<PAGE>
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON OCTOBER 7, 1997.
REGISTRATION NO. 333-
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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<S> <C> <C>
NORTH CAROLINA 6060 56-1473727
(State or other jurisdiction (Primary Standard (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation) Industrial Identification No.)
Classification Code No.)
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
100 NORTH MAIN STREET 191 PEACHTREE STREET, N.E.
P. O. BOX 3099 ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303
WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA 27150 (404) 332-5000
(910) 770-5000
</TABLE>
(Address, including ZIP Code, and telephone number, including area code, of
registrant's principal executive offices)
KENNETH W. MCALLISTER
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL COUNSEL
P. O. BOX 3099
WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA 27150
(910) 770-5000
(Name, address, including ZIP Code, and telephone number, including area code,
of agent for service)
WITH COPIES TO:
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<S> <C> <C>
MARK J. MENTING EDWARD D. HERLIHY
SULLIVAN & CROMWELL WACHTELL, LIPTON, ROSEN & KATZ
125 BROAD STREET AND 51 WEST 52ND STREET
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10004 NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10019
(212) 558-4000 (212) 403-1000
</TABLE>
APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF THE PROPOSED SALE OF THE SECURITIES TO THE
PUBLIC:
As soon as practicable after this Registration Statement becomes effective.
If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in
connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with
General Instruction G check the following box. [ ]
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
[CAPTION]
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TITLE OF EACH CLASS PROPOSED MAXIMUM
OF SECURITIES TO BE AMOUNT TO BE PROPOSED MAXIMUM AGGREGATE OFFERING AMOUNT OF
REGISTERED REGISTERED(1) OFFERING PRICE PER UNIT PRICE REGISTRATION FEE
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Common stock....... 38,399,500 N/A N/A
shares $812,102.81(2)
-$471,010.00(3)
$341,092.81(3)
</TABLE>
(1) The number of shares of Common Stock, par value $5.00 per share ("Wachovia
Common Stock"), of Wachovia Corporation to be registered pursuant to this
Registration Statement is based upon the number of shares of Common Stock,
par value $5.00 per share ("Central Fidelity Common Stock"), of Central
Fidelity Banks, Inc. presently outstanding or reserved for issuance under
various plans or otherwise expected to be issued upon the consummation of
the proposed transaction to which this Registration Statement relates,
multiplied by the exchange ratio of 0.63 shares of Wachovia Common Stock for
each share of Central Fidelity Common Stock.
(2) Pursuant to Rules 457(f) and 457(c) under the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, the registration fee is based on the average of the high and low
sales prices of Central Fidelity Common Stock, as reported in the Nasdaq
National Market System on September 30, 1997 ($43.96875), and computed
based on the estimated maximum number of such shares (60,951,000) that may
be exchanged for the Wachovia Common Stock being registered.
(3) A registration fee of $471,010 was previously paid in connection with the
filing by Central Fidelity of preliminary proxy solicitation materials,
under Section 14(g) and Rule 0-11(a)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended, which fee, pursuant to Rule 457(b) under the Securities
Act of 1933, as amended, has been credited against the registration fee
payable hereunder.
THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL
FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(A) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME
EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(A),
MAY DETERMINE.
<PAGE>
(Central Fidelity Logo appears here)
CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC.
EXECUTIVE OFFICES
1021 EAST CARY STREET
Post Office Box 26702
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23261-7602
(804) 782-4000
October 9, 1997
Dear Shareholders:
You are cordially invited to attend a Special Meeting of Shareholders (the
"Special Meeting") of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. ("Central Fidelity") to be
held at the Central Fidelity National Bank Building located at 219 East Broad
Street, Richmond, Virginia at 4:30 p.m. on November 21, 1997.
At the Special Meeting, you will be asked to consider and vote upon a
proposal to approve an Agreement and Plan of Merger and the related Plan of
Merger (together, the "Merger Agreement") between Central Fidelity and Wachovia
Corporation ("Wachovia"), under which Central Fidelity would be merged into
Wachovia (the "Merger"). If the Merger is consummated, each outstanding share of
Central Fidelity Common Stock will be converted into and exchanged for 0.63 of a
share of Wachovia Common Stock.
The Board of Directors of Central Fidelity has unanimously approved the
Merger Agreement. The Board believes that the Merger is beneficial to all
shareholders and strongly encourages you to vote FOR the proposal. Central
Fidelity's financial adviser, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc., has issued its
opinion to Central Fidelity's Board of Directors that the exchange ratio in the
Merger is fair from a financial point of view to Central Fidelity's
shareholders.
Regardless of the number of shares you own, or whether you plan to attend
the Special Meeting, it is very important that your shares be represented and
voted at the meeting. The affirmative vote of more than two-thirds of the
outstanding shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock is required for approval.
Please read the enclosed material carefully and complete, sign and return the
enclosed proxy in the envelope provided as soon as possible.
We have engaged Morrow & Company, Inc. ("Morrow") to assist us with the
proxy solicitation effort. You may receive a phone call from one of their
representatives reminding you to send in your proxy. In addition, if you have
questions, you may call Morrow at 1-800-662-5200.
We look forward to seeing you at the Special Meeting.
Sincerely,
/s/ Lewis N. Miller, Jr.
LEWIS N. MILLER, JR.
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD & CHIEF
EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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(Central Fidelity Logo appears here)
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NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
Executive Offices
1021 East Cary Street
Post Office Box 27602
Richmond, Virginia 23261-7602
</TABLE>
To the Shareholders of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.:
Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of shareholders (the "Special
Meeting") of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. ("Central Fidelity") will be held at
the Central Fidelity National Bank Building, located at 219 East Broad Street,
Richmond, Virginia at 4:30 p.m., on November 21, 1997, for the following
purposes:
(1) To consider and vote upon an Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
June 23, 1997 and the related Plan of Merger (together, the "Merger Agreement"),
between Central Fidelity and Wachovia Corporation ("Wachovia"), pursuant to
which Central Fidelity will merge with and into Wachovia (the "Merger") and each
share of Central Fidelity Common Stock outstanding on the effective date of the
Merger shall be converted into 0.63 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock. A copy
of the Merger Agreement is set forth in Appendix A to the accompanying Proxy
Statement/Prospectus and is incorporated by reference therein.
(2) To transact such other business as may properly come before the Special
Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Special Meeting.
Only shareholders of record at the close of business on September 22, 1997
are entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting or any
adjournments or postponements thereof. Approval of the Merger Agreement and the
consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby requires the affirmative
vote of the holders of more than two-thirds of the outstanding shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CENTRAL FIDELITY UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT
SHAREHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
OF DIRECTORS, I URGE YOU TO VOTE "FOR" THE PROPOSAL.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ William N. Stoyko
WILLIAM N. STOYKO
SECRETARY
October 9, 1997
<PAGE>
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(Central Fidelity (Wachovia logo appears here)
logo appears here)
PROXY STATEMENT OF PROSPECTUS OF
CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC. WACHOVIA CORPORATION
</TABLE>
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<S> <C>
COMMON STOCK
(PAR VALUE $5.00 PER
SHARE)
</TABLE>
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus is being furnished to holders of common
stock, $5.00 par value ("Central Fidelity Common Stock"), of Central Fidelity
Banks, Inc., a Virginia corporation ("Central Fidelity"), in connection with the
solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors of Central Fidelity (the
"Central Fidelity Board") for use at a Special Meeting of Shareholders to be
held at 4:30 p.m., on November 21, 1997, at the Central Fidelity National Bank
Building, located at 219 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia and at any
adjournments or postponements thereof (the "Special Meeting").
The purpose of the Special Meeting is to consider and vote upon a proposal
to approve an Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 23, 1997 and the
related Plan of Merger (together, the "Merger Agreement"), by and between
Central Fidelity and Wachovia Corporation, a North Carolina corporation
("Wachovia"), which provide for, among other things, the merger of Central
Fidelity with and into Wachovia (the "Merger"). See "Summary," "The Merger" and
Appendix A to this Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
Upon consummation of the Merger, each outstanding share of Central Fidelity
Common Stock, together with each associated Right (as defined herein), shall
cease to be outstanding and each such share (excluding certain shares held by
Central Fidelity, Wachovia or their subsidiaries, if any) shall be converted
into and exchanged for 0.63 of a share (the "Exchange Ratio") of common stock,
par value $5.00 per share, of Wachovia ("Wachovia Common Stock"), with cash paid
in lieu of fractional shares. The Merger Agreement also provides for the
conversion upon consummation of the Merger of all stock options (the "Central
Fidelity Stock Options") outstanding under the Central Fidelity Stock Plans (as
defined herein) into options to acquire shares of Wachovia Common Stock,
appropriately adjusted to reflect the Exchange Ratio. See "The Merger."
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus also constitutes a prospectus of Wachovia
in respect of the shares of Wachovia Common Stock to be issued to shareholders
of Central Fidelity in connection with the Merger and in respect of any shares
of Wachovia Common Stock that are issuable upon exercise of the Central Fidelity
Stock Options following consummation of the Merger.
Based on the 57,201,963 shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock outstanding
on the Record Date (as hereinafter defined), the 3,428,616 shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options, the
185,000 shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock estimated to be issued under
certain employee benefit plans of Central Fidelity and the 135,000 shares of
Central Fidelity Common Stock estimated to be issued under Central Fidelity's
Stock Purchase Program and the Exchange Ratio of 0.63, up to approximately
38,399,500 Wachovia Common Shares will be issuable upon consummation of the
Merger.
