the Class A
Plan totaled $1,528,712, all of which was paid by the Distributor to Recipients,
including $30,130 paid to an affiliate of the Distributor. Any unreimbursed
expenses incurred with respect to Class A shares for any fiscal year by the
Distributor may not be recovered in subsequent fiscal years. Payments received
by the Distributor under the Class A Plan will not be used to pay any interest
expense, carrying charges, or other financial costs, or allocation of overhead
by the Distributor.
The Class B and Class C Plans allow the service fee payment to be paid by
the Distributor to Recipients in advance for the first year such shares are
outstanding, and thereafter on a quarterly basis, as described in the
Prospectus. The advance payment is based on the net asset value of shares sold.
Pursuant to the Plans, service fee payments by the Distributor to Recipients
will be made (i) in advance for the first year Class B and Class C shares are
outstanding, following the purchase of shares, in an amount equal to 0.25% of
the net asset value of the shares purchased by the Recipient or its customers
and (ii) thereafter, on a quarterly basis, computed as of the close of business
each day at an annual rate of .25% of the average daily net asset value of Class
B shares and Class C shares
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respectively, held in accounts of the Recipient or its customers. An exchange of
shares does not entitle the Recipient to an advance service fee payment. In the
event Class B and Class C shares are redeemed during the first year such shares
are outstanding, the Recipient will be obligated to repay a pro rata portion of
the advance of the service fee payment for those shares to the Distributor. For
the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, payments made under the Class B Plan
totaled $1,040,975, of which the Distributor paid $6,709 to an affiliate of the
Distributor and retained $819,839 as reimbursement for Class B sales commissions
and service fee advances, as well as financing costs; the balance of such Class
B Plan payments was paid by the Distributor to Recipients not affiliated with
the Distributor. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, payments made
under the Class C Plan totaled $37,884, of which $31,279 was retained by the
Distributor.
Although the Class B and the Class C Plans permit the Distributor to
retain both the asset-based sales charges and the service fee on such shares, or
to pay Recipients the service fee on a quarterly basis, without payment in
advance, the Distributor presently intends to pay the service fee to Recipients
in the manner described above. A minimum holding period may be established from
time to time under the Class B and Class C Plans by the Board. Initially, the
Board has set no minimum holding period. All payments under the Class B Plan are
subject to the limitations imposed by the Conduct Rules of the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. on payments of asset-based sales charges
and service fees.
The Class B and Class C Plans provide for the Distributor to be
compensated at a flat rate, whether the Distributor's distribution expenses are
more or less than the amounts paid by the Fund during that period. The
Distributor retains the asset-based sales charge on Class B shares. As to Class
C shares, the Distributor retains the asset-based sales charge during the first
year shares are outstanding and pays the asset-based sales charge as an ongoing
commission to the dealer on Class C shares outstanding for more than a year or
more. Such payments are made to the Distributor under the Plans in recognition
that the Distributor (i) pays sales commissions to authorized brokers and
dealers at the time of sale and pays service fees, as described in the
Prospectus, (ii) may finance such commissions and/or the advance of the service
fee payment to Recipients under those Plans, or may provide such financing from
its own resources, or from an affiliate, (iii) employs personnel to support
distribution of shares, and (iv) may bear the costs of sales literature,
advertising and prospectuses (other than those furnished to current
shareholders), and state "blue sky" registration fees and certain other
distribution expenses.
ABOUT YOUR ACCOUNT
How To Buy Shares
Alternative Sales Arrangements - Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. The
availability of three classes of shares permits an investor to choose the method
of purchasing shares that is more beneficial to the investor depending on the
amount of the purchase, the length of time the investor expects to hold shares
and other relevant circumstances. Investors should understand that the purpose
and function of the deferred sales charge and asset-based sales charge with
respect to Class B and Class C shares are the same as those of the initial sales
charge with respect to Class A shares. Any salesperson or other person entitled
to receive compensation for selling Fund shares may receive different
compensation with respect to one class of shares than the other. The Distributor
will not
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accept any order for $500,000 or more of Class B shares or $1 million or more of
Class C shares on behalf of a single investor (not including dealer "street
name" or omnibus accounts) because generally it will be more advantageous for
that investor to purchase Class A shares of the Fund instead.
The three classes of shares each represent an interest in the same
portfolio investments of the Fund. However, each class has different shareholder
privileges and features. The net income attributable to Class B and Class C
shares and the dividends payable on such Class B and Class C shares will be
reduced by incremental expenses borne solely by that class, including the
asset-based sales charge to which Class B and Class C shares are subject.
The conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares after six years is
subject to the continuing availability of a private letter ruling from the
Internal Revenue Service, or an opinion of counsel or tax adviser, to the effect
that the conversion of Class B shares does not constitute a taxable event for
the holder under Federal income tax law. If such a revenue ruling or opinion is
no longer available, the automatic conversion feature may be suspended, in which
event no further conversions of Class B shares would occur while such suspension
remained in effect. Although Class B shares could then be exchanged for Class A
shares on the basis of relative net asset value of the two classes, without the
imposition of a sales charge or fee, such exchange could constitute a taxable
event for the holder, and absent such exchange, Class B shares might continue to
be subject to the asset-based sales charge for longer than six years.
The methodology for calculating the net asset value, dividends and
distributions of the Fund's Class A, Class B and Class C shares recognizes two
types of expenses. General expenses that do not pertain specifically to any
class are allocated pro rata to the shares of each class, based on the
percentage of the net assets of such class to the Fund's total net assets, and
then equally to each outstanding share within a given class. Such general
expenses include (i) management fees, (ii) legal, bookkeeping and audit fees,
(iii) printing and mailing costs of shareholder reports, Prospectuses,
Statements of Additional Information and other materials for current
shareholders, (iv) fees to unaffiliated Trustees, (v) custodian expenses, (vi)
share issuance costs, (vii) organization and start-up costs, (viii) interest,
taxes and brokerage commissions, and (ix) non-recurring expenses, such as
litigation costs. Other expenses that are directly attributable to a class are
allocated equally to each outstanding share within that class. Such expenses
include (a) Distribution and/or Service Plan fees, (b) incremental transfer and
shareholder servicing agent fees and expenses, (c) registration fees and (d)
shareholder meeting expenses, to the extent that such expenses pertain to a
specific class rather than to the Fund as a whole.
Determination of Net Asset Value Per Share. The net asset values per share of
Class A, Class B and Class C shares of the Fund are determined as of the close
of business of The New York Stock Exchange (the "Exchange") on each day that the
Exchange is open, by dividing the value of the Fund's net assets attributable to
that Class by the number of shares of that class that are outstanding. The
Exchange normally closes at 4:00 P.M., New York time, but may close earlier on
some days (for example, in case of weather emergencies or on days falling before
a holiday). The Exchange's most recent annual announcement (which is subject to
change) states that it will close on New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr.
Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day,
Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. It may also close on other days. Dealers
other than Exchange members may conduct trading in Municipal Securities on
certain days on which the
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Exchange is closed (including weekends and holidays) or after 4:00 P.M. on a
regular business day. Because the Fund's net asset values will not be calculated
on those days, the Fund's net asset value per share may be significantly
affected on such days when shareholders may not purchase or redeem shares.
The Fund's Board of Trustees has established procedures for the valuation
of the Fund's securities, generally as follows: (i) long-term debt securities
having a remaining maturity in excess of 60 days are valued based on the mean
between the "bid" and "asked" prices determined by a portfolio pricing service
approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees or obtained by the Manager from two
active market makers in the security on the basis of reasonable inquiry; (ii) a
non-money market fund will value (a) debt instruments that had a maturity of
more than 397 days when issued, (b) debt instruments that had a maturity of 397
days or less when issued and have a remaining maturity in excess of 60 days, and
(c) non-money market type debt instruments that had a maturity of 397 days or
less when issued and have a remaining maturity of sixty days or less, at the
mean between "bid" and "asked" prices determined by a pricing service approved
by the Fund's Board of Trustees or, if unavailable, obtained by the Manager from
two active market makers in the security on the basis of reasonable inquiry;
(iii) money market-type debt securities held by a non-money market fund that had
a maturity of less than 397 days when issued that have a remaining maturity of
60 days or less and debt instruments held by a money market fund that have a
remaining maturity of 397 days or less, shall be valued at cost, adjusted for
amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts; and (iv) securities
(including restricted securities) not having readily-available market quotations
are valued at fair value determined under the Board's procedures. If the Manager
is unable to locate two market makers willing to give quotes (see (i) and (ii)
above), the security may be priced at the mean between the "bid" and "asked"
prices provided by a single active market maker (which in certain cases may be
the "bid" price if no "asked" price is available) provided that the Manager is
satisfied that the firm rendering the quotes is reliable and that the quotes
reflect the current market value.
In the case of Municipal Securities, U.S. Government securities and
corporate bonds, when last sale information is not generally available, such
pricing procedures may include "matrix" comparisons to the prices for comparable
instruments on the basis of quality, yield, maturity, and other special factors
involved (such as the tax-exempt status of the interest paid by Municipal
Securities). The Manager may use pricing services approved by the Board of
Trustees to price any of the types of securities described above. The Manager
will monitor the accuracy of such pricing services, which may include comparing
prices used for portfolio evaluation to actual sales prices of selected
securities.
Puts, calls, Interest Rate Futures and Municipal Bond Index Futures are
valued at the last sales price on the principal exchange on which they are
traded or on NASDAQ, as applicable, as determined by a pricing service approved
by the Board of Trustees or by the Manager. If there were no sales that day,
value shall be the last sale price on the preceding trading day if it is within
the spread of the closing "bid" and "asked" prices on the principal exchange or
on NASDAQ on the valuation date, or, if not, value shall be the closing "bid"
price on the principal exchange or on NASDAQ on the valuation date. If the put,
call or future is not traded on an exchange or on NASDAQ, it shall be valued at
the mean between "bid" and "asked" prices obtained by the Manager from two
active market makers (which in certain cases may be the "bid" price if no
"asked" price is available). When the Fund writes an option, an amount equal to
the premium received is included
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in the Fund's Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an asset, and an equivalent
credit is included in the liability section. The credit is adjusted
("marked-to-market") to reflect the current market value of the call or put. In
determining the Fund's gain on investments, if a call or put written by the Fund
is exercised, the proceeds are increased by the premium received. If a call or
put written by the Fund expires, the Fund has a gain in the amount of the
premium; if the Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction, it will have a
gain or loss, depending on whether the premium received was more or less than
the cost of the closing transaction. If the Fund exercises a put it holds, the
amount the Fund receives on its sale of the underlying investment is reduced by
the amount of the premium paid by the Fund.
AccountLink. When shares are purchased through AccountLink, each purchase must
be at least $25. Shares will be purchased on the regular business day the
Distributor is instructed to initiate the Automated Clearing House transfer to
buy the shares. Dividends will begin to accrue on shares purchased by the
proceeds of ACH transfers on the business day the Fund receives Federal Funds
for the purchase through the ACH system before the close of The New York Stock
Exchange. The Exchange normally closes at 4:00 p.m. but may close earlier on
certain days. The proceeds of ACH transfers are normally received by the Fund
three days after the transfers are initiated. The Distributor and the Fund are
not responsible for any delays in purchasing shares resulting from delays in ACH
transmissions. If the Federal Funds are received after the close of the
Exchange, the shares will be purchased and dividends will begin to accrue on the
next regular business day after such Federal Funds are received.
Reduced Sales Charges. As discussed in the Prospectus, a reduced sales charge
rate may be obtained for Class A shares under Right of Accumulation and Letters
of Intent because of the economies of sales efforts and reduction in expenses
realized by the Distributor, dealers and brokers making such sales. No sales
charge is imposed in certain other circumstances described in the Prospectus
because the Distributor or dealer or broker incurs little or no selling
expenses. The term "immediate family" refers to one's spouse, children,
grandchildren, parents, grandparents, parents-in- law, brothers and sisters,
sons-and daughters-in-law, a spouse's siblings, a sibling's spouse, aunts,
uncles, nieces and nephews. Relations by virtue of a remarriage (step-children,
step-parents, etc.) are included.
|X| The Oppenheimer Funds. The Oppenheimer funds are those mutual funds for
which the Distributor acts as the distributor or the sub-Distributor and include
the following:
Oppenheimer Municipal Bond Fund
Oppenheimer California Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer Intermediate Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer Insured Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer Main Street California Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer Florida Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer New Jersey Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer Pennsylvania Municipal Fund
Oppenheimer Discovery Fund
Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund
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Oppenheimer Growth Fund
Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund
Oppenheimer Multiple Strategies Fund
Oppenheimer Total Return Fund, Inc.
Oppenheimer Main Street Income & Growth Fund Oppenheimer High Yield Fund
Oppenheimer Champion Income Fund Oppenheimer Bond Fund Oppenheimer International
Bond Fund Oppenheimer U.S. Government Trust Oppenheimer Limited-Term Government
Fund Oppenheimer Global Fund Oppenheimer Global Growth & Income Fund Oppenheimer
Gold & Special Minerals Fund Oppenheimer Strategic Income Fund Oppenheimer
Enterprise Fund Oppenheimer International Growth Fund Oppenheimer Developing
Markets Fund Oppenheimer Real Asset Fund Oppenheimer International Small Company
Fund Oppenheimer MidCap Fund Oppenheimer Quest Growth & Income Value Fund
Oppenheimer Quest Officers Value Fund Oppenheimer Quest Opportunity Value Fund
Oppenheimer Quest Small Cap Value Fund Oppenheimer Quest Global Value Fund, Inc.
Oppenheimer Quest Capital Value Fund, Inc. Oppenheimer Disciplined Value Fund
Oppenheimer Disciplined Allocation Fund Oppenheimer LifeSpan Balanced Fund
Oppenheimer LifeSpan Income Fund Oppenheimer LifeSpan Growth Fund Rochester Fund
Municipals* Oppenheimer Bond Fund for Growth Limited-Term New York Municipal
Fund
and, the following "Money Market Funds":
Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc. Oppenheimer Cash Reserves Centennial Money
Market Trust Centennial Tax Exempt Trust Centennial Government Trust Centennial
New York Tax Exempt Trust Centennial California Tax Exempt Trust Centennial
America Fund, L.P.
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Daily Cash Accumulation Fund, Inc.
- -------------------
*Shares of the Fund are not presently exchangeable for shares of these funds.
There is an initial sales charge on the purchase of Class A shares of each
of the Oppenheimer funds except Money Market Funds (under certain circumstances
described herein, redemption proceeds of Money Market Fund shares may be subject
to a contingent deferred sales charge).
|X| Letters of Intent. A Letter of Intent (referred to as a "Letter") is
an investor's statement in writing to the Distributor of the intention to
purchase Class A shares or Class A and Class B shares of the Fund (and other
Oppenheimer funds) during a 13-month period (the "Letter of Intent period"),
which may, at the investor's request, include purchases made up to 90 days prior
to the date of the Letter. The Letter states the investor's intention to make
the aggregate amount of purchases of shares which, when added to the investor's
holdings of shares of those funds, will equal or exceed the amount specified in
the Letter. Purchases made by reinvestment of dividends or distributions of
capital gains and purchases made at net asset value without sales charge do not
count toward satisfying the amount of the Letter. A Letter enables an investor
to count the Class A and Class B shares purchased under the Letter to obtain the
reduced sales charge rate on purchases of Class A shares of the Fund (and other
Oppenheimer funds) that applies under the Right of Accumulation to current
purchases of Class A shares. Each purchase of Class A shares under the Letter
will be made at the public offering price (including the sales charge) that
applies to a single lump-sum purchase of shares in the amount intended to be
purchased under the Letter.
In submitting a Letter, the investor makes no commitment to purchase
shares, but if the investor's purchases of shares within the Letter of Intent
period, when added to the value (at offering price) of the investor's holdings
of shares on the last day of that period, do not equal or exceed the intended
purchase amount, the investor agrees to pay the additional amount of sales
charge applicable to such purchases, as set forth in "Terms of Escrow," below
(as those terms may be amended from time to time). The investor agrees that
shares equal in value to 5% of the intended purchase amount will be held in
escrow by the Transfer Agent subject to the Terms of Escrow. Also, the investor
agrees to be bound by the terms of the Prospectus, this Statement of Additional
Information and the Application used for such Letter of Intent, and if such
terms are amended, as they may be from time to time by the Fund, that those
amendments will apply automatically to existing Letters of Intent.
If the total eligible purchases made during the Letter of Intent period do
not equal or exceed the intended purchase amount, the commissions previously
paid to the dealer of record for the account and the amount of sales charge
retained by the Distributor will be adjusted to the rates applicable to actual
total purchases. If total eligible purchases during the Letter of Intent period
exceed the intended purchase amount and exceed the amount needed to qualify for
the next sales charge rate reduction set forth in the applicable prospectus, the
sales charges paid will be adjusted to the lower rate, but only if and when the
dealer returns to the Distributor the excess of the amount of commissions
allowed or paid to the dealer over the amount of commissions that apply to the
actual amount of purchases. The excess commissions returned to the Distributor
will be used to purchase additional shares for the investor's account at the net
asset value per share in effect on the date of such purchase, promptly after the
Distributor's receipt thereof.
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In determining the total amount of purchases made under a Letter, shares
redeemed by the investor prior to the termination of the Letter of Intent period
will be deducted. It is the responsibility of the dealer of record and/or the
investor to advise the Distributor about the Letter in placing any purchase
orders for the investor during the Letter of Intent period. All of such
purchases must be made through the Distributor.
o Terms of Escrow That Apply to Letters of Intent.
1. Out of the initial purchase (or subsequent purchases if necessary) made
pursuant to a Letter, shares of the Fund equal in value up to 5% of the intended
purchase amount specified in the Letter shall be held in escrow by the Transfer
Agent. For example, if the intended purchase amount is $50,000, the escrow shall
be shares valued in the amount of $2,500 (computed at the public offering price
adjusted for a $50,000 purchase). Any dividends and capital gains distributions
on the escrowed shares will be credited to the investor's account.
2. If the total minimum investment specified under the Letter is completed
within the thirteen-month Letter of Intent period, the escrowed shares will be
promptly released to the investor.
3. If, at the end of the thirteen-month Letter of Intent period the total
purchases pursuant to the Letter are less than the intended purchase amount
specified in the Letter, the investor must remit to the Distributor an amount
equal to the difference between the dollar amount of sales charges actually paid
and the amount of sales charges which would have been paid if the total amount
purchased had been made at a single time. Such sales charge adjustment will
apply to any shares redeemed prior to the completion of the Letter. If such
difference in sales charges is not paid within twenty days after a request from
the Distributor or the dealer, the Distributor will, within sixty days of the
expiration of the Letter, redeem the number of escrowed shares necessary to
realize such difference in sales charges. Full and fractional shares remaining
after such redemption will be released from escrow. If a request is received to
redeem escrowed shares prior to the payment of such additional sales charge, the
sales charge will be withheld from the redemption proceeds.
4. By signing the Letter, the investor irrevocably constitutes and
appoints the Transfer Agent as attorney-in-fact to surrender for redemption any
or all escrowed shares.
5. The shares eligible for purchase under the Letter (or the holding of
which may be counted toward completion of a Letter) include (a) Class A shares
sold with a front-end sales charge or subject to a Class A contingent deferred
sales charge, (b) Class B shares of other Oppenheimer funds acquired subject to
a contingent deferred sales charge, and (c) Class A or Class B shares acquired
in exchange for either (i) Class A shares sold with a front-end sales charge of
one of the other Oppenheimer funds that were acquired subject to a contingent
deferred sales charge or (ii) Class B shares of one of the other Oppenheimer
funds that were acquired subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
6. Shares held in escrow hereunder will automatically be exchanged for
shares of another fund to which an exchange is requested, as described in the
section of the Prospectus entitled "How to Exchange Shares," and the escrow will
be transferred to that other fund.
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Asset Builder Plans. To establish an Asset Builder Plan from a bank account, a
check (minimum $25) for the initial purchase must accompany the application.
Shares purchased by Asset Builder Plan payments from bank accounts are subject
to the redemption restrictions for recent purchases described in "How To Sell
Shares," in the Prospectus. Asset Builder Plans also enable shareholders of
Oppenheimer Cash Reserves to use those accounts for monthly automatic purchases
of shares of up to four other Oppenheimer funds. If you make payments from your
bank account to purchase shares of the Fund, your bank account will be
automatically debited normally four to five business days prior to the
investment dates selected in the Account Application. Neither the Distributor,
the Transfer Agent nor the Fund shall be responsible for any delays in
purchasing shares resulting from delays in ACH transmission.
There is a front-end sales charge on the purchase of certain Oppenheimer
funds, or a contingent deferred sales charge may apply to shares purchased by
Asset Builder payments. An application should be obtained from the Distributor,
completed and returned, and a prospectus of the selected fund(s) should be
obtained from the Distributor or your financial advisor before initiating Asset
Builder payments. The amount of the Asset Builder investment may be changed or
the automatic investments may be terminated at any time by writing to the
Transfer Agent. A reasonable period (approximately 15 days) is required after
the Transfer Agent's receipt of such instructions to implement them. The Fund
reserves the right to amend, suspend, or discontinue offering such plans at any
time without prior notice.
Cancellation of Purchase Orders. Cancellation of purchase orders for the Fund's
shares (for example, when a purchase check is returned to the Fund unpaid)
causes a loss to be incurred when the net asset value of the Fund's shares on
the cancellation date is less than on the purchase date. That loss is equal to
the amount of the decline in the net asset value per share multiplied by the
number of shares in the purchase order. The investor is responsible for that
loss. If the investor fails to compensate the Fund for the loss, the Distributor
will do so. The Fund may reimburse the Distributor for that amount by redeeming
shares from any account registered in that investor's name, or the Fund or the
Distributor may seek other redress.
How to Sell Shares
Information on how to sell shares of the Fund is stated in the Prospectus.
The information below supplements the terms and conditions for redemptions set
forth in the Prospectus.
Checkwriting. When a check is presented to the Bank for clearance, the Bank will
ask the Fund to redeem a sufficient number of full and fractional shares in the
shareholder's account to cover the amount of the check. This enables the
shareholder to continue receiving dividends on those shares until the check is
presented to the Fund. Checks may not be presented for payment at the offices of
the Bank or the Fund's Custodian. This limitation does not affect the use of
checks for the payment of bills or to obtain cash at other banks. The Fund
reserves the right to amend, suspend or discontinue offering Checkwriting
privileges at any time without prior notice.
By choosing the Checkwriting privilege, whether you do so by signing the
Account Application or by completing a Checkwriting card, the individuals
signing (1) represent that they are either the registered owner(s) of the shares
of the Fund, or are an officer, general partner, trustee or
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other fiduciary or agent, as applicable, duly authorized to act on behalf of
such registered owner(s); (2) authorize the Fund, its Transfer Agent and any
bank through which the Fund's drafts ("checks") are payable (the "Bank"), to pay
all checks drawn on the Fund account of such person(s) and to effect a
redemption of sufficient shares in that account to cover payment of such checks;
(3) specifically acknowledge(s) that if you choose to permit a single signature
on checks drawn against joint accounts, or accounts for corporations,
partnerships, trusts or other entities, the signature of any one signatory on a
check will be sufficient to authorize payment of that check and redemption from
an account even if that account is registered in the names of more than one
person or even if more than one authorized signature appears on the Checkwriting
card or the Application, as applicable; and (4) understand(s) that the
Checkwriting privilege may be terminated or amended at any time by the Fund
and/or the Bank and neither shall incur any liability for such amendment or
termination or for effecting redemptions to pay checks reasonably believed to be
genuine, or for returning or not paying checks which have not been accepted for
any reason.
|X| Involuntary Redemptions. The Fund's Board of Trustees has the right to
cause the involuntary redemption of the shares held in any account if the
aggregate net asset value of those shares is less than $200 or such lesser
amount as the Board may fix. The Board of Trustees will not cause the
involuntary redemption of shares in an account if the aggregate net asset value
of the shares has fallen below the stated minimum solely as a result of market
fluctuations. Should the Board elect to exercise this right, it may also fix, in
accordance with the Investment Company Act, the requirements for any notice to
be given to the shareholders in question (not less than 30 days), or the Board
may set requirements for granting permission to the shareholders to increase the
investment, and set other terms and conditions so that the shares would not be
involuntarily redeemed.
|X| Payments "In Kind". The Prospectus states that payment for shares
tendered for redemption is ordinarily made in cash. However, the Board of
Trustees of the Fund may determine that it would be detrimental to the best
interests of the remaining shareholders of the Fund to make payment of a
redemption order wholly or partly in cash. In that case, the Fund may pay the
redemption proceeds in whole or in part by a distribution "in kind" of
securities from the portfolio of the Fund, in lieu of cash, in conformity with
applicable rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Fund has elected
to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment Company Act, pursuant to which
the Fund is obligated to redeem shares solely in cash up to the lesser of
$250,000 or 1% of the net assets of the Fund during any 90-day period for any
one shareholder. If shares are redeemed in kind, the redeeming shareholder might
incur brokerage or other costs in selling the securities for cash. The method of
valuing securities used to make redemptions in kind will be the same as the
method the Fund uses to value its portfolio securities described above under
"Determination of Net Asset Value Per Share" and that valuation will be made as
of the time the redemption price is determined.
Reinvestment Privilege. Within six months of a redemption, a shareholder may
reinvest all or part of the redemption proceeds of (i) Class A shares that you
purchase subject to an initial sales charge or Class A contingent deferred sales
charge which was paid, or (ii) Class B shares that were subject to the Class B
contingent deferred sales charge when redeemed. The reinvestment may be made
without sales charge only in Class A shares of the Fund or any of the other
Oppenheimer funds into which shares of the Fund are exchangeable, as described
in "How to Exchange Shares" below, at the net asset value next computed after
the Transfer Agent receives the reinvestment order. This
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reinvestment privilege does not apply to Class C shares. The shareholder must
ask the Distributor for that privilege at the time of reinvestment. Any capital
gain that was realized when the shares were redeemed is taxable, and
reinvestment will not alter any capital gains tax payable on that gain. If there
has been a capital loss on the redemption, some or all of the loss may not be
tax deductible, depending on the timing and amount of the reinvestment. Under
the Internal Revenue Code, if the redemption proceeds of Fund shares on which a
sales charge was paid are reinvested in shares of the Fund or another of the
Oppenheimer funds within 90 days of payment of the sales charge, the
shareholder's basis in the shares of the Fund that were redeemed may not include
the amount of the sales charge paid. That would reduce the loss or increase the
gain recognized from the redemption. However, in that case the sales charge
would be added to the basis of the shares acquired by the reinvestment of the
redemption proceeds. The Fund may amend, suspend or cease offering this
reinvestment privilege at any time as to shares redeemed after the date of such
amendment, suspension or cessation.
Transfer of Shares. Shares are not subject to the payment of a contingent
deferred sales charge of any class at the time of transfer to the name of
another person or entity (whether the transfer occurs by absolute assignment,
gift or bequest, not involving, directly or indirectly, a public sale). The
transferred shares will remain subject to the contingent deferred sales charge,
calculated as if the transferee shareholder had acquired the transferred shares
in the same manner and at the same time as the transferring shareholder. If less
than all shares held in an account are transferred, and some but not all shares
in the account would be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if
redeemed at the time of transfer, the priorities described in the Prospectus
under "How to Buy Shares" for the imposition of the Class B or the Class C
contingent deferred sales charge will be followed in determining the order in
which shares are transferred.
Special Arrangements for Repurchase of Shares from Dealers and Brokers. The
Distributor is the Fund's agent to repurchase its shares from authorized dealers
or brokers on behalf of their customers. The shareholder should contact the
broker or dealer to arrange this type of redemption. The repurchase price per
share will be the net asset value next computed after the Distributor receives
an order placed by the dealer or broker, except that if the Distributor receives
a repurchase order from a dealer or broker after the close of The New York Stock
Exchange on a regular business day, it will be processed at that day's net asset
value if the order was received by the broker or dealer from its customers prior
to the time the Exchange closes (normally that is 4:00 p.m., but may be earlier
on some days) and the order was transmitted to and received by the Distributor
prior to its close of business that day (normally 5:00 P.M.). Ordinarily, for
accounts redeemed by a broker-dealer under this procedure, payment will be made
within three business days after the shares have been redeemed upon the
Distributor's receipt of the required redemption documents in proper form, with
the signature(s) of the registered owners guaranteed on the redemption document
as described in the Prospectus.
Automatic Withdrawal and Exchange Plans. Investors owning shares of the Fund
valued at $5,000 or more can authorize the Transfer Agent to redeem shares
(minimum $50) automatically on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis
under an Automatic Withdrawal Plan. Shares will be redeemed three business days
prior to the date requested by the shareholder for receipt of the payment.
Automatic withdrawals of up to $1,500 per month may be requested by telephone if
payments are to be made by check payable to all shareholders of record and sent
to the address of
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record for the account (and if the address has not been changed within the prior
30 days). Required minimum distributions from OppenheimerFunds-sponsored
retirement plans may not be arranged on this basis. Payments are normally made
by check, but shareholders having AccountLink privileges (see "How To Buy
Shares") may arrange to have Automatic Withdrawal Plan payments transferred to
the bank account designated on the OppenheimerFunds New Account Application or
signature- guaranteed instructions. Shares are normally redeemed pursuant to an
Automatic Withdrawal Plan three business days before the date you select in the
Account Application. If a contingent deferred sales charge applies to the
redemption, the amount of the check or payment will be reduced accordingly. The
Fund cannot guarantee receipt of a payment on the date requested and reserves
the right to amend, suspend or discontinue offering such plans at any time
without prior notice. Because of the sales charge assessed on Class A share
purchases, shareholders should not make regular additional Class A share
purchases while participating in an Automatic Withdrawal Plan. Class B and Class
C shareholders should not establish withdrawal plans, because of the imposition
of the contingent deferred sales charge on such withdrawals (except where the
contingent deferred sales charge is waived as described in the Prospectus under
"Waivers of Class B and Class C Sales Charges").
By requesting an Automatic Withdrawal or Exchange Plan, the shareholder
agrees to the terms and conditions applicable to such plans, as stated below, as
well as the Prospectus. These provisions may be amended from time to time by the
Fund and/or the Distributor. When adopted, such amendments will automatically
apply to existing Plans.
|X| Automatic Exchange Plans. Shareholders can authorize the Transfer
Agent (on the OppenheimerFunds Application or signature-guaranteed instructions)
to exchange a pre-determined amount of shares of the Fund for shares (of the
same class) of other Oppenheimer funds automatically on a monthly, quarterly,
semi-annual or annual basis under an Automatic Exchange Plan. The minimum amount
that may be exchanged to each other fund account is $25. Exchanges made under
these plans are subject to the restrictions that apply to exchanges as set forth
in "How to Exchange Shares" in the Prospectus, and below in this Statement of
Additional Information.
|X| Automatic Withdrawal Plans. Fund shares will be redeemed as necessary
to meet withdrawal payments. Shares acquired without a sales charge will be
redeemed first and thereafter shares acquired with reinvested dividends and
capital gains distributions will be redeemed next, followed by shares acquired
with a sales charge, to the extent necessary to make withdrawal payments.
Depending upon the amount withdrawn, the investor's principal may be depleted.
Payments made under such plans should not be considered as a yield or income on
your investment. It may not be desirable to purchase additional shares of Class
A shares while maintaining automatic withdrawals because of the sales charges
that apply to purchases when made. Accordingly, a shareholder normally may not
maintain an Automatic Withdrawal Plan while simultaneously making regular
purchases of Class A shares.
The Transfer Agent will administer the investor's Automatic Withdrawal
Plan (the "Plan") as agent for the investor (the "Planholder") who executed the
Plan authorization and application submitted to the Transfer Agent. Neither the
Fund nor the Transfer Agent shall incur any liability to the Planholder for any
action taken or omitted by the Transfer Agent in good faith to administer the
Plan. Certificates will not be issued for shares of the Fund purchased for and
held under the Plan, but the Transfer Agent will credit all such shares to the
account of the Planholder on the records of the
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Fund. Any share certificates held by a Planholder may be surrendered unendorsed
to the Transfer Agent with the Plan application so that the shares represented
by the certificate may be held under the Plan.
For accounts subject to Automatic Withdrawal Plans, distributions of
capital gains must be reinvested in shares of the Fund, which will be done at
net asset value without a sales charge. Dividends on shares held in the account
may be paid in cash or reinvested.
Redemptions of shares needed to make withdrawal payments will be made at
the net asset value per share determined on the redemption date. Checks or
AccountLink payments of the proceeds of Plan withdrawals will normally be
transmitted three business days prior to the date selected for receipt of the
payment (receipt of payment on the date selected cannot be guaranteed),
according to the choice specified in writing by the Planholder.
The amount and the interval of disbursement payments and the address to
which checks are to be mailed or AccountLink payments are to be sent may be
changed at any time by the Planholder by writing to the Transfer Agent. The
Planholder should allow at least two weeks' time in mailing such notification
for the requested change to be put in effect. The Planholder may, at any time,
instruct the Transfer Agent by written notice (in proper form in accordance with
the requirements of the then-current Prospectus of the Fund) to redeem all, or
any part of, the shares held under the Plan. In that case, the Transfer Agent
will redeem the number of shares requested at the net asset value per share in
effect in accordance with the Fund's usual redemption procedures and will mail a
check for the proceeds to the Planholder.
The Plan may be terminated at any time by the Planholder by writing to the
Transfer Agent. A Plan may also be terminated at any time by the Transfer Agent
upon receiving directions to that effect from the Fund. The Transfer Agent will
also terminate a Plan upon receipt of evidence satisfactory to it of the death
or legal incapacity of the Planholder. Upon termination of a Plan by the
Transfer Agent or the Fund, shares that have not been redeemed from the account
will be held in uncertificated form in the name of the Planholder, and the
account will continue as a dividend- reinvestment, uncertificated account unless
and until proper instructions are received from the Planholder or his or her
executor or guardian, or other authorized person.
To use shares held under the Plan as collateral for a debt, the Planholder
may request issuance of a portion of the shares in certificated form. Upon
written request from the Planholder, the Transfer Agent will determine the
number of shares for which a certificate may be issued without causing the
withdrawal checks to stop because of exhaustion of uncertificated shares needed
to continue payments. However, should such uncertificated shares become
exhausted, Plan withdrawals will terminate.
If the Transfer Agent ceases to act as transfer agent for the Fund, the
Planholder will be deemed to have appointed any successor transfer agent to act
as agent in administering the Plan.
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How to Exchange Shares
As stated in the Prospectus, shares of a particular class of Oppenheimer
funds having more than one class of shares may be exchanged only for shares of
the same class of other Oppenheimer funds. Shares of the Oppenheimer funds that
have a single class without a class designation are deemed "Class A" shares for
this purpose. All of the Oppenheimer funds offer Class A, B and C shares except
Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc., Centennial Money Market Trust, Centennial
Tax Exempt Trust, Centennial Government Trust, Centennial New York Tax Exempt
Trust, Centennial California Tax-Exempt Trust, Centennial America Fund, L.P.,
and Daily Cash Accumulation Fund, Inc., which only offer Class A shares, and
Oppenheimer Main Street California Municipal Fund, which only offers Class A and
Class B shares (Class B and Class C shares of Oppenheimer Cash Reserves are
generally available only by exchange from the same class of shares of other
Oppenheimer funds or through OppenheimerFunds sponsored 401(k) plans). A current
list showing which funds offer which classes can be obtained by calling the
Distributor at 1-800-525- 7048.
For accounts established on or before March 8, 1996 holding Class M shares
of Oppenheimer Bond Fund for Growth, Class M shares can be exchanged only for
Class A shares of other Oppenheimer funds. Exchanges to Class M shares of
Oppenheimer Bond Fund for Growth are permitted from Class A shares of
Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc. or Oppenheimer Cash Reserves that were
acquired by exchange from Class M shares. Otherwise no exchanges of any class of
any Oppenheimer fund into Class M shares are permitted.
Class A shares of Oppenheimer funds may be exchanged at net asset value
for shares of any Money Market Fund. Shares of any Money Market Fund purchased
without a sales charge may be exchanged for shares of Oppenheimer funds offered
with a sales charge upon payment of the sales charge (or, if applicable, may be
used to purchase shares of Oppenheimer funds subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge).
However, shares of Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc. purchased with the
redemption proceeds of shares of other mutual funds (other than funds managed by
the Manager or its subsidiaries) redeemed within the 12 months prior to that
purchase may subsequently be exchanged for shares of other Oppenheimer funds
without being subject to an initial or contingent deferred sales charge,
whichever is applicable. To qualify for that privilege, the investor or the
investor's dealer must notify the Distributor of eligibility for this privilege
at the time the shares of Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc. are purchased,
and, if requested, must supply proof of entitlement to this privilege.
Shares of the Fund acquired by reinvestment of dividends or distributions
from any of the other Oppenheimer funds or from any unit investment trust for
which reinvestment arrangements have been made with the Distributor may be
exchanged at net asset value for shares of any of the Oppenheimer funds. No
contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on exchanges of shares of any class
purchased subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. However, when Class A
shares acquired by exchange of Class A shares of other Oppenheimer funds
purchased subject to a Class A contingent deferred sales charge are redeemed
within 12 months of the end of the calendar month of the initial purchase of the
exchanged Class A shares (18 months if the shares were initially purchased
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prior to May 1, 1997), the Class A contingent deferred sales charge is imposed
on the redeemed shares (see "Class A Contingent Deferred Sales Charge" in the
Prospectus). The Class B contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on Class B
shares acquired by exchange if they are redeemed within six years of the initial
purchase of the exchanged Class B shares. The Class C contingent deferred sales
charge is imposed on Class C shares acquired by exchange if they are redeemed
within 12 months of the initial purchase of the exchanged Class C shares.
When Class B or Class C shares are redeemed to effect an exchange, the
priorities described in "How To Buy Shares" in the Prospectus for the imposition
of the Class B or Class C contingent deferred sales charge will be followed in
determining the order in which the shares are exchanged. Shareholders should
take into account the effect of any exchange on the applicability and rate of
any contingent deferred sales charge that might be imposed in the subsequent
redemption of remaining shares. Shareholders owning shares of more than one
Class must specify whether they intend to exchange Class A, Class B or Class C
shares.
The Fund reserves the right to reject telephone or written exchange
requests submitted in bulk by anyone on behalf of more than one account. The
Fund may accept requests for exchanges of up to 50 accounts per day from
representatives of authorized dealers that qualify for this privilege. In
connection with any exchange request, the number of shares exchanged may be less
than the number requested if the exchange or the number requested would include
shares subject to a restriction cited in the Prospectus or this Statement of
Additional Information or would include shares covered by a share certificate
that is not tendered with the request. In those cases, only the shares available
for exchange without restriction will be exchanged.
When exchanging shares by telephone, a shareholder must either have an
existing account in, or have obtained and acknowledged receipt of a prospectus
of, the fund to which the exchange is to be made. For full or partial exchanges
of an account made by telephone, any special account features such as Asset
Builder Plans and Automatic Withdrawal Plans will be switched to the new account
unless the Transfer Agent is instructed otherwise. If all telephone lines are
busy (which might occur, for example, during periods of substantial market
fluctuations), shareholders might not be able to request exchanges by telephone
and would have to submit written exchange requests.
Shares to be exchanged are redeemed on the regular business day the
Transfer Agent receives an exchange request in proper form (the "Redemption
Date"). Normally, shares of the fund to be acquired are purchased on the
Redemption Date, but such purchases may be delayed by either fund up to five
business days if it determines that it would be disadvantaged by an immediate
transfer of the redemption proceeds. The Fund reserves the right, in its
discretion, to refuse any exchange request that may disadvantage it (for
example, if the receipt of multiple exchange requests from a dealer might
require the disposition of portfolio securities at a time or at a price that
might be disadvantageous to the Fund).
The different Oppenheimer funds available for exchange have different
investment objectives, policies and risks, and a shareholder should assure that
the Fund selected is appropriate for his or her investment and should be aware
of the tax consequences of an exchange. For federal income tax purposes, an
exchange transaction is treated as a redemption of shares of one fund and a
purchase of shares of another. "Reinvestment Privilege," above, discusses some
of the tax consequences of
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reinvestment of redemption proceeds in such cases. The Fund, the Distributor,
and the Transfer Agent are unable to provide investment, tax or legal advice to
a shareholder in connection with an exchange request or any other investment
transaction.
Dividends, Capital Gains and Taxes
Dividends and Distributions. Dividends will be payable on shares held of record
at the time of the previous determination of net asset value, or as otherwise
described in "How to Buy Shares." Daily dividends on newly purchased shares will
not be declared or paid until such time as Federal Funds (funds credited to a
member bank's account at the Federal Reserve Bank) are available from the
purchase payment for such shares. Normally, purchase checks received from
investors are converted to Federal Funds on the next business day. Shares
purchased through dealers or brokers normally are paid for by the third business
day following the placement of the purchase order. Shares redeemed through the
regular redemption procedure will be paid dividends through and including the
day on which the redemption request is received by the Transfer Agent in proper
form. Dividends will be declared on shares repurchased by a dealer or broker for
three business days following the trade date (i.e., to and including the day
prior to settlement of the repurchase). If all shares in an account are
redeemed, all dividends accrued on shares of the same class in the account will
be paid together with the redemption proceeds.
Dividends, distributions and the proceeds of the redemption of Fund shares
represented by checks returned to the Transfer Agent by the Postal Service as
undeliverable will be invested in shares of Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc.,
as promptly as possible after the return of such checks to the Transfer Agent,
to enable the investor to earn a return on otherwise idle funds.
The amount of a class's distributions may vary from time to time depending
on market conditions, the composition of the Fund's portfolio, and expenses
borne by the Fund or borne separately by a class, as described in "Alternative
Sales Arrangements -- Class A, Class B and Class C Shares," above. Dividends are
calculated in the same manner, at the same time and on the same day for shares
of each class. However, dividends on Class B shares and Class C shares are
expected to be lower as a result of the asset-based sales charge on Class B
shares and Class C shares, and Class B and Class C dividends will also differ in
amount as a consequence of any difference in net asset value between Class A
shares, Class B shares and Class C shares.
Distributions may be made annually in December out of any net short-term
or long-term capital gains realized from the sale of securities, premiums from
expired calls written by the Fund and net profits from hedging instruments and
closing purchase transactions realized in the twelve months ending on October 31
of the current year. Any difference between the net asset values of Class A,
Class B and Class C shares will be reflected in such distributions.
Distributions from net short-term capital gains are taxable to shareholders as
ordinary income and when paid by the Fund are considered "dividends." The Fund
may make a supplemental distribution of capital gains and ordinary income
following the end of its fiscal year. Long-term capital gains distributions, if
any are taxable as long-term capital gains whether received in cash or
reinvested and regardless of how long Fund shares have been held. There is no
fixed dividend rate (although the Fund may have a targeted dividend rate for
Class A shares) and there can be no assurance as to the payment of any dividends
or the realization of any capital gains.
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Tax Status of the Fund's Dividends and Distributions. The Fund intends to
qualify under the Internal Revenue Code during each fiscal year to pay
"exempt-interest dividends" to its shareholders. Exempt-interest dividends which
are derived from net investment income earned by the Fund on Municipal
Securities will be excludable from gross income of shareholders for Federal
income tax purposes. Net investment income includes the allocation of amounts of
income from the Municipal Securities in the Fund's portfolio which are free from
Federal income taxes. This allocation will be made by the use of one designated
percentage applied uniformly to all income dividends made during the Fund's tax
year. Such designation will normally be made following the end of each fiscal
year as to income dividends paid in the prior year. The percentage of income
designated as tax-exempt may substantially differ from the percentage of the
Fund's income that was tax-exempt for a given period. All of the Fund's
dividends (excluding capital gains distributions) paid during 1994 were exempt
from Federal and New York income taxes. A portion of the exempt-interest
dividends paid by the Fund may be an item of tax preference for shareholders
subject to the alternative minimum tax. The amount of any dividends attributable
to tax preference items for purposes of the alternative minimum tax will be
identified when tax information is distributed by the Fund. 10.2% of the Fund's
dividends (excluding distributions) paid during 1994 were a tax preference item
for shareholders subject to the alternative minimum tax.
A shareholder receiving a dividend from income earned by the Fund from one
or more of: (1) certain taxable temporary investments (such as certificates of
deposit, repurchase agreements, commercial paper and obligations of the U.S.
government, its agencies and instrumentalities); (2) income from securities
loans; (3) income or gains from options or Futures; or (4) an excess of net
short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss from the Fund, treats
the dividend as a receipt of either ordinary income or long-term capital gain in
the computation of gross income, regardless of whether the dividend is
reinvested. The Fund's dividends will not be eligible for the dividends-received
deduction for corporations. Shareholders receiving Social Security benefits
should be aware that exempt-interest dividends are a factor in determining
whether such benefits are subject to Federal income tax. Losses realized by
shareholders on the redemption of Fund shares within six months of purchase
(which period may be shortened by regulation) will be disallowed for Federal
income tax purposes to the extent of exempt-interest dividends received on such
shares.
If the Fund qualifies as a "regulated investment company" under the
Internal Revenue Code, it will not be liable for Federal income taxes on amounts
paid by it as dividends and distributions. The Fund qualified as a regulated
investment company in its last fiscal year and intends to qualify in future
years, but reserves the right not to qualify. The Internal Revenue Code contains
a number of complex tests to determine whether the Fund will qualify, and the
Fund might not meet those tests in a particular year. For example, if the Fund
derives 30% or more of its gross income from the sale of securities held less
than three months, it may fail to qualify (see "Tax Aspects of Covered Calls and
Hedging Instruments," above). If it does not qualify, the Fund will be treated
for tax purposes as an ordinary corporation and will receive no tax deduction
for payments of dividends and distributions made to shareholders.
Under the Internal Revenue Code, by December 31 each year the Fund must
distribute 98% of its taxable investment income earned from January 1 through
December 31 of that year and 98% of its capital gains realized in the period
from November 1 of the prior year through October 31 of the current year, or
else the Fund must pay an excise tax on the amounts not distributed. The
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Manager might determine in a particular year that it might be in the best
interest of shareholders for the Fund not to make distributions at the required
levels and to pay the excise tax on the undistributed amounts. That would reduce
the amount of income or capital gains available for distribution to
shareholders.
The Internal Revenue Code requires that a holder (such as the Fund) of a
zero coupon security accrue as income each year a portion of the discount at
which the security was purchased even though the Fund receives no interest
payment in cash on the security during the year. As an investment company, the
Fund must pay out substantially all of its net investment income each year or be
subject to excise taxes, as described above. Accordingly, when the Fund holds
zero coupon securities, it may be required to pay out as an income distribution
each year an amount which is greater than the total amount of cash interest the
Fund actually received during that year. Such distributions will be made from
the cash assets of the Fund or by liquidation of portfolio securities, if
necessary. The Fund may realize a gain or loss from such sales. In the event the
Fund realizes net capital gains from such transactions, its shareholders may
receive a larger capital gain distribution than they would have had in the
absence of such transactions.
Dividend Reinvestment in Another Fund. Shareholders of the Fund may elect to
reinvest all dividends and/or capital gains distributions in shares of the same
class of any of the other Oppenheimer funds listed in "Reduced Sales Charges,"
above, at net asset value without sales charge. Not all of the Oppenheimer funds
offer Class B shares and Class C shares. The names of the funds that offer Class
B shares can be obtained by calling the Distributor at 1-800-525-7048. To elect
this option, the shareholder must notify the Transfer Agent in writing and must
either have an existing account in the fund selected for reinvestment or must
obtain a prospectus for that fund and an application from the Distributor to
establish an account. The investment will be made at the net asset value per
share in effect at the close of business on the payable date of the dividend or
distribution. Dividends and/or distributions from certain of the Oppenheimer
funds may be invested in shares of this Fund on the same basis.
Additional Information About the Fund
The Custodian. Citibank, N.A. is the Custodian of the Fund's assets. The
Custodian's responsibilities include safeguarding and controlling the Fund's
portfolio securities, collecting income on the portfolio securities and handling
the delivery of such securities to and from the Fund. The Manager has
represented to the Fund that the banking relationships between the Manager and
the Custodian have been and will continue to be unrelated to and unaffected by
the relationship between the Fund and the Custodian. It will be the practice of
the Fund to deal with the Custodian in a manner uninfluenced by any banking
relationship the Custodian may have with the Manager and its affiliates. The
Fund's cash balances with the Custodian in excess of $100,000 are not protected
by Federal Deposit Insurance. Such uninsured balances may at times be
substantial.
Independent Auditors. The independent auditors of the Fund audit the Fund's
financial statements and perform other related audit services. They also act as
auditors for certain other funds advised by the Manager and its affiliates.
-51-
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
=====================================================================
The Board of Trustees and Shareholders of
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund:
We have audited the accompanying statements of investments and assets and
liabilities of Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund as of September 30, 1997, and
the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statements of
changes in net assets for each of the years in the two-year period then ended
and the financial highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then
ended. These financial statements and financial highlights are the
responsibility of the Fund's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements and financial highlights based on our
audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted
auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit
to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and
financial highlights are free of material misstatement. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities
owned as of September 30, 1997, by correspondence with the custodian. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement
presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements and financial highlights
referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund as of September 30, 1997, the
results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets
for each of the years in the two-year period then ended, and the financial
highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then ended, in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP
Denver, Colorado
October 21, 1997
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS September 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS: MOODY'S/
S&P/FITCH FACE MARKET VALUE
(UNAUDITED) AMOUNT SEE NOTE 1
=====================================================================
=========================================== <S>
52
<PAGE>
<C> <C> <C> MUNICIPAL BONDS AND NOTES--98.7%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW YORK--84.0%
Battery Park City, NY RB, Series A,
AMBAC Insured, 5.50%, 11/1/16 Aaa/AAA $ 5,000,000 $
5,078,600
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Buffalo, NY GOB, Series E, AMBAC
Insured, 6.65%, 12/1/13 Aaa/AAA/AAA 500,000 566,215
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grand Central District Management Assn., Inc.
NY Business District Capital Improvement RRB:
5.125%, 1/1/14 A1/A 1,000,000 973,570 5.25%,
1/1/22 A1/A 2,500,000 2,426,400
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NY
MTAU RB, Transportation Facilities Service
Contracts, Series 3, 7.375%, 7/1/08 Baa1/BBB+ 250,000 292,525
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NY
MTAU RRB, Commuter Facilities Project,
Series B, MBIA Insured, 6.25%, 7/1/17 Aaa/AAA 350,000 386,102
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NY
TBTAU GP RB, Series X, 6%, 1/1/14 Aa /A+ 14,510,000 15,097,800
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NY
TBTAU GP RRB:
Series A, 5%, 1/1/12 Aa/A+ 15,755,000 15,532,854 Series
A, 5%, 1/1/15 Aa/A+ 7,500,000 7,296,600 Series B, 5%,
1/1/20 Aa/A+ 500,000 486,865 Series Y, 5.50%,
1/1/17 Aa/A+ 15,000,000 15,588,450
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NY
TBTAU SPO RRB, Series A,
MBIA Insured, 6.625%, 1/1/17 Aaa/AAA 500,000 542,170
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NY
United Nations Development Corp. RRB:
Sr. Lien, Series B, 5.60%, 7/1/26 A2/NR/A 1,500,000 1,493,475
Sub. Lien, Series C, 5.60%, 7/1/26 A3/NR/A- 3,000,000 2,982,720
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYC
GOB:
Inverse Floater, 6.98%, 8/1/08(1) Baa1/BBB+ 8,250,000 8,765,625
Inverse Floater, 8.11%, 8/1/13(1) Baa1/BBB+ 5,000,000 5,418,750
Inverse Floater, 8.11%, 8/1/14(1) Baa1/BBB+ 8,150,000 8,832,562
Prerefunded, Series D, 8%, 8/1/03 Aaa/BBB+/A- 545,000 625,954
Prerefunded, Series F, 8.25%, 11/15/17 Aaa/BBB+ 7,820,000
9,125,158 Series B, 8.25%, 6/1/07 Baa1/BBB+ 1,750,000
2,177,122 Series B, FSA Insured, Inverse Floater,
6.97%, 10/1/07(1) Aaa/AAA 7,500,000 7,935,150 Series
H, 6.125%, 8/1/25 Baa1/BBB+/A- 6,000,000 6,258,840 Series
53
<PAGE>
M, AMBAC Insured, 7.50%, 6/1/07 Aaa/AAA 7,680,000 9,308,237
Unrefunded Balance, Series A, 7.75%, 3/15/03 Baa1/BBB+/A- 150,000
162,963 Unrefunded Balance, Series A, 7.75%, 8/15/16 Baa1/BBB+ 157,500
176,537 Unrefunded Balance, Series F, 8.25%, 11/15/17 Baa1/BBB+
680,000 779,035 Unrefunded Balance, Subseries C-1, 7.50%, 8/1/20 Baa1/BBB+/A-
125,000 141,354
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYC
GORB:
Series B, MBIA Insured, 6.20%, 8/15/06 Aaa/AAA 3,500,000
3,880,905 Series D, MBIA Insured, 5.75%, 8/1/05 Aaa/AAA 450,000
481,608 Unrefunded Balance, Series F, 7.625%, 2/1/14 Baa1/BBB+/A-
25,000 27,913
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYC
HDC MH RB:
Glenn Gardens Project, 6.50%, 1/15/18 NR/NR 2,896,196 2,981,837
</TABLE>
9 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS:
MOODY'S/ S&P/FITCH FACE MARKET
VALUE (UNAUDITED) AMOUNT SEE
NOTE 1
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> NEW YORK
(CONTINUED)
NYC HDC MH RB:(continued)
Keith Plaza Project, 6.50%, 2/15/18 NR/NR $ 1,913,624 $
1,970,383 Series A, 5.625%, 5/1/12 Aa2/AA 4,500,000
4,609,755
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC Health & Hospital Corp. RRB,
AMBAC Insured, Inverse Floater,
7.24%, 2/15/23(1) Aaa/AAA/AAA 8,300,000 8,351,875
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA SPF RB:
54
<PAGE>
Northwest Airlines, Inc., 6%, 6/1/27 Ba2/BB 6,700,000 6,860,398
United Air Lines, Inc. Project, 5.65%, 10/1/32 Baa3/BB+ 5,585,000
5,580,755
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDAU Civil Facility RB:
Community Resources Development,
7.50%, 8/1/26 NR/NR 3,500,000 3,660,125 USTA
National Tennis Center Project,
FSA Insured, 6.375%, 11/15/14 Aaa/AAA 1,500,000
1,649,055 YMCA Greater NY Project, 5.80%, 8/1/16 Baa3/NR/BBB
2,470,000 2,514,089 YMCA Greater NY Project,
Prerefunded, 8%, 8/1/16 Aaa/NR/BBB 3,950,000 4,550,558
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDAU RB, VISY Paper, Inc. Project:
7.80%, 1/1/16 NR/NR 6,800,000 7,660,608 7.95%,
1/1/28 NR/NR 6,250,000 7,079,375
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDAU SPF RB, Terminal One
Group Assn. Project:
6%, 1/1/15 A/A/A- 6,000,000 6,248,760 6.125%,
1/1/24 A/A/A- 3,000,000 3,132,840
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC MWFAU WSS RB:
Prerefunded, Series C, 7.75%, 6/15/20 Aaa/A- 17,250,000
19,594,275 Unrefunded Balance, Series B, 6.375%, 6/15/22 A2/A-/A 6,625,000
7,284,254
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC MWFAU WSS RRB:
Series A-1994, 7.10%, 6/15/12 A2/A- 275,000 303,460
Unrefunded Balance, 6.75%, 6/15/17 A2/A- 2,480,000 2,671,828
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB:
City University-Third General Resolution,
Series 2, MBIA Insured, 6.875%, 7/1/14 Aaa/AAA/A- 500,000
569,875 Prerefunded, Series A, 7.625%, 7/1/20 Aaa/BBB 12,000,000
13,322,400 CUS, Prerefunded, Series F, 7.875%, 7/1/07 Aaa/BBB+
7,000,000 7,816,550 Ithaca College, AMBAC Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/26 Aaa/AAA
5,750,000 5,632,527 Judicial Facilities Lease, Escrowed to Maturity,
MBIA Insured, 7.375%, 7/1/16 Aaa/AAA 2,300,000
2,849,033 Mental Health Facilities Project, AMBAC
Insured, 5.25%, 2/15/18 Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,400,000 9,237,850
Pooled Capital Program, Partially Prerefunded,
FGIC Insured, 7.80%, 12/1/05 Aaa/AAA/AAA 6,105,000
6,489,371 Rockefeller University, MBIA Insured,
7.375%, 7/1/14 Aaa/AAA 4,000,000 4,186,880
Rosalind & Joseph Nursing Home,
55
<PAGE>
AMBAC Insured, 5.70%, 2/1/37 Aaa/AAA 2,000,000
2,023,140 </TABLE>
10 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS: MOODY'S/
S&P/FITCH FACE MARKET VALUE
(UNAUDITED) AMOUNT SEE NOTE 1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> <C> NEW YORK
(CONTINUED)
NYS DA RRB:
CUS, Second Series A, 5.75%, 7/1/18 Baa1/BBB+ $ 6,750,000 $
7,067,993 CUS, Series B, 6%, 7/1/14 Baa1/BBB+ 10,875,000
11,724,881 CUS, Series B, FGIC Insured, 9%, 7/1/00 Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,100,000
2,364,474 Episcopal Health Services, Inc., 5.85%, 8/1/13 NR/AAA
500,000 526,905 Fordham University, FGIC Insured, 5.75%, 7/1/15 Aaa/AAA/AAA
9,100,000 9,473,464 St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center,
MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA 5,035,000 4,947,139
St. Vincent's Hospital, 7.375%, 8/1/11 Aa2/AAA 150,000 167,951
SUEFS, Prerefunded, Series A, 7.70%, 5/15/12 Aaa/BBB+/A 9,000,000
9,972,900 SUEFS, Series A, 5.25%, 5/15/15 Baa1/BBB+ 23,090,000
22,827,005 SUEFS, Series A, 5.25%, 5/15/21 Baa1/BBB+ 5,010,000
4,896,974 SUEFS, Series B, 7%, 5/15/16 Baa1/BBB+ 9,020,000
9,729,964
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
DA SPO Bonds, CUS, Series E,
FSA Insured, 5.75%, 7/1/11 Aaa/AAA 5,955,000 6,481,601
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
EFCPC RB, State Water Revolving Fund:
Series A, 6.60%, 9/15/12 Aaa/AAA/AAA 250,000 277,575
Series C, 7.20%, 3/15/11 Aa2/A+/AA 350,000 378,795
Series E, 6.50%, 6/15/14 Aa2/A/AA 500,000 547,460
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
ERDAUEF RB:
Consolidated Edison Co., Series A, 7.50%, 1/1/26 Aa3/A+ 280,000
299,334 Consolidated Edison Co., Series A, 7.75%, 1/1/24 A1/A+ 620,000
638,817 Consolidated Edison Co., Series B, 7.375%, 7/1/24 Aa3/A+ 200,000
206,038 L.I. Lighting Co., Series A, 7.15%, 12/1/20 Ba3/BB+ 7,500,000
8,124,150 L.I. Lighting Co., Series C, 6.90%, 8/1/22 Ba3/BB+ 9,200,000
9,925,144
56
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
ERDAUGF RB, Brooklyn Union Gas Co.:
Series B, Inverse Floater, 9.68%, 7/1/26(1) A1/A 6,000,000 7,627,500
Series D, MBIA Insured, Inverse Floater,
7.24%, 7/8/26(1) Aaa/AAA 3,000,000 3,048,750
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
ERDAUPC RB, NYS Electric & Gas Project,
Series A, MBIA Insured, 6.15%, 7/1/26 Aaa/AAA 4,000,000
4,212,360
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
GOB:
6.875%, 3/1/12 A2/A 500,000 551,485 7%, 2/1/09
A2/A 300,000 331,413
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
GORB, 7.50%, 11/15/00 A2/A 500,000 548,815
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
HFA MH RB:
Secured Mtg. Program-A, 7.05%, 8/15/24 Aa2/NR 350,000 374,539
Secured Mtg. Program-C, 6.95%, 8/15/24 Aa2/NR 230,000 242,935
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
HFA RB:
Prerefunded, 8%, 11/1/08 Aaa/BBB+ 2,690,000 3,041,475
Unrefunded Balance, 8%, 11/1/08 Baa/BBB+ 550,000 613,602
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
HFA RRB:
Housing Mtg., Series A, 6.10%, 11/1/15 Aaa/AAA 12,375,000
13,035,206 State University Construction, Escrowed to
Maturity, Series A, 7.90%, 11/1/06 Aaa/AAA 1,750,000 2,098,985
Unrefunded Balance, 7.90%, 11/1/99 Baa2/BBB+ 2,310,000
2,426,563 </TABLE>
11 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS: MOODY'S/
S&P/FITCH FACE MARKET VALUE
(UNAUDITED) AMOUNT SEE NOTE 1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> <C> NEW YORK
(CONTINUED)
NYS HFASC Obligation RB, Series A, 6%, 3/15/26 Baa1/BBB+ $10,000,000
57
<PAGE>
$10,432,200
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
HFASC RB:
Prerefunded, Series A, 7.375%, 9/15/21 Aaa/AAA 9,050,000
10,331,480 Series D, 5.375%, 3/15/23 Baa1/BBB 9,000,000
8,691,300
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
LGAC RB, Prerefunded:
Series B, 7.50%, 4/1/20 Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,310,000 2,601,499
Series C, 7%, 4/1/21 Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,455,000 10,495,428
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
LGAC RRB:
Series B, 5.50%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 8,000,000 7,958,240
Series C, 5%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 15,000,000 14,073,750
Series E, 5%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 500,000 475,465
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
MAG RB:
Homeowner Mtg., Series 1, 7.95%, 10/1/21 Aaa/NR 2,270,000
2,420,092 Homeowner Mtg., Series UU, 7.75%, 10/1/23 Aa2/NR 1,990,000
2,113,400 Homeowner Mtg., Series VV, 7.375%, 10/1/11 Aa2/NR
345,000 368,757 Inverse Floater, 6.26%, 10/1/24(1) MIG1/NR
9,000,000 8,415,000 Ninth Series B, 8.30%, 10/1/17 Aaa/NR
1,720,000 1,756,326 Series 40-B, 6.40%, 10/1/12 Aaa/NR
500,000 532,195 Series C, 8.40%, 10/1/17 Aaa/NR
1,700,000 1,731,994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
MCFFA RB:
Hospital & Nursing Home Project,
Series D, 6.45%, 2/15/09 Aa2/AAA 345,000 378,389
Long-Term Health Care, Series C,
FSA Insured, 6.40%, 11/1/14 Aaa/AAA 2,800,000 3,039,456
MHESF, Prerefunded, Series B, 7.875%, 8/15/20 Aaa/AAA 5,095,000
5,707,113 MHESF, Series A, FGIC Insured, 6.375%, 8/15/17 Aaa/AAA/AAA
5,000,000 5,409,000 MHESF, Unrefunded Balance, Series B,
7.875%, 8/15/20 Baa1/BBB+ 8,085,000 8,989,712 NY
Hospital, Series A, AMBAC Insured,
6.75%, 8/15/14 Aaa/AAA/AAA 500,000 562,310
Prerefunded, 7.70%, 2/15/18 Aaa/AAA 355,000 367,283 St.
Francis Hospital, Series 1998A,
FGIC Insured, 7.625%, 11/1/21 Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,690,000
2,843,438 St. Luke's Hospital Center Mtg., Prerefunded,
Series B, 7.45%, 2/15/29 Aaa/AAA 7,500,000 8,212,275
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
MCFFA RRB:
MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series A, 8.875%, 8/15/07 Baa1/BBB+ 2,785,000 2,852,536
58
<PAGE>
North Shore University Hospital,
MBIA Insured, 7.20%, 11/1/20 Aaa/AAA 250,000 274,680
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
PAU GP RB, Series B, 6.625%, 1/1/12 Aa2/AA- 315,000 344,037
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
PAU GP RRB, Series Y, 6.75%, 1/1/18 Aa2/AA- 2,000,000 2,173,640
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NYS
Thruway Authority General RB,
Series A, 5.75%, 1/1/19 Aa3/AA- 10,000,000 10,177,400
</TABLE>
12 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS: MOODY'S/
S&P/FITCH FACE MARKET VALUE
(UNAUDITED) AMOUNT SEE NOTE 1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> <C> NEW YORK (CONTINUED)
NYS UDC RB:
Correctional Capital Facilities, Series 4,
5.375%, 1/1/23 Baa1/BBB+/A $ 8,750,000 $ 8,450,400
Series A, MBIA Insured, 5.50%, 4/1/16 Aaa/AAA/AAA 7,500,000
7,619,625
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Onondaga Cnty., NY RR Agency RB,
RR Facilities Project, 7%, 5/1/15 Baa/NR/A- 15,600,000 16,758,456
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ Consolidated RB, 69th Series,
7.125%, 6/1/25 A1/AA-/AA- 4,155,000 4,489,187
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ Consolidated RRB, 78th Series,
6.50%, 4/15/11 A1/AA-/AA- 250,000 271,403
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ SPO RB, JFK International Air
Terminal Project, Series 6, 5.75%, 12/1/22 Aaa/AAA 11,150,000
11,463,761
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ SPO RRB, KIAC-4 Project,
5th Installment, 6.75%, 10/1/19 NR/NR 12,600,000 13,675,788
------------
626,863,122
59
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- U.S.
POSSESSIONS--14.7%
PR CMWLTH Aqueduct & Sewer Authority RB,
Escrowed to Maturity, 10.25%, 7/1/09 Aaa/AAA 500,000 696,930
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
CMWLTH GOB, 5.375%, 7/1/25 Baa1/A 7,000,000 6,924,680
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
CMWLTH GORB:
FSA Insured, Inverse Floater, 7.69%, 7/1/20(1) Aaa/AAA 11,500,000
12,333,750 MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA 8,950,000
8,826,848 Prerefunded, 7.70%, 7/1/20 NR/AAA 4,000,000
4,458,560
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
CMWLTH HTAU RB:
Prerefunded, Series S, 6.50%, 7/1/22 NR/AAA 10,000,000 11,138,300
Prerefunded, Series T, 6.625%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA 1,000,000 1,119,170
Series W, Inverse Floater, 6.80%, 7/1/10(1) Baa1/A 9,000,000 9,461,250
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
CMWLTH Infrastructure FAU SPTX RB,
Series A, 7.75%, 7/1/08 Baa1/BBB+ 6,000,000 6,295,440
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
Electric PAU RB:
Series AA, MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/16 Aaa/AAA 5,000,000
5,008,250 Series AA, MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/17 Aaa/AAA 5,000,000
4,999,550
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
EPAU CAP RRB, Series N, MBIA Insured,
Zero Coupon, 5.69%, 7/1/17(2) Aaa/AAA 24,000,000 8,824,320
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
Housing Bank & Finance Agency SFM RB,
Homeownership-Fourth Portfolio, Escrowed
to Maturity, 8.50%, 12/1/18 Aaa/NR 1,580,000 1,853,261
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
Industrial, Medical & Environmental
PC Facilities FAU RB:
American Airlines, Inc. Project,
Series A, 6.45%, 12/1/25 Baa1/BBB- 850,000 931,694
Warner Lambert Co. Project, 7.60%, 5/1/14 A1/NR 3,000,000
3,234,570
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
POAU RB, American Airlines Special
Facilities Project, Series A, 6.25%, 6/1/26 Baa3/BBB+ 8,000,000 8,562,080
</TABLE>
60
<PAGE>
13 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS: MOODY'S/
S&P/FITCH FACE MARKET VALUE
(UNAUDITED) AMOUNT SEE NOTE 1
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> <C> U.S. POSSESSIONS
(CONTINUED)
PR Public Buildings Authority Guaranteed
Public Education & HF RB, Prerefunded,
Series L, 6.875%, 7/1/21 Aaa/AAA $ 4,000,000 $ 4,519,440
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PR
Telephone Authority RB, MBIA Insured,
Inverse Floater, 6.92%, 1/16/15(1) Aaa/AAA 10,000,000 10,187,500
-------------
109,375,593
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS, AT VALUE (COST $698,803,390) 98.7%
736,238,715
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER ASSETS NET OF LIABILITIES 1.3 9,758,265
----------- ------------- NET ASSETS
100.0% $ 745,996,980
=========== ============= </TABLE>
To simplify the listing of securities, abbreviations are used per the table
below:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> CAP -- Capital Appreciation
L.I. -- Long Island CMWLTH -- Commonwealth
MAG -- Mtg. Agency CUS -- City University System
MCFFA -- Medical Care Facilities DA -- Dormitory Authority
Finance Agency EFCPC -- Environmental Facilities Corp.
Pollution Control MH -- Multifamily Housing EPAU -- Electric Power
Authority MHESF -- Mental Health Services ERDAUEF --
Energy Research & Development Authority Electric Facilities Facilities ERDAUGF
-- Energy Research & Development Authority Gas Facilities MTAU -- Metropolitan
Transportation ERDAUPC -- Energy Research & Development Authority Pollution Control
Authority FAU -- Finance Authority MWFAU
-- Municipal Water Finance GP -- General Purpose
Authority GOB -- General Obligation Bonds NYC --
New York City GORB -- General Obligation Refunding Bonds NYS
61
<PAGE>
-- New York State HDC -- Housing Development Corp.
PAUNYNJ -- Port Authority of New York HF -- Health Facilities
& New Jersey HFA -- Housing Finance Agency
PAU -- Power Authority HFASC -- Housing Finance Agency Service Contract
PC -- Pollution Control HTAU -- Highway & Transportation Authority
POAU -- Port Authority IDA -- Industrial Development Agency
RB -- Revenue Bonds IDAU -- Industrial Development Authority
RR -- Resource Recovery LGAC -- Local Government Assistance
Corp. RRB -- Revenue Refunding Bonds
SFM -- Single Family Mortgage
SPF -- Special Facilities
SPO -- Special Obligations SPTX
-- Special Tax SUEFS -- State
University Educational Facilities
System TBTAU -- Triborough Bridge
& Tunnel Authority
UDC -- Urban Development Corp.
WSS -- Water & Sewer System </TABLE>
1. Represents the current interest rate for a variable rate bond known as an
"inverse floater" which pays interest at a rate that varies inversely with
short-term interest rates. As interest rates rise, inverse floaters produce less
current income. Their price may be more volatile than the price of a comparable
fixed-rate security. Inverse floaters amount to $90,377,712 or 12.12% of the
Fund's net assets at September 30, 1997.
2. For zero coupon bonds, the interest rate shown is the effective yield on the
date of purchase.
14 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 30, 1997, securities subject to the alternative minimum tax
amounted to $122,052,761 or 16.36% of the Fund's net assets. Distribution of
investments by industry, as a percentage of total investments at value, is as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDUSTRY MARKET VALUE PERCENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> Higher Education $124,655,844
62
<PAGE>
16.8% General Obligation 98,639,480 13.4 Highways
86,440,860 11.7 Hospital/Healthcare 63,186,511
8.6 Sales Tax 35,604,382 4.8 Multi-Family Housing
33,646,855 4.6 Corporate Backed 31,316,527
4.3 Water Utilities 30,550,747 4.1 Marine/Aviation
Facilities 29,900,138 4.1 Pollution Control
29,869,733 4.1 Lease Rental 27,336,945 3.7 Electric
Utilities 25,562,157 3.5 Adult Living Facilities
22,589,141 3.1 Single Family Housing 19,191,025 2.6
Resource Recovery 16,758,456 2.3 Special Assessment
14,774,010 2.0 Manufacturing, Durable Goods 14,739,983
2.0 Non Profit Organization 12,373,828 1.7 Telephone
Utilities 10,187,500 1.4 Manufacturing, Non-Durable Goods
7,710,765 1.0 Sewer Utilities 1,203,830 0.2
------------ -----
$736,238,717 100.0% ============ =====
</TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
15 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES September 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
=====================================================================
========================================== <S>
<C> ASSETS
Investments, at value (cost $698,803,390)--see accompanying statement
$736,238,715
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash
495,755
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Receivables:
Interest 12,291,735 Shares of beneficial
interest sold 393,580
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other
11,534
------------ Total assets
749,431,319
=====================================================================
========================================== LIABILITIES
Payables and other liabilities:
Dividends 2,001,304 Shares of beneficial
interest redeemed 498,760 Distribution and service plan
fees 452,203 Trustees' fees--Note 1
213,997 Shareholder reports
130,266 Transfer and shareholder servicing agent fees
67,646 Other 70,163
------------ Total liabilities
3,434,339
=====================================================================
========================================== NET ASSETS
$745,996,980
============
=====================================================================
========================================== COMPOSITION OF NET ASSETS
Paid-in capital $715,174,579
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Undistributed net investment income 1,395,429
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accumulated net realized loss on investment transactions (8,008,353)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net
unrealized appreciation on investments--Note 3 37,435,325
------------ Net assets
$745,996,980
============ </TABLE>
16 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
=====================================================================
========================================== NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE Class A
Shares: Net asset value and redemption price per share (based on net assets of
$634,789,044 and 49,620,601 shares of beneficial interest outstanding) $12.79
Maximum offering price per share (net asset value plus sales charge of 4.75% of
offering price)
$13.43
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class
B Shares:
63
<PAGE>
Net asset value, redemption price (excludes applicable contingent deferred sales
charge) and offering price per share (based on net assets of $106,458,543 and
8,320,680 shares of beneficial interest outstanding) $12.79
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C Shares: Net asset value, redemption price (excludes applicable
contingent deferred sales charge) and offering price per share (based on net
assets of $4,749,393 and 371,247 shares of beneficial interest outstanding)
$12.79 </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
17 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS For the Year Ended September 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
=====================================================================
========================================== <S>
<C> INVESTMENT INCOME
Interest $48,247,943
=====================================================================
========================================== EXPENSES
Management fees--Note 4 3,912,050
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution and service plan fees--Note 4:
Class A 1,528,712 Class B
1,040,975 Class C
37,884
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Transfer and shareholder servicing agent fees--Note 4 475,969
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder reports 223,113
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Custodian fees and expenses 66,227
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Legal
and auditing fees 58,537
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Insurance expenses 18,351
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Registration and filing fees:
Class B 564 Class C
660
64
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other
14,143
----------- Total expenses
7,377,185
=====================================================================
========================================== NET INVESTMENT INCOME
40,870,758
=====================================================================
========================================== REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN
(LOSS)
Net realized gain (loss) on:
Investments 5,082,437 Closing of futures
contracts (8,192,625)
----------- Net realized loss
(3,110,188)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net
change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments 25,374,028
----------- Net realized and
unrealized gain 22,263,840
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NET
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
$63,134,598 ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
18 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
1997 1996
=====================================================================
========================================== OPERATIONS
<S> <C> <C> Net investment income
$ 40,870,758 $ 42,380,515
65
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net
realized gain (loss) (3,110,188) 5,945,810
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net
change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation 25,374,028 425,530
------------ ------------ Net increase in net assets
resulting
from operations 63,134,598 48,751,855
=====================================================================
========================================== DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
TO SHAREHOLDERS
Dividends from net investment income:
Class A (35,297,579) (37,568,731) Class B
(4,855,021) (4,655,633) Class C
(175,214) (34,664)
=====================================================================
========================================== BENEFICIAL INTEREST TRANSACTIONS Net
increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from beneficial interest
transactions--Note 2:
Class A (52,009,162) (11,537,144) Class B
2,021,008 9,460,309 Class C
2,612,419 1,966,687
=====================================================================
========================================== NET ASSETS
Total increase (decrease) (24,568,951) 6,382,679
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beginning of period 770,565,931 764,183,252
------------ ------------ End of period (including
undistributed net investment
income of $1,395,429 and $620,943, respectively) $745,996,980
$770,565,931 ============
============ </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
19 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
66
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
--------------------------------- YEAR
ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 1996 1995 1994
1993
=====================================================================
=========================================== <S> <C>
<C> <C> <C> <C> PER SHARE OPERATING DATA:
Net asset value, beginning of period $12.41 $12.29 $11.92 $13.50 $12.59
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) from investment operations:
Net investment income .69 .68 .69 .74 .73 Net realized
and unrealized gain (loss) .37 .12 .41 (1.46) 1.01
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Total income (loss) from investment
operations 1.06 .80 1.10 (.72) 1.74
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends and distributions to shareholders:
Dividends from net investment income (.68) (.68) (.70) (.72) (.75)
Distributions from net realized gain -- -- (.03) (.03) (.08)
Distributions in excess of net realized gain -- -- -- (.11) --
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Total dividends and
distributions
to shareholders (.68) (.68) (.73) (.86) (.83)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net
asset value, end of period $12.79 $12.41 $12.29 $11.92 $13.50
====== ====== ====== ====== ======
=====================================================================
=========================================== TOTAL RETURN, AT NET ASSET
VALUE(3) 8.78% 6.65% 9.58% (5.55)% 14.33%
=====================================================================
=========================================== RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
Net assets, end of period
(in thousands) $634,789 $667,258 $673,050 $687,233 $756,934
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average net assets (in thousands) $652,048 $684,981 $659,465 $738,747
$652,327
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets:
Net investment income 5.49% 5.50% 5.76% 5.68% 5.66%
Expenses 0.86% 0.91% 0.90% 0.86% 0.91%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate(5) 20.5% 21.2% 15.2% 9.4% 39.1%
</TABLE>
67
<PAGE>
1. For the period from August 29, 1995 (inception of offering) to September 30,
1995.
2. For the period from March 1, 1993 (inception of offering) to September 30,
1993.
3. Assumes a hypothetical initial investment on the business day before the
first day of the fiscal period (or inception of offering), with all dividends
and distributions reinvested in additional shares on the reinvestment date, and
redemption at the net asset value calculated on the last business day of the
fiscal period. Sales charges are not reflected in the total returns. Total
returns are not annualized for periods of less than one full year. 4.
Annualized.
20 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS B CLASS C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ YEAR
ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
1996 1995 1994 1993(2) 1997 1996 1995(1)
=====================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$12.41 $12.30 $11.93 $13.50 $13.07 $12.41 $12.30 $12.22
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
.59 .60 .60 .64 .36 .57 .60 .05 .38 .10
.42 (1.45) .44 .39 .09 .08 ------ ------ ------
- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
.97 .70 1.02 (.81) .80 .96 .69 .13
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(.59) (.59) (.62) (.62) (.37) (.58) (.58) (.05) --
-- (.03) (.03) -- -- -- -- -- -- --
(.11) -- -- -- -- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
------ ------ ------
(.59) (.59) (.65) (.76) (.37) (.58) (.58) (.05)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$12.79 $12.41 $12.30 $11.93 $13.50 $12.79 $12.41 $12.30
====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======
======
=====================================================================
======================================== 7.97% 5.77% 8.75%
(6.22)% 6.56% 7.95% 5.64% 1.10%
68
<PAGE>
=====================================================================
========================================
$106,459 $101,302 $91,108 $73,943 $40,958 $4,749 $2,007 $25
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$104,183 $ 98,488 $81,743 $61,008 $20,454 $3,798 $ 752 $18
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.72% 4.73% 4.95% 4.88% 4.45%(4) 4.67% 4.60%
3.67%(4) 1.63% 1.68% 1.67% 1.65% 1.73%(4) 1.63% 1.77%
1.37%(4)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20.5% 21.2% 15.2% 9.4% 39.1% 20.5% 21.2% 15.2%
</TABLE>
5. The lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities for a period,
divided by the monthly average of the market value of portfolio securities owned
during the period. Securities with a maturity or expiration date at the time of
acquisition of one year or less are excluded from the calculation. Purchases and
sales of investment securities (excluding short-term securities) for the period
ended September 30, 1997 were $154,409,995 and $214,081,363, respectively. See
accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
21 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
=====================================================================
========== 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund (the Fund) is registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as a diversified, open-end
management investment company. The Fund's investment objective is to seek
maximum current income exempt from federal, New York State and New York City
income taxes for individual investors as is available from municipal securities
and consistent with the preservation of capital. The Fund's investment advisor
is OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the Manager). The Fund offers Class A, Class B and
Class C shares. Class A shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Class B
and Class C shares may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. All
classes of shares have identical rights to earnings, assets and voting
privileges, except that each class has its own distribution and/or service plan,
expenses directly attributable to that class and exclusive voting rights with
respect to matters affecting that class. Class B shares will automatically
convert to Class A shares six years after the date of purchase. The following is
a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTMENT VALUATION. Portfolio securities are valued at the close of the New
York Stock Exchange on each trading day. Listed and unlisted securities for
which such information is regularly reported are valued at the last sale price
of the day or, in the absence of sales, at values based on the closing bid or
the last sale price
69
<PAGE>
on the prior trading day. Long-term and short-term "non-money market" debt
securities are valued by a portfolio pricing service approved by the Board of
Trustees. Such securities which cannot be valued by an approved portfolio
pricing service are valued using dealer-supplied valuations provided the Manager
is satisfied that the firm rendering the quotes is reliable and that the quotes
reflect current market value, or are valued under consistently applied
procedures established by the Board of Trustees to determine fair value in good
faith. Short-term "money market type" debt securities having a remaining
maturity of 60 days or less are valued at cost (or last determined market value)
adjusted for amortization to maturity of any premium or discount.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALLOCATION OF INCOME, EXPENSES, AND GAINS AND LOSSES. Income, expenses (other
than those attributable to a specific class) and gains and losses are allocated
daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets
represented by such class. Operating expenses directly attributable to a
specific class are charged against the operations of that class.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL TAXES. The Fund intends to continue to comply with provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to
distribute all of its taxable income, including any net realized gain on
investments not offset by loss carryovers, to shareholders. Therefore, no
federal income or excise tax provision is required. At September 30, 1997, the
Fund had available for federal income tax purposes an unused capital loss
carryover of approximately $7,657,000, expiring in 2003 and 2004.
22 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
=====================================================================
=========== TRUSTEES' FEES AND EXPENSES. The Fund has adopted a nonfunded
retirement plan for the Fund's independent trustees. Benefits are based on years
of service and fees paid to each trustee during the years of service. During the
year ended September 30, 1997, a credit of $60,913 was made for the Fund's
projected benefit obligations and payments of $11,314 were made to retired
trustees, resulting in an accumulated liability of $212,626 at September 30,
1997. The aforementioned credit is a component of total trustees' fees which
amount to $(280) for the year ended September 30, 1997.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS. The Fund intends to declare dividends separately
for Class A, Class B and Class C shares from net investment income each day the
New York Stock Exchange is open for business and pay such dividends monthly.
Distributions from net realized gains on investments, if any, will be declared
at least once each year.
CLASSIFICATION OF DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS. Net investment income (loss)
and net realized gain (loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes
primarily because of premium amortization on long-term bonds for tax purposes.
The character of the distributions made during the year from net investment
income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for
federal income tax purposes. Also, due to timing of dividend distributions, the
fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in
which the income or
70
<PAGE>
realized gain was recorded by the Fund.
The Fund adjusts the classification of distributions to shareholders
to reflect the differences between financial statement amounts and distributions
determined in accordance with income tax regulations. Accordingly, during the
year ended September 30, 1997, amounts have been reclassified to reflect an
increase in undistributed net investment income of $231,542, a decrease in
accumulated net realized loss on investments of $456,846, and a decrease in
paid-in capital of $688,388.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER. Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are
purchased or sold (trade date). Original issue discount on securities purchased
is amortized over the life of the respective securities using the effective
yield method, in accordance with federal income tax requirements. For bonds
acquired after April 30, 1993, on disposition or maturity, taxable ordinary
income is recognized to the extent of the lesser of gain or market discount that
would have accrued over the holding period. Realized gains and losses on
investments and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are determined on an
identified cost basis, which is the same basis used for federal income tax
purposes. The Fund concentrates its investments in New York and, therefore, may
have more credit risks related to the economic conditions of New York than a
portfolio with a broader geographical diversification.
23 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
=====================================================================
=========== 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual
results could differ from those estimates.
=====================================================================
=========== 2. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The Fund has authorized an unlimited number of no par value shares of beneficial
interest of each class. Transactions in shares of beneficial interest were as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 --------------------------------
71
<PAGE>
- ------------------------------- SHARES AMOUNT
SHARES AMOUNT
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> <C> <C> Class A:
Sold 4,470,995 $ 56,051,835 4,043,999 $ 50,569,882 Issued
in connection with
the acquisition of Quest
for Value New York
Tax-Exempt Fund--Note 6 -- -- 2,350,157 29,517,976
Dividends and distributions
reinvested 1,936,390 24,294,359 2,105,244 26,158,018
Redeemed (10,554,692) (132,355,356) (9,480,179) (117,783,020)
----------- ------------- ---------- ------------- Net decrease
(4,147,307) $ (52,009,162) (980,779) $ (11,537,144)
=========== ============= ========== =============
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class
B:
Sold 1,229,476 $ 15,435,863 1,631,788 $ 20,375,193
Dividends and distributions
reinvested 251,124 3,151,927 244,423 3,035,829
Redeemed (1,320,301) (16,566,782) (1,123,717) (13,950,713)
----------- ------------- ---------- ------------- Net increase
160,299 $ 2,021,008 752,494 $ 9,460,309
=========== ============= ========== =============
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class
C:
Sold 296,169 $ 3,700,982 170,206 $ 2,101,116
Dividends and distributions
reinvested 11,358 142,713 2,083 25,651 Redeemed
(97,937) (1,231,276) (12,664) (160,080)
----------- ------------- ---------- ------------- Net increase
209,590 $ 2,612,419 159,625 $ 1,966,687
=========== ============= ========== ============= </TABLE>
24 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
=====================================================================
=========== 3. UNREALIZED GAINS AND LOSSES ON INVESTMENTS
72
<PAGE>
At September 30, 1997, net unrealized appreciation on investments of $37,435,325
was composed of gross appreciation of $40,284,088, and gross depreciation of
$2,848,763.
=====================================================================
=========== 4. MANAGEMENT FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Management fees paid to the Manager were in accordance with the investment
advisory agreement with the Fund which provides for a fee of 0.60% on the first
$200 million of average annual net assets, 0.55% on the next $100 million, 0.50%
on the next $200 million, 0.45% on the next $250 million, 0.40% on the next $250
million and 0.35% on net assets in excess of $1 billion.
For the year ended September 30, 1997, commissions (sales charges
paid by investors) on sales of Class A shares totaled $835,127, of which
$161,226 was retained by OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (OFDI), a subsidiary
of the Manager, as general distributor, and by an affiliated broker/dealer.
Sales charges advanced to broker/dealers by OFDI on sales of the Fund's Class B
and Class C shares totaled $558,605 and $35,328, respectively, of which $9,424
was paid to an affiliated broker/ dealer for Class B. During the year ended
September 30, 1997, OFDI received contingent deferred sales charges of $260,864
and $5,113, respectively, upon redemption of Class B and Class C shares, as
reimbursement for sales commissions advanced by OFDI at the time of sale of such
shares.
OppenheimerFunds Services (OFS), a division of the Manager, is the
transfer and shareholder servicing agent for the Fund and for other registered
investment companies. OFS's total costs of providing such services are allocated
ratably to these companies.
The Fund has adopted a Service Plan for Class A shares to reimburse
OFDI for a portion of its costs incurred in connection with the personal service
and maintenance of shareholder accounts that hold Class A shares. Reimbursement
is made quarterly at an annual rate that may not exceed 0.25% of the average
annual net assets of Class A shares of the Fund. OFDI uses the service fee to
reimburse brokers, dealers, banks and other financial institutions quarterly for
providing personal service and maintaining accounts of their customers that hold
Class A shares. During the year ended September 30, 1997, OFDI paid $30,130 to
an affiliated broker/dealer as reimbursement for Class A personal service and
maintenance expenses.
25 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
=====================================================================
=========== 4. MANAGEMENT FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
(CONTINUED) The Fund has adopted Distribution and Service Plans for Class B and
Class C shares to compensate OFDI for its services and costs in distributing
Class B and
Class C shares and servicing accounts.
73
<PAGE>
Under the Plans, the Fund pays OFDI an annual asset-based sales charge of 0.75%
per year on Class B shares and Class C shares, as compensation for sales
commissions paid from its own resources at the time of sale and associated
financing costs. OFDI also receives a service fee of 0.25% per year as
compensation for costs incurred in connection with the personal service and
maintenance of accounts that hold shares of the Fund, including amounts paid to
brokers, dealers, banks and other financial institutions. Both fees are computed
on the average annual net assets of Class B and Class C shares, determined as of
the close of each regular business day. During the year ended September 30,
1997, OFDI paid $6,709 to an affiliated broker/dealer as compensation for Class
B personal service and maintenance expenses and retained $819,839 and $31,279,
respectively, as compensation for Class B and Class C sales commissions and
service fee advances, as well as financing costs. If either Plan is terminated
by the Fund, the Board of Trustees may allow the Fund to continue payments of
the asset-based sales charge to OFDI for distributing shares before the Plan was
terminated. At September 30, 1997, OFDI had incurred unreimbursed expenses of
$2,901,792 for Class B and $49,218 for Class C.
=====================================================================
=========== 5. FUTURES CONTRACTS
The Fund may buy and sell interest rate futures contracts in order to gain
exposure to or protect against changes in interest rates. The Fund may also buy
or write put or call options on these futures contracts.
The Fund generally sells futures contracts to hedge against increases
in interest rates and the resulting negative effect on the value of fixed rate
portfolio securities. The Fund may also purchase futures contracts to gain
exposure to changes in interest rates as it may be more efficient or cost
effective than actually buying fixed income securities.
Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund is required to
deposit either cash or securities (initial margin) in an amount equal to a
certain percentage of the contract value. Subsequent payments (variation margin)
are made or received by the Fund each day. The variation margin payments are
equal to the daily changes in the contract value and are recorded as unrealized
gains and losses. The Fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract
is closed or expires.
Risks of entering into futures contracts (and related options)
include the possibility that there may be an illiquid market and that a change
in the value of the contract or option may not correlate with changes in the
value of the underlying securities.
26 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
=====================================================================
6. ACQUISITION OF QUEST FOR VALUE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT FUND
On November 24, 1995, Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund acquired all of the
net assets of Quest for Value New York Tax-Exempt Fund, pursuant to an Agreement
and Plan of Reorganization
74
<PAGE>
approved by the Quest for Value New York Tax-Exempt Fund shareholders on
November 16, 1995.
The Fund issued 2,350,157 Class A shares of beneficial interest, valued at
$29,517,976, in exchange
for the net assets, resulting in combined Class A net assets of $698,806,316 on
November 24, 1995. The net assets acquired included net unrealized appreciation
of $1,513,911. The exchange qualified as a tax-free reorganization for federal
income tax purposes.
=====================================================================
=========== 7. BANK BORROWINGS
The Fund may borrow from a bank for temporary or emergency purposes including,
without limitation, funding of shareholder redemptions provided asset coverage
for borrowings exceeds 300%. The Fund has entered into an agreement which
enables it to participate with other OppenheimerFunds in an unsecured line of
credit with a bank, which permits borrowings up to $400 million, collectively.
Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to
the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.35%. Borrowings are payable 30 days after such
loan is executed. The Fund also pays a commitment fee equal to its pro rata
share of the average unutilized amount of the credit facility at a rate of
0.0575% per annum.
The Fund had no borrowings outstanding during the year ended
September 30, 1997.
28 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE> FEDERAL INCOME
TAX INFORMATION (Unaudited)
=====================================================================
=========== In early 1998, shareholders will receive information regarding all
dividends and distributions paid to them by the Fund during calendar year 1997.
Regulations of the U.S. Treasury Department require the Fund to report this
information to the Internal Revenue Service.
None of the dividends paid by the Fund during the fiscal year ended
September 30, 1997 are eligible for the corporate dividend-received deduction.
The dividends were derived from interest on municipal bonds and are not subject
to federal income tax. To the extent a shareholder is subject to any state or
local tax laws, some or all of the dividends received may be taxable.
The foregoing information is presented to assist shareholders in
reporting distributions received from the Fund to the Internal Revenue Service.
Because of the complexity of the federal regulations which may affect your
individual tax return and the many variations in state and local tax
regulations, we recommend that you consult your tax advisor for specific
guidance.
29 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
=====================================================================
<S> <C> <C>
========= OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES Leon Levy, Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Donald W. Spiro, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Bridget A. Macaskill, Trustee and President Robert G. Galli,
Trustee
Benjamin Lipstein, Trustee
Elizabeth B. Moynihan, Trustee Kenneth A. Randall, Trustee
Edward V. Regan, Trustee
Russell S. Reynolds, Jr., Trustee Pauline Trigere, Trustee
Clayton K. Yeutter, Trustee
Robert E. Patterson, Vice President George C. Bowen,
Treasurer
Robert J. Bishop, Assistant Treasurer Scott T. Farrar, Assistant
Treasurer Andrew J. Donohue, Secretary
Robert G. Zack, Assistant Secretary
</TABLE>
=====================================================================
========= INVESTMENT ADVISOR OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
=====================================================================
========= DISTRIBUTOR OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
=====================================================================
========= TRANSFER AND SHAREHOLDER OppenheimerFunds Services
SERVICING AGENT
=====================================================================
========= CUSTODIAN OF Citibank, N.A.
PORTFOLIO SECURITIES
=====================================================================
75
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A
Descriptions of Ratings Categories
Municipal Bonds
|X| Moody's Investor Services, Inc. The ratings of Moody's Investors Service,
Inc. ("Moody's") for Municipal Bonds are Aaa, Aa, A, Baa, Ba, B, Caa, Ca and C.
Municipal Bonds rated "Aaa" are judged to be of the "best quality." The rating
of Aa is assigned to bonds which are of "high quality by all standards," but as
to which margins of protection or other elements make long-term risks appear
somewhat larger than "Aaa" rated Municipal Bonds. The "Aaa" and "Aa" rated bonds
comprise what are generally known as "high grade bonds." Municipal Bonds which
are rated "A" by Moody's possess many favorable investment attributes and are
considered "upper medium grade obligations." Factors giving security to
principal and interest of A rated bonds are considered adequate, but elements
may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment at some time in the
future. Municipal Bonds rated "Baa" are considered "medium grade" obligations.
They are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated "Ba" are
judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well
assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very
moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds
which are rated "B" generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment.
Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of
the contract over any long period of time may be small. Bonds which are rated
"Caa" are of poor standing. Such issues may be in default or there may be
present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest. Bonds which
are rated "Ca" represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree.
Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings. Bonds which
are rated "C" are the lowest rated class of bonds, and issues so rated can be
regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real
investment standing. Those bonds in the Aa, A, Baa, Ba and B groups which
Moody's believes possess the strongest investment attributes are designated Aa1,
A1, Baa1, Ba1 and B1 respectively.
In addition to the alphabetic rating system described above, Municipal
Bonds rated by Moody's which have a demand feature that provides the holder with
the ability to periodically tender ("put") the portion of the debt covered by
the demand feature, may also have a short-term rating assigned to such demand
feature. The short-term rating uses the symbol VMIG to distinguish
characteristics which include payment upon periodic demand rather than fund or
scheduled maturity dates and potential reliance upon external liquidity, as well
as other factors. The highest investment quality is designated by the VMIG 1
rating and the lowest by VMIG 4.
|X| Standard & Poor's Corporation. The ratings of Standard & Poor's Corporation
("S&P") for Municipal Bonds are AAA (Prime), AA (High Grade), A (Good Grade),
BBB (Medium Grade), BB, B, CCC, CC, and C (speculative grade). Bonds rated in
the top four categories (AAA, AA, A, BBB) are commonly referred to as
"investment grade." Municipal Bonds rated AAA are "obligations of the highest
quality." The rating of AA is accorded issues with investment characteristics
"only slightly
A-1
<PAGE>
less marked than those of the prime quality issues." The rating of A describes
"the third strongest capacity for payment of debt service." Principal and
interest payments on bonds in this category are regarded as safe. It differs
from the two higher ratings because, with respect to general obligations bonds,
there is some weakness, either in the local economic base, in debt burden, in
the balance between revenues and expenditures, or in quality of management.
Under certain adverse circumstances, any one such weakness might impair the
ability of the issuer to meet debt obligations at some future date. With respect
to revenue bonds, debt service coverage is good, but not exceptional. Stability
of the pledged revenues could show some variations because of increased
competition or economic influences on revenues. Basic security provisions, while
satisfactory, are less stringent. Management performance appears adequate. The
BBB rating is the lowest "investment grade" security rating. The difference
between A and BBB ratings is that the latter shows more than one fundamental
weakness, or one very substantial fundamental weakness, whereas the former shows
only one deficiency among the factors considered. With respect to revenue bonds,
debt coverage is only fair. Stability of the pledged revenues could show
variations, with the revenue flow possibly being subject to erosion over time.
Basic security provisions are no more than adequate. Management performance
could be stronger. Bonds rated "BB" have less near-term vulnerability to default
than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or
exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which would lead
to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. Bonds
rated "B" have a greater vulnerability to default, but currently has the
capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business,
financial, or economic conditions will likely impair capacity or willingness to
pay interest and repay principal. Bonds rated "CCC" have a current identifiable
vulnerability to default, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial,
and economic conditions to meet timely payment of interest and repayment of
principal. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions,
it is not likely to have the capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Bonds
noted "CC" typically are debt subordinated to senior debt which is assigned on
actual or implied "CCC" debt ratingBonds rated "C" typically are debt
subordinated to senior debt which is assigned an actual or implied "CCC-" debt
rating. The "C" rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy
petition has been filed, but debt service payments are continued. Bonds rated
"D" are in payment default. The "D" rating category is used when interest
payments or principal payments are not made on the date due even if the
applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P believes that such payments
will be made during the grace period. The "D" rating also will be used upon the
filing of a bankruptcy petition if debt service payments are jeopardized.
The ratings from AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus
sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
|X| Fitch. The ratings of Fitch Investors Service, Inc. for Municipal Bonds are
AAA, AA, A, BBB, BB, B, CCC, CC, C, DDD, DD, and D. Municipal Bonds rated AAA
are judged to be of the "highest credit quality." The rating of AA is assigned
to bonds of "very high credit quality." Municipal Bonds which are rated A by
Fitch are considered to be of "high credit quality." The rating of BBB is
assigned to bonds of "satisfactory credit quality." The A and BBB rated bonds
are more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions than bonds with
higher ratings. Bonds rated AAA, AA, A and BBB are considered to be of
investment grade quality. Bonds rated below BBB are considered to be of
speculative quality. The ratings of "BB" is assigned to bonds considered by
Fitch to be "speculative." The rating of "B" is assigned to bonds considered by
Fitch to be "highly
A-2
<PAGE>
speculative." Bonds rated "CCC" have certain identifiable characteristics which,
if not remedied, may lead to default. Bonds rated "CC" are minimally protected.
Default in payment of interest and/or principal seems probable over time. Bonds
rated "C" are in imminent default in payment of interest or principal. Bonds
rated "DDD", "DD" and "D" are in default on interest and/or principal payments.
DDD represents the highest potential for recovery on these bonds, and D
represents the lowest potential for recovery.
o Duff & Phelps. The ratings of Duff & Phelps are as follows: AAA which are
judged to be the "highest credit quality". The risk factors are negligible,
being only slightly more than for risk-free US Treasury debt. AA+, AA & AA- High
credit quality protection factors are strong. Risk is modest but may vary
slightly from time to time because of economic conditions. A+, A & A-Protection
factors are average but adequate. However, risk factors are more variable and
greater in periods of economic stress. BBB+, BBB & BBB- Below average protection
factors but still considered sufficient for prudent investment. Considerable
variability in risk during economic cycles. BB+, BB & BB- Below investment grade
but deemed to meet obligations when due. Present or prospective financial
protection factors fluctuate according to industry conditions or company
fortunes. Overall quality may move up or down frequently within the category.
B+, B & B- Below investment grade and possessing risk that obligations will not
be met when due. Financial protection factors will fluctuate widely according to
economic cycles, industry conditions and/or company fortunes. Potential exists
for frequent changes in the rating within this category or into a higher of
lower rating grade. CCC Well below investment grade securities. Considerable
uncertainty exists as to timely payment of principal interest or preferred
dividends. Protection factors are narrow and risk can be substantial with
unfavorable economic industry conditions, and/or with unfavorable company
developments. DD Defaulted debt obligations issuer failed to meet scheduled
principal and/or interest payments. DP Preferred stock with dividend averages.
Municipal Notes
|X| Moody's ratings for state and municipal notes and other short-term
loans are designated Moody's Investment Grade ("MIG"). Notes bearing the
designation MIG-1 are of the best quality, enjoying strong protection from
established cash flows of funds for their servicing or from established and
broad-based access to the market for financing. Notes bearing the designation
"MIG-2" are of high quality with ample margins of protection, although not as
large as notes rated "MIG." Such short-term notes which have demand features may
also carry a rating using the symbol VMIG as described above, with the
designation MIG-1/VMIG 1 denoting best quality, with superior liquidity support
in addition to those characteristics attributable to the designation MIG-1.
|X| S&P's rating for Municipal Notes due in three years or less are SP-1,
SP-2, and SP-3. SP-1 describes issues with a very strong capacity to pay
principal and interest and compares with bonds rated A by S&P; if modified by a
plus sign, it compares with bonds rated AA or AAA by S&P. SP-2 describes issues
with a satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, and compares with
bonds rated BBB by S&P. SP-3 describes issues that have a speculative capacity
to pay principal and interest.
|X| Fitch's rating for Municipal Notes due in three years or less are
F-1+, F-1, F-2, F-3, F-S and D. F-1+ describes notes with an exceptionally
strong credit quality and the strongest degree of
A-3
<PAGE>
assurance for timely payment. F-1 describes notes with a very strong credit
quality and assurance of timely payment is only slightly less in degree than
issues rated F-1+. F-2 describes notes with a good credit quality and a
satisfactory assurance of timely payment, but the margin of safety is not as
great for issues assigned F-1+ or F-1 ratings. F-3 describes notes with a fair
credit quality and an adequate assurance of timely payment, but near-term
adverse changes could cause such securities to be rated below investment grade.
F-S describes notes with weak credit quality. Issues rated D are in actual or
imminent payment default.
Corporate Debt
The "other debt securities" included in the definition of temporary
investments are corporate (as opposed to municipal) debt obligations. The
Moody's, S&P and Fitch corporate debt ratings shown do not differ materially
from those set forth above for Municipal Bonds.
Commercial Paper
|X| Moody's The ratings of commercial paper by Moody's are Prime-1,
Prime-2, Prime-3 and Not Prime. Issuers rated Prime-1 have a superior capacity
for repayment of short-term promissory obligations. Issuers rated Prime-2 have a
strong capacity for repayment of short-term promissory obligations. Issuers
rated Prime-3 have an acceptable capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations. Issuers rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating
categories.
|X| S&P The ratings of commercial paper by S&P are A-1, A-2, A-3, B, C,
and D. A-1 indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is
strong. A-2 indicates capacity for timely payment is satisfactory. However, the
relative degree of safety is not as high as for issues designated A-1. A-3
indicates an adequate capacity for timely payments. They are, however, more
vulnerable to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances than obligations
carrying the higher designations. B indicates only speculative capacity for
timely payment. C indicates a doubtful capacity for paymeD is assigned to issues
in default.
|X| Fitch The ratings of commercial paper by Fitch are similar to its
ratings of Municipal Notes, above.