Wachovia Common Stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange,
Inc. ("NYSE"). Central Fidelity Common Stock is traded in the National Market
System of the Nasdaq Stock Market (the "Nasdaq Stock Market"). On June 23, 1997,
the last business day prior to public announcement of the execution of the
Merger Agreement, the last reported sale prices per share of Wachovia Common
Stock on the NYSE Composite Transactions Reporting System (the "NYSE Composite
Tape") and of Central Fidelity Common Stock on the Nasdaq Stock Market were $62
and $31, respectively, and on October 6, 1997, the last practicable date prior
to the mailing of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, the last reported sale prices
per share were $75 and $47.9375, respectively.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION, NOR HAS THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES
COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS
PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO
THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
THE SHARES OF WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY ARE NOT SAVINGS ACCOUNTS,
DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF A BANK OR SAVINGS ASSOCIATION AND ARE
NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION
OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY.
The date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus is October 7, 1997, and it is
being mailed or otherwise delivered to Central Fidelity shareholders on or about
such date.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
AVAILABLE INFORMATION...................................................................................... 1
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE.......................................................... 1
SUMMARY.................................................................................................... 3
Parties to the Merger.................................................................................... 3
Special Meeting; Record Date............................................................................. 4
The Merger............................................................................................... 4
Acquisitions............................................................................................. 7
Market for Common Stock and Related Shareholder Matters.................................................. 8
Comparison of Certain Unaudited per Share Data........................................................... 9
Selected Financial Data of Wachovia (Historical)......................................................... 10
Selected Financial Data of Central Fidelity (Historical)................................................. 11
Wachovia and Central Fidelity Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Data................................ 12
GENERAL INFORMATION........................................................................................ 13
Special Meeting.......................................................................................... 13
Record Date, Solicitation and Revocability of Proxies.................................................... 13
Vote Required............................................................................................ 14
Recommendation of Central Fidelity Board of Directors.................................................... 14
THE MERGER................................................................................................. 14
General.................................................................................................. 14
Background of the Merger................................................................................. 14
Reasons of Central Fidelity for the Merger............................................................... 16
Opinion of Central Fidelity's Financial Adviser.......................................................... 17
Reasons of Wachovia for the Merger....................................................................... 21
Effective Time........................................................................................... 21
Distribution of Wachovia Certificates.................................................................... 22
Fractional Shares........................................................................................ 22
Stock Options............................................................................................ 22
Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences.................................................................. 22
Management and Operations After the Merger............................................................... 24
Post-Acquisition Compensation and Benefits............................................................... 24
Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger............................................................... 25
Conditions to Consummation............................................................................... 28
Regulatory Approvals..................................................................................... 28
Amendment, Waiver and Termination........................................................................ 30
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger................................................................... 30
Expenses and Fees........................................................................................ 32
Accounting Treatment..................................................................................... 32
Dissenters' Rights....................................................................................... 32
Stock Exchange Listing of Wachovia Common Stock.......................................................... 32
Resales of Wachovia Common Stock......................................................................... 32
Stock Option Agreement................................................................................... 33
Amendment to Central Fidelity Rights Agreement........................................................... 35
ACQUISITIONS............................................................................................... 36
Merger with Jefferson Bankshares, Inc.................................................................... 36
Merger with 1st United Bancorp........................................................................... 36
Acquisitions Generally................................................................................... 37
WACHOVIA AND CENTRAL FIDELITY UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION........................... 38
DESCRIPTION OF WACHOVIA CAPITAL STOCK...................................................................... 45
General.................................................................................................. 45
Preferred Stock.......................................................................................... 45
Common Stock............................................................................................. 45
</TABLE>
i
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<TABLE>
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Changes in Control....................................................................................... 46
CERTAIN DIFFERENCES IN THE RIGHTS OF WACHOVIA SHAREHOLDERS AND CENTRAL FIDELITY SHAREHOLDERS............... 48
Amendment of Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws........................................................ 48
Special Meetings of Shareholders......................................................................... 48
Number of Directors, Classified Board of Directors....................................................... 49
Removal of Directors..................................................................................... 49
Advance Notice of Director Nominations................................................................... 49
Restrictions on Certain Business Combinations............................................................ 49
Control Share Acquisitions............................................................................... 50
Limitation on Director Liability......................................................................... 51
Indemnification.......................................................................................... 51
Dissenters' Rights....................................................................................... 51
Right to Receive Reports................................................................................. 52
Shareholder Inspection Rights; Shareholder Lists......................................................... 52
Shareholder Rights Plan.................................................................................. 52
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICES AND DIVIDENDS.................................................................... 53
Wachovia................................................................................................. 53
Central Fidelity......................................................................................... 54
VOTING SECURITIES AND PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS OF CENTRAL FIDELITY........................................... 54
Principal Beneficial Owners.............................................................................. 54
Shares Beneficially Owned By Directors and Executive Officers............................................ 55
EXPERTS.................................................................................................... 55
VALIDITY OF WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK.......................................................................... 55
OTHER MATTERS.............................................................................................. 56
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS...................................................................................... 56
</TABLE>
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APPENDICES:
APPENDIX A -- Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 23, 1997, by and between Wachovia and Central
Fidelity, and related Plan of Merger
APPENDIX B -- Stock Option Agreement, dated as of June 24, 1997, by and between Wachovia and
Central Fidelity
APPENDIX C -- Opinion of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.
</TABLE>
ii
<PAGE>
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Wachovia and Central Fidelity are each subject to the reporting and
informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended,
and the rules and regulations thereunder (the "Exchange Act"), and, in
accordance therewith, file reports and other information with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). Such reports and other information filed
by Wachovia and Central Fidelity with the Commission may be inspected and copied
at the principal office of the Commission at Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450
Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, and may be inspected at the
Commission's Regional Offices at 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048,
and Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago,
Illinois 60661. Copies of such material may also be obtained from the Public
Reference Section of the Commission at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20549, at prescribed rates. Certain of such reports, proxy statements and other
information are also available from the Commission over the Internet at
http://www.sec.gov. In addition, Wachovia Common Stock is traded on the NYSE.
Reports, proxy statements, and other information concerning Wachovia may be
inspected at the offices of the NYSE, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York 10005.
Central Fidelity Common Stock is traded in the Nasdaq Stock Market. Reports,
proxy statements and other information concerning Central Fidelity may be
inspected at the offices of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
1735 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus does not contain all of the information set
forth in the Registration Statement on Form S-4, of which this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus is a part, and exhibits thereto (together with any
amendments thereto, the "Registration Statement"), which has been filed by
Wachovia with the Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and
the rules and regulations thereunder (the "Securities Act"), certain portions of
which have been omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Commission
and to which portions reference is hereby made for further information.
Statements contained in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus concerning the
provisions of certain documents filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement
are necessarily brief descriptions thereof, and are not necessarily complete,
and each such statement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full
text of such document.
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus contains statements describing the material
provisions of certain documents filed or incorporated by reference as exhibits
to the Registration Statement. Such descriptions are not necessarily complete,
and all such statements contained in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus are
qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of such documents.
All information contained herein with respect to Wachovia and its
subsidiaries has been supplied by Wachovia, and all information with respect to
Central Fidelity and its subsidiaries has been supplied by Central Fidelity.
NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATION OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS
AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATION SHOULD NOT BE RELIED
UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY WACHOVIA OR CENTRAL FIDELITY. NEITHER THE
DELIVERY OF THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS NOR ANY DISTRIBUTION OF THE
SECURITIES TO WHICH THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS RELATES SHALL, UNDER ANY
CIRCUMSTANCES, CREATE ANY IMPLICATION THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE
AFFAIRS OF WACHOVIA, CENTRAL FIDELITY, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE SUBSIDIARIES
SINCE THE DATE HEREOF OR THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF
ANY TIME SUBSEQUENT TO ITS DATE. THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS DOES NOT
CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL, OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, ANY
SECURITIES OTHER THAN THE SECURITIES TO WHICH IT RELATES OR AN OFFER TO SELL OR
A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO PURCHASE THE SECURITIES OFFERED BY THIS PROXY
STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION
IS NOT LAWFUL.
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE
The following documents filed by Wachovia with the Commission (File No.
1-9021) under Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act are hereby incorporated
by reference in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus: Wachovia's Annual Report on
Form 10-K as of and for the year ended December 31, 1996 (the "1996 Wachovia
10-K"); the portions of Wachovia's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of
shareholders held on April 25, 1997 (the "1997 Wachovia Proxy Statement") that
have been incorporated by reference in the 1996 Wachovia 10-K; Wachovia's
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 1997 and the
six months
1
<PAGE>
ended June 30, 1997; the description of Wachovia Common Stock set forth in
Wachovia's Registration Statement on Form 8-B filed pursuant to Section 12 of
the Exchange Act, and any amendment or report filed for the purpose of updating
any such description; and Wachovia's Current Reports on Form 8-K, dated June 9,
June 23, August 6 and September 8, 1997.
The following documents filed by Central Fidelity with the Commission (File
No. 0-8829) under Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act are hereby
incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus: Central Fidelity's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996 (the "1996
Central Fidelity 10-K"), the portions of Central Fidelity's Proxy Statement for
the Annual Meeting of shareholders held on May 14, 1997 that have been
incorporated by reference in the 1996 Central Fidelity 10-K; Central Fidelity's
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 1997 and the
six months ended June 30, 1997; the description of Central Fidelity Common Stock
set forth in Central Fidelity's Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed
pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act, and any amendment or report filed
for the purpose of updating any such description; and Central Fidelity's Current
Reports on Form 8-K, dated March 6, 1997, April 24, 1997 and June 23, 1997.
All documents filed by Wachovia and Central Fidelity pursuant to Section
13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act subsequent to the date of this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus and prior to the Special Meeting are hereby
incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus and shall be deemed
a part hereof from the date of filing of such document.
Any statement contained herein, in any supplement hereto or in a document
incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to
be modified or superseded for purposes of the Registration Statement and this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus to the extent that a statement contained herein, in
any supplement hereto or in any other subsequently filed document which also is
or is deemed to be incorporated by reference herein modifies or supersedes such
statement. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed,
except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of the Registration
Statement, this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, or any supplement hereto.
THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE CERTAIN DOCUMENTS
THAT ARE NOT PRESENTED HEREIN OR DELIVERED HEREWITH. SUCH DOCUMENTS ARE
AVAILABLE WITHOUT CHARGE UPON REQUEST FROM: WACHOVIA CORPORATION, P.O. BOX 3099,
WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA 27150, (910) 770-5000 OR 191 PEACHTREE STREET,
N.E., ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303, (404) 332-5000, ATTENTION: SECRETARY, AS TO
WACHOVIA DOCUMENTS; AND CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC., 1021 EAST CARY STREET,
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23219, ATTENTION: SECRETARY, (804) 697-7145, AS TO CENTRAL
FIDELITY DOCUMENTS. IN ORDER TO ENSURE TIMELY DELIVERY OF THE DOCUMENTS, ANY
REQUEST SHOULD BE MADE BY NOVEMBER 14, 1997. THE REQUESTED DOCUMENTS WILL BE
SENT BY FIRST CLASS MAIL WITHIN ONE BUSINESS DAY OF THE RECEIPT OF THE REQUEST.
THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS CONTAINS OR INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE
CERTAIN FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS WITH RESPECT TO THE FINANCIAL CONDITION,
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND BUSINESS OF WACHOVIA AND, ASSUMING THE CONSUMMATION OF
THE MERGER, THE JEFFERSON MERGER (AS DEFINED HEREIN) AND THE 1ST UNITED MERGER
(AS DEFINED HEREIN), A COMBINED WACHOVIA/CENTRAL FIDELITY COMPANY, INCLUDING
STATEMENTS RELATING TO: (A) THE COST SAVINGS AND ACCRETION TO CASH EARNINGS AND
REPORTED EARNINGS THAT WILL BE REALIZED FROM THE MERGERS; (B) THE IMPACT OF THE
MERGERS ON REVENUES, INCLUDING THE POTENTIAL FOR ENHANCED REVENUES AND THE
IMPACT ON REVENUES OF CONSOLIDATION OF RETAIL BRANCHES AND OTHER OPERATIONS AS
PLANNED; AND (C) THE RESTRUCTURING CHARGES EXPECTED TO BE INCURRED IN CONNECTION
WITH THE MERGERS. THESE FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS INVOLVE CERTAIN RISKS AND
UNCERTAINTIES. FACTORS THAT MAY CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM
THOSE CONTEMPLATED BY SUCH FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS INCLUDE, AMONG OTHERS, THE
FOLLOWING POSSIBILITIES: (1) EXPECTED COST SAVINGS FROM THE MERGERS CANNOT BE
FULLY REALIZED OR REALIZED WITHIN THE EXPECTED TIME FRAME; (2) COSTS OR
DIFFICULTIES RELATED TO THE INTEGRATION OF THE BUSINESSES OF WACHOVIA AND
CENTRAL FIDELITY, 1ST UNITED BANCORP AND/OR JEFFERSON BANKSHARES, INC. ARE
GREATER THAN EXPECTED; (3) REVENUES FOLLOWING THE MERGERS ARE LOWER THAN
EXPECTED; (4) COMPETITIVE PRESSURE AMONG DEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS INCREASES
SIGNIFICANTLY; (5) CHANGES IN THE INTEREST RATE ENVIRONMENT REDUCE INTEREST
MARGINS; (6) GENERAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS, EITHER NATIONALLY OR IN THE STATES IN
WHICH THE COMBINED COMPANY WILL BE DOING BUSINESS, ARE LESS FAVORABLE THAN
EXPECTED; OR (7) LEGISLATION OR REGULATORY CHANGES ADVERSELY AFFECT THE
BUSINESSES IN WHICH THE COMBINED COMPANY WOULD BE ENGAGED.
2
<PAGE>
SUMMARY
THE FOLLOWING IS A SUMMARY OF CERTAIN INFORMATION CONTAINED ELSEWHERE IN
THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS OR INCORPORATED HEREIN. THIS SUMMARY IS NOT
INTENDED TO BE A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE MATTERS COVERED OR INCORPORATED IN
THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND IS SUBJECT TO AND QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO THE MORE DETAILED INFORMATION CONTAINED ELSEWHERE IN THIS PROXY
STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, INCLUDING THE APPENDICES HERETO, AND IN THE DOCUMENTS
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS. A COPY OF THE
MERGER AGREEMENT IS SET FORTH IN APPENDIX A TO THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS
AND REFERENCE IS MADE THERETO FOR A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE TERMS OF THE
MERGER. A COPY OF THE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT (AS DEFINED HEREIN) IS INCLUDED AS
APPENDIX B TO THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND REFERENCE IS MADE THERETO FOR
A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE TERMS OF THE OPTION (AS DEFINED HEREIN).
SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ CAREFULLY THE ENTIRE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS,
INCLUDING THE APPENDICES AND THE DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE. AS
USED IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, THE TERMS "WACHOVIA" AND "CENTRAL
FIDELITY" REFER TO SUCH CORPORATIONS, RESPECTIVELY, AND WHERE THE CONTEXT
REQUIRES, SUCH CORPORATIONS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE SUBSIDIARIES.
PARTIES TO THE MERGER
WACHOVIA. Wachovia is a North Carolina corporation, a bank holding company
registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the "BHC
Act"), and a savings and loan holding company registered under the Home Owners'
Loan Act of 1933, as amended. Wachovia was formed in 1985 as First Wachovia
Corporation, with two bank holding company subsidiaries. Today, Wachovia has one
principal banking subsidiary, Wachovia Bank, National Association ("Wachovia
Bank"), the assets of which constitute substantially all of the assets of
Wachovia. Wachovia has 451 banking offices and 883 ATMs, predominately in North
Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. The First National Bank of Atlanta and
Wachovia Bank Card Services, Inc., in Wilmington, Delaware, provide credit card
services for Wachovia Bank. Wachovia also has bank-related subsidiaries engaged
in large corporate and institutional relationship management and business
development, corporate leasing, remittance processing and discount brokerage
services. Wachovia's subsidiaries have offices in Chicago, New York City,
London, Hong Kong, Tokyo and the Cayman Islands. Based on its consolidated asset
size and market capitalization at June 30, 1997, Wachovia was ranked 20th and
22nd, respectively, among domestic U.S. bank holding companies.
Wachovia's principal executive offices are located at 100 North Main
Street, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27150 (telephone: (910) 770-5000) and at
191 Peachtree Street, N.E., Atlanta, Georgia 30303 (telephone: (404) 332-5000).
Certain financial and other information relating to Wachovia and its business,
including information relating to Wachovia's directors and executive officers,
is set forth under "Summary -- Selected Financial Data of Wachovia (Historical)"
and in the 1996 Wachovia 10-K (including the portions of the 1997 Wachovia Proxy
Statement incorporated by reference in Part III thereof), Wachovia's 1997 First
and Second Quarter Reports on Form 10-Q and 1997 Current Reports on Form 8-K,
each of which documents is incorporated by reference herein. See "Available
Information" and "Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference."
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity is a bank holding company registered
under the provisions of the BHC Act. Central Fidelity, the third largest banking
company headquartered in Virginia, serves Virginia markets primarily through its
wholly-owned banking subsidiary, Central Fidelity National Bank, a national
banking association. At June 30, 1997, Central Fidelity National Bank operated
243 branch offices, including 28 full-service supermarket locations, and 237
automated teller machines throughout Virginia. At June 30, 1997, Central
Fidelity had total assets of approximately $10.7 billion, deposits of
approximately $8.1 billion and shareholders' equity of approximately $803.6
million.
Central Fidelity, through Central Fidelity National Bank and its other
subsidiaries, provides a wide variety of financial services to a broad customer
base of individuals, corporations, institutions and governments primarily
located in Virginia. Central Fidelity also engages in limited international
banking activities, primarily in connection with foreign trade financing for
Virginia-based companies. In addition to traditional retail and commercial
banking activities, Central Fidelity generates noninterest income by sales of
trust and fiduciary services, annuities and other investment services.