A-4
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
TAX EQUIVALENT YIELD TABLES
The equivalent yield tables below compare tax-free income with taxable income
under Federal, New York State and New York City income tax rates effective
September 30, 1997. Combined taxable income refers to the net amount subject to
Federal, New York State and New York City income tax after deductions and
exemptions. The tables assume that an investor's highest tax bracket applies to
the change in taxable income resulting from a switch between taxable and
non-taxable investments, that the investor is not subject to the Alternative
Minimum Tax and that New York State and local income tax payments are fully
deductible for Federal income tax purposes. They do not reflect the phaseout of
itemized deductions and personal exemptions at higher income levels, resulting
in higher effective tax rates and tax equivalent yields.
New York State Residents
Federal Effective A tax-exempt yield of:
Taxable Tax
Income Bracket Is Approximately Equivalent To a
Taxable Yield of:
JOINT RETURN
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Over Not over Federal NYS Combined2.00% 2.50% 3.00% 3.50% 3.74% 3.75%
- ---- -------- ------- --- --------
$ 22,000 $ 26,000 15.00% 5.25% 19.46% 2.48% 3.10% 3.72% 4.35% 4.64% 4.66%
$ 26,000 $ 40,000 15.00% 5.90% 20.01% 2.50% 3.13% 3.75% 4.38% 4.68% 4.69%
$ 40,000 $ 41,200 15.00% 6.85% 20.82% 2.53% 3.16% 3.79% 4.42% 4.72% 4.74%
$ 41,200 $ 99,600 28.00% 6.85% 32.93% 2.98% 3.73% 4.47% 5.22% 5.58% 5.59%
$ 99,600 $151,750 31.00% 6.85% 35.73% 3.11% 3.89% 4.67% 5.45% 5.82% 5.83%
$151,750 $271,050 36.00% 6.85% 40.38% 3.35% 4.19% 5.03% 5.87% 6.27% 6.29%
$271,050 and above 39.60% 6.85% 43.74% 3.55% 4.44% 5.33% 6.22% 6.65% 6.87%
4.00% 4.29% 4.50% 5.00% 5.50% 6.00% 6.50%
4.97% 5.33% 5.59% 6.21% 6.83% 7.45% 8.07%
5.00% 5.36% 5.63% 6.25% 6.88% 7.50% 8.13%
5.05% 5.42% 5.68% 6.31% 6.95% 7.58% 8.21%
5.96% 6.40% 6.71% 7.46% 8.20% 8.95% 9.69%
6.22% 6.67% 7.00% 7.78% 8.56% 9.34% 10.11%
6.71% 7.20% 7.55% 8.39% 9.23% 10.06% 10.90%
7.11% 7.62% 8.00% 8.89% 9.78% 10.66% 11.56%
SINGLE RETURN
Over Not over Federal NYS Combined2.00% 2.50% 3.00% 3.50% 3.74% 3.75%
- ---- -------- ------- --- --------
$20,000 $ 24,650 15.00% 6.85% 20.82% 2.53% 3.16% 3.79% 4.42% 4.72% 4.74%
$ 24,650 $ 59,750 28.00% 6.85% 32.93% 2.98% 3.73% 4.47% 5.22% 5.58% 5.59%
$ 59,750 $124,650 31.00% 6.85% 35.73% 3.11% 3.89% 4.67% 5.45% 5.82% 5.83%
$124,650 $271,050 36.00% 6.85% 40.38% 3.35% 4.19% 5.03% 5.87% 6.27% 6.29%
$271,050 and above 39.60% 6.85% 43.74% 3.55% 4.44% 5.33% 6.22% 6.65% 6.67%
B-1
<PAGE>
4.00% 4.29% 4.50% 5.00% 5.50% 6.00% 6.50%
5.05% 5.42% 5.68% 6.31% 6.95% 7.58% 8.21%
5.96% 6.40% 6.71% 7.46% 8.20% 8.95% 9.69%
6.22% 6.67% 7.00% 7.78% 8.56% 9.34% 10.11%
6.71% 7.20% 7.55% 8.39% 9.23% 10.06% 10.90%
7.11% 7.62% 8.00% 8.89% 9.78% 10.66% 11.55%
New York City Residents
Federal Effective A tax-exempt yield of:
Taxable Tax
Income Bracket Is Approximately Equivalent To a Taxable Yield of:
JOINT RETURN
Over Not over Federal NYC Combined2.00% 2.50% 3.00% 3.50% 3.74% 3.75%
- ---- -------- ------- --- --------
$ 26,000 $ 40,000 15.00% 3.76% 23.21% 2.60% 3.26% 3.91% 4.56% 4.87% 4.88%
$ 40,000 $ 41,200 15.00% 3.76% 24.02% 2.63% 3.29% 3.95% 4.61% 4.92% 4.94%
$ 41,200 $ 45,000 28.00% 3.76% 35.64% 3.11% 3.88% 4.66% 5.44% 5.81% 5.83%
$ 45,000 $ 90,000 28.00% 3.82% 35.68% 3.11% 3.89% 4.66% 5.44% 5.81% 5.83%
$ 90,000 $ 99,600 28.00% 3.88% 35.73% 3.11% 3.89% 4.67% 5.45% 5.82% 5.83%
$ 99,600 $108,000 31.00% 3.88% 38.40% 3.25% 4.06% 4.87% 5.68% 6.07% 6.09%
$108,000 $151,750 31.00% 3.88% 38.40% 3.25% 4.06% 4.87% 5.68% 6.07% 6.09%
$151,750 $271,050 36.00% 3.88% 42.87% 3.50% 4.38% 5.25% 6.13% 6.55% 6.56%
$271,050 and above 39.60% 3.88% 46.06% 3.71% 4.64% 5.56% 6.49% 6.94% 6.95%
4.00% 4.29% 4.50% 5.00% 5.50% 6.00% 6.50%
5.21% 5.59% 5.86% 6.51% 7.16% 7.81% 8.46%
5.26% 5.65% 5.92% 6.58% 7.24% 7.90% 8.55%
6.21% 6.67% 6.99% 7.77% 8.55% 9.32% 10.10%
6.22% 6.67% 7.00% 7.77% 8.55% 9.33% 10.11%
6.22% 6.67% 7.00% 7.78% 8.56% 9.33% 10.11%
6.49% 6.96% 7.31% 8.12% 8.93% 9.74% 10.55%
6.49% 6.96% 7.31% 8.12% 8.93% 9.74% 10.55%
7.00% 7.51% 7.88% 8.75% 9.63% 10.50% 11.38%
7.42% 7.96% 8.35% 9.27% 10.20% 11.13% 12.06%
SINGLE RETURN
Over Not over Federal NYC Combined2.00% 2.50% 3.00% 3.50% 3.74% 3.75%
- ---- -------- ------- --- --------
$ 20,000 $ 24,650 15.0% 3.76% 24.02% 2.63% 3.29% 3.95% 4.61% 4.92% 4.94%
$ 24,650 $ 25,000 28.0% 3.76% 35.64% 3.11% 3.88% 4.66% 5.44% 5.81% 5.83%
$ 25,000 $ 50,000 28.0% 3.82% 35.68% 3.11% 3.89% 4.66% 5.44% 5.81% 5.83%
$ 50,000 $ 59,750 28.0% 3.88% 35.73% 3.11% 3.89% 4.87% 5.45% 5.82% 5.83%
$ 59,750 $124,650 31.0% 3.88% 38.40% 3.25% 4.06% 4.87% 5.68% 6.07% 6.09%
$124,650 $271,050 36.0% 3.88% 42.87% 3.60% 4.38% 5.25% 6.13% 6.55% 6.56%
$271,050 and above 39.6% 3.88% 46.08% 3.71% 4.64% 5.56% 6.49% 6.94% 6.95%
4.00% 4.29% 4.50% 5.00% 5.50% 6.00% 6.50%
B-2
<PAGE>
5.26% 5.65% 5.92% 6.58% 7.24% 7.90% 8.55%
6.21% 6.67% 6.99% 7.77% 8.55% 9.32% 10.10%
6.22% 6.67% 7.00% 7.77% 8.55% 9.33% 10.11%
6.22% 6.67% 7.00% 7.78% 8.56% 9.33% 10.11%
6.49% 6.96% 7.31% 8.12% 8.93% 9.74% 10.55%
7.00% 7.51% 7.88% 8.75% 9.63% 10.50% 11.38%
7.42% 7.96% 8.35% 9.27% 10.20% 11.13% 12.06%
</TABLE>
B-3
<PAGE>
Appendix C
Municipal Bond Industry Classifications
Electric
Gas
Water
Sewer
Telephone
Adult Living Facilities
Hospital
General Obligation
Special Assessment
Sales Tax
Manufacturing, Non Durables
Manufacturing, Durables
Pollution Control
Resource Recovery
Higher Education
Education
Lease Rental
Non Profit Organization
Highways
Marine/Aviation Facilities
Multi Family Housing
Single Family Housing
C-1
<PAGE>
Investment Advisor
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Two World Trade Center
New York, New York 10048-0203
Distributor
OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
Two World Trade Center
New York, New York 10048-0203
Transfer and Shareholder Servicing Agent
OppenheimerFunds Services
P.O. Box 5270
Denver, Colorado 80217
1-800-525-7048
Custodian of Portfolio Securities
Citibank, N.A.
399 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10043
Independent Auditors
KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
707 Seventeenth Street
Denver, Colorado 80202
Legal Counsel
Gordon Altman Butowsky Weitzen
Shalov & Wein
114 West 47th Street
New York, New York 10036
<PAGE>
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
Supplement dated May 15, 1998 to the Statement of Additional
Information dated January 12, 1998
The Statement of Additional Information is changed as follows effective June 1,
1998:
The third sentence of the fifth paragraph in the section entitled "How
To Exchange Shares" on page 48 is revised to read as follows:
However, if you redeem Class A shares of the Fund that were acquired
by exchange of Class A shares of other Oppenheimer funds purchased
subject to a Class A contingent deferred sales charge within 18 months
of the end of the calendar month of the purchase of the exchanged
Class A shares, the Class A contingent deferred sales charge is
imposed on the redeemed shares (see "Class A Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge" in the Prospectus). (A different holding period may apply to
shares purchased prior to June 1, 1998).
May 15, 1998 SAI360.004
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
ANNUAL REPORT SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
OPPENHEIMER
New York Municipal Fund
[PHOTO]
[OPPENHEIMERFUNDS LOGO]
THE RIGHT WAY TO INVEST
<PAGE>
CONTENTS
3 President's Letter
4 Fund Performance
6 An Interview with the Fund's Managers
9 Statement of Investments
16 Statement of Assets & Liabilities
18 Statement of Operations
19 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
20 Financial Highlights
22 Notes to Financial Statements
28 Independent Auditors' Report
<PAGE>
29 Federal Income Tax Information
30 Officers & Trustees
32 Information & Services
REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- - IN NEW YORK, we concentrated on those issuers whose prospects have improved
with the state's economic climate. These included issuers of state appropriation
bonds--bonds connected with the annual state budget--such as bonds issued by the
city and state universities.
- - IMPROVING ECONOMIC CONDITIONS throughout New York led us to find creditworthy
investments in virtually all areas of the state.
- - WE FOCUSED ON HIGHER-QUALITY BONDS, because investors weren't being
compensated for taking higher risks associated with lower-rated bonds.
AVG ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS For the 1-year period ended 9/30/97 without sales
charges(1)
CLASS A
8.78%
CLASS B
7.97%
CLASS C
7.95%
Total returns include changes in share price and reinvestment of dividends and
capital gains distributions in a hypothetical investment for the periods shown.
IN REVIEWING PERFORMANCE AND RANKINGS, PLEASE REMEMBER THAT PAST PERFORMANCE
DOES NOT GUARANTEE FUTURE RESULTS. INVESTMENT RETURN AND PRINCIPAL VALUE OF AN
INVESTMENT IN THE FUND WILL
<PAGE>
FLUCTUATE SO THAT AN INVESTOR'S SHARES, WHEN REDEEMED, MAY BE WORTH MORE OR LESS
THAN THE ORIGINAL COST. 1. Includes changes in net asset value per share without
deducting any sales charges. Such performance would have been lower if sales
charges were taken into account.
2 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
[PHOTO]
BRIDGET A. MACASKILL
President
Oppenheimer New York
Municipal Fund
DEAR SHAREHOLDER,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As you are no doubt aware, during the end of October and early November many
stock markets around the world recorded their all-time largest point declines,
followed by subsequent gains and continued volatility, leaving investors
uncertain about what would occur next.
To put those events in focus, let's look at a "snapshot" of the two-week
time period. Sharp declines in the overseas stock markets, particularly in Asia,
triggered a series of sell-offs throughout Europe, Latin America and the United
States. In response, the U.S. stock market, as measured by the Dow Jones
Industrial Average, dropped 554 points on October 27, its largest point decline
in history. However, almost as quickly, the U.S. stock market bounced back over
the succeeding few days, regaining nearly all of its losses.
While no one could have predicted the timing or extent of these
fluctuations, many analysts, including our fund managers here at
OppenheimerFunds, had warned of a correction for several months. We believed
that U.S. valuations were too high, stocks were expensive relative to bonds,
recent corporate earnings were somewhat disappointing and that Federal Reserve
Chairman Alan Greenspan could possibly seek a short-term interest rate hike.
As a result, when October 27 arrived, our equity funds held above-average
cash positions relative to many of our competitors. Not only did our higher cash
levels serve as a protection,
<PAGE>
they also enabled us to buy the stocks of numerous excellent companies that were
selling at more reasonable prices. In addition, our international and global
funds were not as impacted because they weren't heavily invested in Southeast
Asia and Japan. Finally, on the fixed-income side, our bond funds were generally
characterized by longer-than-normal durations, which allowed us to lock in
higher yields.
In conclusion, many of our funds experienced relatively strong performance
during the October-November market shake-ups. We'd like to take this opportunity
to remind shareholders that stock market volatility is a normal and expected
part of the business cycle. As Alan Greenspan suggested, in years to come this
period will likely be remembered as a positive change for a market that was
growing too quickly.
For frequent market updates, please visit our website at
WWW.OPPENHEIMERFUNDS.COM or call 1-800-835-3104 to listen to our recorded
messages. In the meantime, thank you for your confidence in OppenheimerFunds,
The Right Way to Invest. We look forward to helping you reach your investment
goals in the future.
Sincerely,
/s/ BRIDGET A. MACASKILL
Bridget A. Macaskill
November 7, 1997
3 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
AVG ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the Period Ended 9/30/97(1)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<PAGE>
CLASS A
1 year 5 year 10 year
<S> <C> <C>
3.62% 5.56% 7.52%
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS B
Since
1 year 5 year Inception
<S> <C> <C>
2.97% N/A 4.40%
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS C
Since
1 year 5 year Inception
<S> <C> <C>
6.95% N/A 7.06%
</TABLE>
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
For the Period Ended 9/30/97(1)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
5 year
<S> <C>
31.06% $13,106(4)
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PERFORMANCE UPDATE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund has performed very well over the past twelve
months, outperforming many of its competitors. The Fund's positive returns can
largely be attributed to successful management of the portfolio's average
duration, as well as focusing on those states and municipalities whose bonds
offered the most competitive income and best values.(3)
GROWTH OF $10,000
Over 5 years
(without sales charges)(4)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Lehman Brothers Oppenheimer NY Municipal Fund Municipal Bond Index
Class A Shares
<S> <C>
9/30/92 10000 10000
10181.8 10221.5
10559.6 10599.9
10905.1 10966.3
11273.5 11421.5
11431.7 11563.3
10804.2 10842.9
10923.8 10841.1
10998.5 10784.6
10840.6 10540.8
11607 11372.1
11887.4 11612.9
12229.3 11822.2
12733.6 12402.9
12580 12255.1
12676.5 12307.2
12968.3 12610.5
13298.8 12917.4
13267.8 12885.9
13725.2 13370.1
<PAGE>
9/30/97 14139.1 13721.7
</TABLE>
1. Total returns include changes in share price and reinvestment of dividends
and capital gains distributions in a hypothetical investment for the periods
shown. Class A returns include the current maximum initial sales charge of
4.75%. Class A shares were first publicly offered on 8/16/84. The Fund's maximum
sales charge for Class A shares was lower prior to 1/31/86, so actual
performance may have been higher. Class B returns include the applicable
contingent deferred sales charge of 5% (1-year) and 2% (since inception on
3/1/93). Class C returns for the 1-year result include the contingent deferred
sales charge of 1%. Class C shares have an inception date of 8/29/95. An
explanation of the different performance calculations is in the Fund's
prospectus. Class B and C shares are subject to an annual 0.75% asset-based
sales charge and 0.25% distribution fee, and Class A shares are subject to an
annual asset-based sales charge not to exceed 0.25%.
4 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STANDARDIZED YIELDS (2)
For the 30 Days Ended 9/30/97
CLASS A
4.29%
CLASS B
3.74%
CLASS C
3.75%
CREDIT ALLOCATION (5)
<TABLE>
<PAGE>
<S> <C>
AAA 45.57%
AA 4.42
A 23.24
BBB 17.47
BB 4.27
Not Rated 5.03
</TABLE>
PORTFOLIO REVIEW
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund is for investors looking for income that's
exempt from New York State, New York City and federal income taxes. WHAT WE LOOK
FOR
- - Issues that provide high TRIPLE TAX-FREE INCOME.
- - Value-oriented issues with PRICE APPRECIATION POTENTIAL.
- - A DIVERSITY OF ISSUES across the state.
- - Municipal regions with IMPROVING CREDIT QUALITY.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOP 5 SECTORS(5)
...............................................
<S> <C>
Higher Education 16.8%
...............................................
General Obligation 13.4
...............................................
Highways 11.7
...............................................
Hospitals/Healthcare 8.6
...............................................
Sales Tax 4.8
...............................................
<PAGE>
</TABLE>
2. Standardized yield is based on net investment income for the 30-day period
ended 9/30/97. Falling net asset values will tend to artificially raise-yields.
3. Duration is a measure of the portfolio's sensitivity to interest rates. 4.
Results of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in Class A shares on September 30,
1992. The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index includes a broad range index of
municipal bonds. It is an unmanaged index, including reinvestment of income, and
cannot be purchased directly by investors.
5. Portfolio data are as of 9/30/97, and are subject to change. Portfolio data
are dollar-weighted based on total market value of investments. Securities rated
by any rating organization are included in the equivalent Standard & Poor's
rating category. Average credit quality and allocation include rated securities
and those not rated by a national rating organization (currently 5.03% of total
investments) but to which the ratings given above have been assigned by the
Manager for internal purposes as being comparable, in the Manager's judgment, to
securities rated by a rating agency in the same category.
5 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
"WE'VE HAD A VERY POSITIVE VIEW ON INFLATION RECENTLY."
AN INTERVIEW WITH YOUR FUND'S MANAGERS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOW HAS THE FUND PERFORMED OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS?
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund's Class A shares have provided an average
annual total return of 8.78%, without sales charges, for the one-year period
ended September 30, 1997.(1)
<PAGE>
WHAT INFLUENCES AND EVENTS HAD THE GREATEST EFFECT ON THE
TAX-EXEMPT MARKET?
Yields on New York's municipal bonds generally followed the trends established
over the past 12 months by the general municipal bond market. In turn,
tax-exempt bonds largely tracked the movements of taxable bonds, such as U.S.
Treasury securities. However, during the 12-month period, taxable and tax-exempt
bond markets experienced a relatively high level of volatility. Bond yields rose
and fell with investors' changing outlooks for economic growth, inflation and
federal monetary policy. When the economy appeared to be growing quickly,
investors became concerned about a resurgence of inflation and a more
restrictive monetary policy. During April, long-term interest rates peaked, then
declined by the end of July to the lowest rates during the period. When the
economy appeared to be slowing, investors seemed confident that inflation would
not be a problem.
HOW DID YOU MANAGE THE FUND IN THIS ENVIRONMENT?
We continued to follow the time-tested investment strategies we have used for
years. Regardless of market conditions, we prefer to keep our shareholders'
assets fully invested in a diversified portfolio of good-quality securities that
provide competitive levels of income and attractive relative values.
1. Includes changes in net asset value per share without deducting any sales
charges. Such performance would have been lower if sales charges were taken into
account.
6 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
[PHOTO]
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
TEAM (L TO R)
Jerry Webman
Robert Patterson
(Fund Manager)
Within that fully invested position, we attempt to boost returns and reduce
risks.
<PAGE>
One of the ways we do this is by actively managing the portfolio's
average duration--a measure of the portfolio's sensitivity to changes in
interest rates. By changing the portfolio's average duration relative to the
Fund's investment benchmark, we have been able to benefit when interest rates
are falling and protect ourselves when rates rise. For example, we've had a very
positive view on inflation recently, and that's caused us to keep the
portfolio's average duration relatively long in order to benefit from declining
interest rates. When interest rates were rising, we tried to keep our average
duration relatively short, and that helped us capture higher yields as they
became available.
WHAT MARKET SECTORS DID YOU FIND ATTRACTIVE, AND WHICH DID YOU AVOID? We've
concentrated on issuers whose prospects have improved with the economic climate
in New York. These include issuers of state appropriation bonds--bonds connected
with the annual state budget--such as bonds issued by the city and state
universities. We have increased our position in New York City bonds because of
the city's strengthening fiscal condition. On the other hand, we have been
cautious about bonds in the hospital sector. We see few opportunities for credit
improvement there because most hospital bonds in New York are insured. We've
also tended to avoid the smaller municipalities in New York.
7 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
"BY CHANGING THE FUND'S AVERAGE DURATION, WE BENEFITED WHEN
INTEREST RATES WERE FALLING AND PROTECTED OURSELVES WHEN RATES
WERE RISING."
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AN INTERVIEW WITH YOUR FUND'S MANAGERS
These smaller jurisdictions may be put under pressure as the state and federal
governments shift expenses for mandatory programs to localities, making it more
difficult for smaller municipalities to meet their obligations.
In addition, we have found attractive opportunities outside New York
State. For example, we've invested approximately 15% of the portfolio in Puerto
Rico bonds, which gives the Fund the benefits of broader diversification.
Municipal bonds from U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico are exempt from New
York state and local taxes.
WHAT IS YOUR OUTLOOK FOR THE NEW YORK MUNICIPAL BOND MARKET?
We are cautiously optimistic. Our optimism is rooted in the U.S. economy, which
is in its
<PAGE>
eighth year of expansion. This economy is unusual because it has been
characterized by moderate growth without an acceleration of inflation. As long
as inflationary pressures remain benign, our outlook for interest rates and the
bond market should be positive. On the other hand, we are tempering our optimism
with caution because no market or economy moves in a straight line. In our view,
the risk for the foreseeable future is that the economy will grow faster than is
currently expected, causing inflation fears to surface among bond investors.
While we do not expect these fears to persist, they may cause volatility over
the short term. Therefore, we intend to remain vigilant when it comes to
protecting our shareholders from the brunt of market declines, while enabling
them to participate in the bulk of the market's gains.
8 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS September 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS:
MOODY'S/ S&P/FITCH FACE
MARKET VALUE (UNAUDITED)
AMOUNT SEE NOTE 1
================================================================
================================================ <S>
<C> <C> <C> MUNICIPAL BONDS AND
NOTES--98.7%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NEW YORK--84.0%
Battery Park City, NY RB, Series A,
AMBAC Insured, 5.50%, 11/1/16 Aaa/AAA $ 5,000,000
$ 5,078,600
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Buffalo, NY GOB, Series E, AMBAC
Insured, 6.65%, 12/1/13 Aaa/AAA/AAA 500,000
566,215
<PAGE>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Grand Central District Management Assn., Inc.
NY Business District Capital Improvement RRB:
5.125%, 1/1/14 A1/A 1,000,000 973,570
5.25%, 1/1/22 A1/A 2,500,000 2,426,400
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NY MTAU RB, Transportation Facilities Service
Contracts, Series 3, 7.375%, 7/1/08 Baa1/BBB+ 250,000
292,525
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NY MTAU RRB, Commuter Facilities Project,
Series B, MBIA Insured, 6.25%, 7/1/17 Aaa/AAA 350,000
386,102
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NY TBTAU GP RB, Series X, 6%, 1/1/14 Aa /A+ 14,510,000
15,097,800
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NY TBTAU GP RRB:
Series A, 5%, 1/1/12 Aa/A+ 15,755,000
15,532,854 Series A, 5%, 1/1/15 Aa/A+ 7,500,000
7,296,600 Series B, 5%, 1/1/20 Aa/A+ 500,000
486,865 Series Y, 5.50%, 1/1/17 Aa/A+ 15,000,000
15,588,450
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NY TBTAU SPO RRB, Series A,
MBIA Insured, 6.625%, 1/1/17 Aaa/AAA 500,000
542,170
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NY United Nations Development Corp. RRB:
Sr. Lien, Series B, 5.60%, 7/1/26 A2/NR/A 1,500,000
1,493,475 Sub. Lien, Series C, 5.60%, 7/1/26 A3/NR/A- 3,000,000
2,982,720
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NYC GOB:
Inverse Floater, 6.98%, 8/1/08(1) Baa1/BBB+ 8,250,000
8,765,625 Inverse Floater, 8.11%, 8/1/13(1) Baa1/BBB+ 5,000,000
5,418,750 Inverse Floater, 8.11%, 8/1/14(1) Baa1/BBB+
8,150,000 8,832,562 Prerefunded, Series D, 8%, 8/1/03 Aaa/BBB+/A-
<PAGE>
545,000 625,954 Prerefunded, Series F, 8.25%, 11/15/17
Aaa/BBB+ 7,820,000 9,125,158 Series B, 8.25%, 6/1/07
Baa1/BBB+ 1,750,000 2,177,122 Series B, FSA Insured, Inverse
Floater,
6.97%, 10/1/07(1) Aaa/AAA 7,500,000
7,935,150 Series H, 6.125%, 8/1/25 Baa1/BBB+/A- 6,000,000
6,258,840 Series M, AMBAC Insured, 7.50%, 6/1/07 Aaa/AAA 7,680,000
9,308,237 Unrefunded Balance, Series A, 7.75%, 3/15/03
Baa1/BBB+/A- 150,000 162,963 Unrefunded Balance, Series A, 7.75%,
8/15/16 Baa1/BBB+ 157,500 176,537 Unrefunded Balance,
Series F, 8.25%, 11/15/17 Baa1/BBB+ 680,000 779,035
Unrefunded Balance, Subseries C-1, 7.50%, 8/1/20 Baa1/BBB+/A- 125,000
141,354
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NYC GORB:
Series B, MBIA Insured, 6.20%, 8/15/06 Aaa/AAA 3,500,000
3,880,905 Series D, MBIA Insured, 5.75%, 8/1/05 Aaa/AAA
450,000 481,608 Unrefunded Balance, Series F, 7.625%, 2/1/14
Baa1/BBB+/A- 25,000 27,913
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- NYC HDC MH RB:
Glenn Gardens Project, 6.50%, 1/15/18 NR/NR 2,896,196
2,981,837 </TABLE>
9 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS:
MOODY'S/ S&P/FITCH FACE
<PAGE>
MARKET VALUE (UNAUDITED)
AMOUNT SEE NOTE 1
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- <S> <C> <C> <C>
NEW YORK (CONTINUED)
NYC HDC MH RB:(continued)
Keith Plaza Project, 6.50%, 2/15/18 NR/NR $ 1,913,624 $
1,970,383 Series A, 5.625%, 5/1/12 Aa2/AA 4,500,000
4,609,755
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYC Health & Hospital Corp. RRB,
AMBAC Insured, Inverse Floater,
7.24%, 2/15/23(1) Aaa/AAA/AAA 8,300,000
8,351,875
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYC IDA SPF RB:
Northwest Airlines, Inc., 6%, 6/1/27 Ba2/BB 6,700,000
6,860,398 United Air Lines, Inc. Project, 5.65%, 10/1/32 Baa3/BB+
5,585,000 5,580,755
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYC IDAU Civil Facility RB:
Community Resources Development,
7.50%, 8/1/26 NR/NR 3,500,000 3,660,125
USTA National Tennis Center Project,
FSA Insured, 6.375%, 11/15/14 Aaa/AAA 1,500,000
1,649,055 YMCA Greater NY Project, 5.80%, 8/1/16 Baa3/NR/BBB
2,470,000 2,514,089 YMCA Greater NY Project,
Prerefunded, 8%, 8/1/16 Aaa/NR/BBB 3,950,000
4,550,558
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYC IDAU RB, VISY Paper, Inc. Project:
7.80%, 1/1/16 NR/NR 6,800,000 7,660,608
7.95%, 1/1/28 NR/NR 6,250,000 7,079,375
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYC IDAU SPF RB, Terminal One
Group Assn. Project:
6%, 1/1/15 A/A/A- 6,000,000 6,248,760
6.125%, 1/1/24 A/A/A- 3,000,000 3,132,840
<PAGE>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYC MWFAU WSS RB:
Prerefunded, Series C, 7.75%, 6/15/20 Aaa/A- 17,250,000
19,594,275 Unrefunded Balance, Series B, 6.375%, 6/15/22 A2/A-/A
6,625,000 7,284,254
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYC MWFAU WSS RRB:
Series A-1994, 7.10%, 6/15/12 A2/A- 275,000
303,460 Unrefunded Balance, 6.75%, 6/15/17 A2/A- 2,480,000
2,671,828
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------- NYS DA RB:
City University-Third General Resolution,
Series 2, MBIA Insured, 6.875%, 7/1/14 Aaa/AAA/A- 500,000
569,875 Prerefunded, Series A, 7.625%, 7/1/20 Aaa/BBB
12,000,000 13,322,400 CUS, Prerefunded, Series F, 7.875%, 7/1/07
Aaa/BBB+ 7,000,000 7,816,550 Ithaca College, AMBAC Insured, 5.25%,
7/1/26 Aaa/AAA 5,750,000 5,632,527 Judicial Facilities Lease,
Escrowed to Maturity,
MBIA Insured, 7.375%, 7/1/16 Aaa/AAA 2,300,000
2,849,033 Mental Health Facilities Project, AMBAC
Insured, 5.25%, 2/15/18 Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,400,000
9,237,850 Pooled Capital Program, Partially Prerefunded,
FGIC Insured, 7.80%, 12/1/05 Aaa/AAA/AAA 6,105,000
6,489,371 Rockefeller University, MBIA Insured,
7.375%, 7/1/14 Aaa/AAA 4,000,000
4,186,880 Rosalind & Joseph Nursing Home,
AMBAC Insured, 5.70%, 2/1/37 Aaa/AAA 2,000,000
2,023,140 </TABLE>
10 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS:
<PAGE>
MOODY'S/ S&P/FITCH FACE
MARKET VALUE (UNAUDITED) AMOUNT
SEE NOTE 1
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ <S> <C> <C> <C> NEW
YORK (CONTINUED)
NYS DA RRB:
CUS, Second Series A, 5.75%, 7/1/18 Baa1/BBB+ $ 6,750,000
$ 7,067,993 CUS, Series B, 6%, 7/1/14 Baa1/BBB+
10,875,000 11,724,881 CUS, Series B, FGIC Insured, 9%, 7/1/00
Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,100,000 2,364,474 Episcopal Health Services, Inc., 5.85%,
8/1/13 NR/AAA 500,000 526,905 Fordham University, FGIC
Insured, 5.75%, 7/1/15 Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,100,000 9,473,464 St.
Joseph's Hospital Health Center,
MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA 5,035,000
4,947,139 St. Vincent's Hospital, 7.375%, 8/1/11 Aa2/AAA 150,000
167,951 SUEFS, Prerefunded, Series A, 7.70%, 5/15/12 Aaa/BBB+/A
9,000,000 9,972,900 SUEFS, Series A, 5.25%, 5/15/15
Baa1/BBB+ 23,090,000 22,827,005 SUEFS, Series A, 5.25%, 5/15/21
Baa1/BBB+ 5,010,000 4,896,974 SUEFS, Series B, 7%, 5/15/16
Baa1/BBB+ 9,020,000 9,729,964
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS DA SPO Bonds, CUS, Series E,
FSA Insured, 5.75%, 7/1/11 Aaa/AAA 5,955,000
6,481,601
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS EFCPC RB, State Water Revolving Fund:
Series A, 6.60%, 9/15/12 Aaa/AAA/AAA 250,000
277,575 Series C, 7.20%, 3/15/11 Aa2/A+/AA 350,000
378,795 Series E, 6.50%, 6/15/14 Aa2/A/AA 500,000
547,460
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS ERDAUEF RB:
Consolidated Edison Co., Series A, 7.50%, 1/1/26 Aa3/A+ 280,000
299,334 Consolidated Edison Co., Series A, 7.75%, 1/1/24 A1/A+
620,000 638,817 Consolidated Edison Co., Series B, 7.375%, 7/1/24 Aa3/A+
200,000 206,038 L.I. Lighting Co., Series A, 7.15%, 12/1/20
Ba3/BB+ 7,500,000 8,124,150 L.I. Lighting Co., Series C, 6.90%, 8/1/22
<PAGE>
Ba3/BB+ 9,200,000 9,925,144
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS ERDAUGF RB, Brooklyn Union Gas Co.:
Series B, Inverse Floater, 9.68%, 7/1/26(1) A1/A 6,000,000
7,627,500 Series D, MBIA Insured, Inverse Floater,
7.24%, 7/8/26(1) Aaa/AAA 3,000,000 3,048,750
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS ERDAUPC RB, NYS Electric & Gas Project,
Series A, MBIA Insured, 6.15%, 7/1/26 Aaa/AAA 4,000,000
4,212,360
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS GOB:
6.875%, 3/1/12 A2/A 500,000 551,485 7%,
2/1/09 A2/A 300,000 331,413
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS GORB, 7.50%, 11/15/00 A2/A 500,000
548,815
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS HFA MH RB:
Secured Mtg. Program-A, 7.05%, 8/15/24 Aa2/NR 350,000
374,539 Secured Mtg. Program-C, 6.95%, 8/15/24 Aa2/NR
230,000 242,935
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS HFA RB:
Prerefunded, 8%, 11/1/08 Aaa/BBB+ 2,690,000
3,041,475 Unrefunded Balance, 8%, 11/1/08 Baa/BBB+ 550,000
613,602
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS HFA RRB:
Housing Mtg., Series A, 6.10%, 11/1/15 Aaa/AAA 12,375,000
13,035,206 State University Construction, Escrowed to
Maturity, Series A, 7.90%, 11/1/06 Aaa/AAA 1,750,000
2,098,985 Unrefunded Balance, 7.90%, 11/1/99 Baa2/BBB+
2,310,000 2,426,563 </TABLE>
11 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS:
MOODY'S/ S&P/FITCH FACE
MARKET VALUE (UNAUDITED) AMOUNT
SEE NOTE 1
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ <S> <C> <C> <C> NEW
YORK (CONTINUED)
NYS HFASC Obligation RB, Series A, 6%, 3/15/26 Baa1/BBB+ $10,000,000
$10,432,200
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS HFASC RB:
Prerefunded, Series A, 7.375%, 9/15/21 Aaa/AAA 9,050,000
10,331,480 Series D, 5.375%, 3/15/23 Baa1/BBB 9,000,000
8,691,300
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS LGAC RB, Prerefunded:
Series B, 7.50%, 4/1/20 Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,310,000
2,601,499 Series C, 7%, 4/1/21 Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,455,000
10,495,428
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS LGAC RRB:
Series B, 5.50%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 8,000,000
7,958,240 Series C, 5%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 15,000,000
14,073,750 Series E, 5%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 500,000
475,465
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS MAG RB:
Homeowner Mtg., Series 1, 7.95%, 10/1/21 Aaa/NR 2,270,000
2,420,092 Homeowner Mtg., Series UU, 7.75%, 10/1/23 Aa2/NR
1,990,000 2,113,400 Homeowner Mtg., Series VV, 7.375%, 10/1/11 Aa2/NR
345,000 368,757 Inverse Floater, 6.26%, 10/1/24(1)
MIG1/NR 9,000,000 8,415,000 Ninth Series B, 8.30%, 10/1/17
Aaa/NR 1,720,000 1,756,326 Series 40-B, 6.40%, 10/1/12
<PAGE>
Aaa/NR 500,000 532,195 Series C, 8.40%, 10/1/17
Aaa/NR 1,700,000 1,731,994
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS MCFFA RB:
Hospital & Nursing Home Project,
Series D, 6.45%, 2/15/09 Aa2/AAA 345,000
378,389 Long-Term Health Care, Series C,
FSA Insured, 6.40%, 11/1/14 Aaa/AAA 2,800,000
3,039,456 MHESF, Prerefunded, Series B, 7.875%, 8/15/20 Aaa/AAA
5,095,000 5,707,113 MHESF, Series A, FGIC Insured, 6.375%, 8/15/17
Aaa/AAA/AAA 5,000,000 5,409,000 MHESF, Unrefunded Balance, Series
B,
7.875%, 8/15/20 Baa1/BBB+ 8,085,000
8,989,712 NY Hospital, Series A, AMBAC Insured,
6.75%, 8/15/14 Aaa/AAA/AAA 500,000
562,310 Prerefunded, 7.70%, 2/15/18 Aaa/AAA 355,000
367,283 St. Francis Hospital, Series 1998A,
FGIC Insured, 7.625%, 11/1/21 Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,690,000
2,843,438 St. Luke's Hospital Center Mtg., Prerefunded,
Series B, 7.45%, 2/15/29 Aaa/AAA 7,500,000
8,212,275
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS MCFFA RRB:
MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series A, 8.875%, 8/15/07 Baa1/BBB+ 2,785,000
2,852,536 North Shore University Hospital,
MBIA Insured, 7.20%, 11/1/20 Aaa/AAA 250,000
274,680
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS PAU GP RB, Series B, 6.625%, 1/1/12 Aa2/AA- 315,000
344,037
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS PAU GP RRB, Series Y, 6.75%, 1/1/18 Aa2/AA-
2,000,000 2,173,640
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NYS Thruway Authority General RB,
Series A, 5.75%, 1/1/19 Aa3/AA- 10,000,000
10,177,400 </TABLE>
<PAGE>
12 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS:
MOODY'S/ S&P/FITCH FACE
MARKET VALUE (UNAUDITED) AMOUNT
SEE NOTE 1
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ <S> <C> <C> <C> NEW
YORK (CONTINUED)
NYS UDC RB:
Correctional Capital Facilities, Series 4,
5.375%, 1/1/23 Baa1/BBB+/A $ 8,750,000 $
8,450,400 Series A, MBIA Insured, 5.50%, 4/1/16 Aaa/AAA/AAA
7,500,000 7,619,625
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Onondaga Cnty., NY RR Agency RB,
RR Facilities Project, 7%, 5/1/15 Baa/NR/A- 15,600,000
16,758,456
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PAUNYNJ Consolidated RB, 69th Series,
7.125%, 6/1/25 A1/AA-/AA- 4,155,000 4,489,187
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PAUNYNJ Consolidated RRB, 78th Series,
6.50%, 4/15/11 A1/AA-/AA- 250,000 271,403
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PAUNYNJ SPO RB, JFK International Air
Terminal Project, Series 6, 5.75%, 12/1/22 Aaa/AAA 11,150,000
11,463,761
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PAUNYNJ SPO RRB, KIAC-4 Project,
5th Installment, 6.75%, 10/1/19 NR/NR 12,600,000
13,675,788 ------------
626,863,122
<PAGE>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ U.S. POSSESSIONS--14.7%
PR CMWLTH Aqueduct & Sewer Authority RB,
Escrowed to Maturity, 10.25%, 7/1/09 Aaa/AAA 500,000
696,930
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR CMWLTH GOB, 5.375%, 7/1/25 Baa1/A 7,000,000
6,924,680
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR CMWLTH GORB:
FSA Insured, Inverse Floater, 7.69%, 7/1/20(1) Aaa/AAA 11,500,000
12,333,750 MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA
8,950,000 8,826,848 Prerefunded, 7.70%, 7/1/20 NR/AAA
4,000,000 4,458,560
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR CMWLTH HTAU RB:
Prerefunded, Series S, 6.50%, 7/1/22 NR/AAA 10,000,000
11,138,300 Prerefunded, Series T, 6.625%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA
1,000,000 1,119,170 Series W, Inverse Floater, 6.80%, 7/1/10(1) Baa1/A
9,000,000 9,461,250
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR CMWLTH Infrastructure FAU SPTX RB,
Series A, 7.75%, 7/1/08 Baa1/BBB+ 6,000,000
6,295,440
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR Electric PAU RB:
Series AA, MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/16 Aaa/AAA 5,000,000
5,008,250 Series AA, MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/17 Aaa/AAA
5,000,000 4,999,550
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR EPAU CAP RRB, Series N, MBIA Insured,
Zero Coupon, 5.69%, 7/1/17(2) Aaa/AAA 24,000,000
8,824,320
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR Housing Bank & Finance Agency SFM RB,
Homeownership-Fourth Portfolio, Escrowed
to Maturity, 8.50%, 12/1/18 Aaa/NR 1,580,000
1,853,261
<PAGE>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR Industrial, Medical & Environmental
PC Facilities FAU RB:
American Airlines, Inc. Project,
Series A, 6.45%, 12/1/25 Baa1/BBB- 850,000
931,694 Warner Lambert Co. Project, 7.60%, 5/1/14 A1/NR 3,000,000
3,234,570
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ PR POAU RB, American Airlines Special
Facilities Project, Series A, 6.25%, 6/1/26 Baa3/BBB+ 8,000,000
8,562,080 </TABLE>
13 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATINGS:
MOODY'S/ S&P/FITCH FACE
MARKET VALUE (UNAUDITED) AMOUNT
SEE NOTE 1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> U.S.
POSSESSIONS (CONTINUED)
PR Public Buildings Authority Guaranteed
Public Education & HF RB, Prerefunded,
Series L, 6.875%, 7/1/21 Aaa/AAA $ 4,000,000 $
4,519,440
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR Telephone Authority RB, MBIA Insured,
Inverse Floater, 6.92%, 1/16/15(1) Aaa/AAA 10,000,000
10,187,500 -------------
109,375,593
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS, AT VALUE (COST $698,803,390)
<PAGE>
98.7% 736,238,715
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER ASSETS NET OF LIABILITIES 1.3
9,758,265 ----------- ------------- NET
ASSETS 100.0% $ 745,996,980
=========== ============= </TABLE>
To simplify the listing of securities, abbreviations are used per the table
below:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> CAP -- Capital
Appreciation L.I. -- Long Island CMWLTH --
Commonwealth MAG -- Mtg. Agency CUS --
City University System MCFFA -- Medical Care Facilities
DA -- Dormitory Authority Finance Agency
EFCPC -- Environmental Facilities Corp. Pollution Control MH --
Multifamily Housing EPAU -- Electric Power Authority
MHESF -- Mental Health Services ERDAUEF -- Energy Research & Development
Authority Electric Facilities Facilities ERDAUGF -- Energy Research &
Development Authority Gas Facilities MTAU -- Metropolitan Transportation
ERDAUPC -- Energy Research & Development Authority Pollution Control
Authority FAU -- Finance Authority MWFAU
-- Municipal Water Finance GP -- General Purpose
Authority GOB -- General Obligation Bonds
NYC -- New York City GORB -- General Obligation Refunding Bonds
NYS -- New York State HDC -- Housing Development Corp.
PAUNYNJ -- Port Authority of New York HF -- Health
Facilities & New Jersey HFA -- Housing
Finance Agency PAU -- Power Authority HFASC --
Housing Finance Agency Service Contract PC -- Pollution Control
HTAU -- Highway & Transportation Authority POAU --
Port Authority IDA -- Industrial Development Agency RB
-- Revenue Bonds IDAU -- Industrial Development Authority
RR -- Resource Recovery LGAC -- Local Government Assistance Corp.
RRB -- Revenue Refunding Bonds
SFM -- Single Family Mortgage
SPF -- Special Facilities
SPO -- Special Obligations
<PAGE>
SPTX -- Special Tax
SUEFS -- State University Educational
Facilities System
TBTAU -- Triborough Bridge & Tunnel
Authority
UDC -- Urban Development Corp.
WSS -- Water & Sewer System </TABLE>
1. Represents the current interest rate for a variable rate bond known as an
"inverse floater" which pays interest at a rate that varies inversely with
short-term interest rates. As interest rates rise, inverse floaters produce less
current income. Their price may be more volatile than the price of a comparable
fixed-rate security. Inverse floaters amount to $90,377,712 or 12.12% of the
Fund's net assets at September 30, 1997.
2. For zero coupon bonds, the interest rate shown is the effective yield on the
date of purchase.
14 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 30, 1997, securities subject to the alternative minimum tax
amounted to $122,052,761 or 16.36% of the Fund's net assets. Distribution of
investments by industry, as a percentage of total investments at value, is as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDUSTRY MARKET VALUE PERCENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> Higher Education
$124,655,844 16.8% General Obligation 98,639,480
<PAGE>
13.4 Highways 86,440,860 11.7
Hospital/Healthcare 63,186,511 8.6 Sales Tax
35,604,382 4.8 Multi-Family Housing
33,646,855 4.6 Corporate Backed 31,316,527
4.3 Water Utilities 30,550,747 4.1 Marine/Aviation
Facilities 29,900,138 4.1 Pollution Control
29,869,733 4.1 Lease Rental 27,336,945
3.7 Electric Utilities 25,562,157 3.5 Adult Living Facilities
22,589,141 3.1 Single Family Housing
19,191,025 2.6 Resource Recovery 16,758,456
2.3 Special Assessment 14,774,010 2.0 Manufacturing,
Durable Goods 14,739,983 2.0 Non Profit Organization
12,373,828 1.7 Telephone Utilities 10,187,500
1.4 Manufacturing, Non-Durable Goods 7,710,765 1.0
Sewer Utilities 1,203,830 0.2
------------ ----- $736,238,717
100.0% ============ ===== </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
15 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES September 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
================================================================
=============================================== <S>
<C> ASSETS
Investments, at value (cost $698,803,390)--see accompanying statement
$736,238,715
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Cash 495,755
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Receivables:
Interest 12,291,735 Shares of
beneficial interest sold 393,580
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Other 11,534
------------ Total assets
749,431,319
================================================================
=============================================== LIABILITIES
Payables and other liabilities:
Dividends 2,001,304 Shares of
beneficial interest redeemed 498,760 Distribution
and service plan fees 452,203 Trustees'
fees--Note 1 213,997 Shareholder
reports 130,266 Transfer and
shareholder servicing agent fees 67,646 Other
70,163
------------ Total liabilities
3,434,339
================================================================
=============================================== NET ASSETS
$745,996,980
============
================================================================
=============================================== COMPOSITION OF NET
ASSETS
Paid-in capital $715,174,579
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Undistributed net investment income
1,395,429
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Accumulated net realized loss on investment transactions
(8,008,353)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Net unrealized appreciation on investments--Note 3
37,435,325 ------------ Net
assets $745,996,980
============ </TABLE>
<PAGE>
16 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
================================================================
=============================================== NET ASSET VALUE
PER SHARE
Class A Shares:
Net asset value and redemption price per share (based on net assets of
$634,789,044 and 49,620,601 shares of beneficial interest outstanding) $12.79
Maximum offering price per share (net asset value plus sales charge of 4.75% of
offering price)
$13.43
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Class B Shares:
Net asset value, redemption price (excludes applicable contingent deferred sales
charge) and offering price per share (based on net assets of $106,458,543 and
8,320,680 shares of beneficial interest outstanding) $12.79
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Class C Shares:
Net asset value, redemption price (excludes applicable contingent deferred sales
charge) and offering price per share (based on net assets of $4,749,393 and
371,247 shares of beneficial interest outstanding) $12.79 </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
17 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS For the Year Ended September 30, 1997
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
================================================================
=============================================== <S>
<C> INVESTMENT INCOME
Interest $48,247,943
================================================================
=============================================== EXPENSES
Management fees--Note 4 3,912,050
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Distribution and service plan fees--Note 4:
Class A 1,528,712 Class B
1,040,975 Class C
37,884
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Transfer and shareholder servicing agent fees--Note 4
475,969
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Shareholder reports 223,113
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Custodian fees and expenses 66,227
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Legal and auditing fees 58,537
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Insurance expenses 18,351
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Registration and filing fees:
Class B 564 Class C
660
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Other 14,143
----------- Total expenses
7,377,185
================================================================
=============================================== NET INVESTMENT
INCOME 40,870,758
================================================================
=============================================== REALIZED AND
<PAGE>
UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) Net realized gain (loss) on:
Investments 5,082,437 Closing of
futures contracts (8,192,625)
----------- Net realized loss
(3,110,188)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments
25,374,028 -----------
Net realized and unrealized gain 22,263,840
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
$63,134,598
=========== </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
18 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
1997 1996
================================================================
=============================================== OPERATIONS
<S> <C> <C> Net investment
income $ 40,870,758 $ 42,380,515
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Net realized gain (loss) (3,110,188)
5,945,810
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation 25,374,028
425,530 ------------ ------------
Net increase in net assets resulting
from operations 63,134,598 48,751,855
================================================================
=============================================== DIVIDENDS AND
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS
Dividends from net investment income:
Class A (35,297,579) (37,568,731) Class
B (4,855,021) (4,655,633) Class C
(175,214) (34,664)
================================================================
=============================================== BENEFICIAL INTEREST
TRANSACTIONS
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from beneficial interest
transactions--Note 2:
Class A (52,009,162) (11,537,144) Class
B 2,021,008 9,460,309 Class C
2,612,419 1,966,687
================================================================
=============================================== NET ASSETS
Total increase (decrease) (24,568,951) 6,382,679
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Beginning of period 770,565,931
764,183,252 ------------ ------------
End of period (including undistributed net investment
income of $1,395,429 and $620,943, respectively) $745,996,980
$770,565,931 ============
============ </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
19 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS A
---------------------------------
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 1996
1995 1994 1993
================================================================
================================================ <S>
<C> <C> <C> <C> <C> PER SHARE OPERATING
DATA:
Net asset value, beginning of period $12.41 $12.29 $11.92 $13.50
$12.59
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Income (loss) from investment operations:
Net investment income .69 .68 .69 .74 .73 Net
realized and unrealized gain (loss) .37 .12 .41 (1.46) 1.01
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Total income
(loss) from investment
operations 1.06 .80 1.10 (.72) 1.74
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Dividends and distributions to shareholders:
Dividends from net investment income (.68) (.68) (.70) (.72)
(.75) Distributions from net realized gain -- -- (.03) (.03)
(.08) Distributions in excess of net realized gain -- -- -- (.11)
-- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Total
dividends and distributions
to shareholders (.68) (.68) (.73) (.86) (.83)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Net asset value, end of period $12.79 $12.41 $12.29 $11.92
$13.50 ====== ====== ====== ======
<PAGE>
======
================================================================
================================================ TOTAL RETURN, AT
NET ASSET VALUE(3) 8.78% 6.65% 9.58% (5.55)% 14.33%
================================================================
================================================
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
Net assets, end of period
(in thousands) $634,789 $667,258 $673,050 $687,233
$756,934
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Average net assets (in thousands) $652,048 $684,981 $659,465
$738,747 $652,327
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Ratios to average net assets:
Net investment income 5.49% 5.50% 5.76% 5.68%
5.66% Expenses 0.86% 0.91% 0.90% 0.86%
0.91%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Portfolio turnover rate(5) 20.5% 21.2% 15.2% 9.4%
39.1% </TABLE>
1. For the period from August 29, 1995 (inception of offering) to September 30,
1995.
2. For the period from March 1, 1993 (inception of offering) to September 30,
1993.
3. Assumes a hypothetical initial investment on the business day before the
first day of the fiscal period (or inception of offering), with all dividends
and distributions reinvested in additional shares on the reinvestment date, and
redemption at the net asset value calculated on the last business day of the
fiscal period. Sales charges are not reflected in the total returns. Total
returns are not annualized for periods of less than one full year.