Central Fidelity's principal executive offices are located at 1021 East
Cary Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219 (telephone: (804) 782-4000). Certain
financial and other information relating to Central Fidelity and its business is
set forth under "Summary -- Selected Financial Data of Central Fidelity
(Historical)" and in the 1996
3
<PAGE>
Central Fidelity 10-K, Central Fidelity's 1997 First and Second Quarter Reports
on Form 10-Q and 1997 Current Reports on Form 8-K, each of which documents is
incorporated by reference herein. See "Available Information" and "Incorporation
of Certain Information by Reference."
SPECIAL MEETING; RECORD DATE
The Special Meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. on November 21, 1997, at the
Central Fidelity National Bank Building at 219 East Broad Street, Richmond,
Virginia. At the Special Meeting, Central Fidelity shareholders will consider
and vote upon approval of the Merger Agreement and the consummation of the
transactions contemplated therein. The Central Fidelity Board has fixed the
close of business on September 22, 1997, as the record date for determining the
Central Fidelity shareholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the
Special Meeting (the "Record Date"). As of the Record Date, there were
57,201,963 shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock issued and outstanding and
entitled to be voted at the Special Meeting. For additional information with
respect to the Special Meeting, including the Record Date and vote required for
approval, see "General Information."
THE MERGER
GENERAL. The Merger Agreement provides that Central Fidelity will merge
with and into Wachovia, which will be the surviving corporation of the Merger
and will be governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina. If the Merger
Agreement is approved at the Special Meeting, all required governmental and
other consents and approvals are obtained and all of the other conditions to the
obligations of the parties to consummate the Merger are either satisfied or
waived (as permitted), the Merger will be consummated. A copy of the Merger
Agreement is set forth in Appendix A to this Proxy Statement/Prospectus. See
"The Merger."
EXCHANGE RATIO. At the time of the Merger, each outstanding share of
Central Fidelity Common Stock (excluding certain shares held by Central
Fidelity, Wachovia or their subsidiaries, if any) will be converted into and
exchanged for 0.63 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock. No fractional shares of
Wachovia Common Stock will be issued. Rather, cash (without interest) will be
paid in lieu of any fractional share interest to which any Central Fidelity
shareholder would be entitled upon consummation of the Merger, based on the
average of the last sale prices of the Wachovia Common Stock as reported by the
NYSE Composite Tape (as reported by THE WALL STREET JOURNAL or, if not reported
thereby, any other authoritative source) for the five trading days immediately
preceding the Effective Date (as defined herein).
VOTE REQUIRED. Approval of the Merger Agreement and consummation of the
transactions contemplated therein requires the affirmative vote of the holders
of more than two-thirds of the outstanding shares of the Central Fidelity Common
Stock. As of the Record Date, the directors and executive officers of Central
Fidelity and their affiliates held 1,072,839 shares (or approximately 1.9% of
the outstanding shares) of Central Fidelity Common Stock entitled to vote at the
Special Meeting. As of the Record Date, Wachovia held 126,562 shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock and directors and executive officers of Wachovia and their
affiliates held no shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock. As of the Record
Date, Central Fidelity held 8,199,594 shares (of which it has no voting control
over 5,966,066 shares) and Wachovia held 20,903 shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock in a fiduciary capacity for others. See "General
Information -- Vote Required" and "The Merger -- Interests of Certain Persons in
the Merger."
It is not expected that the Merger Agreement and the consummation of the
transactions contemplated therein will require the approval of the holders of
Wachovia Common Stock under either the North Carolina Business Corporation Act
or the rules of the NYSE. See "General Information -- Vote Required."
RECOMMENDATION OF THE CENTRAL FIDELITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS. The Central
Fidelity Board believes that the Merger is in the best interests of Central
Fidelity and its shareholders and has unanimously approved the Merger Agreement
and approved the consummation of the transactions contemplated therein. In
deciding to adopt the Merger Agreement and approve the transactions contemplated
therein, the Central Fidelity Board considered a number of factors, including
the financial condition, results of operations, and future prospects of Central
Fidelity and Wachovia. See "The Merger -- Background of the Merger,"
" -- Reasons of Central Fidelity for the Merger" and " -- Interests of Certain
Persons in the Merger."
THE CENTRAL FIDELITY BOARD UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT CENTRAL FIDELITY
SHAREHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
4
<PAGE>
OPINION OF FINANCIAL ADVISER. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. ("KBW") has
served as financial adviser to Central Fidelity in connection with the Merger
and has rendered an opinion to the Central Fidelity Board that the Exchange
Ratio of 0.63 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock for each share of Central
Fidelity Common Stock is fair from a financial point of view to Central Fidelity
shareholders. For additional information concerning KBW and its opinion, see
"The Merger -- Opinion of Central Fidelity's Financial Adviser" and the opinion
of KBW attached as Appendix C to this Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
EFFECTIVE TIME. If the Merger is approved by the requisite vote of the
Central Fidelity shareholders, all required governmental and other consents and
approvals are obtained and the other conditions to the obligations of the
parties to consummate the Merger are either satisfied or waived (as permitted),
the Merger will be consummated and will become effective on the date (the
"Effective Date") and at the time (the "Effective Time") that articles of merger
reflecting the Merger are filed with the office of the Virginia State
Corporation Commission and the Secretary of State of North Carolina and a
certificate of merger is issued by the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
Unless otherwise agreed by Central Fidelity and Wachovia, and subject to the
conditions to the obligations of the parties to effect the Merger, the parties
have agreed to cause the Effective Date to occur on the fifth business day to
occur after the last of the conditions to the consummation of the Merger have
been satisfied or waived (or, at the election of Wachovia, on the last business
day of the month in which such date occurs or, if such fifth business day occurs
on one of the last five business days of such month, on the last business day of
the succeeding month). Wachovia and Central Fidelity each has the right, acting
unilaterally, to terminate the Merger Agreement should the Merger not be
consummated by June 30, 1998. See "The Merger -- Effective Time" and
" -- Amendment, Waiver and Termination."
DELIVERY OF WACHOVIA CERTIFICATES. Promptly after the Effective Time,
Wachovia will send or will cause to be sent transmittal materials to each record
holder of shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock outstanding at the Effective
Time for use in exchanging those certificates for shares of Wachovia Common
Stock. See "The Merger -- Distribution of Wachovia Certificates."
CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES. The Merger is intended to be a
tax-free reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). Generally, no gain or loss should
be recognized for federal income tax purposes by Central Fidelity shareholders
as a result of the Merger except with respect to any cash received in lieu of
fractional share interests. A condition to consummation of the Merger is the
receipt by each of Wachovia and Central Fidelity of an opinion from their
respective legal counsel as to the qualification of the Merger as a tax-free
reorganization and certain other federal income tax consequences of the Merger.
All shareholders should carefully read the discussion of the material
federal income tax consequences of the proposed Merger under "The
Merger -- Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences" and are urged to consult with
their own tax advisers as to the federal, state, local and foreign tax
consequences in their particular circumstances.
MANAGEMENT AFTER THE MERGER. Wachovia will be the surviving corporation
resulting from the Merger. Wachovia has agreed to cause three members of the
Central Fidelity Board to be elected or appointed as directors of Wachovia. See
"The Merger -- Management and Operations After the Merger."
INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER. Certain members of Central
Fidelity's management and board of directors have interests in the Merger in
addition to their interests as shareholders of Central Fidelity generally. Those
interests relate to, among other things, provisions in the Merger Agreement
regarding indemnification, the treatment of outstanding options with respect to
Central Fidelity Common Stock and employment agreements with Wachovia.
Wachovia has generally agreed to indemnify, for a period of six years after
the Effective Time, the present officers and directors of Central Fidelity and
its subsidiaries against certain liabilities arising prior to the effective time
of the Merger. Wachovia has also agreed to provide directors' and officers'
liability insurance for the present and former officers and directors of Central
Fidelity for a period of five years following the Effective Time.
The Merger Agreement provides that all options to acquire Central Fidelity
Common Stock outstanding at the Effective Time under the Central Fidelity Stock
Plans (as defined below), including those held by management, will be converted
into options to acquire shares of Wachovia Common Stock. In addition, Central
Fidelity
5
<PAGE>
has agreements with certain of its executive officers that provide for severance
payments and certain other benefits if the officer's employment terminates under
certain circumstances after a "change in control" of Central Fidelity.
Wachovia has entered into an employment agreement with Lewis N. Miller, Jr.
pursuant to which Mr. Miller will receive an annual base salary equal to
$650,000, an annual cash bonus of at least $325,000 for 1998 and benefits
similar to those provided to other senior executives of Wachovia. Mr. Miller
will also receive 15,000 restricted shares of Wachovia Common Stock and options
to purchase 25,000 additional shares, all of which will vest over a period of
five years. The value of the 15,000 shares of restricted stock which he will be
awarded will be based on the market price of Wachovia Common Stock as of the
Effective Time. Using the closing price of Wachovia Common Stock on September
30, 1997 of $72 per share, the estimated current market value of the restricted
shares is $1,080,000. Mr. Miller has also entered into a retirement agreement
with Wachovia pursuant to which he will receive monthly retirement benefits the
present value of which, based on certain assumptions, is estimated at
$2,383,000. See "Certain Differences in the Rights of Wachovia Shareholders and
Central Fidelity Shareholders -- Indemnification," "The
Merger -- Post-Acquisition Compensation and Benefits," " -- Stock Options" and
" -- Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger."
CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION. Consummation of the Merger is subject to
various conditions, including, among other matters: (i) approval of the Merger
Agreement by the Central Fidelity shareholders; (ii) receipt of all governmental
and other consents and approvals necessary to permit consummation of the Merger;
and (iii) satisfaction of certain other usual conditions, including the receipt
of the tax opinions discussed above. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement,
the conditions to the Merger may generally be waived by Wachovia or Central
Fidelity, as applicable. As of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus,
neither Wachovia nor Central Fidelity intends to waive the conditions as to the
receipt of opinions of counsel on taxation matters. In the event of a failure to
obtain a tax opinion, and a party's determination to waive such condition to the
consummation of the Merger, Central Fidelity will resolicit the votes of its
shareholders to approve the Merger without such condition and update the
information contained herein with respect to the tax consequences of the Merger
as necessary. See "The Merger -- Conditions to Consummation" and " -- Amendment,
Waiver and Termination."
REGULATORY APPROVALS. The Merger is subject to the prior approval of the
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve"), and
the State Corporation Commission of Virginia (the "Virginia Commission"), and
may be subject to the approval of or notice to other regulatory authorities.
Applications for approval of the Merger have been filed or will promptly be
filed with such agencies. There can be no assurance that the approval of the
Federal Reserve or the Virginia Commission will be obtained or as to the timing
or conditions of such approval. See "The Merger -- Regulatory Approvals."
TERMINATION. The Merger Agreement may be terminated, and the Merger
abandoned, at any time prior to the Effective Time by mutual action of the board
of directors of both Central Fidelity and Wachovia, or by action of the board of
directors of either company under certain circumstances, including if the Merger
is not consummated by June 30, 1998, unless the failure to consummate by such
time is due to knowing action or inaction of the party seeking to terminate. See
"The Merger -- Amendment, Waiver and Termination."
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT. It is anticipated that the Merger will be accounted
for as a "pooling-of-interests" for financial reporting purposes. Consummation
of the Merger is conditioned upon the receipt by Wachovia and Central Fidelity
of letters from their respective independent auditors concurring with the
conclusions by Wachovia and Central Fidelity that the Merger will be accounted
for in such a manner. See "The Merger -- Accounting Treatment."
DISSENTERS' RIGHTS. Under the Virginia Stock Corporation Act, holders of
Central Fidelity Common Stock have no dissenters' rights in connection with the
Merger. See "The Merger -- Dissenters' Rights."
RESALE OF WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK. The Wachovia Common Stock issuable in
connection with the Merger will be freely transferable by the holders of such
shares, except for those holders who may be deemed to be "affiliates" (generally
including directors, certain executive officers, and 10% or more shareholders)
of Central Fidelity or Wachovia under applicable federal securities laws. See
"The Merger -- Resales of Wachovia Common Stock."
STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT. As an inducement to the willingness of Wachovia to
continue to pursue the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement,
Central Fidelity, as issuer, entered into a stock option agreement
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<PAGE>
with Wachovia, as grantee, dated as of June 24, 1997 (the "Stock Option
Agreement"). The Stock Option Agreement is attached hereto as Appendix B and is
incorporated by reference herein.
Pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement, Central Fidelity granted to
Wachovia an irrevocable option (the "Option") pursuant to which Wachovia has the
right, upon the occurrence of certain events (none of which has occurred to the
best of Wachovia's and Central Fidelity's knowledge), to purchase up to
11,280,000 shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock, subject to adjustment in
certain cases as described below but in no event exceeding 19.9% of the number
of shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock outstanding immediately before
exercise of the Central Fidelity Option, subject to termination during certain
periods, for a purchase price of $32.19 per share, subject to adjustment in
certain circumstances.
Under certain circumstances, Wachovia also could elect to sell the Option,
and any shares previously purchased thereunder, back to Central Fidelity at a
price generally reflecting the price offered or paid by a third-party acquirer
for other shares of Central Fidelity. Alternatively, under certain
circumstances, Wachovia could surrender the Option for a cash payment from
Central Fidelity of $50 million.
In the event that Central Fidelity shareholders fail to approve the Merger
Agreement, either Central Fidelity or Wachovia may terminate the Merger
Agreement in accordance with its terms. The Stock Option Agreement will
automatically terminate within 18 months after such termination. Wachovia will
be entitled to exercise its rights under the Stock Option Agreement if both an
Initial Triggering Event (as defined herein) and a Subsequent Triggering Event
(as defined herein) occur within such 18-month period. The purchase of any
shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock pursuant to the Option is subject to
compliance with applicable law, including the receipt of necessary approvals
under the BHC Act.
Arrangements such as the Stock Option Agreement are entered into in
connection with corporate mergers and acquisitions in an effort to increase the
likelihood that the transactions will be consummated in accordance with their
terms and to compensate the grantee for the efforts undertaken and the expenses,
losses and opportunity costs incurred by it in connection with the transactions
if they are not consummated under certain circumstances involving an acquisition
or potential acquisition of the issuer by a third party. The Stock Option
Agreement was entered into to accomplish these objectives. The Stock Option
Agreement may have the effect of discouraging offers by third parties to acquire
Central Fidelity prior to the Merger, even if such persons might have been
prepared to offer to pay consideration to Central Fidelity shareholders that has
a higher current market price than the shares of Wachovia Common Stock to be
received by such holders pursuant to the Merger Agreement. See "The
Merger -- Background of the Merger," " -- Reasons of Central Fidelity for the
Merger," " -- Stock Option Agreement" and Appendix B to this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus.
CENTRAL FIDELITY RIGHTS AGREEMENT. In connection with the execution of the
Merger Agreement, Central Fidelity amended the Central Fidelity Rights Agreement
(as defined herein) so that the entering into of the Merger Agreement and the
Stock Option Agreement and consummation of the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated thereby do not and will not result in the ability of any person to
exercise any Rights under the Central Fidelity Rights Agreement or enable or
require the Rights to be separated from the shares of Central Fidelity Common
Stock to which they are attached or to be triggered or become exercisable, and
so that the Central Fidelity Rights Agreement and the related Rights will
terminate upon consummation of the Merger. See "The Merger -- Amendment to
Central Fidelity Rights Agreement" and "Certain Differences in the Rights of
Wachovia Shareholders and Central Fidelity Shareholders -- Shareholder Rights
Plan."
ACQUISITIONS
MERGER WITH JEFFERSON BANKSHARES, INC. On June 10, 1997, Wachovia entered
into an agreement for a merger (the "Jefferson Merger") with Jefferson
Bankshares, Inc. ("Jefferson"), the parent of Jefferson National Bank in
Charlottesville, Virginia. The boards of directors of both companies have
approved the agreement. The Jefferson Merger is subject to the approval of
shareholders and appropriate regulatory agencies and is expected to close in the
fourth quarter of 1997. On August 26, 1997, Wachovia received approval from the
Federal Reserve for the Jefferson Merger. The vote of Wachovia's shareholders is
not necessary for the consummation of the Jefferson Merger.
The Jefferson Merger is expected to be accounted for as a purchase for
financial reporting purposes and provides for a tax-free exchange of 0.625 of a
share of Wachovia Common Stock for each common share of
7
<PAGE>
Jefferson. In connection with the Jefferson Merger, Jefferson has granted
Wachovia a stock option representing approximately 19.9% of Jefferson's
outstanding shares. Wachovia will add one current member of the Jefferson board
of directors to the Wachovia board of directors. As of September 26, 1997,
Jefferson had 13,964,773 common shares outstanding and 267,100 shares issuable
upon exercise of outstanding stock options (excluding the stock option granted
to Wachovia). Wachovia intends to close the Jefferson Merger prior to the
Merger.
Jefferson, headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia, had assets of $2.2
billion as of June 30, 1997, and is the fifth largest Virginia-based banking
company with 96 offices and 60 automated teller machines. Jefferson National
Bank has the largest deposit share in Charlottesville with additional branch
presence in the Tidewater, Richmond, Fredericksburg and Shenandoah Valley areas
of Virginia. See "Acquisitions -- Merger with Jefferson Bankshares, Inc."
MERGER WITH 1ST UNITED BANCORP. On August 6, 1997 Wachovia entered into an
agreement for a merger (the "1st United Merger") with 1st United Bancorp ("1st
United"), the parent of 1st United Bank, headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida.
The boards of directors of both companies have approved the agreement. The 1st
United Merger is subject to the approval of 1st United's shareholders and
appropriate regulatory agencies and is expected to close in the fourth quarter
of 1997. On September 19, 1997 Wachovia received approval from the Federal
Reserve for the 1st United Merger. The vote of Wachovia's shareholders is not
necessary for the consummation of the 1st United Merger.
The 1st United Merger is expected to be accounted for as a purchase for
financial reporting purposes and provides for a tax-free exchange of a minimum
of 0.3 and a maximum of 0.366 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock for each
common share of 1st United. In connection with the 1st United Merger, 1st United
has granted Wachovia a stock option representing approximately 19.9% of 1st
United's outstanding shares. As of September 26, 1997, 1st United had 10,156,327
common shares outstanding and 514,028 issuable upon exercise of outstanding
stock options (excluding the stock option granted to Wachovia). Wachovia intends
to close the 1st United Merger prior to the Merger.
1st United, headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, had assets of $821
million as of July 1, 1997, and operates 33 full service banking centers in the
Florida counties of Palm Beach, Martin, Broward and Brevard. It is the largest
commercial bank headquartered in Palm Beach County and specializes in serving
individuals and small businesses within its trade area.