4. Annualized.
20 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS B CLASS C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993(2) 1997
1996 1995(1)
================================================================
===============================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$12.41 $12.30 $11.93 $13.50 $13.07 $12.41 $12.30
$12.22
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
.59 .60 .60 .64 .36 .57 .60 .05 .38
.10 .42 (1.45) .44 .39 .09 .08 ------ ------
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
.97 .70 1.02 (.81) .80 .96 .69 .13
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(.59) (.59) (.62) (.62) (.37) (.58) (.58) (.05) --
-- (.03) (.03) -- -- -- -- -- --
-- (.11) -- -- -- -- ------ ------ ------
- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------
(.59) (.59) (.65) (.76) (.37) (.58) (.58) (.05)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$12.79 $12.41 $12.30 $11.93 $13.50 $12.79 $12.41
$12.30 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======
====== ======
================================================================
============================================= 7.97% 5.77%
8.75% (6.22)% 6.56% 7.95% 5.64% 1.10%
================================================================
=============================================
$106,459 $101,302 $91,108 $73,943 $40,958 $4,749 $2,007
$25
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$104,183 $ 98,488 $81,743 $61,008 $20,454 $3,798 $ 752
<PAGE>
$18
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.72% 4.73% 4.95% 4.88% 4.45%(4) 4.67% 4.60%
3.67%(4) 1.63% 1.68% 1.67% 1.65% 1.73%(4) 1.63%
1.77% 1.37%(4)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20.5% 21.2% 15.2% 9.4% 39.1% 20.5% 21.2%
15.2% </TABLE>
5. The lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities for a period,
divided by the monthly average of the market value of portfolio securities owned
during the period. Securities with a maturity or expiration date at the time of
acquisition of one year or less are excluded from the calculation. Purchases and
sales of investment securities (excluding short-term securities) for the period
ended September 30, 1997 were $154,409,995 and $214,081,363, respectively.
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
21 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================
=============== 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund (the Fund) is registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as a diversified, open-end
management investment company. The Fund's investment objective is to seek
maximum current income exempt from federal, New York State and New York City
income taxes for individual investors as is available from municipal securities
and consistent with the preservation of capital. The Fund's investment advisor
is OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the Manager). The Fund offers Class A, Class B and
Class C shares. Class A shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Class B
and Class C shares may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. All
classes of shares have identical rights to earnings, assets and voting
privileges, except that each class has its own distribution and/or service plan,
expenses directly attributable to that class and exclusive voting rights with
respect to matters affecting that class. Class B shares will automatically
convert to Class A shares six years after the date of purchase. The following is
a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund.
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTMENT VALUATION. Portfolio securities are valued at the close of the New
York Stock Exchange on each trading day. Listed and unlisted securities for
which such information is regularly reported are valued at the last sale price
of the day or, in the absence of sales, at values based on the closing bid or
the last sale price on the prior trading day. Long-term and short-term
"non-money market" debt securities are valued by a portfolio pricing service
approved by the Board of Trustees. Such securities which cannot be valued by an
approved portfolio pricing service are valued using dealer-supplied valuations
provided the Manager is satisfied that the firm rendering the quotes is reliable
and that the quotes reflect current market value, or are valued under
consistently applied procedures established by the Board of Trustees to
determine fair value in good faith. Short-term "money market type" debt
securities having a remaining maturity of 60 days or less are valued at cost (or
last determined market value) adjusted for amortization to maturity of any
premium or discount.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALLOCATION OF INCOME, EXPENSES, AND GAINS AND LOSSES. Income, expenses (other
than those attributable to a specific class) and gains and losses are allocated
daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets
represented by such class. Operating expenses directly attributable to a
specific class are charged against the operations of that class.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL TAXES. The Fund intends to continue to comply with provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to
distribute all of its taxable income, including any net realized gain on
investments not offset by loss carryovers, to shareholders. Therefore, no
federal income or excise tax provision is required. At September 30, 1997, the
Fund had available for federal income tax purposes an unused capital loss
carryover of approximately $7,657,000, expiring in 2003 and 2004.
22 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
================================================================
================ TRUSTEES' FEES AND EXPENSES. The Fund has adopted a nonfunded
retirement plan for the Fund's independent trustees. Benefits are based on years
of service and fees paid to each trustee during the years of service. During the
year ended September 30, 1997, a credit of $60,913 was made for the Fund's
projected benefit obligations and payments of $11,314 were made to retired
trustees, resulting in an accumulated liability of $212,626 at September 30,
1997. The aforementioned credit is a
<PAGE>
component of total trustees' fees which amount to $(280) for the year ended
September 30, 1997.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS. The Fund intends to declare dividends separately
for Class A, Class B and Class C shares from net investment income each day the
New York Stock Exchange is open for business and pay such dividends monthly.
Distributions from net realized gains on investments, if any, will be declared
at least once each year.
CLASSIFICATION OF DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS. Net investment income (loss)
and net realized gain (loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes
primarily because of premium amortization on long-term bonds for tax purposes.
The character of the distributions made during the year from net investment
income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for
federal income tax purposes. Also, due to timing of dividend distributions, the
fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in
which the income or realized gain was recorded by the Fund.
The Fund adjusts the classification of distributions to shareholders
to reflect the differences between financial statement amounts and distributions
determined in accordance with income tax regulations. Accordingly, during the
year ended September 30, 1997, amounts have been reclassified to reflect an
increase in undistributed net investment income of $231,542, a decrease in
accumulated net realized loss on investments of $456,846, and a decrease in
paid-in capital of $688,388.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER. Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are
purchased or sold (trade date). Original issue discount on securities purchased
is amortized over the life of the respective securities using the effective
yield method, in accordance with federal income tax requirements. For bonds
acquired after April 30, 1993, on disposition or maturity, taxable ordinary
income is recognized to the extent of the lesser of gain or market discount that
would have accrued over the holding period. Realized gains and losses on
investments and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are determined on an
identified cost basis, which is the same basis used for federal income tax
purposes. The Fund concentrates its investments in New York and, therefore, may
have more credit risks related to the economic conditions of New York than a
portfolio with a broader geographical diversification.
<PAGE>
23 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
================================================================
================ 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual
results could differ from those estimates.
================================================================
================ 2. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The Fund has authorized an unlimited number of no par value shares of beneficial
interest of each class. Transactions in shares of beneficial interest were as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 YEAR ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 1996 --------------------------------
- ------------------------------- SHARES AMOUNT
SHARES AMOUNT
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> Class A:
Sold 4,470,995 $ 56,051,835 4,043,999 $ 50,569,882
Issued in connection with
the acquisition of Quest
for Value New York
Tax-Exempt Fund--Note 6 -- -- 2,350,157
29,517,976 Dividends and distributions
reinvested 1,936,390 24,294,359 2,105,244
26,158,018 Redeemed (10,554,692) (132,355,356) (9,480,179)
(117,783,020) ----------- ------------- ----------
<PAGE>
- ------------- Net decrease (4,147,307) $ (52,009,162) (980,779)
$ (11,537,144) =========== =============
========== =============
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------ Class B:
Sold 1,229,476 $ 15,435,863 1,631,788 $ 20,375,193
Dividends and distributions
reinvested 251,124 3,151,927 244,423 3,035,829
Redeemed (1,320,301) (16,566,782) (1,123,717)
(13,950,713) ----------- ------------- ----------
- ------------- Net increase 160,299 $ 2,021,008 752,494
$ 9,460,309 =========== =============
========== =============
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------- Class C:
Sold 296,169 $ 3,700,982 170,206 $ 2,101,116
Dividends and distributions
reinvested 11,358 142,713 2,083 25,651
Redeemed (97,937) (1,231,276) (12,664) (160,080)
----------- ------------- ---------- ------------- Net
increase 209,590 $ 2,612,419 159,625 $ 1,966,687
=========== ============= ==========
============= </TABLE>
24 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
================================================================
================ 3. UNREALIZED GAINS AND LOSSES ON INVESTMENTS
At September 30, 1997, net unrealized appreciation on investments of $37,435,325
was composed of gross appreciation of $40,284,088, and gross depreciation of
$2,848,763.
<PAGE>
================================================================
================ 4. MANAGEMENT FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH
AFFILIATES
Management fees paid to the Manager were in accordance with the investment
advisory agreement with the Fund which provides for a fee of 0.60% on the first
$200 million of average annual net assets, 0.55% on the next $100 million, 0.50%
on the next $200 million, 0.45% on the next $250 million, 0.40% on the next $250
million and 0.35% on net assets in excess of $1 billion.
For the year ended September 30, 1997, commissions (sales charges
paid by investors) on sales of Class A shares totaled $835,127, of which
$161,226 was retained by OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (OFDI), a subsidiary
of the Manager, as general distributor, and by an affiliated broker/dealer.
Sales charges advanced to broker/dealers by OFDI on sales of the Fund's Class B
and Class C shares totaled $558,605 and $35,328, respectively, of which $9,424
was paid to an affiliated broker/ dealer for Class B. During the year ended
September 30, 1997, OFDI received contingent deferred sales charges of $260,864
and $5,113, respectively, upon redemption of Class B and Class C shares, as
reimbursement for sales commissions advanced by OFDI at the time of sale of such
shares.
OppenheimerFunds Services (OFS), a division of the Manager, is the
transfer and shareholder servicing agent for the Fund and for other registered
investment companies. OFS's total costs of providing such services are allocated
ratably to these companies.
The Fund has adopted a Service Plan for Class A shares to reimburse
OFDI for a portion of its costs incurred in connection with the personal service
and maintenance of shareholder accounts that hold Class A shares. Reimbursement
is made quarterly at an annual rate that may not exceed 0.25% of the average
annual net assets of Class A shares of the Fund. OFDI uses the service fee to
reimburse brokers, dealers, banks and other financial institutions quarterly for
providing personal service and maintaining accounts of their customers that hold
Class A shares. During the year ended September 30, 1997, OFDI paid $30,130 to
an affiliated broker/dealer as reimbursement for Class A personal service and
maintenance expenses.
25 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
================================================================
================ 4. MANAGEMENT FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
(CONTINUED) The Fund has adopted Distribution and Service Plans for Class B and
Class C shares to compensate OFDI for its services and costs in distributing
Class B and Class C shares and servicing accounts. Under the Plans, the Fund
pays OFDI an annual asset-based sales charge of 0.75% per year on Class B shares
and Class C shares, as compensation for sales commissions paid from its own
resources at the time of sale and associated financing costs. OFDI also receives
a service fee of 0.25% per year as compensation for costs incurred in connection
with the personal service and maintenance of accounts that hold shares of the
Fund, including amounts paid to brokers, dealers, banks and other financial
institutions. Both fees are computed on the average annual net assets of Class B
and Class C shares, determined as of the close of each regular business day.
During the year ended September 30, 1997, OFDI paid $6,709 to an affiliated
broker/dealer as compensation for Class B personal service and maintenance
expenses and retained $819,839 and $31,279, respectively, as compensation for
Class B and Class C sales commissions and service fee advances, as well as
financing costs. If either Plan is terminated by the Fund, the Board of Trustees
may allow the Fund to continue payments of the asset-based sales charge to OFDI
for distributing shares before the Plan was terminated. At September 30, 1997,
OFDI had incurred unreimbursed expenses of $2,901,792 for Class B and $49,218
for Class C.
================================================================
================ 5. FUTURES CONTRACTS
The Fund may buy and sell interest rate futures contracts in order to gain
exposure to or protect against changes in interest rates. The Fund may also buy
or write put or call options on these futures contracts.
The Fund generally sells futures contracts to hedge against increases
in interest rates and the resulting negative effect on the value of fixed rate
portfolio securities. The Fund may also purchase futures contracts to gain
exposure to changes in interest rates as it may be more efficient or cost
effective than actually buying fixed income securities.
Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund is required to
deposit either cash or securities (initial margin) in an amount equal to a
certain percentage of the contract value.
<PAGE>
Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received by the Fund each
day. The variation margin payments are equal to the daily changes in the
contract value and are recorded as unrealized gains and losses. The Fund
recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires.
Risks of entering into futures contracts (and related options)
include the possibility that there may be an illiquid market and that a change
in the value of the contract or option may not correlate with changes in the
value of the underlying securities.
26 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
================================================================
================ 6. ACQUISITION OF QUEST FOR VALUE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT FUND
On November 24, 1995, Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund acquired all of the
net assets of Quest for Value New York Tax-Exempt Fund, pursuant to an Agreement
and Plan of Reorganization approved by the Quest for Value New York Tax-Exempt
Fund shareholders on November 16, 1995. The Fund issued 2,350,157 Class A shares
of beneficial interest, valued at $29,517,976, in exchange for the net assets,
resulting in combined Class A net assets of $698,806,316 on November 24, 1995.
The net assets acquired included net unrealized appreciation of $1,513,911. The
exchange qualified as a tax-free reorganization for federal income tax purposes.
================================================================
================ 7. BANK BORROWINGS
The Fund may borrow from a bank for temporary or emergency purposes including,
without limitation, funding of shareholder redemptions provided asset coverage
for borrowings exceeds 300%. The Fund has entered into an agreement which
enables it to participate with other OppenheimerFunds in an unsecured line of
credit with a bank, which permits borrowings up to $400 million, collectively.
Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to
the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.35%. Borrowings are payable 30 days after such
loan is executed. The Fund also pays a commitment fee equal to its pro rata
share of the average unutilized amount of the credit facility at a rate of
0.0575% per annum.
The Fund had no borrowings outstanding during the year ended
September 30, 1997.
<PAGE>
27 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
================================================================
================ The Board of Trustees and Shareholders of
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund:
We have audited the accompanying statements of investments and assets and
liabilities of Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund as of September 30, 1997, and
the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statements of
changes in net assets for each of the years in the two-year period then ended
and the financial highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then
ended. These financial statements and financial highlights are the
responsibility of the Fund's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements and financial highlights based on our
audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted
auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit
to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and
financial highlights are free of material misstatement. An audit includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities
owned as of September 30, 1997, by correspondence with the custodian. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement
presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements and financial highlights
referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund as of September 30, 1997, the
results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets
for each of the years in the two-year period then ended, and the financial
highlights for each of the years in the five-year period then ended, in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP
Denver, Colorado
<PAGE>
October 21, 1997
28 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE> FEDERAL INCOME
TAX INFORMATION (Unaudited)
================================================================
================ In early 1998, shareholders will receive information regarding
all dividends and distributions paid to them by the Fund during calendar year
1997. Regulations of the U.S. Treasury Department require the Fund to report
this information to the Internal Revenue Service.
None of the dividends paid by the Fund during the fiscal year ended
September 30, 1997 are eligible for the corporate dividend-received deduction.
The dividends were derived from interest on municipal bonds and are not subject
to federal income tax. To the extent a shareholder is subject to any state or
local tax laws, some or all of the dividends received may be taxable.
The foregoing information is presented to assist shareholders in
reporting distributions received from the Fund to the Internal Revenue Service.
Because of the complexity of the federal regulations which may affect your
individual tax return and the many variations in state and local tax
regulations, we recommend that you consult your tax advisor for specific
guidance.
29 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C>
============== OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES Leon Levy, Chairman of the Board
of Trustees Donald W. Spiro, Vice Chairman of the Board
of Trustees
Bridget A. Macaskill, Trustee and President Robert G.
<PAGE>
Galli, Trustee
Benjamin Lipstein, Trustee
Elizabeth B. Moynihan, Trustee Kenneth A. Randall,
Trustee
Edward V. Regan, Trustee
Russell S. Reynolds, Jr., Trustee Pauline Trigere, Trustee
Clayton K. Yeutter, Trustee
Robert E. Patterson, Vice President George C. Bowen,
Treasurer
Robert J. Bishop, Assistant Treasurer Scott T. Farrar,
Assistant Treasurer Andrew J. Donohue, Secretary
Robert G. Zack, Assistant Secretary
</TABLE>
================================================================
============== INVESTMENT ADVISOR OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
================================================================
============== DISTRIBUTOR OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
================================================================
============== TRANSFER AND SHAREHOLDER OppenheimerFunds Services
SERVICING AGENT
================================================================
============== CUSTODIAN OF Citibank, N.A.
PORTFOLIO SECURITIES
================================================================
============== INDEPENDENT AUDITORS KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
================================================================
============== LEGAL COUNSEL Gordon Altman Butowsky Weitzen Shalov
& Wein
This is a copy of a report to shareholders of Oppenheimer New York Municipal
Fund. This report must be preceded or accompanied by a Prospectus of Oppenheimer
New York Municipal Fund. For material information concerning the Fund, see the
Prospectus. Shares of Oppenheimer funds are not deposits or obligations of any
bank, are not guaranteed by any bank, and are not insured by the FDIC or any
other agency, and involve investment risks, including possible loss of the
principal amount
<PAGE>
invested.
30 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
OPPENHEIMERFUNDS FAMILY
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C>
================================================================
=========================================== REAL ASSET FUNDS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Real Asset Fund Gold & Special Minerals Fund
================================================================
=========================================== STOCK FUNDS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Developing Markets Fund Quest Small Cap Value Fund Global Fund
Enterprise Fund Capital Appreciation Fund(1) Quest Global Value Fund
International Growth Fund Quest Capital Value Fund Disciplined Value Fund
Discovery Fund Growth Fund Quest Value Fund
================================================================
=========================================== STOCK & BOND FUNDS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Main Street Income & Quest Growth &Income Disciplined Allocation
Fund Growth Fund Value Fund Multiple Strategies Fund(2)
Quest Opportunity Value Fund Global Growth &Income Fund Bond Fund for
Growth Total Return Fund Equity Income Fund
================================================================
=========================================== BOND FUNDS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
International Bond Fund Champion Income Fund U.S. Government Trust
<PAGE>
High Yield Fund Strategic Income Fund Limited-Term Government
Fund Bond Fund
================================================================
=========================================== MUNICIPAL FUNDS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
California Municipal Fund(3) Pennsylvania Municipal Fund(3) Rochester Division:
Florida Municipal Fund(3) Municipal Bond Fund Rochester Fund
Municipals New Jersey Municipal Fund(3) Insured Municipal Fund Limited
Term New York New York Municipal Fund(3) Intermediate Municipal Fund
Municipal Fund
================================================================
=========================================== MONEY MARKET FUNDS(4)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Money Market Fund Cash Reserves
================================================================
=========================================== LIFESPAN
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Growth Fund Balanced Fund Income Fund
</TABLE>
1. On 12/18/96, the Fund's name was changed from "Target Fund." 2. On 3/16/97,
the Fund's name was changed from "Asset Allocation Fund." 3. Available only to
investors in certain states.
4. An investment in money market funds is neither insured nor guaranteed by the
U.S. government and there can be no assurance that a money market fund will be
able to maintain a stable net asset value of $1.00 per share. Oppenheimer funds
are distributed by OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc., Two World Trade Center,
New York, NY 10048-0203.
(C) Copyright 1997 OppenheimerFunds, Inc. All rights reserved.
31 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
INTERNET
<PAGE>
24-hr access to account
information
WWW.OPPENHEIMERFUNDS.COM
GENERAL INFORMATION
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economy and issues that affect your investments
1-800-835-3104
<PAGE>
INFORMATION AND SERVICES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As an Oppenheimer fund shareholder, you have some special privileges. Whether
it's automatic investment plans, informative newsletters and hotlines, or ready
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And when you need help, our Customer Service Representatives are only a
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When you want to make a transaction, you can do it easily by calling our
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For added convenience, you can get automated information with
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PhoneLink gives you access to a variety of fund, account, and market
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You can count on us whenever you need assistance. That's why the
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OppenheimerFunds Services, with their Award of Excellence in 1993.
So call us today, or visit us at our website at
www.oppenheimerfunds.com--we're here to help.
[OPPENHEIMERFUNDS LOGO]
RA0360.001.0997 November 28, 1997
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
--------------------------------
Semiannual Report March 31, 1998
--------------------------------
OPPENHEIMER
New York
Municipal Fund
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
[LOGO]
OppenheimerFunds(SM)
THE RIGHT WAY TO INVEST
<PAGE>
Contents
3 President's Letter
4 Fund Performance
6 An Interview
with the Fund's Manager
10 Statement of Investments
18 Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
20 Statement of Operations
21 Statements of Changes in
<PAGE>
Net Assets
22 Financial Highlights
25 Notes to Financial Statements
31 Officers and
Trustees
32 Information and Services
Report highlights
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o New York's recovering economy continued to offer attractive investment
opportunities. We focused on undervalued credits in sectors of vital interest to
New York City, and throughout the rest of the state. These included state
appropriation bonds issued by city and state universities, as well as
transportation authorities.
o We found new opportunities to invest in the state's hospital system through
state-guaranteed bonds.
o By actively managing the Fund in relation to the changing outlook for interest
rates, we achieved a below-average risk profile, while enhancing performance.
- -------------------------------
Cumulative Total Returns
- -------------------------------
For the 6-Month Period
Ended 3/31/98
Class A
Without With
Sales Chg.(1) Sales Chg.(2)
- -------------------------------
3.92% (1.02)%
- -------------------------------
<PAGE>
Class B
Without With
Sales Chg.(1) Sales Chg.(2)
- -------------------------------
3.61% (1.39)%
- -------------------------------
Class C
Without With
Sales Chg.(1) Sales Chg.(2)
- -------------------------------
3.53% 2.53%
- -------------------------------
Total returns include changes in share price and reinvestment of dividends and
capital gains distributions in a hypothetical investment for the periods shown.
In reviewing performance and rankings, please remember that past performance
does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value of an
investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor's shares, when
redeemed, may be worth more or less than the original cost. 1. Includes changes
in net asset value per share without deducting any sales charges. This
performance is not annualized.
2. Class A return includes the current maximum initial sales charge of 4.75%.
Class B return includes the applicable contingent deferred sales charge of 5%.
Class C return includes the contingent deferred sales charge of 1%. An
explanation of the different performance calculations is in the Fund's
prospectus. Class B and C shares are subject to an annual 0.75% asset-based
sales charge. This performance is not annualized.
2 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
[PHOTO OMITTED]
Bridget A. Macaskill
President
Oppenheimer New York
<PAGE>
Municipal Fund
Dear shareholder,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
These have been very positive times for many American investors. The U.S.
economy has continued to grow at a moderate pace, unemployment has fallen to its
lowest level in 30 years and inflation has also fallen to a record low. In fact,
long-term interest rates have fallen to their lowest level since the government
began issuing 30-year Treasury bonds in 1977.
What benefits does this provide to the average American? First, when
unemployment levels are low, many individuals tend to feel a greater sense of
job security and can command higher wages because there are fewer unemployed
workers vying for their jobs. Second, many homeowners are opting to refinance
their existing home mortgage loans and take advantage of lower financing rates.
And third, because wages are increasing faster than the rate of inflation, a
paycheck may stretch farther and investors, as consumers, are able to enjoy a
higher level of disposable income. This extra income can be put to use in many
ways, including allocating more money to investment opportunities.
Some industry analysts have tempered such positive news by suggesting that
if the rate of inflation falls any lower, it might actually trigger a period of
deflation, where we see the prices of American goods and services decline. While
lower prices may sound like positive news, in reality it isn't: When prices fall
too low, it erodes the value of those goods to the producer. That is, when
economic conditions force a decrease in the price of goods, companies have to
sell more of those items in order to make the same amount of profit, which
translates into greater difficulties for corporations to improve their bottom
lines.
At OppenheimerFunds, we do not believe we will see a period of deflation
in the United States. The fundamental factors that have driven the U.S. market
still appear to be in place: an economy that's in its eighth year of expansion
with moderate growth, low unemployment, virtually no inflation and low interest
rates. However, because of economic uncertainties in other parts of the world,
particularly Asia, we expect to see slower growth for stocks in 1998 and a year
in which double-digit returns from the equity markets are unlikely. It's also
possible that we may see investors favor the fixed, more secure interest
payments offered from the bond markets.
In closing, we'd like to reassure you that as professional money managers,
we continue to keep a watchful eye on these situations and are closely
monitoring your fund's investments. In times like these, your financial advisor
can be of invaluable assistance to you in helping review your financial plan and
guide your investments accordingly.
<PAGE>
Thank you for your confidence in OppenheimerFunds, The Right Way to
Invest. We look forward to helping you reach your investment goals in the
future.
/s/ Bridget A. Macaskill
Bridget A. Macaskill
April 21, 1998
3 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
Performance update
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------
Avg Annual Total Returns
- ---------------------------------
For the Periods Ended 3/31/98(1)
Class A
1 year 5 year 10 year
- ---------------------------------
5.37% 5.06% 7.18%
- ---------------------------------
Class B
Since
1 year 5 year Inception
- ---------------------------------
4.88% 4.94% 4.86%
- ---------------------------------
Class C
Since
1 year 5 year Inception
<PAGE>
- ---------------------------------
8.79% N/A 7.07%
- ---------------------------------
- ---------------------------------
Cumulative Total Return
- ---------------------------------
For the Period Ended 3/31/98(1)
Class A
5 year
- ---------------------------------
28.02% $12,802(4)
- ---------------------------------
- ---------------------------------
Standardized Yields(5)
- ---------------------------------
For the 30 Days Ended 3/31/98
Class A
- ---------------------------------
4.19%
- ---------------------------------
Class B
- ---------------------------------
3.63%
- ---------------------------------
Class C
- ---------------------------------
3.63%
- ---------------------------------
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund delivered strong returns during the past six
months, outperforming many of its competitors, while limiting risk. The Fund's
gains are largely due
<PAGE>
to the careful selection of investment sectors and individual credits, and to
the successful management of the portfolio's average duration.(2) In addition,
the Fund outperformed many of its competitors earning its Class A shares a
position in the top half of the 97 New York municipal funds ranked by Lipper,
for the one-year period ended March 31, 1998.(3) [The following table was
depicted as a line graph in the printed material.] Growth of $10,000 Over five
years(4) (without sales charges)
o 3/31/98 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
Class A shares $13,454
o 3/31/98 Lehman Municipal
Bond Index $13,910 1. Total returns include changes in share
price and reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions in a
hypothetical investment for the periods shown. Class A returns include the
current maximum initial sales charge of 4.75%. Class A shares were first
publicly offered on 8/16/84. The Fund's maximum sales charge for Class A shares
was lower prior to 1/31/86, so actual performance may have been higher. Class B
returns include the applicable contingent deferred sales charge of 5% (1-year)
and 1% (since inception on 3/1/93). Class C returns for the one-year result
include the contingent deferred sales charge of 1%. Class C shares have an
inception date of 8/29/95. An explanation of the different performance
calculations is in the Fund's prospectus. Class B and C shares are subject to an
annual 0.75% asset-based sales charge.
2. Duration is a measure of the portfolio's sensitivity to interest rates.
4 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
Portfolio review
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund is for investors looking for income that's
exempt from New York State, City and federal income taxes. What We Look For
o Issues that provide high triple tax-free income.
o Value-oriented issues with price appreciation potential.
o A diversity of issues across the state.
<PAGE>
o Municipal regions with improving credit quality.
Top 5 Sectors(6)
- ----------------------------------
Higher Education 12.6%
- ----------------------------------
General Obligation 12.0
- ----------------------------------
Lease Rental 11.5
- ----------------------------------
Highways 11.0
- ----------------------------------
Electric Utilities 10.8
- ----------------------------------
Credit Allocation(6)
[The following table was represented as a pie chart in the printed material.]
o AAA 36.2%
o AA 7.3
o A 23.6
o BBB 25.3
o BB 7.6
3. Source: Lipper Analytical Services, Inc., 3/31/98. Based on the comparisons
between changes in net asset value without considering sales charges, with
dividends and capital gains distributions of the Fund's Class A shares
reinvested. The Fund's Class A shares were ranked 48 of 97 (1-year), 26 of 49
(5-year) and 19 of 27 (10-year) among New York municipal funds for the period
ended 3/31/98.
4. Results of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in Class A shares on March 31,
1993. The Lehman Municipal Bond Index includes a broad range index of municipal
bonds. It is an unmanaged index, including reinvestment of income, and cannot be
purchased directly by investors. Past performance does not guarantee future
results.
5. Standardized yield is based on net investment income for the 30-day period
ended 3/31/98. Falling net asset values will tend to artificially raise yields.
6. Portfolio data is as of 3/31/98, dollar-weighted based on investment assets
and subject to
<PAGE>
change. Securities rated by any rating organization are included in the
equivalent Standard & Poor's rating category. Average credit quality and
allocation includes securities rated by national rating organizations as well as
unrated securities (currently 8.0% of total investments) which have ratings
assigned by the manager in categories equivalent to those of rating
organizations.
5 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
An interview with your Fund's manager
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Our central
focus has
never wavered."
How has the Fund performed during the last six months?
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund's Class A shares delivered a cumulative
total return, without sales charges, of 3.92% for the six-month period ended
March 31, 1998.(1) The Fund provided this return during the period while
limiting volatility through the prudent use of various investment techniques to
hedge against risk.
What events had the greatest impact on the New York tax-exempt market? Two
counterbalancing economic trends served to limit the trading range of the
overall bond market, including New York municipal bonds. First, investors
expected the turmoil in Asian markets to slow the U.S. economy and keep
inflation in check, which is generally seen as positive for bonds. Second,
evidence continued to mount throughout the period that the domestic economy
remained strong, raising the possibility of renewed inflation.
These conflicting trends served to hold municipal bond prices within a
relatively narrow trading range, a pattern reflected in most bond markets,
including U.S. Treasury securities. Each new report of strong economic growth or
rising labor costs fueled inflation concerns. At the same time, a steady stream
of news about the impact of the Asian crisis on U.S. corporate earnings reduced
those inflationary fears. As a result, bond markets experienced a high level of
volatility within a narrow range as yields rose and fell in response to
investors' changing outlooks for economic growth, inflation and federal monetary
policy.
1. Includes changes in net asset value per share without deducting any sales
charges. Such performance is not annualized and would have been lower if sales
charges were taken into
<PAGE>
account.
6 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
[PHOTO OMITTED]
Portfolio Management
Team (l to r)
Jerry Webman
Robert Patterson
(Portfolio Manager)
How did you manage the Fund in this environment?
We consistently exercise strong risk management and intensive analysis to
identify opportunities for above-average return with below-average risks.
Regardless of market conditions, we prefer to keep our shareholders' assets
fully invested in a diversified portfolio of good-quality securities that
provide competitive levels of income and attractive relative values.
In addition to the careful selection of investment sectors and individual
credits, we sought to boost returns and reduce risks by actively managing the
portfolio's average duration. Duration is a measure of a bond's sensitivity to
changes in interest rates. The longer a portfolio's average duration, the better
it is likely to perform in an environment of falling interest rates. At the
beginning of the period, we expected interest rates to decline, so we took a
mildly long position relative to our benchmarks. After the first of the year,
however, prospects dimmed for immediately lower interest rates, so we shifted to
a more neutral position with respect to duration.
As a result of our duration shifts, shareholders benefited from the Fund's
below average risk profile and strong relative performance, particularly during
the second half of the period.
7 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
"We remain committed to our strategy of conservative risk management."
An interview with your Fund's manager
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What sectors did you find attractive, and which did you avoid? As New York's
economic recovery slowly continued, we focused on undervalued credits in sectors
of vital interest to the city and state. These included state appropriation
bonds--connected with the annual state budget-- such as bonds issued by the city
and state universities and transportation authorities. In addition, we added to
our position in New York City because of the city's strengthening financial
position.
We also identified attractive opportunities outside New York State. For
example, at the end of the period approximately 16% of the Fund's portfolio was
invested in Puerto Rico bonds. These bonds broaden the Fund's diversification,
while providing shareholders with the benefits of income exempt from New York
state and local taxes.
On the other hand, although we believe utilities hold promise for the
future, we avoided utility bonds during the period because the sector continues
to be roiled by deregulation. We also tended to focus away from smaller
municipalities in New York because of the risk implicit in their dependence on
federal- and state-level financial decisions and appropriations to meet local
obligations.
8 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
What is your outlook for the future?
New York City's credit rating was recently upgraded by Moody's Investors
Service, one of the principal rating agencies--an indication of the city's
steady recovery. We believe many of the city's and state's debt instruments
remain undervalued and that the local economy will continue to improve, offering
investors on-going opportunities for attractive, after-tax returns in New York
municipal bonds.
We remain committed to our strategy of conservative risk management, and
to our relentless search for undervalued issues in the New York municipal bond
market. These qualities continue to make Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
part of The Right Way to Invest.
9 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
<PAGE>
- --------- Statement of Investments March 31, 1998 (Unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings:
Moody's/ Face Market Value S&P/Fitch
Amount See Note 1
================================================================
========================================== <S>
<C> <C> <C> Municipal Bonds and Notes--99.5%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New York--83.4%
Battery Park City, NY RB, Series A,
AMBAC Insured, 5.50%, 11/1/16 Aaa/AAA $ 5,000,000 $
5,194,950
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Buffalo, NY GOB, Series E, AMBAC Insured,
6.65%, 12/1/13 Aaa/AAA/AAA 500,000 577,655
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Erie Cnty., NY IDA Life Care Community RB,
Episcopal Church Home, Series A, 6%, 2/1/28 NR/NR 5,000,000
5,022,200
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grand Central District Management Assn.,
Inc. NY Business District Capital Improvement
RRB, 5.125%, 1/1/14 A1/A 1,000,000 989,800
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grand Central District Management Assn.,
Inc. NY Business District Capital Improvement
RRB, 5.25%, 1/1/22 A1/A 2,500,000 2,473,025
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monroe Cnty., NY IDA RB, DePaul Community
Facilities, Series A, 5.875%, 2/1/28 NR/NR 750,000 746,685
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY MTAU Commuter Facilities RRB, Series B,
MBIA Insured, 6.25%, 7/1/17 Aaa/AAA 350,000 385,157
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
NY MTAU Commuter Facilities RRB, Series E,
AMBAC Insured, 5%, 7/1/21 Aaa/AAA/AAA 5,000,000
4,872,150
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY MTAU RB, Transportation Facilities Service
Contracts, Series 3, 7.375%, 7/1/08 Baa1/BBB+ 250,000
295,157
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY TBTAU GP RB, Series X, 6%, 1/1/14 Aa3/A+ 14,510,000
15,196,033
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY TBTAU GP RRB, Series A, 5%, 1/1/15 Aa3/A+ 7,500,000
7,432,275
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY TBTAU GP RRB, Series A, 5.125%, 1/1/22 Aa3/A+ 5,500,000
5,421,515
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY TBTAU GP RRB, Series B, 5%, 1/1/20 Aa3/A+ 500,000
496,030
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY TBTAU GP RRB, Series Y, 5.50%, 1/1/17 Aa3/A+ 15,000,000
15,999,150
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY TBTAU SPO RRB, Series A,
MBIA Insured, 6.625%, 1/1/17 Aaa/AAA 500,000 537,620
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY United Nations Development Corp. RRB,
Sr. Lien, Series B, 5.60%, 7/1/26 A2/NR/A 1,500,000 1,504,530
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY United Nations Development Corp. RRB,
Sub. Lien, Series C, 5.60%, 7/1/26 A3/NR/A- 3,000,000
3,009,390
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Inverse Floater, 7.505%, 8/1/08(1) A3/BBB+ 8,250,000
9,105,937
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Inverse Floater, 8.462%, 8/1/13(1) A3/BBB+ 5,000,000
5,637,500
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Inverse Floater, 8.462%, 8/1/14(1) A3/BBB+ 8,150,000
9,189,125
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Prerefunded, Series C,
Subseries C-1, 7.50%, 8/1/20 Aaa/BBB+/A- 110,000 126,062
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Prerefunded, Series F, 8.25%, 11/15/17 Aaa/BBB+ 7,820,000
9,015,678
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Series B, 8.25%, 6/1/07 A3/BBB+ 1,750,000
2,195,252
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Series B, FSA Insured,
Inverse Floater, 6.843%, 10/1/07(1) Aaa/AAA 7,500,000
8,022,675
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Series H, 6.125%, 8/1/25 A3/BBB+/A- 6,000,000
6,466,020 </TABLE>
10 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings:
Moody's/ Face Market Value S&P/Fitch
Amount See Note 1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> New York
(continued)
NYC GOB, Series M, AMBAC Insured,
7.50%, 6/1/07 Aaa/AAA $ 7,680,000 $ 9,361,997
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Unrefunded Balance, Series A,
7.75%, 3/15/03 A3/BBB+/A- 150,000 161,605
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Unrefunded Balance, Series A,
7.75%, 8/15/16 A3/BBB+ 157,500 174,691
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Unrefunded Balance, Series F,
8.25%, 11/15/17 A3/BBB+ 680,000 771,032
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GOB, Unrefunded Balance, Subseries C-1,
7.50%, 8/1/20 Baa1/BBB+/A- 15,000 16,856
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GORB, Series B, MBIA Insured,
6.20%, 8/15/06 Aaa/AAA 3,500,000 3,899,455
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GORB, Series D, MBIA Insured,
5.75%, 8/1/05 Aaa/AAA 450,000 483,255
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC GORB, Unrefunded Balance,
Series F, 7.625%, 2/1/14 Baa1/BBB+/A- 25,000 27,915
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC HDC MH RB, Glenn Gardens Project,
6.50%, 1/15/18 NR/NR 2,867,646 2,994,712
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC HDC MH RB, Keith Plaza Project,
6.50%, 2/15/18 NR/NR 1,894,918 1,986,272
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC HDC MH RB, Series A, 5.625%, 5/1/12 Aa2/AA 4,500,000
4,666,275
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC Health & Hospital Corp. RRB, AMBAC
Insured, Inverse Floater, 7.36%, 2/15/23(1) Aaa/AAA/AAA 8,300,000
8,746,125
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA Civic Facility RB, Community
Resources Development, 7.50%, 8/1/26 NR/NR 3,500,000
3,728,760
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA Civic Facility RB, USTA National
Tennis Center Project, FSA Insured,
<PAGE>
6.375%, 11/15/14 Aaa/AAA 1,500,000 1,669,605
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA RB, Visy Paper, Inc. Project,
7.95%, 1/1/28 NR/NR 12,250,000 14,303,712
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA RRB, Brooklyn Navy Yard Cogen
Partners, 5.75%, 10/1/36 Baa3/BBB- 3,000,000 3,075,330
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA RRB, Brooklyn Navy Yard Cogen
Partners, 6.20%, 10/1/22 Baa3/BBB- 5,000,000 5,620,800
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA SPF RB, Northwest Airlines, Inc.,
6%, 6/1/27 Ba2/BB 6,700,000 7,038,953
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDA SPF RB, United Air Lines, Inc. Project,
5.65%, 10/1/32 Baa3/BB+ 6,585,000 6,696,418
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDAU Civil Facility RB, YMCA Greater NY
Project, 5.80%, 8/1/16 Baa3/NR/BBB 2,470,000 2,583,595
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDAU RB, Visy Paper, Inc. Project, 7.80%,
1/1/16 NR/NR 6,800,000 7,899,764
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC IDAU SPF RB, Terminal One Group Assn.
Project, 6%, 1/1/15 A3/A/A- 6,000,000 6,341,580
</TABLE>
11 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ---- Statement of Investments March 31, 1998 (Unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings:
Moody's/ Face Market Value S&P/Fitch
Amount See Note 1
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> New York
(continued)
NYC IDAU SPF RB, Terminal One Group Assn.
Project, 6.125%, 1/1/24 A3/A/A- $ 3,000,000 $ 3,190,590
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC MWFAU WSS RB, Prerefunded, Series C,
7.75%, 6/15/20 Aaa/A- 15,000,000 16,851,150
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC MWFAU WSS RB, Unrefunded Balance,
Series B, 6.375%, 6/15/22 A2/A-/A 6,625,000 7,261,199
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC MWFAU WSS RRB, Series A-1994,
7.10%, 6/15/12 A2/A- 275,000 300,809
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC MWFAU WSS RRB, Series C, FGIC Insured,
5%, 6/15/21 Aaa/AAA/AAA 19,000,000 18,514,740
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC MWFAU WSS RRB, Unrefunded Balance,
6.75%, 6/15/17 A2/A- 2,480,000 2,667,662
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYC Transitional FAU RB, Future Tax Second,
Series A, 5.125%, 8/15/21 Aa3/NR 5,000,000 4,936,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, City University-Third General
Resolution, Series 2, MBIA Insured,
6.875%, 7/1/14 Aaa/AAA/A- 500,000 579,775
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, Ithaca College, AMBAC Insured,
5.25%, 7/1/26 Aaa/AAA 5,750,000 5,764,030
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, Judicial Facilities Lease, Escrowed
to Maturity, MBIA Insured, 7.375%, 7/1/16 Aaa/AAA 2,300,000
2,902,899
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, Mental Health Facilities Project,
AMBAC Insured, 5.25%, 2/15/18 Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,400,000
9,407,144
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, New York University, Series A,
MBIA Insured, 5.75%, 7/1/27 Aaa/AAA 6,000,000
6,687,180
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, Pooled Capital Program, Partially
Prerefunded, FGIC Insured, 7.80%, 12/1/05 Aaa/AAA/AAA 6,105,000
6,359,640
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, Rockefeller University,
MBIA Insured, 7.375%, 7/1/14 Aaa/AAA 4,000,000
4,113,640
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, Rosalind & Joseph Nursing Home,
AMBAC Insured, 5.70%, 2/1/37 Aaa/AAA 2,000,000
2,092,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RB, Second Hospital-Interfaith Medical
Center, Series D, 5.40%, 2/15/28 Baa1/BBB+/A 3,500,000
3,501,295
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, CUS, Second Series A,
5.75%, 7/1/18 Baa1/BBB+ 6,750,000 7,246,125
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, CUS, Series B, 6%, 7/1/14 Baa1/BBB+ 10,875,000
11,965,545
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, Episcopal Health Services, Inc.,
5.85%, 8/1/13 NR/AAA 500,000 533,395
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, Fordham University, FGIC Insured,
5.75%, 7/1/15 Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,100,000 9,612,694
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, Second Hospital-North General
Hospital, Series G, 5.30%, 2/15/19 Baa1/BBB+/A 5,000,000
4,968,450
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, St. Joseph's Hospital Health
<PAGE>
Center, MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA 5,035,000
5,043,056 </TABLE>
12 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings:
Moody's/ Face Market Value S&P/Fitch
Amount See Note 1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> New York
(continued)
NYS DA RRB, St. Vincent's Hospital,
7.375%, 8/1/11 Aa2/AAA $ 150,000 $ 167,518
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, SUEFS, Series A, 5.25%, 5/15/15 A3/A- 23,090,000
23,640,466
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, SUEFS, Series A, 5.25%, 5/15/21 A3/A- 5,010,000
5,145,470
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA RRB, SUEFS, Series B, 7%, 5/15/16 A3/A-/A 9,020,000
9,648,423
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS DA SPO Bonds, CUS, Series E,
FSA Insured, 5.75%, 7/1/11 Aaa/AAA 5,955,000 6,575,332
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS EFCPC RB, State Water Revolving Fund,
Prerefunded, Series E, 6.50%, 6/15/14 Aa/A 480,000 523,334
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS EFCPC RB, State Water Revolving Fund,
Series A, 6.60%, 9/15/12 Aaa/AAA/AAA 250,000 276,575
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS EFCPC RB, State Water Revolving Fund,
<PAGE>
Series C, 7.20%, 3/15/11 Aa2/A+/AA 350,000 376,439
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS EFCPC RB, State Water Revolving Fund,
Unrefunded Balance, Series E, 6.50%, 6/15/14 Aa/A 20,000
21,602
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUEF RB, Consolidated Edison Co.,
Series A, 7.50%, 1/1/26 A1/A+ 280,000 296,400
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUEF RB, Consolidated Edison Co.,
Series B, 7.375%, 7/1/24 A1/A+ 200,000 203,548
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUEF RB, L.I. Lighting Co.,
Series A, 7.15%, 12/1/20 Ba1/BB+ 7,500,000 8,213,925
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUEF RB, L.I. Lighting Co.,
Series C, 6.90%, 8/1/22 Ba1/BB+ 9,200,000 10,066,180
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUGF RB, Brooklyn Union Gas Co.,
Series B, Inverse Floater, 9.944%, 7/1/26(1) A1/A/A 6,000,000
7,830,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUGF RB, Brooklyn Union Gas Co.,
Series D, MBIA Insured, Inverse Floater,
7.488%, 7/8/26(1) Aaa/AAA/A 3,000,000 3,112,500
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUPC RB, NYS Electric & Gas Project,
Series A, MBIA Insured, 6.15%, 7/1/26 Aaa/AAA 4,000,000
4,314,640
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS GOB, 6.875%, 3/1/12 A2/A 500,000 552,295
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS GOB, 7%, 2/1/09 A2/A 300,000 332,664
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS GORB, 7.50%, 11/15/00 A2/A 500,000 544,095
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFA RB, MH Second Mtg. Program-A,
7.05%, 8/15/24 Aa2/NR 350,000 375,473
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFA RB, MH Second Mtg. Program-C,
6.95%, 8/15/24 Aa2/NR 230,000 243,556
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFA RB, Prerefunded, 8%, 11/1/08 Aaa/BBB+ 2,690,000
3,004,838
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFA RB, Unrefunded Balance,
8%, 11/1/08 Baa/BBB+ 550,000 604,824
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFA RRB, Housing Mtg., Series A,
6.10%, 11/1/15 Aaa/AAA 12,375,000 13,419,202
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFA RRB, State University Construction,
Escrowed to Maturity, Series A, 7.90%, 11/1/06 Aaa/AAA 1,750,000
2,085,983 </TABLE>
13 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ---------- Statement of Investments March 31, 1998 (Unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings:
Moody's/ Face Market Value S&P/Fitch
Amount See Note 1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> New York
(continued)
NYS HFA RRB, Unrefunded Balance,
7.90%, 11/1/99 Baa2/BBB+ $ 1,885,000 $ 1,967,111
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFASC Obligation RB, Series A, 6%, 3/15/26 Baa1/BBB+ 10,000,000
10,663,600
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS HFASC RB, Series D, 5.375%, 3/15/23 Baa1/BBB+ 9,000,000
<PAGE>
8,993,610
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS LGAC RB, Prerefunded,
Series C, 7%, 4/1/21(2) Aaa/AAA/AAA 9,455,000
10,415,912
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS LGAC RRB, Series B, 5.50%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 3,000,000
3,055,770
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS LGAC RRB, Series E, 5%, 4/1/21 A3/A+/A+ 500,000
494,610
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MAG RB, Homeowner Mtg.,
Series 1, 7.95%, 10/1/21 Aa2/NR 2,270,000 2,446,288
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MAG RB, Homeowner Mtg.,
Series UU, 7.75%, 10/1/23 Aa2/NR 1,990,000 2,117,101
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MAG RB, Homeowner Mtg.,
Series VV, 7.375%, 10/1/11 Aa2/NR 345,000 369,681
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MAG RB, Inverse Floater, 6.953%, 10/1/24(1) NR/NR 9,000,000
8,786,250
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MAG RB, Series 40-B, 6.40%, 10/1/12 Aa2/NR 500,000
538,645
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, Hospital & Nursing Home
Project, Series D, 6.45%, 2/15/09 Aa2/AAA 340,000 375,115
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, Long-Term Health Care,
Series C, FSA Insured, 6.40%, 11/1/14 Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,800,000
3,045,196
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, MHESF, Prerefunded,
Series B, 7.875%, 8/15/20 Aaa/AAA 10,190,000 11,277,884
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, MHESF, Series A,
<PAGE>
FGIC Insured, 6.375%, 8/15/17 Aaa/AAA/AAA 5,000,000
5,416,750
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series B, 7.875%, 8/15/20 Baa1/BBB+ 2,990,000 3,298,209
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, NY Hospital, Series A,
AMBAC Insured, 6.75%, 8/15/14 Aaa/AAA/AAA 500,000
578,840
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, St. Francis Hospital,
Series 1998A, FGIC Insured, 7.625%, 11/1/21 Aaa/AAA/AAA 2,690,000
2,800,021
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, St. Luke's Hospital Center Mtg.,
Prerefunded, Series B, 7.45%, 2/15/29 Aaa/AAA 7,500,000
8,121,675
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RB, Unrefunded Balance,
7.70%, 2/15/18 Baa1/BBB+ 355,000 363,087
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RRB, MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series A, 8.875%, 8/15/07 Baa1/BBB+ 2,785,000 2,851,534
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS MCFFA RRB, North Shore University
Hospital, MBIA Insured, 7.20%, 11/1/20 Aaa/AAA 250,000
271,823
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS PAU GP RRB, Refunded Balance,
Series Z, 6.625%, 1/1/12 Aa2/NR 115,000 125,450
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS PAU GP RRB, Series Z, 6.625%, 1/1/12 Aa2/NR 200,000
220,624
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS Thruway Authority General RB,
Series A, 5.75%, 1/1/19 Aa3/AA- 10,000,000 10,375,000
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
14 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ------- Statement of Investments March 31, 1998 (Unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings:
Moody's/ Face Market Value S&P/Fitch
Amount See Note 1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> New York
(continued)
NYS UDC RB, Correctional Capital Facilities,
Series 4, 5.375%, 1/1/23 Baa1/BBB+/A $ 8,750,000 $
8,731,363
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS UDC RB, Series A, MBIA Insured,
5.50%, 4/1/16 Aaa/AAA/AAA 7,500,000 7,774,350
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Onondaga Cnty., NY RR Agency RB,
RR Facilities Project, 7%, 5/1/15 Baa1/NR/A- 15,600,000
16,899,012
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ Consolidated RB, 69th Series,
7.125%, 6/1/25 A1/AA-/AA- 4,155,000 4,430,227
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ Consolidated RRB, 78th Series,
6.50%, 4/15/11 A1/AA-/AA- 250,000 271,228
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ RB, 111th Series, 5%, 10/1/32 A1/AA-/AA- 9,000,000
8,726,760
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ SPO RB, JFK International Air
Terminal Project, Series 6, 5.75%, 12/1/22 Aaa/AAA 11,150,000
11,750,428
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUNYNJ SPO RRB, KIAC-4 Project, Fifth
<PAGE>
Installment, 6.75%, 10/1/19 NR/NR 12,600,000 13,975,920
------------
619,763,652
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Possessions--16.1%
PR CMWLTH Aqueduct & Sewer Authority RB,
Escrowed to Maturity, 10.25%, 7/1/09 Aaa/AAA 500,000
693,440
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR CMWLTH GOB, 5.375%, 7/1/25 Baa1/A 5,650,000
5,704,862
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR CMWLTH GORB, FSA Insured,
Inverse Floater, 7.682%, 7/1/20(1) Aaa/AAA 11,500,000
12,951,875
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR CMWLTH GORB, MBIA Insured, 5.25%, 7/1/18 Aaa/AAA 3,550,000
3,562,425
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR CMWLTH HTAU RB, Prerefunded,
Series S, 6.50%, 7/1/22 NR/AAA 10,000,000 11,063,100
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR CMWLTH HTAU RB, Series W,
Inverse Floater, 6.692%, 7/1/10(1) Baa1/A 9,000,000 9,776,250
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR CMWLTH Infrastructure FAU SPTX RB,
Series A, 7.75%, 7/1/08 Baa1/BBB+ 6,000,000 6,182,400
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR EPAU RB, Series AA, MBIA Insured,
5.25%, 7/1/16 Aaa/AAA 5,000,000 5,071,750
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR EPAU RB, Series AA, MBIA Insured,
5.25%, 7/1/17 Aaa/AAA 5,000,000 5,058,900
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR EPAU CAP RRB, Series N, MBIA Insured,
Zero Coupon, 5.69%, 7/1/17(3) Aaa/AAA 24,000,000
9,258,240
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
PR EPAU RB, Series DD, 5%, 7/1/28 Baa1/BBB+ 15,240,000
14,575,536
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR Housing Bank & Finance Agency SFM RB,
Homeownership-Fourth Portfolio,
Escrowed to Maturity, 8.50%, 12/1/18 Aaa/NR 1,580,000
1,890,296
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR Industrial, Medical & Environmental PC Facilities FAU RB, American Airlines,
Inc.