MARKET FOR COMMON STOCK AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS
Wachovia Common Stock is traded on the NYSE. Central Fidelity Common Stock
is traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market. The following table sets forth the last
sale price of Wachovia Common Stock, the last sale price of Central Fidelity
Common Stock, and the equivalent price per share (as explained below) of Central
Fidelity Common Stock at the close of business on June 23, 1997, the last
trading day immediately preceding public announcement of the Merger, and October
6, 1997, the last practicable date prior to the mailing of this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MARKET PRICE PER SHARE
WACHOVIA CENTRAL FIDELITY EQUIVALENT PER
COMMON STOCK COMMON STOCK PRICE SHARE (1)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
June 23, 1997............................ $ 62.625 $ 31.875 $ 39.45
October 6, 1997.......................... $ 75 $ 47.9375 $ 47.25
-------- -------- -------
</TABLE>
(1) The equivalent per share price of Central Fidelity Common Stock at the
specified dates represents the last sale price of a share of Wachovia Common
Stock on such date multiplied by the Exchange Ratio of 0.63.
SHAREHOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO OBTAIN CURRENT MARKET QUOTATIONS FOR WACHOVIA
COMMON STOCK. NO ASSURANCE CAN BE GIVEN AS TO THE MARKET PRICE OF WACHOVIA
COMMON STOCK AT OR AFTER THE EFFECTIVE TIME. SEE "COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICES AND
DIVIDENDS."
8
<PAGE>
COMPARISON OF CERTAIN UNAUDITED PER SHARE DATA
The following summary presents selected comparative unaudited per share
data for Wachovia and Central Fidelity on an historical basis and on a pro forma
combined basis assuming the Merger had been effective during the periods
presented. The Merger is accounted for under the "pooling-of-interests"
accounting method. Pro forma data is derived accordingly. The information shown
below should be read in conjunction with the historical financial data and
statements of Wachovia and Central Fidelity included or incorporated by
reference herein, including the respective notes thereto. See "Available
Information," "Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference," " -- Selected
Financial Data of Wachovia (Historical)," " -- Selected Financial Data of
Central Fidelity (Historical)" and "The Merger -- Accounting Treatment."
The per share data set forth herein are presented for comparative purposes
only and are not necessarily indicative of the future combined financial
position, the results of the future operations or the actual results or combined
financial position of Wachovia that would have been achieved had the Merger been
consummated as of the dates or for the periods indicated. While no assurance can
be given, Wachovia expects that it will achieve substantial benefits from the
Merger, including operating cost savings and revenue enhancements. See "Wachovia
and Central Fidelity Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information."
However, the pro forma comparative unaudited net income per share data do not
reflect any direct costs, potential savings or revenue enhancements which are
expected to result from the consolidation of operations of Central Fidelity and
Wachovia, and therefore, do not purport to be indicative of the results of
future operations of Wachovia.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX
MONTHS
ENDED
JUNE 30, YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996 1995 1994
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
NET INCOME PER PRIMARY COMMON SHARE
Historical................................................................. $ 2.00 $ 3.81 $3.50 $3.13
Central Fidelity pro forma combined (1).................................... $ 1.94 $ 3.66 $3.38 $2.98
NET INCOME PER FULLY DILUTED COMMON SHARE
Historical................................................................. $ 2.00 $ 3.80 $3.49 $3.12
Central Fidelity pro forma combined (1).................................... $ 1.94 $ 3.64 $3.35 $2.96
DIVIDENDS PER COMMON SHARE (2)
Historical................................................................. $ .80 $ 1.52 $1.38 $1.23
Central Fidelity pro forma combined........................................ $ .80 $ 1.52 $1.38 $1.23
BOOK VALUE PER COMMON SHARE
Historical................................................................. $23.07 $22.96 N/A N/A
Central Fidelity pro forma combined (1).................................... $22.38 $22.90 N/A N/A
CENTRAL FIDELITY COMMON STOCK
NET INCOME PER PRIMARY COMMON SHARE
Historical................................................................. $ 1.06 $ 1.89 $1.77 $1.45
Equivalent Central Fidelity pro forma combined (3)......................... $ 1.22 $ 2.31 $2.13 $1.88
NET INCOME PER FULLY DILUTED COMMON SHARE
Historical................................................................. $ 1.03 $ 1.85 $1.74 $1.42
Equivalent Central Fidelity pro forma combined (3)......................... $ 1.22 $ 2.29 $2.11 $1.86
DIVIDENDS PER COMMON SHARE
Historical................................................................. $ .46 $ .86 $ .79 $ .76
Equivalent Central Fidelity pro forma combined (3)......................... $ .50 $ .96 $ .87 $ .77
BOOK VALUE PER COMMON SHARE
Historical................................................................. $14.17 $14.26 N/A N/A
Equivalent Central Fidelity pro forma combined (3)......................... $14.10 $14.43 N/A N/A
</TABLE>
(1) The effect of estimated merger and restructuring costs expected to be
incurred in connection with the Merger has been reflected in the June 30,
1997 Wachovia and Central Fidelity Unaudited Pro forma Combined Statement of
Condition; however, since the estimated costs are non-recurring, they have
not been reflected in the Wachovia and Central Fidelity Unaudited Pro Forma
Combined Statements of Income.
(2) Pro forma dividends per share represent historical dividends paid by
Wachovia.
(3) Equivalent Central Fidelity pro forma combined amounts are computed by
multiplying the Central Fidelity pro forma combined amounts by the Exchange
Ratio of 0.63.
9
<PAGE>
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA OF WACHOVIA (HISTORICAL)
The following table sets forth selected historical financial data of
Wachovia and has been derived from its financial statements. Such selected
historical financial data should be read in conjunction with Wachovia's audited
consolidated financial statements, including the respective notes thereto, and
unaudited interim financial information, in each case incorporated herein by
reference. The interim financial information has been derived from unaudited
financial statements of Wachovia, which, in the opinion of management, include
all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for
fair statement of the results for the unaudited interim periods. Results for the
interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results which may be expected
for any other interim or annual period. See "Incorporation of Certain
Information by Reference."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
Interest Income............... $1,675,025 $1,575,966 $3,227,314 $3,019,730 $2,362,294 $2,122,837 $2,222,078
Interest Expense.............. 856,314 824,800 1,672,602 1,579,107 1,038,388 839,012 967,028
Other Income.................. 435,231 383,179 787,650 735,632 607,752 627,603 556,225
Other Expense................. 678,830 618,332 1,257,549 1,203,596 1,098,413 1,131,236 1,095,652
Net Income.................... 328,705 309,233 644,557 602,543 539,058 492,095 433,225
PER SHARE AMOUNTS
Net Income, Primary........... $2.00 $1.81 $3.81 $3.50 $3.13 $2.83 $2.51
Net Income, Fully Diluted..... 2.00 1.81 3.80 3.49 3.12 2.81 2.48
Weighted Average Shares
Outstanding, Primary........ 164,145,000 170,664,000 169,094,000 172,089,000 172,339,000 173,941,000 172,641,000
Weighted Average Shares
Outstanding, Fully
Diluted................... 164,158,000 170,808,000 169,827,000 172,957,000 172,951,000 175,198,000 175,512,000
Dividends..................... $.80 $.72 $1.52 $1.38 $1.23 $1.11 $1.00
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
(PERIOD END)
Total Assets.................. $48,512,096 $46,049,096 $46,904,515 $44,981,314 $39,187,958 $36,525,772 $33,366,519
Interest Earning Assets....... 42,610,130 41,139,806 40,788,754 40,000,768 34,711,988 32,348,507 29,136,317
Loans......................... 33,255,625 30,672,641 31,283,192 29,261,153 25,890,804 22,977,488 21,085,653
Deposits...................... 28,938,060 25,973,349 27,250,122 26,368,757 23,069,258 23,352,398 23,375,461
Shareholders' Equity.......... 3,679,827 3,699,612 3,761,832 3,773,757 3,286,507 3,017,947 2,774,767
RATIOS
Return on Average Assets...... 1.42% 1.38% 1.43% 1.45% 1.46% 1.46% 1.36%
Return on Average Equity...... 18.15 16.87 17.62 17.67 17.41 17.13 16.69
Dividend Payout Ratio......... 39.49 39.38 39.50 39.10 39.10 38.90 39.40
Average Equity to
Average Assets Ratio........ 7.82 8.20 8.09 8.22 8.36 8.54 8.16
</TABLE>
10
<PAGE>
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA OF CENTRAL FIDELITY (HISTORICAL)
The following table sets forth selected historical financial data of
Central Fidelity and has been derived from its financial statements. Such
selected historical financial data should be read in conjunction with Central
Fidelity's audited consolidated financial statements, including the respective
notes thereto, and unaudited interim financial information, in each case
incorporated herein by reference. The interim financial information has been
derived from unaudited financial statements of Central Fidelity, which, in the
opinion of management, include all adjustments, consisting only of normal
recurring adjustments, necessary for fair statement of the results for the
unaudited interim periods. See "Incorporation of Certain Information by
Reference."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
Interest Income............... $398,642 $392,383 $788,620 $771,920 $664,797 $613,845 $579,174
Interest Expense.............. 199,185 209,180 413,353 432,295 330,691 289,731 285,697
Other Income.................. 49,768 41,579 85,915 79,675 59,238 125,920 116,411
Other Expense................. 130,370 120,534 251,941 238,165 245,065 223,274 200,833
Net Income.................... 61,575 56,790 112,702 105,370 84,864 102,917 78,516
PER SHARE AMOUNTS
Net Income, Primary........... 1.06 .95 $1.89 $1.77 $1.45 $1.77 $1.50
Net Income, Fully Diluted..... 1.03 .93 1.85 1.74 1.42 1.73 1.47
Weighted Average Shares
Outstanding, Primary........ 58,068,245 60,041,921 59,736,817 59,673,709 58,741,982 58,102,754 52,440,425
Weighted Average Shares
Outstanding, Fully
Diluted................... 59,556,702 61,004,477 60,757,981 60,572,638 59,860,728 59,384,145 53,551,437
Dividends..................... $.46 $.42 $.86 $.79 $.76 $.68 $.55
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
(PERIOD END)
Total Assets.................. $10,668,698 $10,491,529 $10,540,360 $10,810,974 $10,054,172 $9,662,284 $8,712,315
Interest Earning Assets....... 10,043,462 9,913,528 9,937,036 10,179,856 9,456,750 9,107,251 8,139,100
Loans......................... 6,926,370 6,459,896 6,716,836 6,316,813 5,772,093 4,812,509 3,953,354
Deposits...................... 8,076,620 7,964,060 8,071,454 7,985,898 7,227,244 6,656,016 6,672,453
Shareholders' Equity.......... 803,565 808,524 846,499 826,547 623,072 726,137 601,987
RATIOS
Return on Average Assets...... 1.19% 1.09% 1.09% 1.03% .89% 1.16% 1.06%
Return on Average Equity...... 15.09 13.95 13.75 13.99 12.72 15.91 15.60
Dividend Payout Ratio......... 43.40 44.21 45.50 44.63 52.41 38.42 36.67
Average Equity to Average
Assets Ratio................ 7.88 7.82 7.91 7.36 7.01 7.27 6.79
</TABLE>
11
<PAGE>
WACHOVIA AND CENTRAL FIDELITY UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth selected unaudited pro forma financial data
of Wachovia giving effect to the Merger as if it occurred as of the beginning of
the periods indicated below, after giving effect to the pro forma adjustments
described in the Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information.