Project, Series A, 6.45%, 12/1/25 Baa1/BB+ 850,000 941,962
</TABLE>
15 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ---------- Statement of Investments March 31, 1998 (Unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings:
Moody's/ Face Market Value S&P/Fitch
Amount See Note 1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> U.S.
Possessions (continued)
PR Industrial, Medical & Environmental
PC Facilities FAU RB, Warner Lambert Co.
Project, 7.60%, 5/1/14 A1/NR $ 3,000,000 $ 3,195,690
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR POAU RB, American Airlines SPF Project,
Series A, 6.25%, 6/1/26 Baa3/BBB+ 8,000,000 8,699,600
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR Public Buildings Authority RB, Series B,
5.25%, 7/1/21 Baa1/A 9,920,000 9,905,914
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PR Telephone Authority RB, MBIA Insured,
<PAGE>
Inverse Floater, 7.168%, 1/16/15(1) Aaa/AAA 10,000,000
10,675,000 ------------
119,207,240
------------ Total Municipal Bonds and Notes (Cost
$687,524,070) 738,970,892
================================================================
========================================== Short-Term Tax-Exempt
Obligations--0.1%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NYS ERDAUPC RB, Niagara Mohawk Corp.,
3.70%, 4/1/98(4) (Cost $1,000,000) 1,000,000 1,000,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Investments, at Value (Cost $688,524,070) 99.6%
739,970,892
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Assets Net of Liabilities 0.4 2,973,475
----------- ------------ Net Assets
100.0% $742,944,367
=========== ============ </TABLE>
To simplify the listings of securities, abbreviations are used per the table
below:
CAP --Capital Appreciation
CMWLTH --Commonwealth
CUS --City University System
DA --Dormitory Authority
EFCPC --Environmental Facilities Corp.
Pollution Control
EPAU --Electric Power Authority
ERDAUEF --Energy Research & Development
Authority Electric Facilities
ERDAUGF --Energy Research & Development
Authority Gas Facilities
ERDAUPC --Energy Research & Development
Authority Pollution Control
FAU --Finance Authority
GP --General Purpose
GOB --General Obligation Bonds
<PAGE>
GORB --General Obligation Refunding Bonds
HDC --Housing Development Corp.
HFA --Housing Finance Agency
HFASC --Housing Finance Agency
Service Contract
HTAU --Highway & Transportation Authority
IDA --Industrial Development Agency
IDAU --Industrial Development Authority
LGAC --Local Government Assistance Corp.
L.I. --Long Island
MAG --Mtg. Agency
MCFFA --Medical Care Facilities Finance Agency
MH --Multifamily Housing
MHESF --Mental Health Services Facilities
MTAU --Metropolitan Transportation Authority
MWFAU --Municipal Water Finance Authority
NYC --New York City
NYS --New York State
PAUNYNJ --Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
PAU --Power Authority
PC --Pollution Control
POAU --Port Authority
RB --Revenue Bonds
RR --Resource Recovery
RRB --Revenue Refunding Bonds
SFM --Single Family Mtg.
SPF --Special Facilities
SPO --Special Obligations
SPTX --Special Tax
SUEFS --State University Educational
Facilities System
TBTAU --Triborough Bridge & Tunnel Authority
UDC --Urban Development Corp.
WSS --Water & Sewer System
16 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Represents the current interest rate for a variable rate bond known as an
"inverse floater" which pays interest at a rate that varies inversely with
short-term interest rates. As interest rates rise, inverse floaters produce less
current income. Their price may be more volatile than the price of a comparable
fixed-rate security. Inverse floaters amount to $93,833,238 or 12.63% of the
Fund's net assets at March 31, 1998.
2. Securities with an aggregate market value of $2,533,749 are held in
collateralized accounts to cover initial margin requirements on open futures
sales contracts. See Note 5 of Notes to Financial Statements. 3. For zero coupon
bonds, the interest rate shown is the effective yield on the date of purchase.
4. Floating or variable rate obligation. The interest rate, which is based on
specific, or an index of, market interest rates, is subject to change
periodically and is the effective rate on March 31, 1998. This instrument may
also have a demand feature which allows, on up to 30 days notice, the recovery
of principal at any time, or at specified intervals not exceeding one year.
Maturity date shown represents effective maturity based on variable rate and, if
applicable, demand feature.
As of March 31, 1998, securities subject to the alternative minimum tax amount
to $138,581,092 or 18.65% of the Fund's net assets.
Distribution of investments by industry of issue, as a percentage of total
investments at value, is as follows:
Industry Market Value Percent
- -------------------------------------------------------------- Higher Education
$ 93,064,663 12.6%
- ------------------------------------------------------------ General Obligation
88,880,926 12.0
- ------------------------------------------------------------------ Lease Rental
85,264,418 11.6
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Highways
81,554,280 11.0
- ----------------------------------------------------------- Electric Utilities
<PAGE>
80,077,243 10.8
- --------------------------------------------------------------- Water Utilities
46,288,999 6.3
- ----------------------------------------------------------- Hospital/Healthcare
37,601,009 5.1
- ---------------------------------------------------------- Multi-Family Housing
34,349,091 4.6
- -------------------------------------------------------------- Corporate Backed
32,909,103 4.4
- ---------------------------------------------------------------- Manufacturing,
Non-Durable Goods 25,399,167 3.4
- --------------------------------------------------------------- Marine/Aviation
Facilities 25,178,642 3.4
- --------------------------------------------------------------------- Sales Tax
20,148,692 2.7
- ------------------------------------------------------------- Resource Recovery
16,899,012 2.3
- --------------------------------------------------------- Single Family Housing
16,148,262 2.2
- ----------------------------------------------------------- Special Assessment
13,593,775 1.8
- --------------------------------------------------------------- Not-for-Profit
Organization 12,495,880 1.7
- ----------------------------------------------------------------- Gas Utilities
10,942,500 1.5
- ----------------------------------------------------------- Telephone Utilities
10,675,000 1.4
- ------------------------------------------------------ Adult Living Facilities
6,302,280 0.9
- --------------------------------------------------------------- Sewer Utilities
1,197,950 0.2
- ------------------------------------------------------------- Pollution Control
1,000,000 0.1 ------------
----- Total $739,970,892 100.0%
============ =====
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements
<PAGE>
17 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ------------ Statement of Assets and Liabilities March 31, 1998 (Unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
================ Assets
Investments, at value (cost $688,524,070)--see accompanying statement
<S> <C> <C>
$ 739,970,892
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash
1,222,232
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Receivables:
Interest 11,722,387 Shares of beneficial interest sold
10,071,872
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other
18,424
Total assets 763,005,807
================================================================
================ Liabilities
Payables and other liabilities:
Investments purchased 14,644,201 Shares of beneficial interest
redeemed 1,969,829 Dividends
1,945,428 Distribution and service plan fees 518,145 Management fees
325,024 Trustees' fees--Note 1
245,391 Daily variation on futures contracts--Note 5 194,531 Shareholder
reports 99,405 Transfer and shareholder servicing agent fees
67,970 Other 51,516
------------- Total liabilities
20,061,440
================================================================
================ Net Assets $ 742,944,367
=============
================================================================
================ Composition of Net Assets
Paid-in capital $ 699,532,957
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Overdistributed net
investment income (1,560,881)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Accumulated net
<PAGE>
realized loss on investment transactions (6,165,546)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net unrealized
appreciation on investments--Notes 3 and 5 51,137,837
------------- Net assets $ 742,944,367
=============
18 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
================ Net Asset Value Per Share
Class A Shares:
Net asset value and redemption price per share (based on net assets of
$631,471,459 and 48,748,263 shares of beneficial interest
outstanding) $12.95 Maximum offering price per share (net asset value plus sales
charge of 4.75% of offering price) $13.60
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B Shares:
Net asset value, redemption price (excludes applicable contingent deferred sales
charge) and offering price per share (based on net assets of $105,908,110 and
8,174,409 shares of beneficial interest outstanding) $12.96
- --------------------------------------------------------------- Class C Shares:
Net asset value, redemption price (excludes applicable contingent deferred sales
charge) and offering price per share (based on net assets of $5,564,798 and
429,569 shares of beneficial interest outstanding) $12.95 See accompanying Notes
to Financial Statements.
<PAGE>
19 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ------------------------------------------------------- Statement of Operations
For the Six Months Ended March 31, 1998 (Unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
================ Investment Income
Interest $ 21,823,624
================================================================
================ Expenses
Management fees--Note 4 1,918,198
- ----------------------------------------------------- Distribution and service
plan fees--Note 4:
Class A 739,212 Class B
532,328 Class C 24,886
- ------------------------------------------------------ Transfer and shareholder
servicing agent fees--Note 4 236,873
- ------------------------------------------------------------ Trustees' fees and
expenses--Note 1 63,541
- ----------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder reports
61,586
- ------------------------------------------------------------- Custodian fees and
expenses 41,167
- ------------------------------------------------------- Legal and auditing fees
23,603
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Other
15,223 ------------
Total expenses 3,656,617
================================================================
================ Net Investment Income 18,167,007
================================================================
================ Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Net realized gain (loss) on:
Investments 2,639,126 Closing of futures contracts
(796,319) ------------
Net realized gain 1,842,807
<PAGE>
- ------------------------------------------------------- Net change in unrealized
appreciation or
depreciation on investments 8,345,163
------------ Net realized and unrealized gain
10,187,970
================================================================
================ Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting from Operations
$28,354,977 ============
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
20 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------- Statements of Changes
in Net Assets
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended Year Ended
March 31, 1998 September 30,
(Unaudited) 1997
================================================================
========================= <S> <C>
<C> Operations
Net investment income $ 18,167,007 $ 40,870,758
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net realized gain
(loss) 1,842,807 (3,110,188)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net change in
unrealized appreciation or depreciation 8,345,163 25,374,028
------------- ------------- Net increase in net assets resulting from
operations 28,354,977 63,134,598
================================================================
========================= Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders
Dividends from net investment income:
Class A (16,520,946) (35,297,579) Class B
(2,376,958) (4,855,021) Class C
(110,966) (175,214)
<PAGE>
================================================================
========================= Beneficial Interest Transactions Net increase
(decrease) in net assets resulting from beneficial interest transactions--Note
2:
Class A (11,275,914) (52,009,162) Class B
(1,881,376) 2,021,008 Class C
758,570 2,612,419
================================================================
========================= Net Assets
Total decrease (3,052,613) (24,568,951)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Beginning of
period 745,996,980 770,565,931
------------- ------------- End of period [including undistributed (overdistributed)
net investment income of $(1,560,881) and $1,395,429,
respectively] $ 742,944,367 $ 745,996,980
============= ============= </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
21 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ---------------------------------------------- Financial Highlights
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Class A
------------------------------------------------
Six Months
Ended
March 31,
1998 Year Ended September 30,
(Unaudited) 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
================================================================
=========================================================== <S>
<C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Operating Data
Net asset value, beginning of period $12.79 $12.41 $12.29 $11.92
<PAGE>
$13.50 $12.59
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------ Income (loss) from investment operations:
Net investment income .29 .69 .68 .69 .74
.73 Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) .21 .37 .12 .41
(1.46) 1.01 -------- -------- -------- --------
- -------- -------- Total income (loss) from investment
operations .50 1.06 .80 1.10 (.72) 1.74
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------ Dividends and distributions to shareholders:
Dividends from net investment income (.34) (.68) (.68) (.70) (.72)
(.75) Distributions from net realized gain -- -- -- (.03)
(.03) (.08) Distributions in excess of net realized gain -- -- --
-- (.11) -- -------- -------- -------- --------
-------- -------- Total dividends and distributions
to shareholders (.34) (.68) (.68) (.73) (.86) (.83)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------ Net asset value, end of period $12.95 $12.79 $12.41
$12.29 $11.92 $13.50 ======== ========
======== ======== ======== ========
================================================================
=========================================================== Total
Return, at Net Asset Value(3) 3.92% 8.78% 6.65% 9.58%
(5.55)% 14.33%
================================================================
===========================================================
Ratios/Supplemental Data
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $631,471 $634,789 $667,258 $673,050
$687,233 $756,934
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------ Average net assets (in thousands) $631,982 $652,048
$684,981 $659,465 $738,747 $652,327
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------ Ratios to average net assets:
<PAGE>
Net investment income 5.01%(4) 5.49% 5.50% 5.76%
5.68% 5.66% Expenses 0.87%(4) 0.86% 0.91%
0.90% 0.86% 0.91%
</TABLE>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate(5) 14.2% 20.5% 21.2%
15.2% 9.4% 39.1%
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Class B
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months
Ended
March 31,
1998 Year Ended September 30,
(Unaudited) 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993(2)
================================================================
==================================================== <S>
<C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> Per Share
Operating Data
Net asset value, beginning of period $12.79 $12.41 $12.30 $11.93
$13.50 $13.07
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------- Income (loss) from investment operations:
Net investment income .24 .59 .60 .60 .64 .36
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) .22 .38 .10 .42 (1.45)
.44 -------- -------- -------- ------- ------- -------
Total income (loss) from investment
operations .46 .97 .70 1.02 (.81) .80
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------- Dividends and distributions to shareholders:
Dividends from net investment income (.29) (.59) (.59) (.62) (.62)
(.37) Distributions from net realized gain -- -- -- (.03) (.03)
-- Distributions in excess of net realized gain -- -- -- -- (.11)
-- -------- -------- -------- ------- ------- -------
Total dividends and distributions
to shareholders (.29) (.59) (.59) (.65) (.76) (.37)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------- Net asset value, end of period $12.96 $12.79 $12.41 $12.30
$11.93 $13.50 ======== ======== ========
======= ======= =======
================================================================
==================================================== Total Return, at
Net Asset Value(3) 3.61% 7.97% 5.77% 8.75% (6.22)% 6.56%
================================================================
====================================================
Ratios/Supplemental Data
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $105,908 $106,459 $101,302 $91,108
$73,943 $40,958
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------- Average net assets (in thousands) $106,757 $104,183 $ 98,488
$81,743 $61,008 $20,454
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------- Ratios to average net assets:
Net investment income 4.25%(4) 4.72% 4.73% 4.95%
4.88% 4.45%(4) Expenses 1.64%(4) 1.63% 1.68%
1.67% 1.65% 1.73%(4)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------- Portfolio turnover rate(5) 14.2% 20.5% 21.2% 15.2%
9.4% 39.1% </TABLE>
(1.) For the period from August 29, 1995 (inception of offering) to September
30, 1995. (2.) For the period from March 1, 1993 (inception of offering) to
September 30, 1993. (3.) Assumes a hypothetical initial investment on the
business day before the first day of the fiscal period (or inception of
offering), with all dividends and distributions reinvested in additional shares
on the reinvestment date, and redemption at the net asset value calculated on
the last business day of the fiscal period. Sales charges are not reflected in
the total returns. Total returns are not annualized for periods of less than one
full year. (4.) Annualized. (5.) The lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio
securities for a period, divided by the monthly average of the market value of
portfolio securities owned during the period. Securities with a maturity or
expiration date at the time of acquisition of one year or less are excluded from
the calculation. Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding
short-term securities) for the period ended March 31, 1998 were $104,199,777 and
$112,692,958, respectively.
22 & 23 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
<PAGE>
- ---------------------------------------------------------- Financial Highlights
(Continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Class C
---------------------------------------
Six Months Ended
March 31, 1998 Year
Ended September 30, (Unaudited) 1997 1996 1995(1)
================================================================
======================== <S> <C> <C> <C>
<C> Per Share Operating Data
Net asset value, beginning of period $12.79 $12.41 $12.30 $12.22
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income (loss)
from investment operations:
Net investment income .25 .57 .60 .05 Net realized and
unrealized gain (loss) .20 .39 .09 .08
- ------ ------ ------ ------ Total income (loss) from investment operations .45
.96 .69 .13
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dividends and
distributions to shareholders:
Dividends from net investment income (.29) (.58) (.58) (.05) Distributions
from net realized gain -- -- -- -- Distributions in excess of net
realized gain -- -- -- -- ------ ------
------ ------ Total dividends and distributions
to shareholders (.29) (.58) (.58) (.05)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net asset value,
end of period $12.95 $12.79 $12.41 $12.30
====== ====== ====== ======
================================================================
======================== Total Return, at Net Asset Value(3) 3.53%
7.95% 5.64% 1.10%
================================================================
======================== Ratios/Supplemental Data
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $5,565 $4,749 $2,007 $25
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average net
<PAGE>
assets (in thousands) $4,995 $3,798 $ 752 $18
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ratios to average
net assets:
Net investment income 4.25%(4) 4.67% 4.60% 3.67%(4)
Expenses 1.63%(4) 1.63% 1.77% 1.37%(4)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Portfolio turnover
rate(5) 14.2% 20.5% 21.2% 15.2%
</TABLE>
(1.) For the period from August 29, 1995 (inception of offering) to September
30, 1995. (2.) For the period from March 1, 1993 (inception of offering) to
September 30, 1993. (3.) Assumes a hypothetical initial investment on the
business day before the first day of the fiscal period (or inception of
offering), with all dividends and distributions reinvested in additional shares
on the reinvestment date, and redemption at the net asset value calculated on
the last business day of the fiscal period. Sales charges are not reflected in
the total returns. Total returns are not annualized for periods of less than one
full year. (4.) Annualized. (5.) The lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio
securities for a period, divided by the monthly average of the market value of
portfolio securities owned during the period. Securities with a maturity or
expiration date at the time of acquisition of one year or less are excluded from
the calculation. Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding
short-term securities) for the period ended March 31, 1998 were $104,199,777 and
$112,692,958, respectively. See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
24 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ------------------------------------------------------ Notes to Financial
Statements (Unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
================ 1. Significant Accounting Policies
Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund (the Fund) is registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as a diversified, open-end
management investment company. The Fund's investment objective is to seek
maximum current income exempt from federal, New York State & New York City
income taxes for individual investors consistent with preservation of capital by
investing primarily in muncipal bonds. The Fund's investment advisor is
Oppenheimer Funds, Inc. (the Manager). The Fund offers Class A, Class B and
Class C shares. Class A shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Class B
and Class C
<PAGE>
shares may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. All classes of
shares have identical rights to earnings, assets and voting privileges, except
that each class has its own distribution and/or service plan, expenses directly
attributable to that class and exclusive voting rights with respect to matters
affecting that class. Class B shares will automatically convert to Class A
shares six years after the date of purchase. The following is a summary of
significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Valuation. Portfolio securities are valued at the close of The New
York Stock Exchange on each trading day. Listed and unlisted securities for
which such information is regularly reported are valued at the last sale price
of the day or, in the absence of sales, at values based on the closing bid or
the last sale price on the prior trading day. Long-term and short-term
"non-money market" debt securities are valued by a portfolio pricing service
approved by the Board of Trustees. Such securities which cannot be valued by an
approved portfolio pricing service are valued using dealer-supplied valuations
provided the Manager is satisfied that the firm rendering the quotes is reliable
and that the quotes reflect current market value, or are valued under
consistently applied procedures established by the Board of Trustees to
determine fair value in good faith. Short-term "money market type" debt
securities having a remaining maturity of 60 days or less are valued at cost (or
last determined market value) adjusted for amortization to maturity of any
premium or discount.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allocation of Income, Expenses, and Gains and Losses. Income, expenses (other
than those attributable to a specific class) and gains and losses are allocated
daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets
represented by such class. Operating expenses directly attributable to a
specific class are charged against the operations of that class.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Taxes. The Fund intends to continue to comply with provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to
distribute all of its taxable income, including any net realized gain on
investments not offset by loss carryovers, to shareholders. Therefore, no
federal income or excise tax provision is required. At September 30, 1997, the
Fund had available for federal income tax purposes an unused capital loss
carryover of approximately $7,657,000, expiring in 2003 and 2004.
25 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------- Notes to Financial
Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
================================================================
================ 1. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Trustees' Fees and Expenses. The Fund has adopted a nonfunded retirement plan
for the Fund's independent trustees. Benefits are based on years of service and
fees paid to each trustee during the years of service. During the six months
ended March 31, 1998, a provision of $28,510 was made for the Fund's projected
benefit obligations and payments of $11,314 were made to retired trustees,
resulting in an accumulated liability of $229,822 at March 31, 1998.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distributions to Shareholders. The Fund intends to declare dividends separately
for Class A, Class B and Class C shares from net investment income each day The
New York Stock Exchange is open for business and pay such dividends monthly.
Distributions from net realized gains on investments, if any, will be declared
at least once each year.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Classification of Distributions to Shareholders. Net investment income (loss)
and net realized gain (loss) may differ for financial statement and tax
purposes. The character of the distributions made during the year from net
investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate
characterization for federal income tax purposes. Also, due to timing of
dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may
differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain was recorded by
the Fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other. Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are
purchased or sold (trade date). Original issue discount or premiums on
securities purchased are amortized over the life of the respective securities,
in accordance with federal income tax requirements. As of November 4, 1997, in
order to conform book and tax bases, the Fund began amortization of premiums on
securities for book purposes. Accordingly, during the six months ended March 31,
1998, amounts have been reclassified to reflect an increase in overdistributed
net investment income of $2,114,447, an increase in unrealized appreciation on
investments of $5,357,349 and a decrease in paid-in capital of $3,242,902. For
bonds acquired after April 30, 1993, on disposition or maturity, taxable
ordinary income is recognized to the extent of the lesser of gain or market
discount that would have accrued over the holding period. Realized gains and
losses on investments and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are
determined on an identified cost basis, which is the same basis used for federal
income tax purposes. The Fund concentrates its investments in New York and,
therefore, may have more credit risks related to the economic conditions of New
York than a portfolio with a broader geographical
<PAGE>
diversification.
26 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
================ The preparation of financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting
period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
================================================================
================ 2. Shares of Beneficial Interest
The Fund has authorized an unlimited number of no par value shares of beneficial
interest of each class. Transactions in shares of beneficial interest were as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended March 31, 1998 Year Ended September 30, 1997
------------------------------- -----------------------------
Shares Amount Shares Amount
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- <S>
<C> <C> <C> <C> Class A:
Sold 2,722,874 $ 35,229,869 4,470,995 $ 56,051,835 Dividends
and distributions
reinvested 875,708 11,294,360 1,936,390 24,294,359 Redeemed
(4,470,920) (57,800,143) (10,554,692) (132,355,356)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- Net decrease
(872,338) $ (11,275,914) (4,147,307) $ (52,009,162)
============= ============= ============= =============
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class B:
Sold 463,589 $ 5,995,339 1,229,476 $ 15,435,863 Dividends
and distributions
reinvested 119,952 1,547,300 251,124 3,151,927 Redeemed
<PAGE>
(729,812) (9,424,015) (1,320,301) (16,566,782)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- Net increase (decrease)
(146,271) $ (1,881,376) 160,299 $ 2,021,008
============= ============= ============= =============
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class C:
Sold 94,706 $ 1,228,109 296,169 $ 3,700,982 Dividends
and distributions
reinvested 6,881 88,763 11,358 142,713 Redeemed
(43,265) (558,302) (97,937) (1,231,276)
- ------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- Net increase 58,322
$ 758,570 209,590 $ 2,612,419 =============
============= ============= ============= </TABLE>
================================================================
================ 3. Unrealized Gains and Losses on Investments
At March 31, 1998, net unrealized appreciation on investments of $51,446,822 was
composed of gross appreciation of $51,787,836, and gross depreciation of
$341,014.
27 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------- Notes to Financial
Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
================ 4. Management Fees and Other Transactions with Affiliates
Management fees paid to the Manager were in accordance with the investment
advisory agreement with the Fund which provides for a fee of 0.60% on the first
$200 million of average annual net assets, 0.55% on the next $100 million, 0.50%
on the next $200 million, 0.45% on the next $250 million, 0.40% on the next $250
million and 0.35% on average annual net assets in excess of $1 billion.
For the six months ended March 31, 1998, commissions (sales charges
paid by investors) on sales of Class A shares totaled $347,583, of which $71,465
was retained by OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (OFDI), a subsidiary of the
Manager, as general distributor, and by an affiliated broker/dealer. Sales
charges advanced to broker/dealers by OFDI on sales of the Fund's Class B and
Class C shares totaled $216,862 and $11,346,
<PAGE>
respectively, of which $4,915 was paid to an affiliated broker/dealer for Class
B shares. During the six months ended March 31, 1998, OFDI received contingent
deferred sales charges of $151,091 and $8,459, respectively, upon redemption of
Class B and Class C shares, as reimbursement for sales commissions advanced by
OFDI at the time of sale of such shares.
OppenheimerFunds Services (OFS), a division of the Manager, is the
transfer and shareholder servicing agent for the Fund and for other registered
investment companies. OFS's total costs of providing such services are allocated
ratably to these companies.
The Fund has adopted a Service Plan for Class A shares to reimburse
OFDI for a portion of its costs incurred in connection with the personal service
and maintenance of shareholder accounts that hold Class A shares. Reimbursement
is made quarterly at an annual rate that may not exceed 0.25% of the average
annual net assets of Class A shares of the Fund. OFDI uses the service fee to
reimburse brokers, dealers, banks and other financial institutions quarterly for
providing personal service and maintenance of accounts of their customers that
hold Class A shares. During the six months ended March 31, 1998, OFDI paid
$13,829 to an affiliated broker/dealer as reimbursement for Class A personal
service and maintenance expenses.
28 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
================ The Fund has adopted Distribution and Service Plans for Class B
and Class C shares to compensate OFDI for its costs in distributing Class B and
Class C shares and servicing accounts. Under the Plans, the Fund pays OFDI an
annual asset-based sales charge of 0.75% per year on Class B shares and Class C
shares for its services in distributing Class B and Class C shares. OFDI also
receives a service fee of 0.25% per year to compensate dealers for providing
personal services for accounts that hold Class B shares. Each fee is computed on
the average annual net assets of Class B or Class C shares, determined as of the
close of each regular business day. During the six months ended March 31, 1998,
OFDI paid $3,394 to an affiliated broker/dealer as compensation for Class B
personal service and maintenance expenses and retained $414,651 and $14,514,
respectively, as compensation for Class B and Class C sales commissions and
service fee advances, as well as financing costs. If either Plan is terminated
by the Fund, the Board of Trustees may allow
<PAGE>
the Fund to continue payments of the asset-based sales charge to OFDI for
distributing shares before the Plan was terminated. At March 31, 1998, OFDI had
incurred excess distribution and servicing costs of $2,649,426 for Class B and
$57,386 for Class C.
================================================================
================ 5. Futures Contracts
The Fund may buy and sell interest rate futures contracts in order to gain
exposure to or protect against changes in interest rates. The Fund may also buy
or write put or call options on these futures contracts.
The Fund generally sells futures contracts to hedge against
increases in interest rates and the resulting negative effect on the value of
fixed rate portfolio securities. The Fund may also purchase futures contracts to
gain exposure to changes in interest rates, as it may be more efficient or cost
effective than actually buying fixed income securities.
Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund is required to
deposit either cash or securities (initial margin) in an amount equal to a
certain percentage of the contract value. Subsequent payments (variation margin)
are made or received by the Fund each day. The variation margin payments are
equal to the daily changes in the contract value and are recorded as unrealized
gains and losses. The Fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract
is closed or expires.
Risks of entering into futures contracts (and related options)
include the possibility that there may be an illiquid market and that a change
in the value of the contract or option may not correlate with changes in the
value of the underlying securities.
29 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------- Notes to Financial
Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
================ 5. Futures Contracts (continued)
At March 31, 1998, the Fund had outstanding futures contracts as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<PAGE>
Expiration Number of Valuation as of Unrealized
Date Contracts March 31, 1998 Depreciation
================================================================
===================== <S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Contracts to Sell
- -----------------
U.S. Treasury Bonds, 30 yr. 6/98 415 $49,303,750 $308,985
</TABLE>
================================================================
================ 6. Bank Borrowings
The Fund may borrow from a bank for temporary or emergency purposes including,
without limitation, funding of shareholder redemptions provided asset coverage
for borrowings exceeds 300%. The Fund has entered into an agreement which
enables it to participate with other Oppenheimer funds in an unsecured line of
credit with a bank, which permits borrowings up to $400 million, collectively.
Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to
the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.35%. Borrowings are payable 30 days after such
loan is executed. The Fund also pays a commitment fee equal to its pro rata
share of the average unutilized amount of the credit facility at a rate of
0.0575% per annum.
The Fund had no borrowings outstanding during the six months ended
March 31, 1998.
30 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
- ---------------------------------------------------------- Oppenheimer New York
Municipal Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================================================
Officers and Trustees Leon Levy, Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Donald W. Spiro, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Bridget A. Macaskill, Trustee and President
Robert G. Galli, Trustee
Benjamin Lipstein, Trustee
Elizabeth B. Moynihan, Trustee
Kenneth A. Randall, Trustee
Edward V. Regan, Trustee
Russell S. Reynolds, Jr., Trustee
Pauline Trigere, Trustee
<PAGE>
Clayton K. Yeutter, Trustee
Robert E. Patterson, Vice President
George C. Bowen, Treasurer
Robert J. Bishop, Assistant Treasurer
Scott T. Farrar, Assistant Treasurer
Andrew J. Donohue, Secretary
Robert G. Zack, Assistant Secretary
================================================================
================ Investment Advisor OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
================================================================
================ Distributor OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
================================================================
================ Transfer and Shareholder OppenheimerFunds Services
Servicing Agent
================================================================
================ Custodian of Citibank, N.A.
Portfolio Securities
================================================================
================ Independent Auditors KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
================================================================
================ Legal Counsel Gordon Altman Butowsky Weitzen Shalov &
Wein
The financial statements included herein have been taken from the records
of the Fund without examination of the independent auditors. This is a copy of a
report to shareholders of Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund. This report must
be preceded or accompanied by a Prospectus of Oppenheimer New York Municipal
Fund. For material information concerning the Fund, see the Prospectus. Shares
of Oppenheimer funds are not deposits or obligations of any bank, are not
guaranteed by any bank, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency, and
involve investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount
invested.
31 Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund <PAGE>
<PAGE>
Information and services -------------------------------------------------------
Internet As an Oppenheimer fund shareholder, you have 24-hr access to account
some special privileges. Whether it's automatic information. Online investment
plans, informative newsletters and transactions now available hotlines, or ready
account access, you can benefit from services designed to make investing simple.
- ------------------------ www.oppenheimerfunds.com And when you need help, our
Customer Service ------------------------ Representatives are only a toll-free
phone call away. They can provide information about your General Information
account and handle administrative requests. You Mon-Fri 8:30am-9pm ET can reach
them at our General Information number. Sat 10am-4pm ET When you want to make a
transaction, you can ------------------------ do it easily by calling our
toll-free Telephone 1-800-525-7048 Transactions number or by visiting our
website. ------------------------ And, by enrolling in AccountLink, a convenient
service that "links" your Oppenheimer funds Account Transactions accounts and
your bank checking or savings Mon-Fri 8:30am-8pm ET account, you can use the
Telephone Transactions number or website to make investments.
- ------------------------ 1-800-852-8457 For added convenience, you can get
automated ------------------------ information with OppenheimerFunds PhoneLink
service, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. PhoneLink PhoneLink gives you
access to a variety of fund, 24-hr automated information account, and market
information. Of course, you and automated transactions can always speak with a
Customer Service Representative during the General Information
- ------------------------ hours shown at the left. 1-800-533-3310
- ------------------------ You can count on us whenever you need assistance.
That's why the International Customer Telecommunication Device Service
Association, an independent, nonprofit for the Deaf (TDD) organization made up
of over 3,200 customer Mon-Fri 8:30am-2pm ET service management professionals
from around the country, honored the Oppenheimer funds' transfer
- ------------------------ agent, OppenheimerFunds Services, with their Award
1-800-843-4461 of Excellence in 1993. ------------------------ So call us today,
or visit us at our website OppenheimerFunds at www.oppenheimerfunds.com--we're
here to help. Information Hotline 24 hours a day, timely and insightful messages
on the
<PAGE>
economy and issues that
affect your investments
- ------------------------
1-800-835-3104
- ------------------------
[LOGO] OppenheimerFunds
Distributor, Inc.
RS0360.001.0398 May 29, 1998
<PAGE>
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
February 26, 1998.
Registration No. 811-5278
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM N-2
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 | X |
Amendment No. 12 | X |
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
303-768-3200
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Registrant's Telephone Number)
ANDREW J. DONOHUE, ESQ.
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
<PAGE>
FORM N-2
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
Cross Reference Sheet
Part A of
Form N-2
Item No. Prospectus Heading
1 *
2 *
3 *
4 *
5 *
6 *
7 *
8 General Description of the Registrant
9 Management
10 Capital Stock, Long-Term Debt, and Other Securities
11 *
12 *
13 See Item 15 of the Statement of Additional Information
Part B of
Form N-2
Item No. Heading In Statement of Additional Information
14 Cover Page
15 Table of Contents
16 *
17 See Item 8 of the Prospectus
18 Management
19 Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities
20 See Item 9 of the Prospectus
21 Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices
22 See Item 10 of the Prospectus
23 Financial Statements
- ----------------
* Not applicable or negative answer.
C-102
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
PART A
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN A PROSPECTUS
Item 1. Outside Front Cover.
Inapplicable.
Item 2. Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Page.
Inapplicable.
Item 3. Fee Table and Synopsis.
Inapplicable.
Item 4. Financial Highlights.
Inapplicable.
Item 5. Plan of Distribution.
Inapplicable.
Item 6. Selling Shareholders.
Inapplicable.
Item 7. Use of Proceeds.
Inapplicable.
Item 8. General Description of the Fund.
1. The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") is a diversified
closed-end management investment company incorporated under the laws of
Minnesota on August 10, 1987.
2., 3., and The Fund's primary investment objective is to provide to the
holders of the Fund's Common Stock, through investment in a professionally
managed portfolio of tax-exempt New York Municipal Securities (defined below),
current interest income exempt from both federal income tax (although such
interest income may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax as
discussed below) and New York State and New York City income taxes. It is a
secondary objective of the
-1-
<PAGE>
Fund to preserve and enhance the Fund's net asset value through investments in
tax-exempt New York Municipal Securities that, in the opinion of
OppenheimerFunds, Inc., the Fund's investment adviser (the "Adviser"), are
underrated or represent municipal market sectors that are undervalued.
Underrated Municipal Securities are those whose ratings do not, in the
Adviser's opinion, reflect their true value. Obligations may be underrated
because of the time that has elapsed since their most recent rating, or because
of positive factors that may not have been fully taken into account by the
rating agencies, or for other similar reasons. Undervalued municipal market
sectors, on the other hand, refers to Municipal Securities of particular types
or purposes (e.g., hospital bonds, industrial revenue bonds, or bonds issued by
a particular municipal issuer) that, in the Adviser's opinion, are worth more
than the value assigned to them in the marketplace.
Municipal Securities may be undervalued because there is a temporary
excess of supply in a particular market sector, or because of a general decline
in the market price of Municipal Securities or a market sector for reasons that
do not apply to the particular Municipal Securities that are considered
undervalued. The Fund's investment in underrated or undervalued New York
Municipal Securities will be based on the Adviser's belief that the prices of
such Securities should ultimately reflect their true value. Under certain market
conditions, such underrated or undervalued Municipal Securities may realize
market appreciation, while in a declining market such Municipal Securities may
experience less market depreciation than other Municipal Securities.
Accordingly, "enhancement of net asset value" does not merely refer to
market appreciation of the Fund's portfolio securities, and the Fund does not
suggest that capital appreciation is itself an objective of the Fund. Instead,
the objective of enhancement of net asset value is one of seeking to outperform
the market by prudent selection of Municipal Securities, regardless of which
direction the market may move. A shareholder of the Fund will realize a taxable
gain upon the sale of shares at an appreciated net asset value or in the event
of capital gain distributions by the Fund as discussed below in "Tax Status."
o Portfolio Investments. Except during temporary defensive periods, the
Fund will, as a fundamental policy, invest at least 80% of its net assets in
tax-exempt New York Municipal Securities. As a non-fundamental policy, that 80%
of the Fund's net assets will be securities rated at the time of purchase within
the four highest grades for long-term securities or within the two highest
grades for short-term loans, notes and commercial paper by Moody's Investors
Services, Inc. ("Moody's"), Standard & Poor's Corporation ("S&P"), Fitch
Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch") Duff & Phelps, Inc. ("Duff & Phelps") or
another nationally recognized statistical rating organization or, if unrated,
judged by the Adviser to be of comparable quality to Municipal Securities rated
within such grades. Municipal Securities rated "Baa" or "MIG2" by Moody's, or
"BBB" or "SP-2" by S&P, although investment grade, may be subject to greater
market fluctuations and risks of loss of income and principal than higher-rated
Municipal Securities and may be considered to have speculative characteristics.
A general description of Moody's & S&P's Duff & Phelps, Fitch Investor Services,
Inc. ratings of securities is set forth in Appendix A to this Prospectus. The
Fund intends to emphasize investments in New York Municipal Securities with
long-term maturities, but the degree of such emphasis will depend upon market
conditions existing at the time of investment.
The Fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in unrated New York
Municipal Securities
-2-
<PAGE>
or in New York Municipal Securities rated lower than the four highest grades for
long-term securities, but no more than half of this amount (10% of the Fund's
net assets) will be invested in such lower rated New York Municipal Securities.
To the extent it does so, there may be somewhat greater risk because such
unrated or lower rated Municipal Securities, although generally offering a
higher current yield than higher rated securities, are generally less liquid and
involve a greater risk of non-payment of principal and interest than higher
rated securities. As a non-fundamental policy, the Fund will invest in only
unrated New York Municipal Securities which, in the opinion of the Adviser, have
credit characteristics equivalent to New York Municipal Securities which have
ratings qualifying them for investment by the Fund. Also as a non-fundamental
policy, the Fund will not invest in any rated New York (a) municipal bonds rated
lower than "Ba" by Moody's or "BB" by S&P, Fitch or Duff & Phelps, (b) municipal
notes rated "SP-2" by S&P, "MIG2" by Moody's or "F-2" by Fitch, or (c) if
unrated municipal securities, judged by the Adviser to be of comparable quality
to municipal securities rated within the grades described in (a) or (b) above,
or within comparable rating grades by another nationally recognized statistical
rating organization.
Interest on certain "private activity" bonds (as defined under the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code")) is
treated as a tax preference item under the alternative minimum tax provisions of
federal tax law. Such "private activity" bonds currently constitute a very small
percentage of the market in Municipal Securities (as defined herein). The Fund
will not invest more than 20% of its net assets in such "private activity"
bonds. To the extent the Fund invests in such "private activity" bonds,
investors could be subject to alternative minimum taxation on the income from
such investments. In the case of certain corporations, all tax-exempt income,
including interest on bonds held by the Fund, may be included in computing the
federal alternative minimum and environmental taxes.
o Temporary Investments. As a non-fundamental policy, during temporary
defensive periods (e.g. times when temporary imbalances of supply and demand or
other temporary dislocations in the tax-exempt bond market adversely affect the
price at which New York Municipal Securities are available), the Fund may invest
any percentage of its assets in temporary investments which are U.S. Government
securities or securities rated at the time of purchase within the two highest
grades by Moody's, S&P, Fitch or Duff & Phelps or another nationally recognized
statistical rating organization or, if unrated, judged by the Adviser to be of
comparable quality to Municipal Securities rated within such grades, the income
on which may be subject to either or both of New York State and New York City
income taxes or to both federal and New York income taxes. Temporary investments
of the Fund may also include repurchase agreements as discussed below. The
foregoing restrictions and other limitations discussed herein will apply only at
the time of purchase of securities and will not be considered violated unless an
excess or deficiency occurs or exists immediately after and as a result of an
acquisition of securities.
The foregoing investment objectives and policies are fundamental policies
(unless indicated otherwise) of the Fund and may not be changed without the
approval of the majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund. As used in this
Prospectus, a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares means the vote of: (i)
67% or more of the Fund's shares present at a meeting, if the holders of more
than 50% of the Fund's shares are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more
than 50% of the Fund's shares, whichever is less.
-3-
<PAGE>
o Municipal Securities. Municipal securities ("Municipal Securities")
include debt obligations issued by states, cities and local authorities to
obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of such
public facilities as airports, bridges, highways, housing, hospitals, mass
transportation, schools, streets and water and sewer works. Other public
purposes for which Municipal Securities may be issued include the refinancing of
outstanding obligations, the obtaining of funds for general operating expenses
and for loans to other public institutions and facilities. In addition, certain
industrial development bonds and pollution control bonds may be included within
the term "Municipal Securities" if the interest paid thereon qualifies as exempt
from federal income tax. New York Municipal Securities ("New York Municipal
Securities") are Municipal Securities which bear interest that, in the opinion
of bond counsel to the issuer, is exempt from federal and New York State and New
York City income taxes. Neither the Fund nor the Adviser will make any special
review for the Fund of the proceedings relating to the issuance of the New York
Municipal Securities or of the basis for such opinions.
The two principal classifications of Municipal Securities are "general
obligation" and "revenue" bonds. General obligation bonds are secured by the
issuer's pledge of its full faith, credit and taxing power for the payment of
principal and interest. Revenue bonds are payable only from the revenues derived
from a particular facility or class of facilities or, in some cases, from the
proceeds of a special excise or other specific revenue source. Industrial
development and pollution control bonds are in most cases revenue bonds and do
not generally constitute the pledge of credit or taxing power of the issuer of
such bonds. There are, of course, variations in the security of Municipal
Securities, both within a particular classification and between classifications,
depending on numerous factors.
Also included within the general category of Municipal Securities are
participations in lease obligations or installment purchase contract obligations
(hereinafter collectively called "lease obligations") of municipal authorities
or entities. Although lease obligations do not constitute general obligations of
the municipality for which the municipality's taxing power is pledged, a lease
obligation is ordinarily backed by the municipality's covenant to budget for,
appropriate and make the payments due under the lease obligation. However,
certain lease obligations contain "non-appropriation" clauses which provide that
the municipality has no obligation to make lease or installment purchase
payments in future years unless money is appropriated for such purpose on a
yearly basis. In addition to the "non-appropriation" risk, these securities
represent a relatively new type of financing that has not yet developed the
depth of marketability associated with more conventional bonds. Although
"non-appropriation" lease obligations are secured by the leased property,
disposition of the property in the event of foreclosure might prove difficult.
The Fund will seek to minimize these risks by investing not more than 5% of its
investment assets in lease obligations that contain "non- appropriation"
clauses, and by investing in only those "non-appropriation" lease obligations
where (1) the nature of the leased equipment or property is such that its
ownership or use is essential to a governmental function of the municipality,
(2) the lease payments will commence amortization of principal at an early date
resulting in an average life of seven years or less for the lease obligation,
(3) appropriate covenants will be obtained from the municipal obligor
prohibiting the substitution or purchase of similar equipment if lease payments
are not appropriated, (4) the lease obligor has maintained good market
acceptability in the past, (5) the investment is of a size that will be
attractive to institutional investors, and (6) the underlying leased equipment
has elements of portability and/or use that enhance its marketability in the
event foreclosure on the underlying equipment was ever
-4-
<PAGE>
required. Municipal Securities also include obligations, such as tax-exempt
notes, municipal commercial paper and municipal lease obligations, having
relatively short-term maturities, although, as noted above, the Fund intends to
emphasize investments in Municipal Securities with long-term maturities.
Investments in Municipal Leases will be subject to the Fund's 10%
limitation on investments in Illiquid Securities as described in the Fund's
Prospectus unless, in the judgment of Adviser, a particular Municipal Lease is
liquid and has received an investment grade rating from a nationally recognized
statistical rating organization ("NRSRO"). The Board of Directors has adopted
guidelines to be utilized by the Adviser in making determinations concerning the
liquidity and valuation of a Municipal Lease. Such determinations will be based
on all relevant factors including among others: (1) the frequency of trades and
quotes for the obligation; (2) the number of dealers willing to purchase or sell
the security and the number of other potential buyers; (3) the willingness of
dealers to undertake to make a market in the security; (4) the nature of the
marketplace trades, including, the time needed to dispose of the security, the
method of soliciting offers, and the mechanics of transfer; (5) the likelihood
that the marketability of the obligation will be maintained throughout the time
the Fund holds the obligation; and (6) the likelihood that the municipality will
continue to appropriate funding for the leased property.
The yields on Municipal Securities are dependent on a variety of factors,
including the condition of the general money market and the Municipal Securities
market, the size of a particular offering, the maturity of the obligations and
the rating of the issue. The ratings of Moody's and S&P represent their opinions
as to the quality of the Municipal Securities which they undertake to rate. It
should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are not absolute
standards of quality. Consequently, Municipal Securities with the same maturity,
coupon and rating may have different yields while obligations of the same
maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the same yield. The market
value of outstanding Municipal Securities will vary with changes in prevailing
interest rate levels and as a result of changing evaluations of the ability of
their issuers to meet interest and principal payments. Ratings may be changed,
suspended or withdrawn as a result of changes in information obtained by Moody's
or S&P, or unavailability of such information, or for other circumstances. Such
events may adversely affect the market value of the subject Municipal
Securities.
Securities of issuers of Municipal Securities are subject to the
provisions of bankruptcy, insolvency and other laws affecting the rights and
remedies of creditors, such as the Bankruptcy Reform Act of 1978. In addition,
the obligations of such issuers may become subject to the laws enacted in the
future by Congress, state legislatures or referenda extending the time for
payment of principal and/or interest, or imposing other constraints upon
enforcement of such obligations or upon municipalities to levy taxes. There is
also the possibility that, as a result of legislation or other conditions, the
power or ability of any issuer to pay, when due, the principal of and interest
on its Municipal Securities may be materially affected.
o Credit Risk and Interest Rate Risk. The values of Municipal Securities
will vary as a result of changing evaluations by rating services and investors
of the ability of the issuers of such securities to meet the interest and
principal payments. These credit risks relates to the ability of the issuer of a
Municipal Security to make interest or principal payments on the security as
they
-5-
<PAGE>
become due. While the Manager may rely to some extent on credit ratings by
nationally recognized rating agencies, such as Standard & Poor's or Moody's, in
evaluating the credit risk of securities selected for the Fund's portfolio, it
may also use its own research and analysis. However, many factors affect an
issuer's ability to make timely payments, and there can be no assurance that the
credit risks of a particular security will not change over time.
Municipal Securities are also subject to interest rate risks whereby
values will also change in response to changes in interest rates. Should
interest rates rise, the values of outstanding Municipal Securities will
probably decline and (if purchased at principal amount) would sell at a
discount. If interest rates fall, the values of outstanding Municipal Securities
will probably increase and (if purchased at principal amount) would sell at a
premium. Changes in the values of the Fund's Municipal Securities from these or
other factors will not affect interest income derived from these securities but
will affect the Fund's net asset value per share.
o Floating Rate/Variable Rate Obligations. Some of the Municipal
Securities the Fund may purchase may have variable or floating interest rates
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. Variable rates are adjustable at stated periodic intervals. Floating
rates are automatically adjusted according to a specified market rate for such
investments, such as the percentage of the prime rate of a bank, or the 90-day
U.S. Treasury Bill rate. Such obligations may be secured by bank letters of
credit or other credit support arrangements.
|X| Inverse Floaters and Other Derivative Investments. The Fund may invest
in certain municipal "derivative investments." The Fund may use some derivative
investments for hedging purposes, and may invest in others because they offer
the potential for increased income and principal value. In general, a
"derivative investment" is a specially-designed investment whose performance is
linked to the performance of another investment or security, such as an option,
future or index. In the broadest sense, derivative investments include
exchange-traded options and futures contracts (please refer to "Financial
Futures and Options Transactions," below).
The Fund may invest in "inverse floater" variable rate bonds, a type of
derivative investment whose yields move in the opposite direction as short-term
interest rates change. As interest rates rise, inverse floaters produce less
current income. Their price may be more volatile than the price of a comparable
fixed-rate security. Some inverse floaters have a "cap" whereby if interest
rates rise above the "cap," the security pays additional interest income. If
rates do not rise above the "cap," the Fund will have paid an additional amount
for a feature that proves worthless. The Fund may also invest in municipal
securities that pay interest that depends on an external pricing mechanism, also
a type of derivative investment. Examples of external pricing mechanisms are
interest rate swaps or caps and municipal bond or swap indices. The Fund
anticipates that under normal circumstances it will invest no more than 10% of
its net assets in inverse floaters.
The risks of investing in derivative investments include not only the
ability of the issuer of the derivative investment to pay the amount due on the
maturity of the investment, but also the risk that the underlying security on
which the derivative is based, and that derivative itself, might not perform the
way the Adviser expected it to perform. That can mean that the Fund will realize
less income than expected. Another risk of investing in derivative investments
is that their market value could be
-6-
<PAGE>
expected to vary to a much greater extent than the market value of municipal
securities that are not derivative investments but have similar credit quality,
redemption provisions and maturities.
Special Investment Considerations - New York Municipal Securities. The Fund is
highly sensitive to the fiscal stability of New York State (the "State") and its
subdivisions, agencies, instrumentalities or authorities, including New York
City, which issue the Municipal Securities in which the Trust concentrates its
investments. The following information on risk factors in concentrating in New
York Municipal Securities is only a summary, based on publicly available
official statements relating to offerings of New York issuers of Municipal
Securities on or prior to September 29, 1997 with respect to offerings of the
State and September 30, 1997 with respect to offerings of New York City. No
representation is made as to the accuracy of such information.
During the mid-1970's the State, some of its agencies, instrumentalities
and public benefit corporations (the "Authorities"), and certain of its
municipalities faced serious financial difficulties. To address many of these
financial problems, the State developed various programs, many of which were
successful in ameliorating the financial crisis. Any further financial problems
experienced by these Authorities or municipalities could have a direct adverse
effect on the New York Municipal Securities in which the Fund invests.
New York City
General. More than any other municipality, the fiscal health of New York
City (the "City") has a significant effect on the fiscal health of the State.
The national economic downturn which began in July 1990 adversely affected the
local economy which had been declining since late 1989. As a result, the City
experienced job losses in 1990 and 1991 and real Gross City Product ("GCP") fell
in those two years. Beginning in 1992, the improvement in the national economy
helped stabilize conditions in the City. Employment losses moderated toward
year-end and real GCP increased, boosted by strong wage gains. After noticeable
improvements in the City's economy during 1994, economic growth slowed in 1995,
and thereafter improved commencing in calendar year 1996, reflecting improved
securities industry earnings and employment in other sectors. The City's current
four-year financial plan assumes that moderate economic growth will exist
through calendar year 2001, with moderate job growth and wage increases.
For each of the 1981 through 1996 fiscal years, the City achieved balanced
operating results as reported in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles ("GAAP"). The City has been required to close substantial gaps
between forecast revenues and forecast expenditures in order to maintain
balanced operating results. There can be no assurance that the City will
continue to maintain balanced operating results as required by State law without
additional tax or other revenue increases or additional reduction in City
services or entitlement programs, which could adversely affect the City's
economic base.
The Mayor is responsible for preparing the City's four-year financial
plan, including the City's current financial plan for the 1998 through 2001
fiscal years (the "1998-2001 Financial Plan", "Financial Plan" or "City Plan").
The City's projections set forth in the City Plan are based on various
assumptions and
-7-
<PAGE>
contingencies which are uncertain and which may not materialize. Changes in
major assumptions could significantly affect the City's ability to balance its
budget as required by State law and to meet its annual cash flow and financing
requirements. Such assumptions and contingencies include the condition of the
regional and local economies, the impact on real estate tax revenues of the real
estate market, wage increases for City employees consistent with those assumed
in the City Plan, employment growth, the ability to implement reductions in City
personnel and other cost reduction initiatives, the ability of the New York City
Health and Hospitals Corporation and the Board of Education to take actions to
offset potential budget shortfalls, the ability to complete revenue generating
transactions, provision of State and Federal aid and mandate relief and the
impact on City revenues and expenditures for Federal and State welfare reform
and any future legislation affecting Medicare or other entitlements.
Implementation of the Financial Plan is also dependent upon the City's
ability to market its securities successfully. The City's financing program for
fiscal years 1998 through 2001 contemplates the issuance of $4.9 billion of
general obligation bonds and $7.1 billion of bonds to be issued by the New York
City Transitional Finance Authority (the "Finance Authority") to finance City
capital projects. The Finance Authority was created as part of the City's
efforts to assist in keeping the City's indebtedness within the forecast level
of the constitutional restrictions on the amount of debt the City is authorized
to incur. The City is involved in litigation seeking to have the New York City
Transitional Finance Authority Act declared unconstitutional. In addition, the
City issues revenue and tax anticipation notes to finance its seasonal working
capital requirements. The success of projected public sales of City bonds and
notes, New York City Municipal Water Finance Authority ("Water Authority") bonds
and Finance Authority bonds will be subject to prevailing market conditions. The
City's planned capital and operating expenditures are dependent upon the sale of
its general obligation bonds and notes, and the Water Authority and Finance
Authority bonds. Future developments concerning the City and public discussion
of such developments, as well as prevailing market conditions, may affect the
market for outstanding City general obligation bonds and notes.
The City Comptroller and other agencies and public officials have issued
reports and make public statements which, among other things, state that
projected revenues and expenditures may be different from those forecasted in
the City Plan. It is reasonable to expect that such reports and statements will
continue to be issued and to engender public comment.
1998-2001 Financial Plan. The most recent quarterly modification the
City's financial plan for the 1997 fiscal year projects a balanced budget in
accordance with GAAP for the 1997 fiscal year, after taking into account an
increase in projected tax revenues of $1.2 billion during the 1997 fiscal year
and a discretionary prepayment in the 1997 fiscal year of $1.3 billion of debt
service due in the 1998 and 1999 fiscal years. The Financial Plan projects
revenues and expenditures for the 1998 fiscal year balanced in accordance with
GAAP. The Financial Plan includes increased tax revenue projections; reduced
debt service costs; the assumed restoration of Federal funding for programs
assisting certain legal aliens; additional expenditure for textbooks, computers,
improved education programs and welfare reform, law enforcement, immigrant
naturalization, initiatives proposed by the City Council and other initiatives;
and a proposed discretionary transfer to the 1998 fiscal year of $300 million of
debt service due in the 1999 fiscal year for budget stabilization purposes. In
addition, the Financial Plan reflects the discretionary transfer to the 1997
fiscal year of $1.3 billion of debt service due in the 1998 and 1999 fiscal
years, and includes actions to eliminate a previously projected
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budget gap for the 1998 fiscal year. These gap closing actions include (i)
additional agency actions totaling $621 million; (ii) the proposed sale of
various assets; (iii) additional State aid of $294 million, including a proposal
that the State accelerate a $142 million revenue sharing payment to the City
from March 1999; and (iv) entitlement savings of $128 million which would result
from certain of the reductions in Medicaid spending proposed in the Governor's
1997-1998 Executive Budget and the State making available to the City $77
million of additional Federal block grant aid, as proposed in the Governor's
1997-1998 Executive Budget. The Financial Plan also sets forth projections for
the 1999 through 2001 fiscal years and projects gaps of $1.8 billion, $2.8
billion and $2.6 billion for the 1999 through 2001 fiscal years, respectively.
The Financial Plan assumes approval by the State Legislature and the
Governor of (i) a tax reduction program proposed by the City totaling $272
million, $435 million, $465 million and $481 million in the 1998 through 2001
fiscal years, respectively, which includes a proposed elimination of the 4% City
sales tax on clothing items under $500 as of December 1, 1997, and (ii) a
proposed State tax relief program, which would reduce the City property tax and
personal income tax, and which the Financial Plan assumes will be offset by
proposed increased State aid totaling $47 million, $254 million, $472 million
and $722 million in the 1998 through 2001 fiscal years, respectively.
The Financial Plan also assumes (i) approval by the Governor and the State
Legislature of the extension of the 14% personal income tax surcharge, which is
scheduled to expire on December 31, 1999, and of the extension of the 12.5%
personal income tax surcharge, which is scheduled to expire on December 31,
1998; (ii) collection of the projected rent payments for the City's airports;
and (iii) State approval of the cost containment initiatives and State aid
proposed by the City for the 1998 fiscal year, and $115 million in State aid
which is assumed in the Financial Plan but was not provided for in the
Governor's 1997-1998 Executive budget. The Financial Plan reflects the increased
costs which the City is prepared to incur as a result of welfare legislation
recently enacted by Congress. In addition, the economic and financial condition
of the City may be affected by various financial, social, economic and political
factors which could have a material effect on the City.
The City's financial plans have been the subject of extensive public
comment. On September 11, 1997, the New York State Comptroller issued a report
which noted that the ability to deal with future budget gaps could become a
significant issue in the State's 2000-2001 fiscal year, when the cost of tax
cuts increases by $1.9 billion. The report contained projections that, based on
current economic conditions and current law for taxes and spending, showed a gap
in the 2000-2001 State fiscal year of $5.6 billion and of $7.4 billion in the
2001-2002 State fiscal year. The report noted that these gaps would be smaller
if recurring spending reductions produce savings in earlier years. The State
Comptroller also stated that if Wall Street earnings moderate and the State
experiences a moderate recession, the gap for the 2001-2002 State fiscal year
could grow to nearly $12 billion.
Various actions proposed in the Financial Plan are uncertain. If these
measures cannot be implemented, the City will be required to take other actions
to decrease expenditures or increase revenues to maintain a balanced financial
plan.
The projections for the 1998 through 2001 fiscal years reflect the costs
of the settlements with the United Federation of Teachers ("UFT") and the
coalition of unions headed by District Council 37 of the American Federation of
State, County and Municipal Employees ("District Council 37"),
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which together represent approximately two-thirds of the City's workforce, and
assume that the City will reach agreement with its remaining municipal unions
under terms which are generally consistent with such settlements. The settlement
provides for a wage freeze in the first two years, followed by a cumulative
effective wage increase of 11% by the end of the five year period covered by the
proposed agreements, ending in fiscal years 2000 and 2001. Additional benefit
increases would raise the total cumulative effective increase to 13% above
present costs. Costs associated with similar settlements for all City-funded
employees would total $49 million, $459 million and $1.2 billion in the 1997,
1998 and 1999 fiscal years, respectively, and exceed $2 billion in each fiscal
year after the 1999 fiscal year. Subsequently, the City reached settlements,
through agreements or statutory impasse procedures, with bargaining units which,
together with the UFT and District Council 37, represent approximately 86% of
the City's workforce.
Ratings. On July 10, 1995, Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("Standard &
Poor's") revised downward its rating on City general obligation bonds from A- to
BBB+ and removed City bonds from CreditWatch. Standard & Poor's stated that
"structural budgetary balance remains elusive because of persistent softness in
the City's economy, highlighted by weak job growth and growing dependence on the
historically volatile financial services sector." Other factors identified by
Standard & Poor's in lowering its rating on City bonds included a trend of using
one-time measures, including debt refinancings, to close projected budget gaps,
dependence on unratified labor savings to help balance the Financial Plan,
optimistic projections of additional Federal and State aid or mandate relief, a
history of cash flow difficulties caused by State budget delays and continued
high debt levels. Fitch Investors Service, Inc. ("Fitch") continues to rate the
City general obligation bonds A-. On February 28, 1996 Fitch placed the City's
general obligation bonds on Fitch Alert with negative implications. Moody's
Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") rating for City general obligation bonds is
Baa1. On July 17, 1997 Moody's changed its outlook on City bonds to positive
from stable. Such ratings reflect only the views of these rating agencies, from
which an explanation of the significance of such ratings may be obtained. There
is no assurance that such ratings will continue for any given period of time or
that they will not be revised downward or withdrawn entirely. Any such downward
revision or withdrawal could have an adverse effect on the market prices of
bonds.
Outstanding Net Indebtedness. As of September 30, 1997, the City and the
Municipal Assistance Corporation for the City of New York had, respectively,
$26.180 billion and $3.777 billion of outstanding net long-term debt.
The City depends on the State for State aid both to enable the City to
balance its budget and to meet its cash requirements. There can be no assurance
that there will not be reductions in State aid to the City from amounts
currently projected; that State budgets in future fiscal years will be adopted
by the April 1 statutory deadline, or interim appropriations enacted; or that
any such reductions or delays will not have adverse effects on the City's cash
flow or expenditures.
Litigation. The City is a defendant in lawsuits pertaining to material
matters, including claims asserted which are incidental to performing routine
governmental and other functions. This litigation includes, but is not limited
to, actions commenced and claims asserted against the City arising out of
alleged torts, alleged breaches of contracts, alleged violations of law and
condemnation proceedings. As of June 30, 1996 and 1995, claims in excess of $380
billion and $311 billion, respectively, were outstanding against the City for
which the City estimates its potential future liability to be $2.8 billion
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and $2.5 billion, respectively.
New York State
The State has historically been one of the wealthiest states in the
nation. For decades, however, the State economy has grown more slowly than that
of the nation as a whole, resulting in the gradual erosion of its relative
economic affluence. The causes of this relative decline are varied and complex,
in many cases involving national and international developments beyond the
State's control.
Recent Developments. The national economy has resumed a more robust rate
of growth after a "soft landing" in 1995, with over 14 million jobs added
nationally since early 1992. The State economy has continued to expand, but
growth remains somewhat slower than in the nation. Although the State has added
approximately 300,000 jobs since late 1992, employment growth in the State has
been hindered during recent years by significant cutbacks in the computer and
instrument manufacturing, utility, defense and banking industries. Government
downsizing has also moderated these job gains.
The 1997-1998 New York State Financial Plan (the "State Plan") is partly
based on the forecast that the State's economy shows moderate expansion during
the first half of the calendar 1997 with the trend continuing through the year.
Although industries that export goods and services are expected to continue to
do well, growth is expected to be moderated by tight fiscal constraints on the
health care and social services industries. On an average annual basis,
employment growth in the State is expected to be up substantially from the 1996
rate. Personal income is expected to record moderate gains in 1997. Bonus
payments in the securities industry are expected to increase further from last
year's record level.
The State Plan is based upon forecasts of national and State economic
activity developed through both internal analysis and review of State and
national economic forecasts prepared by commercial forecasting services and
other public and private forecasters. Economic forecasts have frequently failed
to predict accurately the timing and magnitude of changes in the national and
the State economies. Many uncertainties exist in forecasts of both the national
and State economies, including consumer attitudes toward spending, the extent of
corporate and governmental restructuring, federal fiscal and monetary policies,
the level of interest rates, and the condition of the world economy, which could
have an adverse effect on the State. There can be no assurance that the State
economy will not experience results in the current fiscal year that are worse
than predicted, with corresponding material and adverse effects on the State's
projections of receipts and disbursements.
The 1997-98 Fiscal Year. The State's General Fund (the major operating
Fund of the State) was projected in the State Plan to be balanced on a cash
basis for the 1997-98 fiscal year. Total receipts and transfers from other funds
at $35.09 billion, an increase of $2.05 billion from the prior fiscal year, and
disbursements and transfers to other funds are projected to be $34.60 billion,
an increase of $1.70 billion from the total disbursed in the prior fiscal year.
Projections of total State receipts in the State Financial Plan are based
on the State tax structure in effect during the fiscal year and on assumptions
relating to basic economic factors and
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their historical relationships to State tax receipts. In preparing projections
of State receipts, economic forecasts relating to personal income, wages,
consumption, profits and employment have been particularly important. The
projection of receipts from most tax or revenue sources is generally made by
estimating the change in yield of such tax or revenue source caused by economic
and other factors, rather than by estimating the total yield of such tax or
revenue source from its estimated tax base. The forecasting methodology,
however, ensures that State fiscal year estimates for taxes that are based on a
computation of annual liability, such as the business and personal income taxes,
are consistent with estimates of total liability under such taxes.
Projections of total State disbursements are based on assumptions relating
to economic and demographic factors, levels of disbursements for various
services provided by local governments (where cost is partially reimbursed by
the State), and the results of various administrative and statutory mechanisms
in controlling disbursements for State operations. Factors that may affect the
level of disbursements in the fiscal year include uncertainties relating to the
economy of the nation and the State, the policies of the federal government, and
changes in the demand for and use of State services.
In recent years, State actions affecting the level of receipts and
disbursements, the relative strength of the State and regional economy, actions
of the federal government and other factors, have created structural gaps for
the State. These gaps resulted from a significant disparity between recurring
revenues and the costs of maintaining or increasing the level of support for
State programs. To address a potential imbalance in any given fiscal year, the
State would be required to take actions to increase receipts and/or reduce
disbursements as it enacts the budget for that year, and under the State
Constitution, the Governor is required to propose a balanced budget each year.
There can be no assurance, however, that the Legislature will enact the
Governor's proposals or that the State's actions will be sufficient to preserve
budgetary balance in a given fiscal year or to align recurring receipts and
disbursements in future fiscal years.
Composition of State Governmental Funds Group. Substantially all State
non-pension financial operations are accounted for in the State's governmental
funds group. Governmental funds include the General Fund, which receives all
income not required by law to be deposited in another fund; Special Revenue
Funds, which receive the preponderance of moneys received by the State from the
Federal government and other income the use of which is legally restricted to
certain purposes; Capital Projects Funds, used to finance the acquisition and
construction of major capital facilities by the State and to aid in certain of
such projects conducted by local governments or public authorities; and Debt
Service Funds, which are used for the accumulation of moneys for the payment of
principal of and interest on long-term debt and to meet lease-purchase and other
contractual-obligation commitments.
Local Government Assistance Corporation ("LGAC"). In 1990, as part of a
State fiscal reform program, legislation was enacted creating LGAC, a public
benefit corporation empowered to issue long-term obligations to fund certain
payments to local governments traditionally funded through the State's annual
seasonal borrowing. The legislation authorized LGAC to issue its bonds and notes
in an amount not in excess of $4.7 billion (exclusive of certain refunding
bonds). Over a period of years, the issuance of these long-term obligations,
which are to be amortized over no more than 30 years, was expected to eliminate
the need for continued short-term seasonal borrowing. The
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legislation also dedicated revenues equal to one-quarter of the four cent State
sales and use tax to pay debt service on these bonds. The legislation also
imposed a cap on the annual seasonal borrowing of the State at $4.7 billion,
less net proceeds of bonds issued by LGAC and bonds issued to provide for
capitalized interest, except in cases where the Governor and the legislative
leaders have certified the need for additional borrowing and provided a schedule
for reducing it to the cap. If borrowing above the cap is thus permitted in any
fiscal year, it is required by law to be reduced to the cap by the fourth fiscal
year after the limit was first exceeded. This provision capping the seasonal
borrowing was included as a covenant with LGAC's bondholders in the resolution
authorizing such bonds.
As of June 1995, LGAC had issued bonds and notes to provide net proceeds
of $4.7 billion completing the program. The impact of LGAC's borrowing is that
the State is able to meet its cash flow needs in the first quarter of the fiscal
year without relying on short-term seasonal borrowings.
Authorities. The fiscal stability of the State is related to the fiscal
stability of its public Authorities. Authorities have various responsibilities,
including those which finance, construct and/or operate revenue-producing public
facilities. Authorities are not subject to the constitutional restrictions on
the incurrence of debt which apply to the State itself, and may issue bonds and
notes within the amounts, and restrictions set forth in their legislative
authorization. As of September 30, 1996, the latest available, there were 17
Authorities that had outstanding debt of $100 million or more, and the aggregate
outstanding debt, including refunding bonds, of these 17 Authorities was $75.4
billion, only a portion of which constitutes State-supported or State-related
debt.
Authorities are generally supported by revenues generated by the projects
financed or operated, such as fares, user fees on bridges or tunnels, highway
tolls, rentals for dormitory rooms and housing units and charges for occupancy
at medical care facilities. In addition, State legislation authorizes several
financing techniques for Authorities. Also, there are statutory arrangements
providing for State local assistance payments otherwise payable to localities to
be made under certain circumstances to Authorities. Although the State has no
obligation to provide additional assistance to localities whose local assistance
payments have been paid to Authorities under these arrangements, if local
assistance payments are diverted the affected localities could seek additional
State assistance. Some Authorities also receive moneys from State appropriations
to pay for the operating costs of certain of their programs.
Ratings. On January 13, 1992, Standard & Poor's reduced its ratings on the
State's general obligation bonds from A to A- and, in addition, reduced its
ratings on the State's moral obligation, lease purchase, guaranteed and
contractual obligation debt. Standard & Poor's also continued its negative
rating outlook assessment on State general obligation debt. On April 26, 1993,
Standard & Poor's revised the rating outlook assessment to stable. On February
14, 1994, Standard & Poor's raised its outlook to positive and, on October 3,
1995, confirmed its A-rating. On August 28, 1997, Standard & Poor's revised its
ratings on the State's general obligation bonds from A- to A and, in addition
revised its ratings on the State's moral obligation, lease purchase, guaranteed
and contractual obligation debt. On January 6, 1992, Moody's reduced its ratings
on outstanding limited-liability State lease purchase and contractual
obligations from A to Baa1. On October 2, 1995, Moody's reconfirmed its A rating
on the State's general obligation long-term indebtedness. On February 10, 1997,
Moody's confirmed its A2 rating on the State's general obligation long-term
indebtedness.
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Ratings reflect only the respective views of such organizations, and an
explanation of the significance of such ratings may be obtained from the rating
agency furnishing the same. There is no assurance that a particular rating will
continue for any given period of time or that any such rating will not be
revised downward or withdrawn entirely, if in the judgment of the agency
originally establishing the rating, circumstances so warrant. A downward
revision or withdrawal of such ratings, or either of them, may have an effect on
the market price of the State Municipal Securities in which the Fund invests.
General Obligation Debt. As of March 31, 1997, the State had approximately
$5.03 billion in general obligation bonds, including $294 million in bond
anticipation notes outstanding. Principal and interest due on general obligation
bonds and interest due on bond anticipation notes were $749.6 million for the
1996-97 fiscal year and are estimated to be $720.9 million for the State's
1997-98 fiscal year.
Litigation. The State is a defendant in numerous legal proceedings
pertaining to matters incidental to the performance of routine governmental
operations. Such litigation includes, but is not limited to, claims asserted
against the State arising from alleged torts, alleged breaches of contracts,
condemnation proceedings and other alleged violations of State and Federal laws.
These proceedings could affect adversely the financial condition of the State in
the 1997-1998 fiscal year or thereafter.
The State believes that the State Plan includes sufficient reserves for
the payment of judgments that may be required during the 1997-98 fiscal year.
There can be no assurance, however, that an adverse decision in any of these
proceedings would not exceed the amount the State Plan reserves for the payment
of judgments and, therefore, could affect the ability of the State to maintain a
balanced 1997-1998 Financial Plan. The General Purpose Financial Statements for
the 1996-1997 fiscal year report estimated probable awarded and anticipated
unfavorable judgements of $364 million, of which $134 million is expected to be
paid during the 1997-1998 fiscal year.
In addition, the State is party to other claims and litigations which its
counsel has advised are not probable of adverse court decisions. Although, the
amounts of potential losses, if any, are not presently determinable, it is the
State's opinion that its ultimate liability in these cases is not expected to
have a material adverse effect on the State's financial position in the 1997-98
fiscal year or thereafter.
Other Localities. Certain localities in addition to the City could have
financial problems leading to requests for additional State assistance during
the State's 1997-98 fiscal year and thereafter. The potential impact on the
State of such actions by localities is not included in the projections of the
State receipts and disbursements in the State's 1997-98 fiscal year.
Fiscal difficulties experienced by the City of Yonkers ("Yonkers")
resulted in the creation of the Financial Control Board for the City of Yonkers
(the "Yonkers Board") by the State in 1984. The Yonkers Board is charged with
oversight of the fiscal affairs of Yonkers. Future actions taken by the Governor
or the State Legislature to assist Yonkers could result in increased State
expenditures for extraordinary local assistance.
Other Investment Techniques and Strategies. The Fund may also use the investment
techniques and
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strategies described below. These techniques involve certain risks.
o When-Issued and Delayed Delivery Transactions. The Fund may purchase and
sell Municipal Securities (up to 20% of the net assets of the Fund) on a
when-issued or delayed delivery basis. When-issued and delayed delivery
transactions arise when securities are purchased or sold with payment and
delivery beyond the regular settlement date. Normally the settlement date occurs
withing six months of the purchase of municipal bonds and notes. However, the
Fund may, from time to time, purchase municipal securities whose settlement
extends beyond six months and possibly as long as two years or more beyond
settlement. In such transactions, the payment obligation and the interest rate
are fixed at the time the buyer enters into the commitment. The Fund will
maintain, in a segregated account with the custodian of the Fund, liquid assets
of any type, including equity and debt securities of any grade, having an
aggregate value equal to the amount of such payment obligation until payment is
made. The commitment to purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery
basis may involve an element of risk because the value of the securities is
subject to market fluctuation; the value at delivery may be more or less than
the purchase price. Since the Fund relies on the buyer or seller, as the case
may be, to consummate the transaction, failure by the other party to complete
the transaction may result in the Fund missing the opportunity of obtaining a
price or yield considered to be advantageous. No interest accrues to the
purchaser prior to settlement of the transaction, and at the time of delivery
the market value may be less than cost.
o Financial Futures and Options Transactions. The Fund may attempt to
hedge all or a portion of its investment portfolio against market risk by
engaging in transactions in financial futures contracts or options on financial
futures, including options that either are based on an index of long-term
Municipal Securities or relate to debt securities whose prices are anticipated
by the Adviser to correlate with the prices of the Municipal Securities owned by
the Fund. To accomplish such hedging, the Fund may take a position in a futures
contract or in an option which is expected to move in the opposite direction
from the position being hedged. The use of futures and options for hedging
purposes can be expected to result in taxable income to the shareholders of the
Fund.
The sale of financial futures or the purchase of put options on financial
futures or on debt securities or indexes is a means of hedging against the risk
of rising interest rates, whereas the purchase of financial futures or of call
options on financial futures or on debt securities or indexes is a means of
hedging the Fund's portfolio against an increase in the price of securities the
Fund intends to purchase. Writing a call option on a futures contract or on debt
securities or indexes may serve as a hedge against a modest decline in prices of
Municipal Securities held in the Fund's portfolio, and writing a put option on a
futures contract or on debt securities or indexes may serve as a partial hedge
against an increase in the value of Municipal Securities the Fund intends to
acquire.
A futures contract is a contract between a seller and a buyer for the sale
and purchase of specified property at a specified future date for a specified
price. An option is a contract that gives the holder of the option the right,
but not the obligation, to buy (in the case of a call option) specified property
from, or to sell (in the case of a put option) specified property to, the writer
of the option for a specified price during a specified period prior to the
option's expiration. Financial futures contracts and options cover specified
debt securities (such as U.S. Treasury securities) or indexes designed to
correlate with price movements in certain categories of debt securities. On at
least one exchange, futures contracts trade on an index designed to correlate
with the long-term municipal bond market. Financial futures contracts and
options on financial futures contracts are traded on exchanges regulated by the
Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). Options on certain financial
instruments and financial indexes are traded in securities markets regulated by
the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although futures contracts and options
on specified financial instruments call for settlement by delivery of the
financial instruments
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covered by the contracts, in most cases positions in these contracts are closed
out by entering into offsetting liquidating or closing transactions. Index
futures and options are designed for cash settlement only.
There are certain risks associated with the use of financial futures and
options to hedge investment portfolios. There may be imperfect correlation
between price movements of the portfolio securities being hedged and the hedging
positions. Losses may be incurred in hedging transactions, which could reduce
the portfolio gains that might have been realized if the hedging transaction had
not been entered into. The ability to close out positions in futures and options
depends upon the existence of a liquid market, which may not exist for all
futures and options at all times. If the Fund engages in futures transactions or
in the writing of options on futures, it will be required to maintain initial
margin and variation margin in accordance with applicable rules of the exchanges
and the CFTC. If the Fund purchases a financial futures contract or a call
option or writes a put option in order to hedge the anticipated purchase of
Municipal Securities, and if the Fund fails to complete the anticipated purchase
transaction, the Fund may experience a loss or a gain on the futures or options
transaction that will not be offset by price movements in the Municipal
Securities that were the subject of the anticipatory hedge. The cost of
purchasing options on debt securities or indexes effectively increases the cost
of the securities subject to them, thereby reducing the yield otherwise
available from such securities.
Although certain risks are involved in futures and options transactions,
because these transactions will be engaged in by the Fund only for hedging
purposes, these futures and options portfolio strategies should not subject the
Fund to those risks frequently associated with speculation in futures or options
transactions. Regulations of the CFTC applicable to the Fund require that
transactions in futures and options on futures be engaged in only for bona-fide
hedging purposes, and that no such transactions may be entered into by the Fund
for other than bona-fide hedging transactions if the aggregate initial margin
deposits and premiums paid by the Fund exceed 5% of the market value of its
assets. With respect to its engaging in transactions involving the purchase or
writing of put and call options on debt securities or indexes, the Fund will not
purchase such options if more than 5% of its assets would be invested such
options, and it will only write "covered" or "secured" options, wherein the
securities or cash required to be delivered upon exercise are held by the Fund,
with such cash being maintained in a segregated account. These requirements and
limitations may limit the Fund's ability to engage in hedging transactions.
o Repurchase Agreements. As temporary investments, the Fund may invest in
repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement is a contractual agreement whereby
the seller of securities (U.S. Government obligations or Municipal Securities)
agrees to repurchase the same security at a specified price on a future date
agreed upon by the parties. The agreed-upon repurchase price determines the
yield during the Fund's holding period. Repurchase agreements are considered to
be loans under the 1940 Act collateralized by the underlying security that is
the subject of the repurchase contract. Income generated from transactions in
repurchase agreements will be taxable. The Fund will only enter into repurchase
agreements with registered securities dealers or domestic banks that, under
Board approved procedures, present minimal credit risk. The risk to the Fund is
limited to the ability of the seller to pay the agreed-upon repurchase price on
the delivery date. The value of the underlying collateral must at all times
equal or exceed the agreed-upon repurchase price; however, in the event of
default and the sale of the collateral, the Fund might incur a loss if the value
of the collateral declines, and might incur disposition costs or experience
delays in connection with liquidating the collateral. The Adviser will monitor
the value of the collateral at the time the transaction is entered into and at
all times subsequent during the term of the repurchase agreement in an effort to
determine that the value always equals or exceeds the agreed-upon repurchase
price. In the event the value of the collateral declines below the repurchase
price, the Adviser will demand additional collateral from the seller to increase
the value of the collateral to at least that of the repurchase price.
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o Illiquid and Restricted Securities. Under the policies and procedures
established by the Fund's Board of Directors, the Adviser determines the
liquidity of certain of the Fund's investments. Investments may be illiquid
because of the absence of an active trading market, making it difficult to value
them or dispose of them promptly at an acceptable price. A restricted security
is one that has a contractual restriction on its resale or which cannot be sold
publicly until it is registered under the Securities Act of 1933. The Fund will
not invest more than 10% of its net assets in illiquid or restricted securities
(The Board may increase that limit to to 15%.) The Fund's percentage limitation
on these investments does not apply to certain restricted securities that are
eligible for resale to qualified institutional purchasers. The Adviser monitors
holdings of illiquid securities on an ongoing basis to determine whether to sell
any holdings to maintain adequate liquidity. Illiquid securities include
repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days, or certain participation
interests other than those with puts exercisable within seven days.
Other Investment Restrictions. The Fund has adopted the following investment
restrictions, which together with its investment objectives, are fundamental
policies changeable only with the approval of the holders of a "majority" of the
Fund's outstanding voting securities, defined in the 1940 Act as the affirmative
vote of the lesser of (a) more than 50% of the outstanding Shares of the Fund,
or (b) 67% or more of the Shares present or represented by proxy at a meeting if
more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding Shares are represented at the meeting in
person or by proxy. Under these restrictions, the Fund will not do any of the
following:
1. The Fund will not issue senior securities as defined in the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"), except to the extent such issuance might
be involved with respect to borrowings described under subparagraph (3) below or
with respect to transactions involving futures contracts or the writing of
options within the limits described herein;
2. The Fund will not make short sales of securities or purchase any
securities on margin (except for such short-term credits as are necessary for
the clearance of transactions), or write or purchase put or call options, except
to the extent that the purchase of a stand-by commitment may be considered the
purchase of a put, and except for transactions involving options within the
limits described herein;
3. The Fund will not borrow money, except from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes or for repurchase of its shares, and then only in an amount
not exceeding one-third of the value of the Fund's total assets including the
amount borrowed. While any such borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets,
no additional purchases of investment securities will be made;
4. The Fund will not underwrite any issue of securities, except to the
extent that the purchase of Municipal Securities in accordance with its
investment objectives, policies and limitations may be deemed to be an
underwriting;
5. The Fund will not invest 25% or more of its total assets in securities
of issuers in any one industry; provided, however, that such limitations shall
not be applicable to Municipal Securities issued by governments or political
subdivisions of governments, and obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities;
6. The Fund will not purchase or sell real estate, but this shall not
prevent the Fund from
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<PAGE>
investing in Municipal Securities secured by real estate or interests therein;
7. The Fund will not purchase or sell commodities or commodities
contracts, except for transactions involving futures contracts within the limits
described herein;
8. The Fund will not make loans, other than by entering into repurchase
agreements and through the purchase of Municipal Securities or temporary
investments in accordance with its investment objectives, policies and
limitations;
9. The Fund will not invest in securities other than New York Municipal
Securities and temporary investments, as those terms are defined herein;
10. The Fund will not invest more than 5% of its total assets in
securities of any one issuer, except that this limitation shall not apply to
securities of the U.S. Government, its agencies and instrumentalities or to the
investment of 25% of its total assets;
11. The Fund will not pledge, mortgage or hypothecate its assets, except
that, to secure borrowings permitted by subparagraph (3) above, it may pledge
securities having a market value at the time of pledge not exceeding 20% of the
value of the Fund's total assets;
12. The Fund will not invest more than 10% of its total assets in
repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days; or
13. The Fund will not purchase or retain the securities of any issuer
other than the securities of the Fund if, to the Fund's knowledge, those
directors of the Fund, or those officers and directors of the Adviser, who
individually own beneficially more than 1/2 of 1% of the outstanding securities
of such issuer, together own beneficially more than 5% of such outstanding
securities.
For the purpose of applying the limitation set forth in subparagraph (10)
above, an issuer shall be deemed a separate issuer when its assets and revenues
are separate from other governmental entities and its securities are backed only
by its assets and revenues. Similarly, in the case of a non-governmental user,
such as an industrial corporation or a privately owned or operated hospital, if
the security is backed only by the assets and revenues of the non-governmental
user then such non-governmental user would be deemed to be the sole issuer.
Where a security is also backed by the enforceable obligations of a superior
governmental entity, it shall be included in the computation of securities owned
that are issued by such superior governmental entity. If, however, a security is
guaranteed by a governmental entity or some other entity, such as a bank
guarantee or letter of credit, such a guarantee or letter of credit would be
considered a separate security and would be treated as an issue of such
government, other entity or bank. Unless the prospectus states that a percentage
restriction applies on an ongoing basis, it applies only at the time the Fund
makes an investment, and the Fund need not sell securities to meet the
percentage limits if the value of the investment increases in proportion to the
size of the Fund.
5. The shares of the Fund's common stock (the "Shares") are listed and
traded on the American Stock Exchange (the "AMEX"). The following table sets
forth for the Shares for the periods indicated: (a) the per Share high sales
price on the AMEX, the net asset value per share as
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of such day and the premium or discount (expressed as a percentage of net asset
value) represented by the difference between such high sales price and the
corresponding net asset value, (b) the per Share low sales price on the AMEX,
the net asset value per Share as of such day and the premium or discount
(expressed as a percentage of net asset value) represented by the difference
between such low sales price and the corresponding net asset value.
Market Price High;(1) Market Price Low; (1)
NAV and Premium/ NAV and Premium/
Quarter Ended (Discount) That Day (2) (Discount) That Day (2)
- ------------- ----------------------- ---------- ------------
1/31/96 Market: $10.50 Market:$9.63
NAV:$9.96 NAV:$9.78
Premium/(Discount): 5.42% Premium/(Discount):(1.53)%
4/30/96 Market: $10.50 Market:$9.38
NAV:$9.96 NAV:$9.54
Premium/(Discount): 5.42% Premium/(Discount):(1.68)%
7/31/96 Market: $10.00 Market:$9.31
NAV:$9.64 NAV:$9.51
Premium/(Discount):3.73% Premium/(Discount):(2.10)%
10/31/96 Market: $10.50 Market:$9.75
NAV:$9.74 NAV:$9.59
Premium/(Discount): 7.80% Premium/(Discount):1.67%
1/31/97 Market: $10.75 Market:$9.75
NAV:$9.76 NAV:$9.64
Premium/(Discount):10.14% %Premium/(Discount):1.14%
4/30/97 Market: $10.50 Market:$9.75
NAV:$9.75 NAV:$9.54
Premium/(Discount):7.69% Premium/(Discount):2.20%
7/30/97 Market: $10.75 Market:$9.75
NAV:$9.78 NAV:$9.59
Premium/(Discount):9.92% %Premium/(Discount):2.20%
10/31/97 Market: $10.88 Market:$10.25
NAV:$9.75 NAV:$9.72
Premium/(Discount):11.54% %Premium/(Discount):5.45%
1/31/98 Market: $11.44 Market:$10.50
NAV:$9.85 NAV:$9.78
Premium/(Discount):16.12% %Premium/(Discount):7.36%
- ---------------
1. As reported by the AMEX.
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<PAGE>
2. The Fund's computation of net asset value (NAV) is as of the close of
trading on the last day of the week immediately preceding the day for
which the high and low market price is reported and the premium or
discount (expressed as a percentage of net asset value) is calculated
based on the difference between the high or low market price and the
corresponding net asset value for that day, divided by the net asset
value.
The Board of Directors of the Fund has determined that at times, it may be
in the interests of Fund shareholders for the Fund to take action to attempt to
reduce or eliminate a market value discount from net asset value. To that end,
the Fund may, from time to time, either repurchase Shares in the open market or,
subject to conditions imposed from time to time by the Board, make a tender
offer for a portion of the Fund's Shares at their net asset value per Share.
Subject to the Fund's fundamental policy with respect to borrowings, the Fund
may incur debt to finance repurchases and/or tenders. Interest on any such
borrowings will reduce the Fund's net income. In addition, the acquisition of
Shares by the Fund will decrease the total assets of the Fund and therefore will
have the effect of increasing the Fund's expense ratio. If the Fund must
liquidate portfolio securities to purchase Shares tendered, the Fund may be
required to sell portfolio securities for other than investment purposes and may
realize gains and losses.
In addition to open-market Share purchases and tender offers, the Board
could also seek shareholder approval to convert the Fund to an open-end
investment company if the Fund's Shares trade at a substantial discount. If the
Fund's Shares have traded on the AMEX at an average discount from net asset
value of more than 10%, determined on the basis of the discount as of the end of
the last trading day in each week during the period of 12 calendar weeks ending
October 31 in such year, the Directors will consider recommending to
shareholders a proposal to convert the Fund to an open-end company. If during a
year in which the Fund's Shares trade at the average discount stated, and for
the period described, in the preceding sentence the Fund also receives written
requests from the holders of 10% or more of the Fund's outstanding Shares that a
proposal to convert to an open end company be submitted to the Fund's
shareholders, within six months the Directors will submit a proposal to the
Fund's shareholders, to the extent consistent with the 1940 Act, to amend the
Fund's Articles of Incorporation to convert the Fund from a closed-end to an
open-end investment company. If the Fund converted to an open-end investment
company, it would be able continuously to issue and offer its Shares for sale,
and each Share of the Fund could be tendered to the Fund for redemption at the
option of the shareholder, at a redemption price equal to the current net asset
value per Share. To meet such redemption request, the Fund could be required to
liquidate portfolio securities. Its Shares would no longer be listed on the
AMEX. The Fund cannot predict whether any repurchase of Shares made while the
Fund is a closed-end investment company would decrease the discount from net
asset value at which the Shares trade. To the extent that any such repurchase
decreased the discount from net asset value to an amount below 10% during the
measurement period described above, the Fund would not be required to submit to
shareholders a proposal to convert the Fund to an open-end investment company.
Item 9. Management.
1(a). The Fund is governed by a Board of Directors, which is responsible
under Minnesota law for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Board of
Directors is comprised of three classes of directors which are elected for three
year staggered terms. The Directors meet periodically throughout the year to
oversee the Fund's activities, review its performance, and review the actions of
the Adviser. The Fund is required to hold annual shareholder meetings for the
election of directors and the ratification of its independent auditors. The Fund
may also hold shareholder meetings from time to
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<PAGE>
time for other important matters, and shareholders have certain rights under
Minnesota law to call a meeting to remove a Director or to take other action
described in the Fund's Articles of Incorporation.
1(b). The Adviser, a Colorado corporation with its principal offices at
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203, acts as investment
manager for the Fund under an investment advisory agreement (the "Advisory
Agreement") under which it provides ongoing investment advice and conducts the
investment operations of the Fund, including purchases and sales of its
portfolio securities, under the general supervision and control of the Directors
of the Fund.
The Adviser has operated as an investment company adviser since April 30,
1959. It and its affiliates currently advise U.S. investment companies with
assets aggregating over $75 billion as of December 31, 1997, and having more
than 3.5 million shareholder accounts. The Adviser is owned by Oppenheimer
Acquisition Corp. ("OAC"), a holding company owned in part by senior management
of the Adviser, and ultimately controlled by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance
Company, a mutual life insurance company that also advises pension plans and
investment companies.
The Adviser provides office space and investment advisory services for the
Fund and pays all compensation of those Directors and officers of the Fund who
are affiliated persons of the Adviser. Under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund
pays the Adviser monthly an advisory fee at the rate of .50% per annum computed
on the average weekly net assets of the Fund. During the fiscal years ended
October 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997, the Fund paid management fees to the Adviser in
the amounts of $115,784, $119,243 and $120,378, respectively. The Fund incurred
approximately $26,135, $25,635 and $24,231 in expenses for the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively for services provided by
Shareholder Financial Services, Inc., the Fund's transfer agent.
Under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund pays certain of its other costs not
paid by the Adviser, including (a) brokerage and commission expenses, (b)
Federal, state, local and foreign taxes, including issue and transfer taxes,
incurred by or levied on the Fund, (c) interest charges on borrowings, (d) the
organizational and offering expenses of the Fund, whether or not advanced by the
Adviser, (e) fees and expenses of registering the Shares of the Fund under the
appropriate Federal securities laws and of qualifying Shares of the Fund under
applicable state securities laws, (f) fees and expenses of listing and
maintaining the listings of the Fund's Shares on any national securities
exchange, (g) expenses of printing and distributing reports to shareholders, (h)
costs of shareholder meetings and proxy solicitation, (i) charges and expenses
of the Fund's custodian and Registrar, Transfer and Dividend Disbursing Agent,
(j) compensation of the Fund's Directors who are not affiliated persons of the
Adviser, (k) legal and auditing expenses, (l) the cost of certificates
representing the Fund's Shares, (m) costs of stationery and supplies, and (n)
insurance premiums.
Beginning February 16, 1990, the Adviser began performing limited
accounting services for the Fund at an annual fee of $12,000, plus out-of-pocket
costs and expenses reasonably incurred for acting as such accounting agent.
The management services provided to the Fund by the Adviser, and the
services provided by the Transfer Agent to shareholders, depend on the smooth
functioning of their computer systems. Many computer software systems in use
today cannot distinguish the year 2000 from the year 1900 because of the way
dates are encoded and calculated. That failure could have a negative impact on
handling securities trades, pricing and account services. The Adviser and
Transfer Agent have been actively working on necessary changes to their computer
systems to deal with the year 2000 and expect that their systems will be adapted
in time for that event, although there cannot be assurance of success
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<PAGE>
1(c). The Portfolio Manager of the Fund is Robert E. Patterson, who also
serves as Vice President of the Fund and Senior Vice President of the Adviser.
Mr. Patterson has been the person principally responsible for the day-to-day
management of the Fund's portfolio since February, 1992. During the past five
years, Mr. Patterson has served as an officer of other Oppenheimer funds. Other
members of the adviser's Fixed Income Portfolio Department, particularly
portfolio analysts, traders and other portfolio managers having broad experience
with domestic, international government and corporate fixed income securities
provide the Fund's portfolio manager with support in managing the Fund's
portfolio.
1(d). Inapplicable.
1(e). Citibank, N.A., 399 Park Avenue, New York, New York, acts as the
custodian (the "Custodian") for the Fund's assets held in the United States.
Rules adopted under the 1940 Act permit the Fund to maintain its securities and
cash in the custody of certain eligible banks and securities depositories. The
Adviser and its affiliates presently have banking relationships with the
Custodian. The Adviser has represented to the Fund that its banking
relationships with the Custodian have been and will continue to be unrelated to
and unaffected by the relationship between the Fund and the Custodian. It will
be the practice of the Fund to deal with the Custodian in a manner uninfluenced
by any banking relationship the Custodian may have with the Adviser and its
affiliates.
Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. ("SFSI"), a subsidiary of the
Adviser, acts as primary transfer agent, shareholder servicing agent and
dividend paying agent for the Fund. Fees paid to SFSI are based on the number of
shareholder accounts and the number of shareholder transactions, plus
out-of-pocket costs and expenses. United Missouri Trust Company of New York acts
as co-transfer agent and co-registrar with SFSI to provide such services as SFSI
may request.
1(f). See Item 10. Part 1, below.
1(g). Inapplicable.
2. Inapplicable.
3. As of February 20, 1998, no person owned of record or was known by the
Fund to own beneficially 25% or more of the outstanding Shares.
Item 10. Capital Stock, Long-Term Debt, and Other Securities.
1. The Fund was incorporated in Minnesota on August 10, 1987. Its
authorized capital stock consists of a single class of 250,000,000 shares of
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share. All shares have equal noncumulative
voting rights and equal rights with respect to dividends, assets and
liquidation. Shares are fully paid and non-assessable when issued and have no
pre-emptive, conversion or exchange rights.
Pursuant to the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan (the
"Plan"), all dividends and capital gains distributions ("Distributions")
declared by the Fund will be automatically reinvested in additional full and
fractional shares of the Fund ("Shares") unless (i) a shareholder elects to
receive cash or (ii) Shares are held in nominee name, in which event the nominee
should be consulted as to participation in the Plan. Shareholders that
participate in the Plan ("Participants") may,
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<PAGE>
at their option, make additional cash investments in Shares, semi-annually in
amounts of at least $100, through payment to Shareholder Financial Services,
Inc., the agent for the Plan (the "Agent"), and a service fee of $.75.
Depending upon the circumstances hereinafter described, Plan Shares will
be acquired by the Agent for the Participant's account through receipt of newly
issued Shares or the purchase of outstanding Shares on the open market. If the
market price of Shares on the relevant date (normally the payment date) equals
or exceeds their net asset value, the Agent will ask the Fund for payment of the
Distribution in additional Shares at the greater of the Fund's net asset value
determined as of the date of purchase or 95% of the then-current market price.
If the market price is lower than net asset value, the Distribution will be paid
in cash, which the Agent will use to buy Shares on the American Stock Exchange
(the "AMEX"), or otherwise on the open market to the extent available. If the
market price exceeds the net asset value before the Agent has completed its
purchases, the average purchase price per Share paid by the Agent may exceed the
net asset value, resulting in fewer Shares being acquired than if the
Distribution had been paid in Shares issued by the Fund.
Participants may elect to withdraw from the Plan at any time and thereby
receive cash in lieu of Shares by sending appropriate written instructions to
the Agent. Elections received by the Agent will be effective only if received
more than ten days prior to the record date for any Distribution; otherwise,
such termination will be effective shortly after the investment of such
Distribution with respect to any subsequent Distribution. Upon withdrawal from
or termination of the Plan, all Shares acquired under the Plan will remain in
the Participant's account unless otherwise requested. For full Shares, the
Participant may either: (1) receive without charge a share certificate for such
Shares; or (2) request the Agent (after receipt by the Agent of signature
guaranteed instructions by all registered owners) to sell the Shares acquired
under the Plan and remit the proceeds less any brokerage commissions and a $2.50
service fee. Fractional Shares may either remain in the Participant's account or
be reduced to cash by the Agent at the current market price with the proceeds
remitted to the Participant. Shareholders who have previously withdrawn from the
Plan may rejoin at any time by sending written instructions signed by all
registered owners to the Agent.
There is no direct charge for participation in the Plan; all fees of the
Agent are paid by the Fund. There are no brokerage charges for Shares issued
directly by the Fund. However, each Participant will pay a pro rata share of
brokerage commissions incurred with respect to open market purchases of Shares
to be issued under the Plan. Participants will receive tax information annually
for their personal records and to assist in Federal income tax return
preparation. The automatic reinvestment of Distributions does not relieve
Participants of any income tax that may be payable on Distributions.
The Plan may be terminated or amended at any time upon 30 days' prior
written notice to Participants which, with respect to a Plan termination, must
precede the record date of any Distribution by the Fund. Additional information
concerning the Plan may be obtained by shareholders holding Shares registered
directly in their names by writing the Agent, Shareholder Financial Services,
Inc., P.O. Box 173673, Denver, CO, 80217-3673 or by calling 1-800-647-7374.
Shareholders holding Shares in nominee name should contact their brokerage firm
or other nominee for more information.
The Fund presently has provisions in its Articles of Incorporation and
By-Laws (together, the "Charter Documents") which could have the effect of
limiting (i) the ability of other entities or persons to acquire control of the
Fund, (ii) the Fund's freedom to engage in certain transactions or (iii) the
ability of the Fund's Directors or shareholders to amend the Charter Documents
or effect changes in
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the Fund's management. Those provisions of the Charter Documents may be regarded
as "anti-takeover" provisions. Specifically, under the Fund's Articles of
Incorporation, the affirmative vote of the holders of not less than two thirds
(66-2/3%) of the Fund's Shares outstanding and entitled to vote is required to
authorize the consolidation of the Fund with another entity, a merger of the
Fund with or into another entity, a sale or transfer of all or substantially all
of the Fund's assets, the dissolution of the Fund, the conversion of the Fund to
an open-end company, and any amendment of the Fund's Articles of Incorporation
that would affect any of the other provisions requiring a two-thirds vote.
Reference is made to the Charter Documents of the Fund, on file with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, for the full text of these provisions.
2. Inapplicable.
3. Inapplicable.
4. The Fund qualified for treatment as, and elected to be, a regulated
investment company ("RIC") under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code for
its taxable year ended October 31, 1997, and intends to continue to qualify as a
RIC for each subsequent taxable year. However, the Fund reserves the right not
to qualify under Subchapter M as a RIC in any year or years. For each taxable
year that the Fund qualifies for treatment as a RIC, the Fund (but not its
shareholders) will not be required to pay Federal income tax. In addition, the
Fund intends to invest in sufficient Municipal Securities so that it will
qualify to pay "exempt-interest dividends" (as defined in the Code) to
shareholders; the dividends payable from net tax-exempt interest earned from
Municipal Securities will qualify as exempt-interest dividends if, at the close
of each quarter of the taxable year of the Fund, at least 50% of the value of
the Fund's total assets consists of Municipal Securities, the interest on which
is excludible from gross income under Section 103(a) of the Code, and the Fund
designates such dividends as exempt-interest dividends in a written notice
mailed to shareholders within sixty days of the end of the Fund's taxable year.
Exempt-interest dividends distributed to shareholders are not subject to
federal income tax except to the extent such interest is subject to the
alternative minimum tax, as discussed hereinafter. The percentage of income that
is tax-exempt is applied uniformly to all income distributions made during each
fiscal year and thus is an annual average for the Fund rather than a day-by-day
determination for each shareholder whether such distributions are received in
shares or in cash. The percentage of all distributions other than
exempt-interest dividends paid by the Fund, including distributions from
interest on taxable investments and net realized short-term capital gains, will
be taxable to the shareholders as ordinary income. Any distribution of net
realized long-term capital gains will generally be subject to Federal taxation
as long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time the investor has
held such shares. In the case of distributions received in cash or reinvested in
shares purchased on the open market, the amount of the distribution for tax
purposes will be the amount of cash distributed or allocated to the shareholder,
and the tax basis of any shares purchased will be the price paid by the Plan
Agent. In the case of distributions made in shares issued by the Fund, the
amount of the distribution will be the fair market value of the shares on the
payment date, and the tax basis of the shares received will be the same amount.
Although dividends generally will be treated as distributed when paid,
dividends declared in October, November or December, payable to shareholders of
record on a specified date in one of those months and paid during January of the
following year will be treated as having been distributed by the Fund (and
received by the shareholders) on December 31 of the year such dividends are
declared.
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<PAGE>
For both individuals and corporations, interest paid on certain "private
activity bonds" issued on or after August 8, 1986 shall be treated as an item of
tax preference and may, therefore, be subject to the alternative minimum tax.
Under regulations to be issued by the Secretary of the Treasury, exempt-interest
dividends paid by the Fund will be treated by shareholders as interest on
"private activity bonds" to the extent of the proportionate amount of interest
on private activity bonds received by the Fund. Such exempt-interest dividends
constitute a tax preference for both individual and corporate taxpayers in
computing the alternative minimum tax.
Exempt-interest dividends received by a shareholder which are not with
respect to "private activity bonds" are not treated as a tax preference item.
However, for certain corporate shareholders such dividends will be included in
the computation of an adjustment item used in determining such corporation's
alternative minimum tax and the environmental tax (the "Superfund Tax"). The
adjustment item is 75% of the difference between such corporate shareholder's
"adjusted current earnings" and its other alternative minimum taxable income
with certain adjustments. Although exempt-interest dividends received by a
corporate shareholder will not be included in the gross income of such
corporation for Federal income tax purposes, "adjusted current earnings"
includes all tax-exempt interest, including exempt-interest dividends received
from the Fund. Corporate shareholders are advised to consult their tax advisers
with respect to the tax consequences of the alternative minimum tax and the
Superfund Tax.
Sales of shares of the Fund by shareholders will generally be a taxable
transaction for Federal income tax purposes and such shareholders will recognize
gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the basis of the
shares and the amount received. Assuming that shareholders hold such shares as a
capital asset, the gain or loss will be a capital gain or loss and will be
long-term if shareholders have held such shares for a period of more than one
year. The loss on shares held six months or less will be a long-term capital
loss to the extent any long-term capital gain distribution is made with respect
to such shares during the period the shareholder owns the shares. In the case of
shareholders holding shares of the Fund for six months or less and subsequently
selling those shares at a loss after receiving an exempt-interest dividend, the
loss will be disallowed to the extent of the exempt-interest dividends received.
In addition, no loss will be recognized on the sale or other disposition of
shares if the shareholder acquires (through the reinvestment in shares of the
Fund or otherwise), or enters into a contract or option to acquire, shares
within 30 days before or after the disposition. All taxpayers will be required
to disclose to the Internal Revenue Service the amount of tax-exempt interest
earned during the year.
The Fund's hedging activities and transactions in options, futures
contracts and forward contracts will be subject to special tax rules, the effect
of which may be to accelerate income to the Fund, defer Fund losses, cause
adjustments in the holding period of Fund securities and convert short term
capital losses into long term capital losses. These rules could therefore affect
the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders. Moreover, the
Fund's hedging activities may produce a difference between its book income and
its taxable income.
Distributions from the Fund will not be eligible for the dividends
received deduction for corporations.
The Fund is required by law to withhold 31% of taxable dividends,
distributions and redemptions paid to investors who do not furnish to the Fund
their correct and properly certified taxpayer identification number (in the case
of individuals, their social security number) and in certain other
circumstances.