The Merger is expected to be accounted for as a pooling of interests. Such
selected unaudited pro forma financial data should be read in conjunction with
the Wachovia and Central Fidelity pro forma combined financial information,
including the notes thereto, appearing elsewhere in this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus. The effect of estimated merger and restructuring costs
expected to be incurred in connection with the Merger has been reflected in the
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statement of Condition; however, since the
estimated costs are nonrecurring, they have not been reflected in the Unaudited
Pro Forma Combined Statements of Income. The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Financial Information does not give effect to any anticipated cost savings in
connection with the Merger. The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statements of
Condition is not necessarily indicative of the actual financial position that
would have existed had the merger been consummated as of the beginning of the
periods indicated below, or that may exist in the future. The Unaudited Pro
Forma Combined Statements of Income are not necessarily indicative of the
results that would have occurred had the Merger been consummated on the date
indicated or that may be achieved in the future. See "Incorporation of Certain
Information by Reference" and "Wachovia and Central Fidelity Unaudited Pro Forma
Combined Financial Information."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996 1996 1995 1994
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE DATA)
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
Interest Income..................... $2,073,667 $1,968,349 $4,015,934 $3,791,650 $3,027,091
Interest Expense.................... 1,055,499 1,033,980 2,085,955 2,011,402 1,369,079
Other Income........................ 484,999 424,758 873,565 815,307 666,990
Other Expense....................... 809,200 738,866 1,509,490 1,441,761 1,343,478
Net Income.......................... 390,280 366,023 757,259 707,913 623,922
PER SHARE AMOUNTS
Net Income, Primary................. $1.94 $1.76 $3.66 $3.38 $2.98
Net Income, Fully Diluted........... 1.94 1.75 3.64 3.35 2.96
Weighted Average Shares
Outstanding, Primary............. 200,728,000 208,490,000 206,728,000 209,684,000 209,346,000
Weighted Average Shares
Outstanding, Fully Diluted....... 201,679,000 209,241,000 208,105,000 211,118,000 210,663,000
Dividend (1)........................ $.80 $.72 $1.52 $1.38 $1.23
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
(PERIOD END)
Total Assets (2).................... $59,241,694 $56,540,625 $57,444,875 $55,792,288 $49,242,130
Interest Earning Assets............. 52,653,592 51,053,334 50,725,790 50,180,624 44,168,738
Loans............................... 40,182,001 37,132,537 38,000,028 35,577,966 31,662,897
Deposits............................ 37,014,680 33,937,409 35,321,576 34,354,655 30,296,502
Shareholders' Equity (2)............ 4,370,292 4,508,136 4,608,331 4,600,304 3,909,579
RATIOS
Return on Average Assets............ 1.38% 1.33% 1.36% 1.37% 1.34%
Return on Average Equity............ 17.58 16.34 16.91 17.00 16.58
Average Equity to Average Assets
Ratio............................ 7.84 8.13 8.05 8.05 8.09
</TABLE>
(1) Pro forma dividends per share represent historical dividends paid by
Wachovia.
(2) Total Assets and Shareholders' Equity at June 30, 1997 have been reduced to
reflect the aggregate estimated merger and restructuring costs of $174
million ($113 million net of taxes) expected to be incurred in connection
with the Merger.
12
<PAGE>
GENERAL INFORMATION
SPECIAL MEETING
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus is being furnished to the shareholders of
Central Fidelity in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Central
Fidelity Board for use at the Special Meeting. The Special Meeting will be held
at the Central Fidelity National Bank Building, located at 219 East Broad
Street, Richmond, Virginia at 4:30 p.m., on November 21, 1997, and at any
adjournments and postponements thereof, to consider and vote upon a proposal to
approve the Merger Agreement.
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus is also being furnished by Wachovia to
Central Fidelity shareholders as a prospectus in connection with the issuance by
Wachovia of shares of Wachovia Common Stock upon consummation of the Merger.
RECORD DATE, SOLICITATION AND REVOCABILITY OF PROXIES
The board of directors of Central Fidelity (the "Central Fidelity Board")
has fixed the close of business on September 22, 1997, as the record date for
determining the Central Fidelity shareholders entitled to receive notice of and
to vote at the Special Meeting. Only holders of record of Central Fidelity
Common Stock as of the Record Date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the
Special Meeting. As of the Record Date, 57,201,963 shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock were issued and outstanding and held by 15,269 record holders.
Holders of Central Fidelity Common Stock are entitled to one vote on each matter
considered and voted on at the Special Meeting for each share of Central
Fidelity Common Stock held of record at the close of business on the Record
Date. The presence, in person or by properly executed proxy, of the holders of a
majority of the shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock entitled to vote at the
Special Meeting is necessary to constitute a quorum at the Special Meeting. For
purposes of determining the presence of a quorum, abstentions will be counted as
shares present but shares requested by a proxy from a broker or nominee
indicating that such person has not received instructions from the beneficial
owner or other person entitled to vote shares ("broker non-votes") will not be
counted as shares present. Neither abstentions nor broker non-votes will be
counted as votes cast for purposes of determining whether a proposal has
received sufficient votes for approval.
Proxies in the form accompanying this Proxy Statement/Prospectus are being
solicited by the Central Fidelity Board. Shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock
represented by properly executed proxies, if such proxies are received in time
and are not revoked, will be voted in accordance with the instructions indicated
on the proxies. If no instructions are indicated, such proxies will be voted
"FOR" approval of the Merger Agreement and consummation of the transactions
contemplated therein, and in the discretion of the individuals named as proxies
as to any other matter that may come before the Special Meeting or any
adjournment or postponement thereof including, among other things, a motion to
adjourn or postpone the Special Meeting to another time and/or place, for the
purpose of soliciting additional proxies or otherwise; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that
no proxy which is voted against the proposal to approve the Merger Agreement
will be voted in favor of any such adjournment or postponement.
A Central Fidelity shareholder who has given a proxy may revoke it at any
time prior to its exercise at the Special Meeting by (a) giving written notice
of revocation to the Secretary of Central Fidelity, (b) properly submitting to
Central Fidelity a duly executed proxy bearing a later date, or (c) voting in
person at the Special Meeting. All written notices of revocation and other
communications with respect to revocation of proxies should be addressed to
Central Fidelity as follows: 1021 East Cary Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219,
Attention: William N. Stoyko, Secretary. A proxy appointment will not be revoked
by death or supervening incapacity of the shareholder executing the proxy
unless, before the shares are voted, notice of such death or incapacity is filed
with Central Fidelity's Secretary or other person responsible for tabulating
votes on behalf of Central Fidelity.
The expense of soliciting proxies for the Special Meeting will be paid for
by Central Fidelity, although pursuant to the Merger Agreement, Wachovia has
agreed to share equally with Central Fidelity all filing fees and printing
expenses payable in connection with the Registration Statement and this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus. In addition to the solicitation of shareholders of record
by mail, telephone or personal contact, Central Fidelity will be contacting
brokers, dealers, banks and voting trustees or their nominees who can be
identified as record holders of Central Fidelity Common Stock; such holders,
after inquiry by Central Fidelity, will provide information concerning quantity
of proxy and other materials needed to supply such materials to beneficial
owners, and Central Fidelity will reimburse them for the expense of mailing the
proxy materials to such persons.