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<PAGE>
Currently, up to 85% of a social security recipient's benefits may be
included in taxable income for a benefit recipient if the sum of his adjusted
gross income, income from tax-exempt sources such as tax-exempt bonds and the
Fund plus 50% of his social security benefits received exceeds certain base
amounts. Income from the Fund is still tax-exempt to the extent described above;
it is only included in the calculation of whether a recipient's income exceeds
certain established amounts.
Interest on indebtedness which is incurred to purchase or carry shares of
the Fund, regardless of whether such borrowing is directly traceable to the
purchase or carrying of shares of the Fund, is not deductible for federal income
tax purposes. Further, the Fund may not be an appropriate investment for persons
who are "substantial users" of facilities financed by industrial development
bonds or private activity bonds held by the Fund or are "related persons" to
such users, as such terms are defined by the Code; such persons should consult
their tax advisers before investing in the Fund.
Ownership of shares of the Fund may result in collateral federal income
tax consequences to certain taxpayers, including, without limitation,
corporations subject to the branch profits tax, financial institutions, certain
insurance companies, and certain S corporations. Prospective purchasers of the
shares should consult their tax advisors as to applicability of any such
collateral consequences.
The foregoing is a general abbreviated summary of the provisions of the
Code and Treasury Regulations presently in effect as they directly govern the
taxation of the Fund and its shareholders. These provisions are subject to
change by legislative or administrative action, and any such change may be
retroactive with respect to Fund transactions. Shareholders are advised to
consult with their own tax advisers for more detailed information concerning
federal income tax matters.
Individual shareholders of the Fund who are subject to New York State (and
New York City) personal income taxation will not be required to include in
adjusted gross income for New York State (and New York City) purposes that
portion of the Fund's federally tax-exempt dividends which are identified by the
Fund as directly attributable to interest earned on the New York Municipal
Securities. Fund dividends, including the federally tax-exempt portion thereof,
which are attributable to interest on Municipal Securities other than New York
Municipal Securities, including interest on obligations of other states or
federal obligations, if any, would be taxed as dividends to individual
shareholders for purposes of New York State (and New York City) personal income
taxation.
Individual shareholders who are subject to New York State (and New York
City) personal income taxation will also be taxed at rates applicable to other
income on distributions of long or short-term capital gains of the Fund. In
addition, for New York State (and New York City) tax purposes, an individual
shareholder will recognize a taxable long or short-term capital gain or loss in
any year in which such shareholder's shares are sold. Generally, capital losses
are subject to the same limits on deductibility for New York State (and New York
City) purposes as they are for Federal income tax purposes. Thus, for New York
State (and New York City) income tax purposes, as for Federal income tax
purposes, no capital loss will be allowed on the sale or exchange of shares held
for six months or less up to the amount of exempt-interest dividends received
with respect to such shares.
Generally, corporate shareholders of the Fund which are subject to New
York State franchise taxation (and New York City general corporation taxation)
are subject to a tax computed on the basis of entire net income allocated to New
York, business and investment capital allocated to New York, minimum taxable
income allocated to New York (entire net income plus certain salaries for New
York City purposes), or a flat rate minimum, whichever produces the greater tax,
plus a tax based on subsidiary capital. The entire net income and minimum
taxable income of a corporate shareholder will
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include dividends received from the Fund and investment capital of such a
shareholder will include its stock interest in the Fund, without any exclusion
for dividends attributable to interest on New York Municipal Securities or for
the portion of the Fund's assets attributable to such New York Municipal
Securities. Corporate shareholders that are subject to the metropolitan commuter
transportation district surcharge will also be required to pay a tax surcharge
on the franchise taxes imposed by New York State with respect to Fund dividends
and capital gain distributions and gain from the sale or exchange of Fund
shares.
Although shareholders of the Fund will not be subject to New York City
unincorporated business taxation solely by reason of their ownership of shares
in the Fund, a shareholder who is subject to the New York City unincorporated
business tax must include income and gains derived from the Fund in income
subject to such tax, except exempt-interest that is directly attributable to
interest on New York Municipal Securities.
Shares of the Fund will be exempt from local property taxes in New York
State and New York City.
5. The following information is provided as of February 20, 1998:
(1) (2) (3) (4)
Amount Held Amount Outstanding
by Registrant Exclusive of
Amount or for its Amount Shown
Title of Class Authorized Account Under (3)
-------------- ---------- ------- ---------
Shares of Beneficial 250,000,000 None 2,513,779
Interest, $.01 par value
Item 11. Defaults and Arrears on Senior Securities.
Inapplicable.
Item 12. Legal Proceedings.
Inapplicable.
Item 13. Table of Contents of the Statement of Additional Information.
Reference is made to Item 15 of the Statement of Additional Information.
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<PAGE>
APPENDIX A
Descriptions of Ratings Categories
Municipal Bonds
o Moody's Investor Services, Inc. The ratings of Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
("Moody's") for Municipal Bonds are Aaa, Aa, A, Baa, Ba, B, Caa, Ca and C.
Municipal Bonds rated "Aaa" are judged to be of the "best quality." The rating
of Aa is assigned to bonds which are of "high quality by all standards," but as
to which margins of protection or other elements make long-term risks appear
somewhat larger than "Aaa" rated Municipal Bonds. The "Aaa" and "Aa" rated bonds
comprise what are generally known as "high grade bonds." Municipal Bonds which
are rated "A" by Moody's possess many favorable investment attributes and are
considered "upper medium grade obligations." Factors giving security to
principal and interest of A rated bonds are considered adequate, but elements
may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment at some time in the
future. Municipal Bonds rated "Baa" are considered "medium grade" obligations.
They are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated "Ba" are
judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well
assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very
moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds
which are rated "B" generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment.
Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of
the contract over any long period of time may be small. Bonds which are rated
"Caa" are of poor standing. Such issues may be in default or there may be
present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest. Bonds which
are rated "Ca" represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree.
Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings. Bonds which
are rated "C" are the lowest rated class of bonds, and issues so rated can be
regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real
investment standing. Those bonds in the Aa, A, Baa, Ba and B groups which
Moody's believes possess the strongest investment attributes are designated Aa1,
A1, Baa1, Ba1 and B1 respectively.
In addition to the alphabetic rating system described above, Municipal
Bonds rated by Moody's which have a demand feature that provides the holder with
the ability to periodically tender ("put") the portion of the debt covered by
the demand feature, may also have a short-term rating assigned to such demand
feature. The short-term rating uses the symbol VMIG to distinguish
characteristics which include payment upon periodic demand rather than fund or
scheduled maturity dates and potential reliance upon external liquidity, as well
as other factors. The highest investment quality is designated by the VMIG 1
rating and the lowest by VMIG 4.
o Standard & Poor's Corporation. The ratings of Standard & Poor's Corporation
("S&P") for Municipal Bonds are AAA (Prime), AA (High Grade), A (Good Grade),
BBB (Medium Grade), BB, B, CCC, CC, and C (speculative grade). Bonds rated in
the top four categories (AAA, AA, A, BBB) are commonly referred to as
"investment grade." Municipal Bonds rated AAA are "obligations of the highest
quality." The rating of AA is accorded issues with investment characteristics
"only slightly
A-1
<PAGE>
less marked than those of the prime quality issues." The rating of A describes
"the third strongest capacity for payment of debt service." Principal and
interest payments on bonds in this category are regarded as safe. It differs
from the two higher ratings because, with respect to general obligations bonds,
there is some weakness, either in the local economic base, in debt burden, in
the balance between revenues and expenditures, or in quality of management.
Under certain adverse circumstances, any one such weakness might impair the
ability of the issuer to meet debt obligations at some future date. With respect
to revenue bonds, debt service coverage is good, but not exceptional. Stability
of the pledged revenues could show some variations because of increased
competition or economic influences on revenues. Basic security provisions, while
satisfactory, are less stringent. Management performance appears adequate. The
BBB rating is the lowest "investment grade" security rating. The difference
between A and BBB ratings is that the latter shows more than one fundamental
weakness, or one very substantial fundamental weakness, whereas the former shows
only one deficiency among the factors considered. With respect to revenue bonds,
debt coverage is only fair. Stability of the pledged revenues could show
variations, with the revenue flow possibly being subject to erosion over time.
Basic security provisions are no more than adequate. Management performance
could be stronger. Bonds rated "BB" have less near-term vulnerability to default
than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or
exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which would lead
to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. Bonds
rated "B" have a greater vulnerability to default, but currently has the
capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business,
financial, or economic conditions will likely impair capacity or willingness to
pay interest and repay principal. Bonds rated "CCC" have a current identifiable
vulnerability to default, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial,
and economic conditions to meet timely payment of interest and repayment of
principal. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions,
it is not likely to have the capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Bonds
noted "CC" typically are debt subordinated to senior debt which is assigned on
actual or implied "CCC" debt ratingBonds rated "C" typically are debt
subordinated to senior debt which is assigned an actual or implied "CCC-" debt
rating. The "C" rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy
petition has been filed, but debt service payments are continued. Bonds rated
"D" are in payment default. The "D" rating category is used when interest
payments or principal payments are not made on the date due even if the
applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P believes that such payments
will be made during the grace period. The "D" rating also will be used upon the
filing of a bankruptcy petition if debt service payments are jeopardized.
The ratings from AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus or
minus sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
o Fitch. The ratings of Fitch Investors Service, Inc. for Municipal Bonds are
AAA, AA, A, BBB, BB, B, CCC, CC, C, DDD, DD, and D. Municipal Bonds rated AAA
are judged to be of the "highest credit quality." The rating of AA is assigned
to bonds of "very high credit quality." Municipal Bonds which are rated A by
Fitch are considered to be of "high credit quality." The rating of BBB is
assigned to bonds of "satisfactory credit quality." The A and BBB rated bonds
are more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions than bonds with
higher ratings. Bonds rated AAA, AA, A and BBB are considered to be of
investment grade quality. Bonds rated below BBB are considered to be of
speculative quality. The ratings of "BB" is assigned to bonds considered by
Fitch to be "speculative." The rating of "B" is assigned to bonds considered by
Fitch to be "highly
A-2
<PAGE>
speculative." Bonds rated "CCC" have certain identifiable characteristics which,
if not remedied, may lead to default. Bonds rated "CC" are minimally protected.
Default in payment of interest and/or principal seems probable over time. Bonds
rated "C" are in imminent default in payment of interest
or principal. Bonds rated "DDD", "DD" and "D" are in default on interest and/or
principal payments. DDD represents the highest potential for recovery on these
bonds, and D represents the lowest potential for recovery.
o Duff & Phelps' The ratings of Duff & Phelps are as follows: AAA which are
judged to be the "highest credit quality". The risk factors are negligible,
being only slightly more than for risk-free US Treasury debt. AA+, AA & AA- High
credit quality protection factors are strong. Risk is modest but may vary
slightly from time to time because of economic conditions. A+, A & A- Protection
factors are average but adequate. However, risk factors are more variable and
greater in periods of economic stress. BBB+, BBB & BBB- Below average protection
factors but still considered sufficient for prudent investment. Considerable
variability in risk during economic cycles. BB+, BB & BB- Below investment grade
but deemed to meet obligations when due. Present or prospective financial
protection factors fluctuate according to industry conditions or company
fortunes. Overall quality may move up or down frequently within the category.
B+, B & B- Below investment grade and possessing risk that obligations will not
be met when due. Financial protection factors will fluctuate widely according to
economic cycles, industry conditions and/or company fortunes. Potential exists
for frequent changes in the rating within this category or into a higher of
lower rating grade. CCC Well below investment grade securities. Considerable
uncertainty exists as to timely payment of principal interest or preferred
dividends. Protection factors are narrow and risk can be substantial with
unfavorable economic industry conditions, and/or with unfavorable company
developments. DD Defaulted debt obligations issuer failed to meet scheduled
principal and/or interest payments. DP Preferred stock with dividend arreages.
Municipal Notes
o Moody's ratings for state and municipal notes and other short-term loans
are designated Moody's Investment Grade ("MIG"). Notes bearing the designation
MIG-1 are of the best quality, enjoying strong protection from established cash
flows of funds for their servicing or from established and broad-based access to
the market for financing. Notes bearing the designation "MIG-2" are of high
quality with ample margins of protection, although not as large as notes rated
"MIG." Such short-term notes which have demand features may also carry a rating
using the symbol VMIG as described above, with the designation MIG-1/VMIG 1
denoting best quality, with superior liquidity support in addition to those
characteristics attributable to the designation MIG-1.
o S&P's rating for Municipal Notes due in three years or less are SP-1,
SP-2, and SP-3. SP- 1 describes issues with a very strong capacity to pay
principal and interest and compares with bonds rated A by S&P; if modified by a
plus sign, it compares with bonds rated AA or AAA by S&P. SP-2 describes issues
with a satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, and compares with
bonds rated BBB by S&P. SP-3 describes issues that have a speculative capacity
to pay principal and interest.
o Fitch's rating for Municipal Notes due in three years or less are F-1+,
F-1, F-2, F-3, F-S
A-3
<PAGE>
and D. F-1+ describes notes with an exceptionally strong credit quality and the
strongest degree of assurance for timely payment. F-1 describes notes with a
very strong credit quality and assurance of timely payment is only slightly less
in degree than issues rated F-1+. F-2 describes notes with a good credit quality
and a satisfactory assurance of timely payment, but the margin of safety is not
as great for issues assigned F-1+ or F-1 ratings. F-3 describes notes with a
fair credit quality and an adequate
assurance of timely payment, but near-term adverse changes could cause such
securities to be rated below investment grade. F-S describes notes with weak
credit quality. Issues rated D are in actual or imminent payment default.
Corporate Debt
The "other debt securities" included in the definition of temporary
investments are corporate (as opposed to municipal) debt obligations. The
Moody's, S&P and Fitch corporate debt ratings shown do not differ materially
from those set forth above for Municipal Bonds.
Commercial Paper
o Moody's The ratings of commercial paper by Moody's are Prime-1, Prime-2,
Prime-3 and Not Prime. Issuers rated Prime-1 have a superior capacity for
repayment of short-term promissory obligations. Issuers rated Prime-2 have a
strong capacity for repayment of short-term promissory obligations. Issuers
rated Prime-3 have an acceptable capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations. Issuers rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating
categories.
o S&P The ratings of commercial paper by S&P are A-1, A-2, A-3, B, C, and
D. A-1 indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is strong.
A-2 indicates capacity for timely payment is satisfactory. However, the relative
degree of safety is not as high as for issues designated A-1. A-3 indicates an
adequate capacity for timely payments. They are, however, more vulnerable to the
adverse effects of changes in circumstances than obligations carrying the higher
designations. B indicates only speculative capacity for timely payment. C
indicates a doubtful capacity for payment. D is assigned to issues in default.
o Fitch The ratings of commercial paper by Fitch are similar to its
ratings of Municipal Notes, above.
A-4
<PAGE>
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
1-800-525-7048
Statement of Additional Information dated February 26, 1998
This Statement of Additional Information is not a Prospectus. This
document contains additional information about the Fund and supplements
information in the Prospectus dated February 26, 1998. It should be read
together with the Prospectus, and the Registration Statement on Form N-2, of
which the Prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information are a part.
These materials can be inspected and copied at public reference facilities
maintained by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") in Washington,
D.C. and certain of its regional offices, and copies of such materials can be
obtained at prescribed rates from the Public Reference Branch, Office of
Consumer Affairs and Information Services, SEC, Washington, D.C., 20549.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Investment Objective and Policies*
Management...................................................................2
Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities..........................6
Investment Advisory and Other Services*
Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices.....................................6
Tax Status*
Financial Statements.........................................................7
- ----------------------
*See Prospectus
-1-
<PAGE>
PART B
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN A STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Item 14. Cover Page.
Reference is made to the preceding page.
Item 15. Table of Contents.
Reference is made to the preceding page and to Items 16 through 23
of the Statement of Additional Information set forth below.
Item 16. General Information and History.
Inapplicable.
Item 17. Investment Objective and Policies.
Reference is made to Item 8 of the Prospectus.
Item 18. Management.
Directors and Officers of the Fund. The Fund's Directors and officers and their
principal occupations and business affiliations and occupations during the past
five years are listed below. All of the Directors are also trustees, directors
or managing general partners of Oppenheimer Total Return Fund, Inc., Oppenheimer
Real Asset Fund, Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund, Oppenheimer High Yield Fund,
Oppenheimer Cash Reserves, Oppenheimer Municipal Fund, Oppenheimer Limited-Term
Government Fund, Oppenheimer International Bond Fund, Centennial America Fund,
L.P., Oppenheimer Champion Income Fund, Oppenheimer Main Street Funds, Inc.,
Oppenheimer Strategic Income Fund, Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds,
Oppenheimer Integrity Funds, Centennial Money Market Trust, Centennial
Government Trust, Centennial New York Tax Exempt Trust, Centennial Tax Exempt
Trust, Centennial California Tax Exempt Trust and Panorama Series Fund, Inc.
(all of the foregoing funds are collectively referred to as the "Denver-based
Oppenheimer funds") except for (i) Ms. Macaskill, who is a Trustee, Director or
Managing General Partner of all the Denver-based Oppenheimer funds except
Oppenheimer Integrity Funds, Oppenheimer Strategic Income Fund, Panorama Series
Fund, Inc. and Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds, (ii) Mr. Fossel, who is not a
trustee of Centennial New York Tax-Exempt Trust or a Managing General Partner of
Centennial America Fund, L.P. and (iii) Mr. Bowen, who is not a Trustee,
Director or Managing General Partner of Oppenheimer Integrity Funds, Oppenheimer
Strategic Income Fund, Panorama Series Fund, Inc., Oppenheimer Variable Account
Funds, Centennial New York Tax-Exempt Trust and Centennial America Fund, L.P.
All of the Fund's officers except Mr. Patterson are officers of the Denver-based
Oppenheimer funds. Ms. Macaskill is President and Mr. Swain is Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer of the Denver-based Oppenheimer funds. As of February
20, 1998, the Directors and officers of the Fund as a group owned less than 1%
of each class of shares of the Fund. The
-2-
<PAGE>
foregoing statement does not reflect ownership of shares held of record by an
employee benefit plan for employees of the Adviser (for which plan two officers
of the Fund, Bridget A. Macaskill and Andrew J. Donohue, are directors).
Robert G. Avis, Director*; Age: 66
One North Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63103
Vice Chairman of A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc. (a broker-dealer) and A.G. Edwards,
Inc. (its parent holding company); Chairman of A.G.E. Asset Management and A.G.
Edwards Trust Company (its affiliated investment adviser and trust company,
respectively).
William A. Baker, Director; Age: 82
197 Desert Lakes Drive, Palm Springs, California 92264
Management Consultant.
George C. Bowen, Director, Vice President, Treasurer, and Assistant Secretary*;
Age: 61 6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112 Senior Vice President
(since September 1987) and Treasurer (since March 1985) of the Adviser; Vice
President (since June 1983) and Treasurer (since March 1985) of the Distributor;
Vice President (since October 1989) and Treasurer (since April 1986) of
HarbourView; Senior Vice President (since February 1992), Treasurer (since July
1991) and a director (since December 1991) of Centennial; President, Treasurer
and a director of Centennial Capital Corporation (since June 1989); Vice
President and Treasurer (since August 1978) and Secretary (since April 1981) of
SSI; Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary of SFSI (since November 1989);
Treasurer of OAC (since June 1990); Treasurer of Oppenheimer Partnership
Holdings, Inc. (since November 1989); Vice President and Treasurer of
Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (since July 1996); Chief Executive
Officer, Treasurer and a director of MultiSource Services, Inc., a broker-dealer
(since December 1995); an officer of other Oppenheimer funds.
Charles Conrad, Jr., Director; Age: 67
1501 Quail Street, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Chairman and CEO of Universal Space Lines, Inc. (a space services management
company); formerly Vice President of McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co. and
associated with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Jon S. Fossel, Director; Age: 55
P.O. Box 44, Mead Street, Waccabuc, New York 10597
Formerly Chairman and a director of the Adviser, President and a director of
Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp. ("OAC"), the Adviser's parent holding company, and
Shareholder Services, Inc. ("SSI") and Shareholder Financial Services, Inc.
("SFSI"), transfer agent subsidiaries of the Adviser.
-3-
<PAGE>
Sam Freedman, Director; Age: 57
4975 Lakeshore Drive, Littleton, Colorado 80123
Formerly Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of OppenheimerFunds Services,
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and a director of SSI, Chairman, Chief
Executive and Officer and director of SFSI, Vice President and director of OAC
and a director of OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Raymond J. Kalinowski, Director; Age: 68
44 Portland Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63131
Director of Wave Technologies International, Inc. (a computer products training
company).
C. Howard Kast, Director; Age: 76
2552 East Alameda, Denver, Colorado 80209
Formerly Managing Partner of Deloitte, Haskins & Sells (an accounting firm).
Robert M. Kirchner, Director; Age: 76
7500 E. Arapahoe Road, Englewood, Colorado 80112
President of The Kirchner Company (management consultants).
Bridget A. Macaskill, President and Director*; Age: 49
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
President (since June 1991), Chief Executive Officer (since September 1995) and
a Director (since December 1994) of the Adviser; President and director (since
June 1991) of HarbourView; Chairman and a director of SSI (since August 1994),
and SFSI (September 1995); President (since September 1995) and a director
(since October 1990) of OAC; President (since September 1995) and a director
(since November 1989) of Oppenheimer Partnership Holdings, Inc., a holding
company subsidiary of the Adviser; a director of Oppenheimer Real Asset
Management, Inc. (since July 1996) ; President and a director (since October
1997) of OppenheimerFunds International Ltd., an offshore fund adviser
subsidiary of the Adviser ("OFIL") and Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc (since
October 1997); President and a director of other Oppenheimer funds; a director
of the NASDAQ Stock Market, Inc. and of Hillsdown Holdings plc (a U.K. food
company); formerly an Executive Vice President of the Adviser.
Ned M. Steel, Director; Age: 82
3416 South Race Street, Englewood, Colorado 80110
Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter; a director of Visiting Nurse
Corporation of Colorado.
James C. Swain, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director*; Age: 64 6803
South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112 Vice Chairman of the Adviser (since
September 1988); formerly President and a director of Centennial Asset
Management Corporation, an investment adviser subsidiary of the Adviser
("Centennial"), and Chairman of the Board of SSI.
Robert E. Patterson, Vice President and Portfolio Manager; Age: 54.
Senior Vice President of the Adviser (since 1993); an officer of other
Oppenheimer funds.
Andrew J. Donohue, Vice President and Secretary; Age: 47
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
-4-
<PAGE>
Executive Vice President (since January 1993), General Counsel (since October
1991) and a Director (since September 1995) of the Adviser; Executive Vice
President (since September 1993) and a director (since January 1992) of the
Distributor; Executive Vice President, General Counsel and a director of
HarbourView, SSI, SFSI and Oppenheimer Partnership Holdings, Inc. since
(September 1995) and MultiSource Services, Inc. (a broker-dealer) (since
December 1995); President and a director of Centennial (since September 1995);
President and a director of Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (since July
1996); General Counsel (since May 1996) and Secretary (since April 1997) of OAC;
a director of OFIL and Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc (since October 1997); an
officer of other Oppenheimer funds.
Robert J. Bishop, Assistant Treasurer; Age: 39
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
Vice President of the Adviser/Mutual Fund Accounting (since May 1996); an
officer of other Oppenheimer funds; formerly an Assistant Vice President of the
Adviser/Mutual Fund Accounting (April 1994-May 1996), and a Fund Controller for
the Adviser.
Scott T. Farrar, Assistant Treasurer; Age: 32
6803 South Tucson Way, Englewood, Colorado 80112
Vice President of the Adviser/Mutual Fund Accounting (since May 1996); Assistant
Treasurer of Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc (since October 1997); an officer
of other Oppenheimer funds; formerly an Assistant Vice President of the
Adviser/Mutual Fund Accounting (April 1994-May 1996), and a Fund Controller for
the Adviser.
Robert G. Zack, Assistant Secretary; Age: 49
Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048-0203
Senior Vice President (since May 1985) and Associate General Counsel (since May
1981) of the Adviser, Assistant Secretary of SSI (since May 1985), and SFSI
(since November 1989); Assistant Secretary of Oppenheimer Millennium Funds plc
(since October 1997); an officer of other Oppenheimer funds.
- ---------------------
* A Director who is an "interested person" of the Fund.
o Remuneration of Directors. The officers of the Trust and certain Directors
of the Fund (Ms. Macaskill and Messrs. Swain and Bowen) who are affiliated with
the Adviser receive no salary or fee from the Fund. Mr. Fossel did not receive
any salary or fees from the Fund prior to January 1, 1997. The remaining
Directors of the Fund received the compensation shown below. The compensation
from the Fund was paid during its fiscal year ended October 31, 1997. The
compensation from all of the Denver-based Oppenheimer funds includes the Fund
and is compensation received as a Trustee, Director, Managing General Partner or
member of a committee of the Board of those funds during the calendar year 1997.
Total Compensation
Aggregate From All
-5-
<PAGE>
Compensation Denver-based
Name and Position from Fund Oppenheimer funds1
Robert G. Avis $271 $63,501
Director
William A. Baker $331 $77,502
Audit and Review
Committee Member,
Ex Officio Member2
and Director
Charles Conrad, Jr. $308 $72,000
Director3
Jon S. Fossel $270 $63,277
Director
Sam Freedman $284 $66,501
Audit and Review
Committee Member2
and Director
Raymond J. Kalinowski $306 $71,561
Audit and Review Committee
Member2 and Director
C. Howard Kast $327 $76,503
Audit and Review Committee
Chairman2 and Director
Robert M. Kirchner $307 $72,000
Director3
Ned M. Steel $271 $63,501
Director
- ----------------------
1 For the 1997 calendar year. 2 Committee positions effective July 1, 1997.
3 Prior to July 1, 1997, Messrs. Conrad and Kirchner were also members of the
Audit and Review Committee.
Deferred Compensation Plan. The Board of Directors has adopted a Deferred
Compensation plan for disinterested directors that enables them to elect to
defer receipt of all or a portion of the annual fees they are entitled to
receive from the Fund. None of the Directors currently participates in the
-6-
<PAGE>
plan. Under the plan, the compensation deferred by a Director is periodically
adjusted as though an equivalent amount had been invested in shares of one or
more Oppenheimer funds selected by the Director. The amount paid to the Director
under the plan will be determined based upon the performance of the selected
funds. Deferral of Directors' fees under the plan will not materially affect the
Fund's assets, liabilities and net income per share. The plan will not obligate
the Fund to retain the services of any Director or to pay any particular level
of compensation to any Director. Pursuant to an Order issued by the Securities
and Exchange Commission, the Fund may invest in the funds selected by the
Director under the plan for the limited purpose of determining the value of the
Director's deferred fee account.
Item 19. Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities.
1. Inapplicable.
2. As of February 20, 1998, the only persons know by the management of the
Fund to own or be the beneficial owner of 5% or more of the outstanding shares
of the Fund were Prudential Securities, Inc., One York Plaza, Floor 8, New York,
New York 10004, which owned 349,072 shares (13.88% of the shares); Advest,
Inc.,90 State House Square, Suite 5, Hartford Connecticut 06103, which owned
188,098 shares for the benefit of its customers (7.48% of the shares); Smith
Barney, Inc., 388 Greenwich Street, 30th Floor, New York, New York 10013-2375,
which owned 161,140 shares for the benefit of its customers (6.41% of the
shares); and Paine Webber Incorporated, 1000 Harbor Boulevard, 6th Floor, Union
City, New Jersey 07087-6727, which owned of record 135,084 shares for the
benefit of its customers (5.37% of the shares).
3. As of February 20, 1998, the directors and officers of the Fund as a
group owned less than 1% of the outstanding Shares.
Item 20. Investment Advisory and Other Services.
Reference is made to Item 9 of the Prospectus.
Item 21. Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices.
1. and 2. The Fund paid no brokerage commissions during the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997.
The Adviser supplies portfolio management, selects brokers and supplies
investment research in accordance with the Fund's policies. The Fund does not
intend to effect portfolio transactions through any broker which is an
affiliated person of the Fund or its Adviser although the Fund reserves the
right to do so.
As most purchases of portfolio securities made by the Fund are principal
transactions at net prices, the Fund incurs little or no brokerage costs. The
Fund deals directly with the selling or purchasing principal or market maker
without incurring charges for the services of a broker on its behalf unless it
is determined that a better price or execution may be obtained by using the
services of a broker. Purchases of portfolio securities from underwriters
include a commission or concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter, and
purchases from dealers include a spread between the bid and asked price. The
Fund seeks to obtain prompt execution of orders at the most favorable net price.
-7-
<PAGE>
3. The Advisory Agreement between the Fund and the Adviser (the "Advisory
Agreement") contains provisions relating to the selection of brokers, dealers
and futures commission merchants (collectively referred to as "brokers") for the
Fund's portfolio transactions. The Adviser may employ brokers as may, in its
best judgment based on all relevant factors, implement the policy of the Fund to
obtain, at reasonable expense, the "best execution" (prompt and reliable
execution at the most favorable price obtainable) of such transactions. The
Adviser has no duty or obligation to seek advance competitive bidding for the
most favorable commission rate or to select any broker-dealer on the basis of
its purported or "posted" commission rates but will, to the best of its ability
endeavor to be aware of the current level of charges of eligible broker-dealers
and to minimize the expense incurred by the Fund to the extent consistent with
the interests and policies of the Fund as established by the Board of Directors
and the provisions of the Agreement.
Certain other investment companies advised by the Adviser and its affiliates
have investment objectives and policies similar to those of the Fund. If
transactions on behalf of more than one fund during the same period increase the
demand for securities being purchased or the supply of securities being sold,
there may be an adverse effect on price or quantity. When the Fund engages in an
option transaction, ordinarily the same broker will be used for the purchase or
sale of the option and any transactions in the security to which the option
relates.
If brokers are used for portfolio transactions, brokers may be selected for
their execution and/or research services, on which no dollar value can be
placed. Information received by the Adviser for those other accounts may or may
not be useful to the Fund. The commissions paid to such dealers may be higher
than another qualified dealer would have charged if a good faith determination
is made by the Adviser that the commission is reasonable in relation to the
services provided. Subject to applicable regulations, sales of shares of the
Fund and/or investment companies advised by the Adviser or its affiliates may
also be considered as a factor in directing transactions to brokers, but only in
conformity with the price, execution and other considerations and practices
discussed above.
Such research, which may be provided by a broker through a third party,
includes information on particular companies and industries as well as market,
economic or institutional activity areas. It serves to broaden the scope and
supplement the research activities of the Adviser, to make available additional
views for consideration and comparisons, and to enable the Adviser to obtain
market information for the valuation of securities held in the Fund's portfolio
or being considered for purchase.
4. Inapplicable.
5. Inapplicable.
Item 22. Tax Status.
Reference is made to Item 10 of the Prospectus.
Item 23. Financial Statements.
1. Statement of Investments
2. Statement of Assets and Liabilities
3. Statement of Operations
4. Statements of Changes in Net Assets
5. Financial Highlights
-8-
<PAGE>
6. Notes to Financial Statements
7. Independent Auditors' Report
8. Independent Auditors' Consent
OCTOBER 31, 1997
[OPPENHEIMERFUNDS LOGO]
THE RIGHT WAY TO INVEST
<PAGE>
DEAR SHAREHOLDER:
In spite of generally positive trends, the municipal markets experienced
relatively high levels of short-term volatility in the past year. This was due
in part to investors' changing outlooks for economic growth, inflation and
federal monetary policy, making yields on both taxable and tax-exempt bonds
repeatedly rise and fall.
INVESTMENT BREAKDOWN:
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME
FUND, INC. AS OF 10/31/97(3)
[Pie Chart]
AAA 47.57%
AA 3.04%
A 3.46%
BBB 27.36%
BB 6.49%
NR 12.08%
In this rapidly changing environment, The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
performed well, providing a total return at market value of 9.40% during the
one-year period ended
<PAGE>
10/31/97. The Fund paid shareholders tax-exempt income with a dividend return of
6.52% for the month ended 10/31/97.1 For New York State residents in the 43.74%
combined effective tax bracket, this tax-free dividend would have been
equivalent to a taxable dividend of 11.59%.(2) Both New York State and New York
City continued to experience economic improvement over the past year, and the
Fund concentrated its investments on issuers whose prospects brightened along
with the economic climate. In addition to increasing our position in New York
City, we liked issuers of state appropriation bonds, which are bonds connected
with the annual state or local budgets. Examples include bonds issued by the
city and state universities. We also continued to favor revenue bonds that were
backed by the earnings of specific projects, such as bridge tolls and sewer
charges, over general obligation bonds backed by general tax revenues.
Furthermore, to provide liquidity and pro-
1. Total return is based on the change in market value per share from 10/31/96
to 10/31/97, without deducting any sales charges or brokerage costs. Returns
would have been lower if brokerage costs were deducted. Dividend return is
determined by annualizing the October 1997 dividend of $0.053 and dividing by
the closing price on the American Stock Exchange of $9.76 per share on 11/1/97
(payment date). Past performance does not guarantee future results. 2. Assumes a
combined effective tax bracket of 43.74% for New York residents, using the 36%
federal and the maximum New York State income tax rates. A portion of the Fund's
distributions may be subject to federal, state and local income taxes. For
investors subject to alternative minimum income tax, a portion of the Fund's
distributions may increase that tax. Tax rates may be lower depending on
individual circumstances. 3. The chart is based on total investments at market
value and is subject to change. The Fund may invest up to 10% of net assets in
below-investment-grade securities, which carry a greater risk that the issuer
may default on repayment of interest or principal. Securities rated by any
rating organization are included in the equivalent Standard & Poor's rating
category. Average credit quality and allocation include rated securities and
those not rated by a national rating organization (currently 12.08% of total
investments) but to which the ratings given above have been assigned by the
Manager for internal purposes as being comparable, in the Manager's judgment, to
securities rated by a rating agency in the same category.
<PAGE>
tection against default risk, we continued to hold an overweighted position in
prerefunded and other insured bonds.
Of course, because some areas of the New York economy were still uncertain, we
were selective in our bond purchases. For example, we were cautious about bonds
in the hospital sector, even though most of these bonds are insured in New York,
because we saw few opportunities for credit improvement in that area. The Fund
also tended to avoid the smaller municipalities in New York. Our feeling was
that as the state and federal governments shifted expenses for Medicare and many
welfare programs to local entities, the smaller municipalities might find it
more difficult to meet their fiscal obligations.
Generally speaking, during this period we stayed invested in a diversified
portfolio of quality securities that provided competitive levels of income and
attractive relative values. We attempted to boost returns and reduce risks by
actively managing the Fund's average duration, which is a measure of the
portfolio's sensitivity to interest rate fluctuations. By lengthening or
shortening the
<PAGE>
average duration, we can benefit when interest rates are falling and help
protect the Fund's assets when rates rise.
Looking forward, we are cautiously optimistic about New York's prospects for
continued and increased fiscal strength on both the state and local levels. Part
of this optimism is rooted in the U.S. economy, which is in its seventh year of
non-inflationary growth. As long as inflation remains benign, our outlook for
interest rates and the bond market is generally positive. However, if the
economy grows faster than is currently expected, inflation fears could cause
significant short-term volatility. We try to help protect shareholders from the
brunt of market declines, while enabling them to participate in the bulk of the
market's gains.
As always, we thank you for the trust you have placed in OppenheimerFunds, The
Right Way to Invest. We look forward to helping you meet your investment goals
with The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
Sincerely,
James C. Swain
Chairman
The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
Bridget A. Macaskill
President
The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
November 21, 1997
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings: Moody's/
S&P/Fitch Market Value
(Unaudited) Face Amount See Note 1
- --------------------- ----------- ------------ <S> <C>
<C> <C> MUNICIPAL BONDS AND NOTES -- 98.7%
NEW YORK -- 84.5% Babylon, NY IDA
RR RB, Ogden Martin Systems, Inc., Prerefunded, Series C, 8.50%,
1/1/19 . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA $ 985,000 $ 1,044,021 NYC GOB, Prerefunded,
Series D, 7.50%, 2/1/19 . . . . . Aaa/BBB+/A- 1,195,000 1,362,192 NYC GOB,
Prerefunded, Series D, 8%, 8/1/03 . . . . . . Aaa/BBB+/A- 900,000 1,031,859
NYC GOB, Unrefunded Balance, Series D, 7.50%, 2/1/19 . Baa1/BBB+/A- 105,000
117,619 NYC Health & Hospital Corp. RRB, AMBAC Insured,
<PAGE>
Inverse Floater, 7.30%, 2/15/23(1) . . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA/AAA 1,000,000
1,013,750 NYC IDA Civil Facility RB, Community Resources
Development, 7.50%, 8/1/26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . NR/NR 500,000 525,650
NYC IDA RB, Visy Paper, Inc. Project, 7.95%, 1/1/28 . . NR/NR 1,250,000
1,429,137 NYC MTAU RB, Transportation Facilities Service
Contracts, Series 3, 9.25%, 7/1/00 . . . . . . . . . Baa1/BBB+ 1,015,000
1,141,215 NYS DA RB, Judicial Facilities Lease, Escrowed to
Maturity, BIG Insured, 7.375%, 7/1/16 . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA 250,000
312,428 NYS DA RB, Menorah Campus, Prerefunded, 7.30%, 8/1/16
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NR/AA 195,000 219,708 NYS DA RRB,
CUS, Series B, FGIC Insured, 9%, 7/1/00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . Aaa/AAA/AAA 900,000 1,010,727 NYS DA RRB, L.I. Medical Center,
Series A, 7.75%, 8/15/27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aa2/AAA
1,000,000 1,028,380 NYS ERDAUEF RB, L.I. Lighting Co., Series C, 6.90%,
8/1/22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ba1/BB+ 1,000,000
1,083,930 NYS ERDAUPC RB, Rochester Gas & Electric Co.
Project, Series C, 8.375%, 12/1/28 . . . . . . . . . Baa1/BBB+ 250,000
265,055 NYS GORB, 9.875%, 11/15/05 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2/A/A+ 400,000
538,296 NYS HFA RB, State University Construction Project,
Prerefunded, Series A, 8.30%, 5/1/18 . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA 750,000
765,000 NYS HFASC RB, Prerefunded, Series A, 7.375%, 9/15/21
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA 575,000 656,903 NYS LGAC RB,
Prerefunded, Series B, 7.50%, 4/1/20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. Aaa/AAA/AAA 1,000,000 1,124,900 NYS MAG RB, Inverse Floater, 5.975%,
10/1/24(1) . . . . NR/NR 1,000,000 951,250 NYS MAG RB, Ninth Series
E, 8.375%, 4/1/18 . . . . . . Aaa/NR 65,000 66,383 NYS MCFFA RB,
Bronx-Lebanon Hospital, Series A, BIG Insured, 7.10%, 2/15/27 . . .
. . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA 1,000,000 1,022,450 NYS MCFFA RB, MHESF,
Prerefunded, Series B, 7.875%, 8/15/20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aaa/AAA 350,000 391,150 NYS MCFFA RB, MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series B, 7.875%, 8/15/20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baa1/BBB+
995,000 1,105,127 NYS MCFFA RRB, MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series A, 8.875%, 8/15/07 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baa1/BBB+ 145,000
148,522 NYS PAU RB, Prerefunded, Series V, 8%, 1/1/17 . . . . . NR/AA-
500,000 513,395
</TABLE>
3
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<PAGE>
Ratings: Moody's/
S&P/Fitch Market Value (Unaudited)
Face Amount See Note 1 ------------------- -----------
- ------------ <S> <C> <C> <C> NEW
YORK (CONTINUED)
NYS PAU RRB, Prerefunded, Series V, MBIA Insured,
7.875%, 1/1/13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA $ 450,000 $ 462,006
Onondaga Cnty., NY RR Agency RB, RR Facilities
Project, 7%, 5/1/15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baa/NR/A- 900,000 968,508
Suffolk Cnty., NY GORB, AMBAC Insured, 10%,
11/1/02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA/AAA 250,000 312,480
-----------
20,612,041
----------- U.S. POSSESSIONS -- 14.2%
PR CMWLTH Aqueduct & Sewer Authority RB,
Escrowed to Maturity, 10.25%, 7/1/09 . . . . . . . . Aaa/AAA 800,000
1,122,888 PR CMWLTH GORB, Prerefunded, 7.70%, 7/1/20 . . . . . . NR/AAA
1,000,000 1,112,110 PR CMWLTH Special Infrastructure FAU RRB,
Series A, 7.90%, 7/1/07 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baa1/BBB+ 425,000 445,081 PR
Industrial, Medical & Environmental PC Facilities
FAU RB, American Airlines, Inc. Project, Series A,
6.45%, 12/1/25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baa1/BB+ 435,000 479,118 PR
Public Buildings Authority RB, Series B, 5.25%,
7/1/21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baa1/A 300,000 294,792
-----------
3,453,989
- ----------- Total Investments, at Value (Cost $23,166,804) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98.7%
24,066,030 Other Assets Net of Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 326,142
----------- ----------- Net Assets . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100.0% $24,392,172
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
(1) Represents the current interest rate for a variable rate bond known as an
"inverse floater" which pays interest at a rate that varies inversely with
short-term interest rates. As interest rates rise, inverse floaters produce less
current income. Their price may be more volatile than the price of a comparable
fixed-rate security. Inverse floaters amount to $1,965,000 or 8.06% of the
Fund's net assets at October 31, 1997.
4
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS (Continued)
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<PAGE>
As of October 31, 1997, securities subject to the alternative minimum tax
amounted to $3,813,013 or 15.63% of the Fund's net assets. Distribution of
investments by industry, as a percentage of total investments at value, is as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Industry Market Value Percent --------
------------ ------- <S>
<C> <C>
Hospital/Healthcare $ 4,780,564 19.8%
General Obligation 4,474,556 18.6 Resource
Recovery 2,012,529 8.4 Lease Rental
1,896,957 7.9 Higher Education
1,775,727 7.4 Sales Tax 1,569,981 6.5
Manufacturing, Durable Goods 1,429,138 5.9 Pollution
Control 1,348,985 5.6 Water Utilities
1,122,888 4.7 Single Family Housing
1,017,633 4.2 Electric Utilities 975,401 4.1
Adult Living Facilities 656,903 2.7 Not-for-Profit
Organization 525,650 2.2 Corporate Backed
479,118 2.0 -----------
- ----- $24,066,030 100.0%
=========== =====
</TABLE>
To simplify the listing of securities, abbreviations are used per the table
below:
CMWLTH Commonwealth
CUS City University System
DA Dormitory Authority
ERDAUEF Energy Research & Development
Authority Electric Facilities
ERDAUPC Energy Research & Development
Authority Pollution Control
FAU Finance Authority
GOB General Obligation Bonds
GORB General Obligation Refunding Bonds
HFA Housing Finance Agency
HFASC Housing Finance Agency Service Contract
IDA Industrial Development Agency
LGAC Local Government Assistance Corp.
L.I. Long Island
MAG Mtg. Agency
MCFFA Medical Care Facilities Finance Agency
MHESF Mental Health Services Facilities
MTAU Metropolitan Transportation Authority
NYC New York City
NYS New York State
PAU Power Authority
<PAGE>
PC Pollution Control
RB Revenue Bonds
RR Resource Recovery
RRB Revenue Refunding Bonds
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
5
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES October 31, 1997 The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> ASSETS:
Investments, at value (cost $23,166,804) -- see accompanying statement . . . . . . . . .
$24,066,030 Receivables:
Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 487,551 Other . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,711
----------- Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24,558,292 -----------
LIABILITIES:
Bank overdraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 348 Payables and other
liabilities:
Dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132,505 Shareholder
reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14,625 Management and
administrative fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,321 Directors' fees . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,138 Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 1,183
- ----------- Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166,120
----------- NET ASSETS . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $24,392,172
===========
COMPOSITION OF NET ASSETS:
Par value of shares of capital stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 25,001 Additional
paid-in capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23,129,580 Undistributed net
investment income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69,752 Accumulated net realized
gain on investment transactions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268,613 Net unrealized appreciation
on investments -- Note 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 899,226
----------- NET ASSETS -- applicable to 2,500,098 shares of capital
stock outstanding . . . . . . . . $24,392,172
===========
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9.76
=====
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
6
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS For the Year Ended October 31, 1997 The New York
Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> INVESTMENT
INCOME -- Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,733,281
----------
EXPENSES:
Management fees -- Note 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120,378 Shareholder
reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29,590 Transfer agent and
accounting service fees -- Note 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24,231 Legal and auditing fees .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8,673 Registration and filing fees . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,443 Custodian fees and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 6,202 Directors' fees and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2,675 Insurance expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,734
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,830
---------- Total expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 203,756 Less expenses paid indirectly -- Note 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . (7,797) ----------
Net expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195,959
---------- NET INVESTMENT INCOME . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,537,322
----------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS):
Net realized gain on investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287,554 Net change
in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments . . . . . . . . . . (82,854)
---------- NET REALIZED AND
UNREALIZED GAIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204,700
---------- NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,742,022
==========
</TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
7
<PAGE>
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<PAGE>
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
-----------------------------
1997 1996 -----------
- ----------- <S> <C> <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,537,322 $ 1,568,849 Net
realized gain (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287,554 (30,729) Net change in
unrealized appreciation or depreciation . . . . . . . . . (82,854) (221,504)
----------- -----------
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations . . . . . 1,742,022 1,316,616
----------- -----------
DIVIDENDS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM INVESTMENT INCOME . . . . . . . . . . .
(1,581,763) (1,562,020) -----------
- -----------
CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS:
Proceeds from shares issued to shareholders in
reinvestment of dividends and distributions -- Note 2 . . . . . . . . 289,815 308,225
----------- -----------
NET ASSETS:
Total increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 450,074 62,821 Beginning of
period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23,942,098 23,879,277
----------- -----------
End of period (including undistributed net investment
income of $69,752 and $59,636, respectively) . . . . . . . . . . . . $24,392,172
$23,942,098 ===========
===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
--------------------------------------------------------- 1997
1996 1995 1994 1993 ------- ------- -------
<PAGE>
------- ------- <S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
<C>
PER SHARE OPERATING DATA:
Net asset value, beginning of period . . . $ 9.69 $ 9.79 $ 9.33 $ 10.77 $ 10.37
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Income (loss) from
investment operations:
Net investment income . . . . . . . . . .62 .64 .63 .65 .66 Net
realized and unrealized gain (loss) . .09 (.10) .47 (1.18) .55
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Total income (loss) from
investment operations . . . . . . . . .71 .54 1.10 (.53) 1.21
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Dividends and distributions to
shareholders:
Dividends from net investment
income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (.64) (.64) (.64) (.66) (.74) Distributions
from net realized gain . -- -- -- -- (.07) Distributions in excess of
net realized
gain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- -- -- (.25) --
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Total dividends and distributions to
shareholders . . . . . . . . . . . (.64) (.64) (.64) (.91) (.81)
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Net asset value, end of period . . .
. . . $ 9.76 $ 9.69 $ 9.79 $ 9.33 $ 10.77
======= ======= ======= ======= ======= Market value, end of period . . . .
. . . . $ 10.25 $ 10.00 $ 9.63 $ 9.50 $ 12.63 TOTAL RETURN, AT MARKET
VALUE(1) 9.40% 10.82% 8.32% (17.70)% 25.11%
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) . $24,392 $23,942 $23,879 $22,468
$25,516 Average net assets (in thousands) . . . . . $24,088 $23,840 $23,143 $23,852
$24,936 Ratios to average net assets:
Net investment income . . . . . . . . . . 6.35% 6.58% 6.62% 6.53% 6.26%
Expenses(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.85% 0.85% 0.88% 0.87% 0.84%
Portfolio turnover rate(3) . . . . . . . . 33.2% 13% 12% 6% 28%
</TABLE>
(1) Assumes a hypothetical purchase at the current market price on the business
day before the first day of the fiscal period, with all dividends and
distributions reinvested in additional shares on the reinvestment date, and a
sale at the current market price on the last business day of the period. (2)
Beginning in fiscal 1995, the expense ratio reflects the effect of gross
expenses paid indirectly by the Fund. Prior year expense ratios have not been
adjusted.
(3) The lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities for a period,
divided by the monthly average of the market value of portfolio securities owned
during the period. Securities with a maturity or expiration date at the time of
acquisition of one year or less are excluded from the calculation. Purchases and
sales of investment securities (excluding short-term securities) for the period
ended October 31, 1997 were $8,150,197 and $7,866,736, respectively.
<PAGE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
9
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. (the Fund) is registered under
the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as a diversified, closed-end
management investment company. The Fund seeks to provide high current income
which is exempt from federal, New York State and New York City income taxes for
individual investors as is available from municipal securities. The Fund's
investment advisor is OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the Manager). The following is a
summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fun .
Investment Valuation -- Portfolio securities are valued at the close of the
American Stock Exchange on the last day of each week on which day the American
Stock Exchange is open. Listed and unlisted securities for which such
information is regularly reported are valued at the last sale price of the day
or, in the absence of sales, at values based on the closing bid or the last sale
price on the prior trading day. Long-term and short-term "non-money market" debt
securities are valued by a portfolio pricing service approved by the Board of
Directors. Such securities which cannot be valued by an approved portfolio
pricing service are valued using dealer-supplied valuations provided the Manager
is satisfied that the firm rendering the quotes is reliable and that the quotes
reflect current market value, or are valued under consistently applied
procedures established by the Board of Directors to determine fair value in good
faith. Short-term "money market type" debt securities having a remaining
maturity of 60 days or less are valued at cost (or last determined market value)
adjusted for amortization to maturity of any premium or discount.
Federal Taxes -- The Fund intends to continue to comply with provisions
of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to
distribute all of its taxable income, including any net realized gain on
investments not offset by loss carryovers, to shareholders. Therefore, no
federal income or excise tax provision is required.
Distributions to Shareholders -- The Fund intends to declare and pay
dividends from net investment income monthly. Distributions from net realized
gains on investments, if any, will be declared at least once each year.
Classification of Distributions to Shareholders -- Net investment
income (loss) and net realized gain (loss) may differ for financial statement
and tax purposes primarily because of premium amortization for tax purposes. The
character of the distributions made during the
year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their
ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. Also, due to timing
of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may
differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain was recorded by
the Fund.
<PAGE>
The Fund adjusted the classification of distributions to shareholders
to reflect the differences between financial statement amounts and distributions
determined in accordance with income tax regulations. Accordingly, during the
period ended October 31, 1997, amounts have been reclassified to reflect an
increase in undistributed net investment income of $54,557, an increase in
accumulated net realized gain on investments of $18,133, and a decrease in
paid-in capital of $72,690.
Other -- Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the
investments are purchased or sold (trade date). Original issue discount on
securities purchased is amortized over the life of the respective securities, in
accordance with federal income tax requirements. For bonds acquired after April
30, 1993, on disposition or maturity, taxable ordinary income is recognized to
the extent of the lesser of gain or market dis-
10
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund,
Inc.
count that would have accrued over the holding period. Realized gains
and losses on investments and unrealized appreciation and depreciation are
determined on an identified cost basis, which is the same basis used for federal
income tax purposes. The Fund concentrates its investments in New York and,
therefore, may have more credit risks related to the economic conditions of New
York than a portfolio with a broader geographical diversification.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting
period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
2. CAPITAL STOCK
The Fund has authorized 250 million shares of $.01 par value capital
stock. Of these shares, 174,902 shares were reserved for issuance under a
Dividend Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan. Transactions in shares of capital
stock were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
- -------------------------------------- 1997 1996
----------------- ----------------- Shares Amount Shares Amount
<PAGE>
------ ------ ------ ------ <S> <C> <C> <C>
<C> Net increase from dividends
reinvested 29,677 $289,815 31,639 $308,225 ======
======== ====== ======== </TABLE>
3. UNREALIZED GAINS AND LOSSES ON INVESTMENTS
At October 31, 1997, net unrealized appreciation on investments of
$899,226 was composed of gross appreciation of $1,057,621, and gross
depreciation of $158,395.
4. MANAGEMENT FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Management fees paid to the Manager were in accordance with the investment
advisory agreement with the Fund which provides for a fee of 0.50% on the Fund's
average annual net assets. The Manager acts as the accounting agent for the Fund
at an annual fee of $12,000, plus out-of-pocket costs and expenses reasonably
incurred. Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. (SFSI), a wholly owned subsidiary
of the Manager, is the transfer agent and registrar for the Fund. Fees paid to
SFSI are based on the number of accounts and the number of shareholder
transactions, plus out-of-pocket costs and expenses. Expenses paid indirectly
represent a reduction of custodian fees for earnings on cash balances maintained
by the Fund.
11
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
The Board of Directors and Shareholders of
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including
the statement of investments, of The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. as of
October 31, 1997, the related statement of operations for the year then ended,
the statements of changes in net assets for the years ended October 31, 1997 and
1996 and the financial highlights for the period November 1, 1993 to October 31,
1997. These financial statements and financial highlights are the responsibility
of the Fund's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements and financial highlights based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial
highlights are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned at October
31,
<PAGE>
1997 by correspondence with the custodian. An audit also includes assessing the
accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well
as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, such
financial statements and financial highlights present fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. at
October 31, 1997, the results of its operations, the changes in its net assets,
and the financial highlights for the respective stated periods, in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Denver, Colorado
November 21, 1997
12
<PAGE>
FEDERAL INCOME TAX INFORMATION (Unaudited) The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund,
Inc.
In early 1998, shareholders will receive information regarding all dividends and
distributions paid to them by the Fund during calendar year 1997. Regulations of
the U.S. Treasury Department require the Fund to report this information to the
Internal Revenue Service.
None of the dividends paid by the Fund during the fiscal year ended October 31,
1997 are eligible for the corporate dividend-received deduction. The dividends
were derived from interest on municipal bonds and are not subject to federal
income tax. To the extent a shareholder is subject to any state or local tax
laws, or to alternative minimum tax, some or all of the dividends received may
be taxable.
The foregoing information is presented to assist shareholders in reporting
distributions received from the Fund to the Internal Revenue Service. Because of
the complexity of the federal regulations which may affect your individual tax
return and the many variations in state and local tax regulations, we recommend
that you consult your tax advisor for specific guidance.
SHAREHOLDER MEETING (Unaudited)
On May 5, 1997, a special shareholder meeting was held at which the five
Directors identified below were elected, the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP
as the independent certified public accountants and auditors of the Fund for the
fiscal year beginning November 1, 1996 was ratified (Proposal No. 1), the
proposal to change certain of the Fund's fundamental investment policies was
approved (Proposal No. 2) and the current Investment Advisory Agreement between
the
<PAGE>
Fund and OppenheimerFunds, Inc. was approved (Proposal No. 3) as described in
the Fund's proxy statement for that meeting. The following is a report of the
votes cast:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Withheld/ Broker Nominee/Proposal For
Against Abstain Non-Votes Total ---------------- --------- -------
- --------- --------- --------- <S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
<C> Directors
William A. Baker 1,453,537 12,981 317,212 1,466,518 Charles
Conrad, Jr. 1,453,537 12,981 317,212 1,466,518 Raymond J.
Kalinowski 1,453,537 12,981 317,212 1,466,518 Bridget A.
Macaskill 1,453,537 12,981 317,212 1,466,518 Sam Freedman
1,453,407 13,111 317,212 1,466,518 Proposal No. 1
1,440,184 3,300 23,034 317,212 1,466,518 Proposal No. 2
1,232,371 26,842 49,406 634,424 1,308,619 Proposal No. 3
1,402,485 14,796 48,737 317,212 1,466,018 </TABLE>
13
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
GENERAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THE FUND
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. is a closed-end investment
company whose shares trade on the American Stock Exchange (the ASE). The Fund
seeks to provide high current income which is exempt from federal, New York
State and New York City income taxes. A portion of the Fund's distributions may
be subject to income tax. For investors subject to the alternative minimum
income tax, a portion of the Fund's distributions may increase that tax. The
Fund seeks to achieve its objective by investing in municipal obligations, the
income from which is generally tax-exempt as described above. The Fund may
invest in municipal lease obligations, municipal obligations with variable or
floating interest rates and certain derivative investments, such as inverse
floaters. The Fund may also use certain hedging instruments. The investment
advisor (the Manager) of the Fund is OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
The Portfolio Manager of the Fund is Robert E. Patterson, who also serves
as Vice President of the Fund and Senior Vice President of the Manager. Mr.
Patterson has been the person principally responsible for the day-to-day
management of the Fund's portfolio since February 1992. DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT
AND CASH PURCHASE PLAN
Pursuant to the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan (the
Plan), as to shares of the Fund (Shares) not registered in nominee name, all
dividends and capital
<PAGE>
gains distributions (Distributions) declared by the Fund will be automatically
reinvested in additional full and fractional Shares unless a shareholder elects
to receive cash. If Shares are registered in nominee name, the shareholder
should consult the nominee if the shareholder desires to participate in the
Plan. Shareholders that participate in the Plan (Participants) may, at their
option, make additional cash investments in Shares, semi-annually in amounts of
at least $100, through payment to Shareholder Financial Services, Inc., the
agent for the Plan (the Agent), accompanied by a service fee of $0.75.
Depending upon the circumstances hereinafter described, Plan Shares
will be acquired by the Agent for the Participant's account through receipt of
newly issued Shares or the purchase of outstanding Shares on the open market. If
the market price of Shares on the relevant date (normally the payment date)
equals or exceeds their net asset value, the Agent will ask the Fund for payment
of the Distribution in additional Shares at the greater of the Fund's net asset
value determined as of the date of purchase or 95% of the then-current market
price. If the market price is lower than net asset value, the Distribution will
be paid in cash, which the Agent will use to buy Shares on the ASE, or otherwise
on the open market to the extent available. If the market price exceeds the net
asset value before the Agent has completed its purchases, the average purchase
price per
Share paid by the Agent may exceed the net asset value, resulting in fewer
Shares being acquired than if the Distribution had been paid in Shares issued by
the Fund.
14
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
Participants may elect to withdraw from the Plan at any time and
thereby receive cash in lieu of Shares by sending appropriate written
instructions to the Agent. Elections received by the Agent will be effective
only if received more than ten days prior to the record date
for any Distribution; otherwise, such termination will be effective shortly
after the investment of such Distribution with respect to any subsequent
Distribution. Upon withdrawal from or termination of the Plan, all Shares
acquired under the Plan will remain in the Participant's account unless
otherwise requested. For full Shares, the Participant may either: (1) receive
without charge a share certificate for such Shares; or (2) request the Agent
(after receipt by the Agent of signature guaranteed instructions by all
registered owners) to sell the Shares acquired under the Plan and remit the
proceeds less any brokerage commissions and a $2.50 service fee. Fractional
Shares may either remain in the Participant's account or be reduced to cash by
the Agent at the current market price with the proceeds remitted to the
Participant. Shareholders who have previously withdrawn from the
Plan may rejoin at any time by sending written instructions signed by
all registered owners to the Agent.
There is no direct charge for participation in the Plan; all fees of the
Agent are paid by the Fund. There are no brokerage charges for Shares issued
directly by the Fund. However,
<PAGE>
each Participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred
with respect to open market purchases of Shares to be issued under the Plan.
Participants will receive tax information annually for their personal records
and to assist in federal income tax return preparation. The automatic
reinvestment of Distributions does not relieve Participants of any income tax
that may be payable on Distributions. The Plan may be terminated or amended at
any time upon 30 days' prior written notice to Participants which, with respect
to a Plan termination, must precede the record date of any Distribution by the
Fund. Additional information concerning the Plan may be obtained by shareholders
holding Shares registered directly in their names by writing the Agent,
Shareholder Financial Services, Inc., P.O. Box 173673, Denver, CO, 80217-3673 or
by calling 1-800-647-7374. Shareholders holding Shares in nominee name should
contact their brokerage firm or other nominee for more information. SHAREHOLDER
INFORMATION
Daily market prices for the Fund's shares are published in the ASE
section of newspapers. The Fund's ASE trading symbol is XTX. Weekly comparative
net asset value (NAV) and market price information about The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc. is published each Monday in The Wall Street Journal and The
New York Times and each Saturday in Barron's in a table under the heading
"Closed-End Bond Funds."
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
Officers and Directors
James C. Swain, Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
Bridget A. Macaskill, Director and
President
Robert G. Avis, Director
William A. Baker, Director
Charles Conrad, Jr., Director
Jon S. Fossel, Director
Sam Freedman, Director
Raymond J. Kalinowski, Director
C. Howard Kast, Director
Robert M. Kirchner, Director
Ned M. Steel, Director
George C. Bowen, Vice President,
Treasurer and Assistant Secretary
Andrew J. Donohue, Vice President and Secretary
Robert E. Patterson, Vice President
Robert J. Bishop, Assistant Treasurer
Scott T. Farrar, Assistant Treasurer
Robert G. Zack, Assistant Secretary
Investment Advisor
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Transfer Agent and Registrar
<PAGE>
Shareholder Financial Services, Inc.
Custodian of Portfolio Securities
Citibank, N.A.
Independent Auditors
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Legal Counsel
Myer, Swanson, Adams & Wolf, P.C.
This is a copy of a report to shareholders of The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc. It does not offer for sale or solicit orders to buy any
securities.
Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 23(c) of the Investment
Company Act of 1940 that periodically the Fund may purchase its shares of
capital stock in the open market at prevailing market prices.
Shares of Oppenheimer funds are not deposits or obligations of any bank,
are not guaranteed by any bank, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other
agency, and involve investment risks, including possible loss of the principal
amount invested.
RA0875.001.1097 [RECYCLED LOGO] Printed on recycled paper
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
Officers and Directors
James C. Swain, Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
Bridget A. Macaskill, Director and
President
Robert G. Avis, Director
William A. Baker, Director
Charles Conrad, Jr., Director
Jon S. Fossel, Director
Sam Freedman, Director
Raymond J. Kalinowski, Director
C. Howard Kast, Director
Robert M. Kirchner, Director
Ned M. Steel, Director
George C. Bowen, Director, Vice President,
Treasurer and Assistant Secretary
Andrew J. Donohue, Vice President and Secretary
Robert E. Patterson, Vice President
Robert J. Bishop, Assistant Treasurer
Scott T. Farrar, Assistant Treasurer
Robert G. Zack, Assistant Secretary
Investment Advisor
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Transfer Agent and Registrar
Shareholder Financial Services, Inc.
Custodian of Portfolio Securities
Citibank, N.A.
Independent Auditors
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Legal Counsel
Myer, Swanson, Adams & Wolf, P.C.
This is a copy of a report to shareholders of The New York Tax-Exempt Income
Fund, Inc. It does not offer for sale or solicit orders to buy any securities.
Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 23(c) of the Investment
Company Act of 1940 that periodically the Fund may purchase its shares of
capital stock in the open market at prevailing market prices.
<PAGE>
Shares of Oppenheimer funds are not deposits or obligations of any bank, are
not guaranteed by any bank, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency,
and involve investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount
invested.
RS0875.001.0498 [RECYCLE LOGO] Printed on recycled paper
1998 SEMIANNUAL REPORT
THE
NEW YORK
TAX-EXEMPT
INCOME
FUND, INC.
APRIL 30, 1998
[OPPENHEIMERFUNDS LOGO]
THE RIGHT WAY TO INVEST
<PAGE>
DEAR SHAREHOLDER:
Although overall trends remained generally positive, municipal bond markets
experienced a high level of volatility within a relatively narrow trading range
during the past six months. Yields frequently rose and fell in response to
conflicting evidence regarding economic strength and inflation. On one hand,
reports of strong economic growth and rising labor costs fueled inflation
concerns, which caused bond prices to fall, and yields to rise. On the other
hand, news about the impact of the Asian crisis on U.S. corporate earnings
helped reduce those concerns, leading bond prices higher, and yields lower.
Investment Breakdown: The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. as of 4/30/98(3)
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
AAA 45.74%
AA 9.32%
<PAGE>
A 20.08%
BBB 15.68%
BB 9.17%
</TABLE>
In this volatile environment, The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
performed well, providing a cumulative total return at market value of 2.34%
during the six-month period ended 4/30/98. The Fund paid shareholders tax-exempt
income with a dividend return of 5.38% for the month of April, 1998.(1) For New
York State residents in the 43.74% combined effective tax bracket, this tax-free
dividend would have been equivalent to a taxable dividend of 9.55%.(2) As New
York's economic recovery continued throughout the period, we focused on what we
believe were undervalued credits in sectors of vital interest to the city and
state. These included state appropriation bonds--bonds connected with the annual
state budget--such as bonds issued by the city and state universities and
transportation authorities. In addition, although we remained cautious with
respect to the hospital sector, we found new opportunities to invest in the
state's hospital system through
1. Total return is based on the change in market value per share from 10/31/97
to 4/30/98, without deducting any sales charges or brokerage costs. Returns
would have been lower if brokerage costs were deducted. Dividend return is
determined by annualizing the April 1998 dividend of $0.043 and dividing by the
closing price on the American Stock Exchange of $9.60 per share on 5/1/98
(payment date). Past performance does not guarantee future results. 2. Assumes a
combined effective tax bracket of 43.74% for New York residents, using the 36%
federal and the maximum New York State income tax rates. A portion of the Fund's
distributions may be subject to federal, state and local income taxes. For
investors subject to alternative minimum income tax, a portion of the Fund's
distributions may increase that tax. Tax rates may be lower depending on
individual circumstances.
3. The chart is based on total investments at market value and is subject to
change. The Fund may invest up to 10% of net assets in below-investment-grade
securities, which carry a greater risk that the issuer may default on repayment
of interest or principal. Securities rated by any rating organization are
included in the equivalent Standard & Poor's rating category. Average credit
quality and allocation include rated securities and those not rated by a
national rating organization (currently 16.95% of total investments) but to
which the ratings given above have been assigned by the Manager for internal
purposes as being comparable, in the Manager's judgment, to securities rated by
a rating agency in the same category.
<PAGE>
state-backed bonds. We also added to our position in New York City bonds because
of the city's strengthening financial position.
Outside of New York State, we identified attractive opportunities in Puerto Rico
bonds. These bonds broadened the Fund's diversification, while providing
shareholders with the benefits of income exempt from New York state and local
taxes.
<PAGE>
Of course, we remained selective in our bond purchases. For example, although we
believe utilities hold promise for the future, we avoided these types of bonds
during the period because the sector continues to be roiled by deregulation. We
also tended to focus away from smaller municipalities in New York because of the
risk implicit in their dependence on federal- and state-level financial
decisions and appropriations to meet local obligations.
In addition to the careful selection of investment sectors and individual
credits, we sought to boost returns and help reduce risks by actively managing
the portfolio's average duration. Duration is a measure of a bond's sensitivity
to changes in interest rates. Generally, the longer a portfolio's average
duration, the higher the returns investors are likely to receive in an
environment of falling interest rates. Conversely, the shorter the duration,
generally, the higher the returns when interest rates rise. At the beginning of
the period, we expected interest rates to decline, so we took a mildly long
position relative to our benchmarks. However, after the first of the year,
prospects dimmed for immediately lower interest rates, so we shifted to a more
neutral position--neither long nor short--with respect to duration. As a result
of our duration shifts, shareholders benefited from the Fund's below average
risk profile and strong relative performance, particularly during the second
half of the period.
Looking forward, we are cautiously optimistic about New York's prospects for
continued and increased fiscal strength on both the state and local levels. New
York City's credit rating was recently upgraded by Moody's Investors Service,
one of the principal rating agencies--an indication of the city's steady
recovery. As long as the U.S. economy continues its long run of non-inflationary
growth, our outlook for interest rates, and the bond market, is generally
positive.
We remain committed to our strategy of conservative risk management, and to our
relentless search for undervalued issues in the New York municipal bond market.
We believe these qualities continue to make The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund,
Inc. part of The Right Way to Invest.
Sincerely,
/s/ JAMES C. SWAIN
James C. Swain
Chairman
The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
/s/ BRIDGET A. MACASKILL
Bridget A. Macaskill
President
The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
<PAGE>
May 21, 1998
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS APRIL 30, 1998 (Unaudited) The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings: Moody's/ Face Market
Value S&P/Fitch Amount See
Note 1 ----------------- --------
- ------------ <S> <C> <C> <C>
MUNICIPAL BONDS AND NOTES -- 94.6%
NEW YORK -- 84.0%
Babylon, NY IDA RR RB, Ogden Martin Systems, Inc.,
Prerefunded, Series C, 8.50%, 1/1/19.......................................... Aaa/AAA $ 985,000
$ 1,021,731 Buffalo, NY MWFAU System RRB, Series B, FGIC
Insured, 5%, 7/1/18........................................................... Aaa/AAA 1,200,000
1,159,968 Monroe Cnty., NY IDA RB, DePaul Community
Facilities, Series A, 5.875%, 2/1/28.......................................... NR/NR 250,000
246,995 NY TBTAU GP RRB, Series A, 5.125%, 1/1/22....................................... Aa3/A+
975,000 948,226 NYC GOB, Prerefunded, Series D, 7.50%,
2/1/19................................... Aaa/BBB+/A- 1,195,000 1,342,630 NYC GOB,
Unrefunded Balance, Series D, 7.50%, 2/1/19............................ A3/BBB+/A- 105,000
115,823 NYC GORB, Series D, 5.25%, 8/1/21...............................................
Baa1/BBB+/A- 1,000,000 971,160 NYC Health & Hospital Corp. RRB, AMBAC
Insured,
Inverse Floater, 7.36%, 2/15/23(1)............................................ Aaa/AAA/AAA
1,000,000 1,030,000 NYC IDA Civic Facility RB, Community Resources
Development, 7.50%, 8/1/26.................................................... NR/NR 500,000
529,440 NYC IDA RB, Visy Paper, Inc. Project, 7.95%, 1/1/28............................. NR/NR
1,250,000 1,451,175 NYC IDA RRB, Brooklyn Navy Yard Cogen Partners,
5.75%, 10/1/36................................................................ Baa3/BBB- 500,000
500,015 NYC MWFAU WSS RRB, Series C, FGIC Insured,
5%, 6/15/21................................................................... Aaa/AAA/AAA 1,000,000
956,370 NYS DA RB, Judicial Facilities Lease, Escrowed to
Maturity, BIG Insured, 7.375%, 7/1/16......................................... Aaa/AAA 250,000
312,772 NYS DA RB, New York University, Series A, MBIA
Insured, 5.75%, 7/1/27........................................................ Aaa/AAA 1,000,000
1,082,030 NYS DA RRB, L.I. Medical Center, Series A, 7.75%,
8/15/27....................................................................... Aa2/AAA 1,000,000
1,022,490 NYS ERDAUEF RB, L.I. Lighting Co., Series C, 6.90%,
8/1/22........................................................................ Ba1/BB+ 1,000,000
1,094,370 NYS ERDAUPC RB, Rochester Gas & Electric Co.
Project, Series C, 8.375%, 12/1/28............................................ Baa1/BBB+ 250,000
260,655 NYS GORB, 9.875%, 11/15/05...................................................... A2/A/A+
<PAGE>
400,000 530,308 NYS MAG RB, Inverse Floater, 6.733%,
10/1/24(1)................................. NR/NR 1,000,000 976,250 NYS MCFFA RB,
MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series B, 7.875%, 8/15/20..................................................... A3/A- 365,000
400,788 NYS MCFFA RRB, MHESF, Unrefunded Balance,
Series A, 8.875%, 8/15/07..................................................... Baa1/BBB+ 145,000
148,428 NYS UDC RRB, Correctional Capital Facilities,
Series A, 5.25%, 1/1/21....................................................... Baa1/BBB+/A 1,000,000
963,990 Onondaga Cnty., NY RR Agency RB, RR Facilities
Project, 7%, 5/1/15........................................................... Baa1/NR/A- 900,000
970,587 PAUNYNJ RB, 111th Series, 5%, 10/1/32........................................... A1/AA-/AA-
1,000,000 952,700 Suffolk Cnty., NY GORB, AMBAC Insured, 10%,
11/1/02............................. Aaa/AAA/AAA 250,000 305,630 Syracuse, NY IDA
Civic Facilities RB, Crouse Health
Hospital, Inc. Project, Series A, 5.375%, 1/1/23.............................. NR/BBB
1,000,000 976,560
----------
20,271,091
- ---------- </TABLE>
3
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS APRIL 30, 1998 (Unaudited) (Continued) The New York
Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ratings: Moody's/ Face Market
Value S&P/Fitch Amount See
Note 1 ----------------- --------
- ------------ <S> <C> <C>
<C>
U.S. POSSESSIONS -- 10.6%
PR CMWLTH Aqueduct & Sewer Authority RB,
Escrowed to Maturity, 10.25%, 7/1/09.......................................... Aaa/AAA
$800,000 $ 1,095,224 PR CMWLTH GOB, 5.375%, 7/1/25...................................................
Baa1/A 250,000 248,743 PR CMWLTH Infrastructure FAU Special RRB,
Prerefunded, Series A, 7.90%, 7/1/07.......................................... Baa1/BBB+ 330,000
338,686 PR CMWLTH Infrastructure FAU Special RRB,
Unrefunded Balance, Series A, 7.90%, 7/1/07................................... Baa1/BBB+
95,000 97,424 PR Industrial, Medical & Environmental PC Facilities
FAU RB, American Airlines, Inc. Project,
Series A, 6.45%, 12/1/25...................................................... Baa1/BB+ 435,000
475,947 PR Public Buildings Authority RB, Series B, 5.25%,
7/1/21........................................................................ Baa1/A 300,000 294,846
-------------
2,550,870
<PAGE>
------------- Total Municipal Bonds and
Notes (Cost $21,903,113).............................. 22,821,961
-------------
SHORT-TERM TAX-EXEMPT OBLIGATIONS -- 3.3%
NYS ERDAUPC RB, Niagara Mohawk Corp. Project,
Series A, 4.10%, 5/1/98(2) (Cost $800,000).................................... 800,000
800,000 -----------
Total Investments, at Value (Cost $22,703,113).................................. 97.9%
23,621,961 Other Assets Net of Liabilities................................................. 2.1
506,888 --------
- ----------- Net Assets...................................................................... 100.0%
$24,128,849 ========
=========== </TABLE>
To simplify the listings of securities, abbreviations are used per the table
below:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CMWLTH Commonwealth
MCFFA Medical Care Facilites Finance Agency DA Dormitory Authority
MHESF Mental Health Services Facilities ERDAUEF Energy Research &
Development MWFAU Municipal Water Finance Authority Authority Electric
Facilities NYC New York City ERDAUPC Energy Research & Development
NYS New York State Authority Pollution Control PAUNYNJ Port
Authority of New York & New Jersey FAU Finance Authority PC
Pollution Control GOB General Obligation Bonds RB Revenue Bonds
GORB General Obligation Refunding Bonds RR Resource Recovery GP
General Purpose RRB Revenue Refunding Bonds IDA Industrial
Development Agency TBTAU Triborough Bridge & Tunnel Authority L.I. Long
Island UDC Urban Development Corp. MAG Mtg. Agency
WSS Water & Sewer System </TABLE>
1. Represents the current interest rate for a variable rate bond known as an
"inverse floater" which pays interest at a rate that varies inversely with
short-term interest rates. As interest rates rise, inverse floaters produce less
current income. Their price may be more volatile than the price of a comparable
fixed-rate security. Inverse floaters amount to $2,006,250 or 8.31% of the
Fund's net assets as of April 30, 1998.
2. Floating or variable rate obligation. The interest rate, which is based on
specific, or an index of, market interest rates, is subject to change
periodically and is the effective rate on April 30, 1998. This instrument may
also have a demand feature which allows, on up to 30 days' notice, the recovery
of principal at any time, or at specified intervals not exceeding one year.
Maturity date shown represents effective maturity based on variable rate and, if
applicable, demand feature.
4
<PAGE>
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS APRIL 30, 1998 (Unaudited) (Continued) The New York
Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
As of April 30, 1998, securities subject to the alternative minimum tax
amount to $4,276,802 or 17.72% of the Fund's net assets.
Distribution of investments by industry of issue, as a percentage of total
investments at value, is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Industry Market Value Percent --------
------------ ------- <S> <C>
<C>
General Obligation $ 3,514,293 14.9%
Water Utilities 3,211,561 13.7 Hospital/Healthcare
3,029,050 12.9 Lease Rental
2,120,825 9.0 Resource Recovery 1,992,318
8.4 Electric Utilities 1,855,040 7.9
Manufacturing, Non-Durable Goods 1,451,175 6.1 Higher
Education 1,082,030 4.6 Single Family Housing
976,250 4.1 Marine/Aviation Facilities
952,700 4.0 Highways 948,227 4.0
Pollution Control 800,000 3.4 Not-for-Profit
Organization 529,440 2.2 Corporate Backed
475,947 2.0 Sales Tax 436,110
1.8 Adult Living Facilities 246,995 1.0
----------- ----- Total
$23,621,961 100.0% ===========
===== </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
5
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES April 30, 1998 (Unaudited) The New York
Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
ASSETS:
Investments, at value (cost $22,703,113) -- see accompanying statement.......... $23,621,961
Cash............................................................................ 117,040 Receivables:
Interest...................................................................... 422,856
Other........................................................................... 9,377
----------- Total assets..................................................................
24,171,234 -----------
LIABILITIES:
Payables and other liabilities:
Dividends..................................................................... 17,803 Management and
administrative fees............................................ 9,991 Shareholder
reports........................................................... 9,069 Directors'
fees............................................................... 3,632
Other......................................................................... 1,890
----------- Total liabilities............................................................
42,385 ----------- NET
ASSETS...................................................................... $24,128,849
===========
COMPOSITION OF NET ASSETS:
Par value of shares of capital stock............................................ $ 25,179 Additional paid-in
capital...................................................... 23,099,969 Overdistributed net investment
income........................................... (88,505) Accumulated net realized gain on investment
transactions........................ 173,358 Net unrealized appreciation on investments -- Note
3............................ 918,848
- -----------
NET ASSETS -- applicable to 2,517,893 shares of capital stock outstanding....... $24,128,849
===========
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE....................................................... $9.58
=====
</TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
6
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS For the Six Months Ended April 30, 1998 (Unaudited) The
New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME --
Interest................................................... $ 737,156
---------
EXPENSES:
Management fees -- Note 4....................................................... 60,481 Shareholder
reports............................................................. 17,657 Transfer agent and accounting
services fees -- Note 4........................... 12,293 Legal and auditing
fees......................................................... 5,046 Custodian fees and
expenses..................................................... 4,765 Registration and filing
fees.................................................... 3,568 Directors' fees and
expenses.................................................... 1,015
Other........................................................................... 3,705
--------- Total expenses..............................................................
108,530 Less expenses paid indirectly -- Note 4......................................... (3,784)
--------- Net
expenses................................................................ 104,746
--------- NET INVESTMENT
INCOME........................................................... 632,410
---------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS):
Net realized gain on investments................................................ 177,255 Net change in
unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments............ (225,125)
--------- NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED
LOSS................................................ (47,870)
--------- NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM
OPERATIONS............................ $ 584,540
========= </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
7
<PAGE>
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months
Ended
<PAGE>
April 30, 1998 Year Ended
(Unaudited) October 31, 1997
- -------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income........................................................... $ 632,410 $
1,537,322 Net realized gain............................................................... 177,255
287,554 Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation........................... (225,125)
(82,854) -----------
- ------------
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations.......................... 584,540
1,742,022 ----------- ------------
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
Dividends from net investment income............................................ (748,178)
(1,581,763) Distributions from net realized gain............................................ (272,510)
-- ------------
- ------------ CAPITAL STOCK TRANSACTIONS:
Proceeds from shares issued to shareholders in
reinvestment of dividends and distributions -- Note 2......................... 172,825
289,815 ----------- ------------
NET ASSETS:
Total increase (decrease)....................................................... (263,323) 450,074
Beginning of period............................................................. 24,392,172
23,942,098 -----------
- ------------ End of period [including undistributed (overdistributed) net investment income of
$(88,505) and $69,752, respectively]................................ $24,128,849
$24,392,172 ===========
=========== </TABLE>
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
8
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended
Year Ended October 31, April 30, 1998
<PAGE>
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Unaudited) 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
-------------- ------ ------ ------ ----- ----- <S>
<C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
PER SHARE OPERATING
DATA: Net asset value, beginning
of period................ $ 9.76 $ 9.69 $ 9.79 $ 9.33 $ 10.77 $ 10.37
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Income (loss)
from investment operations: Net investment
income............................. .18 .62 .64 .63 .65 .66 Net
realized and unrealized gain (loss) .......... .05 .09 (.10) .47 (1.18)
.55 ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
Total income (loss) from
investment operations.......................... .23 .71 .54 1.10 (.53)
1.21 ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
- ------- Dividends and distributions to
shareholders: Dividends
from net investment
income......................................... (.30) (.64) (.64) (.64) (.66) (.74)
Distributions from net realized gain ............ (.11) -- -- -- --
(.07) Distributions in excess of net
realized gain.................................. -- -- -- -- (.25) --
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Total
dividends and distributions to
shareholders................................. (.41) (.64) (.64) (.64) (.91) (.81)
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Net
asset value, end of period...................... $ 9.58 $ 9.76 $ 9.69 $ 9.79 $ 9.33
$ 10.77 ======= ======= ======= =======
======= ======= Market value, end of period......................... $ 9.44 $ 10.25
$ 10.00 $ 9.63 $ 9.50 $ 12.63
TOTAL RETURN, AT MARKET VALUE(1).................... 2.34%
9.40% 10.82% 8.32% (17.70)% 25.11%
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
Net assets, end of period (in thousands)............ $24,129 $24,392
$23,942 $23,879 $22,468 $25,516 Average net assets (in thousands)...................
$24,391 $24,088 $23,840 $23,143 $23,852 $24,936 Ratios to average net
assets: Net investment
income............................. 2.59%(2) 6.35% 6.58% 6.62% 6.53%
6.26% Expenses(3)....................................... 0.43%(2) 0.85% 0.85% 0.88%
0.87% 0.84% Portfolio turnover rate(4).......................... 37.6% 33.2%
13% 12% 6% 28%
</TABLE>
(1) Assumes a hypothetical purchase at the current market price on the business
day before the first day of the fiscal period, with all dividends and
distributions reinvested in additional shares on the reinvestment date, and a
sale at the current market price on the last business day of the period. (2)
Annualized
<PAGE>
(3) Beginning in fiscal 1995, the expense ratio reflects the effect of gross
expenses paid indirectly by the Fund. Prior year expense ratios have not been
adjusted.
(4) The lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities for a period,
divided by the monthly average of the market value of portfolio securities owned
during the period. Securities with a maturity or expiration date at the time of
acquisition of one year or less are excluded from the calculation. Purchases and
sales of investment securities (excluding short-term securities) for the period
ended April 30, 1998 were $9,065,426 and $10,137,964, respectively.
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
9
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited) The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund,
Inc.
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. (the Fund) is registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as a diversified, closed-end
management investment company. The Fund seeks to provide current income which is
exempt from federal, New York State and New York City income taxes. The Fund's
investment advisor is OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the Manager). The following is a
summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund.
Investment Valuation -- Portfolio securities are valued at the close of the
American Stock Exchange on the last day of each week on which day the American
Stock Exchange is open. Listed and unlisted securities for which such
information is regularly reported are valued at the last sale price of the day
or, in the absence of sales, at values based on the closing bid or the last sale
price on the prior trading day. Long-term and short-term "non-money market" debt
securities are valued by a portfolio pricing service approved by the Board of
Directors. Such securities which cannot be valued by an approved portfolio
pricing service are valued using dealer-supplied valuations provided the Manager
is satisfied that the firm rendering the quotes is reliable and that the quotes
reflect current market value, or are valued under consistently applied
procedures established by the Board of Directors to determine fair value in good
faith. Short-term "money market type" debt securities having a remaining
maturity of 60 days or less are valued at cost (or last determined market value)
adjusted for amortization to maturity of any premium or discount. Federal Taxes
- -- The Fund intends to continue to comply with provisions of the Internal
Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all
of its taxable income, including any net realized gain on investments not offset
by loss carryovers, to shareholders. Therefore, no federal income or excise tax
provision is required.
<PAGE>
Distributions to Shareholders -- The Fund intends to declare and pay dividends
from net investment income monthly. Distributions from net realized gains on
investments, if any, will be declared at least once each year. Classification of
Distributions to Shareholders --Net investment income (loss) and net realized
gain (loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes primarily
because of premium amortization for tax purposes. The character of the
distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized
gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for federal income tax
purposes. Also, due to timing of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in
which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in which the
income or realized gain was recorded by the Fund.
Other -- Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments
are purchased or sold (trade date). Original issue discount on securities
purchased is amortized over the life of the respective securities, in accordance
with federal income tax requirements. As of November 4, 1997, in order to
conform book and tax bases, the Fund began amortization of premiums on
securities for book purposes. Accordingly, during the six months ended April 30,
1998, amounts have been reclassified to reflect a decrease in distributed net
investment income of $42,489, an increase in unrealized appreciation on
investments of $244,747 and a decrease in paid-in capital of $202,258. For bonds
acquired after April 30, 1993, on disposition or maturity, taxable ordinary
income is recognized to the extent of the lesser of gain or market discount that
would have accrued over
10
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited) (Continued) The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
the holding period. Realized gains and losses on investments and unrealized
appreciation and depreciation are determined on an identified cost basis, which
is the same basis used for federal income tax purposes. The Fund concentrates
its investments in New York and, therefore, may have more credit risks related
to the economic conditions of New York than a portfolio with a broader
geographical diversification.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual
results could differ from those estimates.
2. CAPITAL STOCK
The Fund has authorized 250 million shares of $.01 par value capital stock. Of
these shares, 157,107 shares were reserved for issuance under a Dividend
Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan. Transactions in shares of capital stock
were as follows:
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended Year Ended April 30, 1998
October 31, 1997 ---------------- ----------------
Shares Amount Shares Amount ------ ------ ------
- ------ <S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net increase from dividends
and distributions reinvested 17,795 $172,825 29,677 $289,815
====== ======== ====== ========
</TABLE>
3. UNREALIZED GAINS AND LOSSES ON INVESTMENTS
At April 30, 1998, net unrealized appreciation on investments of $918,848 was
composed of gross appreciation of $1,054,321, and gross depreciation of
$135,473.
4. MANAGEMENT FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Management fees paid to the Manager were in accordance with the investment
advisory agreement with the Fund which provides for a fee of 0.50% on the Fund's
average annual net assets.
The Manager acts as the accounting agent for the Fund at an annual fee of
$12,000, plus out-of-pocket costs and expenses reasonably incurred. Shareholder
Financial Services, Inc. (SFSI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Manager, is
the transfer agent and registrar for the Fund. Fees paid to SFSI are based on
the number of accounts and the number of shareholder transactions, plus
out-of-pocket costs and expenses.
Expenses paid indirectly represent a reduction of custodian fees for earnings on
cash balances maintained by the Fund.
11
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited) (Continued) The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc.
5. SHAREHOLDER MEETING
On April 16, 1998, a special shareholder meeting was held at which the four
Directors identified below were elected and the selection of Deloitte & Touche
LLP as the independent certified public accountants and auditors of the Fund for
the fiscal year beginning November 1, 1997 was ratified (Proposal No. 1) as
described in the Fund's proxy statement for that meeting. The following is a
report of the votes cast:
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Withheld/ Broker
Nominee/Proposal For Against Abstain Total
Non-Votes ---------------- ------------- ---------- ---------- -------------
--------- <S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
<C> Directors
C. Howard Kast 2,042,243.123 32,129.029 0 2,074,372.152
160,705 Robert M. Kirchner 2,042,243.123 32,129.029 0
2,074,372.152 160,705 Ned M. Steel 2,042,243.123 32,129.029
0 2,074,372.152 160,705 George C. Bowen 2,042,243.123
32,129.029 0 2,074,372.152 160,705 Proposal No. 1
2,030,209.892 12,330.611 31,831.649 2,074,372.152 160,705
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
GENERAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THE FUND
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc. is a closed-end investment company
whose shares trade on the American Stock Exchange (the ASE). The Fund seeks to
provide high current income which is exempt from federal, New York State and New
York City income taxes. A portion of the Fund's distributions may be subject to
income tax. For investors subject to the alternative minimum income tax, a
portion of the Fund's distributions may increase that tax. The Fund seeks to
achieve its objective by investing in municipal obligations, the income from
which is generally tax-exempt as described above. The Fund may invest in
municipal lease obligations, municipal obligations with variable or floating
interest rates and certain derivative investments, such as inverse floaters. The
Fund may also use certain hedging instruments. At the April 28, 1998 Board of
Directors meeting, the Board approved a non-fundamental investment policy
permitting the Fund to invest in municipal lease obligations with
"non-appropriation" clauses, subject to the Fund's liquidity and credit quality
guidelines for municipal lease obligations. The investment advisor (the Manager)
of the Fund is OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
The Portfolio Manager of the Fund is Robert E. Patterson, who also serves as
Vice President of the Fund and Senior Vice President of the Manager. Mr.
Patterson has been the person principally responsible for the day-to-day
management of the Fund's portfolio since February 1992. Mr. Patterson also
serves as an officer and portfolio manager for certain mutual funds managed by
the Manager.
DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT AND CASH PURCHASE PLAN
Pursuant to the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan (the Plan),
as to shares of the Fund (Shares) not registered in nominee name, all dividends
and capital gains distributions (Distributions) declared by the Fund will be
automatically reinvested in additional full and fractional Shares unless a
shareholder elects to receive cash. If Shares are registered in nominee
<PAGE>
name, the shareholder should consult the nominee if the shareholder desires to
participate in the Plan. Shareholders that participate in the Plan
(Participants) may, at their option, make additional cash investments in Shares,
semi-annually in amounts of at least $100, through payment to Shareholder
Financial Services, Inc., the agent for the Plan (the Agent), accompanied by a
service fee of $.75.
Depending upon the circumstances hereinafter described, Plan Shares will be
acquired by the Agent for the Participant's account through receipt of newly
issued Shares or the purchase of outstanding Shares on the open market. If the
market price of Shares on the relevant date (normally the payment date) equals
or exceeds their net asset value, the Agent will ask the Fund for payment of the
Distribution in additional Shares at the greater of the Fund's net asset value
determined as of the date of purchase or 95% of the then-current market price.
If the market price is lower than net asset value, the Distribution will be paid
in cash, which the Agent will use to buy Shares on the ASE, or otherwise on the
open market to the extent available. If the market price exceeds the net asset
value before the Agent has completed its purchases, the average purchase price
per Share paid by the Agent may exceed the net asset value, resulting in fewer
Shares being acquired than if the Distribution had been paid in Shares issued by
the Fund.
13
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
Participants may elect to withdraw from the Plan at any time and thereby receive
cash in lieu of Shares by sending appropriate written instructions to the Agent.
Elections received by the Agent will be effective only if received more than ten
days prior to the record date for any Distribution; otherwise, such termination
will be effective shortly after the investment of such Distribution with respect
to any subsequent Distribution. Upon withdrawal from or termination of the Plan,
all Shares acquired under the Plan will remain in the Participant's account
unless otherwise requested. For full Shares, the Participant may either: (1)
receive without charge a share certificate for such Shares; or (2) request the
Agent (after receipt by the Agent of signature guaranteed instructions by all
registered owners) to sell the Shares acquired under the Plan and remit the
proceeds less any brokerage commissions and a $2.50 service fee. Fractional
Shares may either remain in the Participant's account or be reduced to cash by
the Agent at the current market price with the proceeds remitted to the
Participant. Shareholders who have previously withdrawn from the Plan may rejoin
at any time by sending written instructions signed by all registered owners to
the Agent.
There is no direct charge for participation in the Plan; all fees of the Agent
are paid by the Fund. There are no brokerage charges for Shares issued directly
by the Fund. However, each Participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage
commissions incurred with respect to open market purchases of Shares to be
issued under the Plan. Participants will receive tax information annually for
their personal records and to assist in federal income tax return preparation.
The automatic reinvestment of Distributions does not relieve Participants of any
income tax that may be payable on Distributions.
<PAGE>
The Plan may be terminated or amended at any time upon 30 days' prior written
notice to Participants which, with respect to a Plan termination, must precede
the record date of any Distribution by the Fund. Additional information
concerning the Plan may be obtained by shareholders holding Shares registered
directly in their names by writing the Agent, Shareholder Financial Services,
Inc., P.O. Box 173673, Denver, CO, 80217-3673 or by calling 1-800-647-7374.
Shareholders holding Shares in nominee name should contact their brokerage firm
or other nominee for more information.
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
Daily market prices for the Fund's shares are published in the ASE section of
newspapers. The Fund's ASE trading symbol is XTX. Weekly comparative net asset
value (NAV) and market price information about The New York Tax-Exempt Income
Fund, Inc. is published each Monday in The Wall Street Journal and The New York
Times and each Saturday in Barron's in a table under the heading "Closed-End
Bond Funds."
14
<PAGE>
(This page has been left blank intentionally)
<PAGE>
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
FORM N-14
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 15. Indemnification
Reference is made to Article Seventh of Registrant's Amended and Restated
Declaration of Trust filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 20.
Item 16. Exhibits
(1) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated 9/16/96: Filed
with Post- Effective Amendment No. 20, 1/17/97, and incorporated herein by
reference.
(2) By-Laws amended as of 8/6/87: Previously filed with
Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to Registrant's Registration Statement, 1/27/88,
refiled with Registrant's Post Effective Amendment No. 14, 1/27/95 pursuant to
Item 102 of Regulation S-T, and incorporated herein by reference.
(3) Not applicable.
(4) (i) Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between Registrant and
The New York Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Inc.: See Exhibit A to Part A of this
Registration Statement.
(5) (i) Class A Specimen Share Certificate: Filed with
Post-Effective Amendment No. 20, 1/17/97, and incorporated herein by reference.
(ii)Class B Specimen Share Certificate: Filed with
Post-Effective Amendment No. 20, 1/17/97, and incorporated herein by reference.
(iii) Class C Specimen Share Certificate: Filed with
Post-Effective Amendment No. 20, 1/17/97, and incorporated herein by reference.
(6) Investment Advisory Agreement dated October 22, 1990: Filed with
Post- Effective Amendment No. 8 to Registrant's Registration Statement, 12/3/90,
refiled with Registrant's Post Effective Amendment No. 14, 1/27/95 pursuant to
Item 102 of Regulation S-T, and incorporated herein by reference.
(7) (i) General Distributor's Agreement dated 12/10/92:
Filed with Post- Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registrant's Registration
Statement, 11/26/93, and incorporated herein by reference.
C-1
<PAGE>
(ii) Form of OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. Dealer Agreement:
Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to the Registration Statement of
Oppenheimer Main Street Funds, Inc. (Reg. No. 33-17850), 9/30/94, and
incorporated herein by reference.
(iii) Form of OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. Broker
Agreement: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to the Registration
Statement of Oppenheimer Main Street Funds, Inc. (Reg. No. 33-17850), 9/30/94,
and incorporated herein by reference.
(iv) Form of OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. Agency Agreement:
Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to the Registration Statement of
Oppenheimer Main Street Funds, Inc. (Reg. No. 33-17850), 9/30/94, and
incorporated herein by reference.
(v) Broker Agreement between Oppenheimer Fund Management, Inc.
and Newbridge Securities dated 11/1/86: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No.
25 of Oppenheimer Growth Fund (Reg. No. 2-45272), 10/30/86, refiled with
Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 of Oppenheimer Growth Fund (Reg. No. 2-45272),
8/22/94, pursuant to Item 102 of Regulation S-T, and incorporated herein by
reference.
(8) Retirement Plan for Non-Interested Trustees or Directors
dated 6/7/90: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 of Oppenheimer Fund
(Reg. No. 2-14586), 8/30/90, refiled with Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 of
Oppenheimer Growth Fund (Reg. No. 2-45272), 8/22/94, pursuant to Item 102 of
Regulation S-T, and incorporated herein by reference. . (9) Custodian Agreement
with Citibank, N.A. dated January 20, 1996: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment
No. 20, 1/17/97, and incorporated herein by reference.
(10) (i) Class A Service Plan and Agreement dated 6/10/93:
Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to Registrant's
Registration Statement, 1/24/94, and incorporated herein by reference.
(ii) Class B Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement
dated 6/1/95: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 20, 1/17/97, and
incorporated herein by reference.
(iii) Class C Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement
dated August 29, 1995: Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 16 to
Registrant's Registration Statement, 6/28/95, and incorporated herein by
reference.
(11) Opinion and Consent of Counsel dated 7/3/84: Previously filed
with Pre- Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's Registration Statement,
7/12/84, refiled with Registrant's Post Effective Amendment No. 14, 1/27/95
pursuant to Item 102 of Regulation S-T, and incorporated herein by reference.
(12) (i) Form of Tax Opinion addressed to The New York Tax-Exempt
Income Fund, Inc. relating to the Reorganization, and Form of Tax Opinion
addressed to Oppenheimer New York Municipal Fund relating to the Reorganization:
To be filed by amendment.
C-2
<PAGE>
(13) Not applicable.
(14) (i) Consent of Auditors of Registrant: To be filed by
amendment.
(ii) Consent of Auditors of Oppenheimer LifeSpan Income
Fund: To be filed by amendment..
(15) Not applicable.
(16) Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to
Registrant's Registration Statement, 2/1/96 (Bridget A. Macaskill); others
previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to Registrant's
Registration Statement, 11/26/93, and incorporated herein by reference.
(17) (i) Financial Data Schedules of Registrant's Class A,
Class B, Class C Shares
(ii) Financial Data Schedules of The New York
Tax-Exempt Fund, Inc.
(18) OppenheimerFunds Multiple Class Plan under Rule 18f-3 dated
10/24/95: filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to the Registration
Statement of Oppenheimer California Tax-Exempt Fund (33-23566), 11/1/95, and
incorporated herein by reference.
Item 17. Undertakings
(1) Not applicable.
(2) Not applicable.
C-3
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration
Statement has been signed on behalf of the Registrant in the City of New York
and State of New York on the 11th day of August, 1998.
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
By: /s/ Bridget A. Macaskill *
-----------------------------------
Bridget A. Macaskill, President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration
Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities on
the dates indicated:
Signatures Title Date
- ---------- ----- ----
/s/ Leon Levy* Chairman of the August 11, 1998
- -------------- Board of Trustees
Leon Levy
/s/ Bridget A. Macaskill* President, Chief August 11, 1998
- ------------------------ Executive Officer
Bridget A. Macaskill and Trustee
/s/ George Bowen* Treasurer and August 11, 1998
- ----------------- Principal Financial
George Bowen and Accounting
Officer
/s/ Robert G. Galli* Trustee August 11, 1998
- --------------------
Robert G. Galli
/s/ Benjamin Lipstein* Trustee August 11, 1998
- ----------------------
Benjamin Lipstein
/s/ Elizabeth B. Moynihan* Trustee August 11, 1998
- --------------------------
Elizabeth B. Moynihan
/s/ Kenneth A. Randall* Trustee August 11, 1998
- -----------------------
Kenneth A. Randall
<PAGE>
/s/ Edward V. Regan* Trustee August 11, 1998
- --------------------
Edward V. Regan
/s/ Russell S. Reynolds, Jr.* Trustee August 11, 1998
- -----------------------------
Russell S. Reynolds, Jr.
/s/ Donald W. Spiro* Trustee August 11, 1998
- --------------------
Donald W. Spiro
/s/ Pauline Trigere* Trustee August 11, 1998
- --------------------
Pauline Trigere
/s/ Clayton K. Yeutter* Trustee August 11, 1998
- -----------------------
Clayton K. Yeutter
*By: /s/ Robert G. Zack
- --------------------------------
Robert G. Zack
<PAGE>
OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND
FORM N-14
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
Exhibit
Number Document
17(i) Financial Data Schedules of Registrant's Class A, Class B,
Class C Shares
17(ii) Financial Data Schedules of The New York Tax-Exempt Fund, Inc.
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<CIK> 748009
<NAME> OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND - A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> SEP-30-1997
<PERIOD-START> OCT-01-1996
<PERIOD-END> SEP-30-1997
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 698,803,391
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 736,238,715
<RECEIVABLES> 12,685,315
<ASSETS-OTHER> 11,534
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 495,755
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 749,431,319
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,434,339
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 3,434,339
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 715,174,579
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 49,620,601
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 53,767,908
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 1,395,429
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> (8,008,353)
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 37,435,325
<NET-ASSETS> 634,789,044
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 48,247,943
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 7,377,185
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 40,870,758
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> (3,110,188)
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 25,374,028
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 63,134,598
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 35,297,579
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 4,470,995
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 10,554,692
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,936,390
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> (24,568,951)
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 620,943
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> (5,355,011)
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 3,912,050
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 7,377,185
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 652,047,491
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.41
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.69
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.37
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> 0.68
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.00
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.00
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.79
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.86
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.00
</TABLE>
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<CIK> 748009
<NAME> OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND - B
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> SEP-30-1997
<PERIOD-START> OCT-01-1996
<PERIOD-END> SEP-30-1997
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 698,803,391
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 736,238,715
<RECEIVABLES> 12,685,315
<ASSETS-OTHER> 11,534
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 495,755
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 749,431,319
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,434,339
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 3,434,339
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 715,174,579
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 8,320,680
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 8,160,381
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 1,395,429
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> (8,008,353)
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 37,435,325
<NET-ASSETS> 106,458,543
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 48,247,943
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 7,377,185
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 40,870,758
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> (3,110,188)
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 25,374,028
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 63,134,598
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 4,855,021
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,229,476
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 1,320,301
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 251,124
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> (24,568,951)
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 620,943
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> (5,355,011)
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 3,912,050
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 7,377,185
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 104,182,288
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.41
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.59
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.38
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> 0.59
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.00
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.00
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.79
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.63
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.00
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<CIK> 748009
<NAME> OPPENHEIMER NEW YORK MUNICIPAL FUND - C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> SEP-30-1997
<PERIOD-START> OCT-01-1996
<PERIOD-END> SEP-30-1997
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 698,803,391
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 736,238,715
<RECEIVABLES> 12,685,315
<ASSETS-OTHER> 11,534
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 495,755
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 749,431,319
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,434,339
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 3,434,339
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 715,174,579
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 371,247
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 161,657
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 1,395,429
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> (8,008,353)
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 37,435,325
<NET-ASSETS> 4,749,393
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 48,247,943
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 7,377,185
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 40,870,758
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> (3,110,188)
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 25,374,028
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 63,134,598
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 175,214
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 296,169
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 97,937
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 11,358
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> (24,568,951)
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 620,943
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> (5,355,011)
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 3,912,050
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 7,377,185
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 3,797,411
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.41
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.57
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.39
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> 0.58
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.00
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.00
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.79
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.63
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.00
</TABLE>
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<CIK> 820090
<NAME> THE NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT INCOME FUND, INC.
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> OCT-31-1997
<PERIOD-START> NOV-01-1996
<PERIOD-END> OCT-31-1997
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 23,166,804
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 24,066,030
<RECEIVABLES> 487,551
<ASSETS-OTHER> 4,711
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 24,558,292
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 166,120
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 166,120
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 23,154,581
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 2,500,098
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 2,470,421
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 69,752
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 268,613
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 899,226
<NET-ASSETS> 24,392,172
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 1,733,281
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> 195,959
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 1,537,322
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 287,554
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (82,854)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 1,742,022
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> 1,581,763
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 0
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 29,677
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 450,074
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 59,636
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> (37,074)
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> 120,378
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> 203,756
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 24,087,889
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 9.69
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.62
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.09
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> 0.64
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.00
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.00
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 9.76
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.85
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.00