13
<PAGE>
Central Fidelity has retained Morrow & Company, Inc. ("Morrow") to assist
Central Fidelity in connection with its communications with its shareholders
with respect to, and to provide other services to Central Fidelity in connection
with, the Special Meeting. Morrow will receive a fee of $6,000 for its services
and reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses in connection therewith. Central
Fidelity has agreed to indemnify Morrow against certain liabilities arising out
of or in connection with its engagement.
VOTE REQUIRED
Approval of the Merger Agreement and consummation of the transactions
contemplated therein requires the affirmative vote of the holders of more than
two-thirds of the outstanding shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock. It is not
expected that the Merger Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated therein will require the approval of the holders of Wachovia Common
Stock under either the North Carolina Business Corporation Act or the rules of
the NYSE because Wachovia expects that, as a result of the prior consummation of
the Jefferson Merger and the 1st United Merger (both of which are expected to
occur prior to the Merger), the number of shares of Wachovia Common Stock issued
in the Merger will be less than 20% of the shares of Wachovia Common Stock
outstanding at the time of the Merger. If this were not the case, the Merger
would require the approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding
shares of Wachovia Common Stock and Wachovia would seek such approval at a
special meeting of shareholders.
As of the Record Date, Central Fidelity directors and executive officers
and their affiliates held approximately 1.9% of the outstanding shares of
Central Fidelity Common Stock entitled to vote at the Special Meeting. As of the
Record Date, Wachovia held 126,562 shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock and
none of its directors and executive officers or their affiliates held any shares
of Central Fidelity Common Stock. See "The Merger -- Interests of Certain
Persons in the Merger."
RECOMMENDATION OF CENTRAL FIDELITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
For the reasons described in the section of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus
entitled "The Merger -- Reasons of Central Fidelity for the Merger," the Central
Fidelity Board has unanimously adopted the Merger Agreement, believes that the
Merger is in the best interests of Central Fidelity and its shareholders and
unanimously recommends that shareholders of Central Fidelity vote "FOR" approval
of the Merger Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
therein. See "The Merger -- Background of, and Reasons for, the Merger,"
" -- Reasons of Central Fidelity for the Merger" and " -- Interests of Certain
Persons in the Merger."
THE MERGER
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION DESCRIBES CERTAIN INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE
MERGER. THIS DESCRIPTION DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO THE APPENDICES HERETO, INCLUDING THE MERGER AGREEMENT,
WHICH IS ATTACHED AS APPENDIX A AND IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE. ALL
SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE APPENDICES IN THEIR ENTIRETY.
GENERAL
The Merger Agreement provides for a transaction in which Central Fidelity
will merge with and into Wachovia. Wachovia will be the surviving corporation of
the Merger. At the Effective Time, each share of issued and outstanding Central
Fidelity Common Stock will cease to be outstanding and each such share (other
than certain shares held by Central Fidelity, Wachovia or their subsidiaries, if
any) will be converted into and exchanged for 0.63 of a share of Wachovia Common
Stock. The Merger Agreement provides that Wachovia may change the method of
effecting the combination with Central Fidelity, provided that it cannot alter
the consideration to be received by Central Fidelity shareholders, adversely
affect the tax treatment for Central Fidelity shareholders or materially delay
the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement.
BACKGROUND OF THE MERGER
In the past several years, Central Fidelity has faced increasing
competition in Virginia from both strong regional banking institutions and
Virginia-based institutions as well as a variety of non-bank companies offering
financial products and services. Central Fidelity recognized that in order to
remain competitive, it would need to invest substantially in technology, provide
a broader array of products to customers and increase the scale of its
14
<PAGE>
operations. In addition, Central Fidelity desired to improve its profitability
ratios (return on average assets and return on average equity) which had fallen
below those of its peers, with the ultimate objective of providing a superior
return to its shareholders.
The Central Fidelity Board and management had implemented a number of
strategies to achieve these objectives, including, among others, net interest
margin improvement, loan growth programs, new fee-based products, continued
expense management and stock repurchase programs. While these strategies were
successful in generating additional current revenue and returns, it would take
several years before those strategies would have any significant impact on
operating results.
On January 8, 1997, the Central Fidelity Board requested the Executive
Committee of Central Fidelity to review and consider various strategic
alternatives to promote shareholder value. In April 1997, Central Fidelity
retained KBW as its financial adviser to assist the Central Fidelity Board and
management in connection with Central Fidelity's consideration of its various
strategic alternatives. The alternatives examined included: continued
independence; the acquisition of other banking franchises and financial services
companies; a merger with a comparably sized financial institution; and a merger
with a larger financial institution.
In May 1997, L.M. Baker, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of
Wachovia, contacted Lewis N. Miller, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer
of Central Fidelity, regarding Central Fidelity's interest in pursuing a
possible business combination with Wachovia. The Central Fidelity Board and
management were at that time in the process of reviewing strategies for future
growth and other opportunities to improve shareholder values. Therefore, Mr.
Miller informed Mr. Baker that Central Fidelity was not interested in a business
combination with Wachovia at that time.
On June 10, 1997, Wachovia announced that it had reached a definitive
agreement to acquire Jefferson. Central Fidelity had considered Jefferson, also
headquartered in Virginia, as a desirable potential merger partner. The
acquisition of Jefferson by Wachovia would result in the elimination of the
possibility of a business combination between Central Fidelity and Jefferson.
At a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Central Fidelity Board on
June 11, 1997, the Executive Committee reviewed presentations from its financial
adviser discussing the current valuation of Central Fidelity, prospects for
future growth, acquisition analyses, strategic alliances and potential
acquirors. Based on a careful consideration of the challenges faced by Central
Fidelity, the Executive Committee of Central Fidelity determined that an
alliance with another bank would best build value for shareholders. The
Executive Committee discussed the importance to Central Fidelity that Central
Fidelity's merger partner be a premier bank in terms of quality and that the
merger partner share Central Fidelity's philosophy for doing business. Based on
these factors, the Executive Committee believed that Wachovia was the most
desirable merger partner. The Executive Committee instructed Mr. Miller to
contact Mr. Baker of Wachovia to explore a potential combination.
On June 13, 1997, Mr. Miller contacted Mr. Baker to express Central
Fidelity's interest in considering a possible business combination between
Wachovia and Central Fidelity. Messrs. Miller and Baker discussed in general
terms how a potential merger might be structured.
Mr. Miller briefed the Central Fidelity Executive Committee on these
discussions at a special meeting held on June 16, 1997, and was directed by the
Executive Committee to meet with Mr. Baker again to discuss the details of such
a combination. This meeting took place on June 20, 1997, at which time the
Exchange Ratio was determined through arm's-length negotiations between the two
parties, contingent upon the completion of satisfactory due diligence review,
the negotiation of a mutually acceptable merger agreement and approval of the
respective boards of directors of Central Fidelity and Wachovia. Following the
execution and delivery of a customary confidentiality agreement, each of Central
Fidelity and Wachovia began its due diligence review of the other and
discussions between the senior managements and representatives of the companies
were undertaken. Certain other terms of the Merger were also determined during
this period, including the election of three members of the Central Fidelity
Board to the Wachovia Board following the Merger. During this period, the Merger
Agreement and the Stock Option Agreement were drafted, discussed and negotiated
by the parties and their respective representatives.
On June 23, 1997, at a special meeting of the Central Fidelity Board, Mr.
Miller and senior management of Central Fidelity outlined the reasons for and
the potential benefits of the Merger and updated the Central Fidelity
15
<PAGE>
Board on discussions with Wachovia; Central Fidelity's legal advisers reviewed
the terms of the Merger Agreement and of the Stock Option Agreement; and KBW
made a presentation regarding the financial terms of the Merger and the
fairness, from a financial point of view, of the Exchange Ratio to holders of
Central Fidelity Common Stock. See " -- Opinion of Central Fidelity's Financial
Adviser." After discussion and detailed consideration of the Merger Agreement
and the Stock Option Agreement and of the factors discussed below under
" -- Reasons of Central Fidelity for the Merger," the Central Fidelity Board
unanimously approved and authorized the execution of the Merger Agreement and
the Stock Option Agreement.
REASONS OF CENTRAL FIDELITY FOR THE MERGER
In determining to approve the Merger Agreement and the Stock Option
Agreement and the transactions contemplated therein and to recommend its
approval to the Central Fidelity shareholders, the Central Fidelity Board
reviewed and considered a number of factors, including, without limitation, the
following:
(i) the financial condition, results of operations, cash flow,
business and prospects of Central Fidelity and Wachovia;
(ii) the operating environment for Central Fidelity, including, but
not limited to, the continued consolidation and increasing competition in
the banking and financial services industries and the prospect for further
changes in the industry;
(iii) Central Fidelity's ability to achieve greater operational scale
and increase its financial resources to enable substantial investments in
technology and increase Central Fidelity's return on equity, which are
necessary to remain competitive in the long-term;
(iv) the Central Fidelity Board's belief that the terms of the Merger
Agreement are attractive in that the Merger Agreement allows Central
Fidelity shareholders to become shareholders of a combined institution that
will be a leading bank in Virginia;
(v) while no assurances can be given, the anticipated cost savings,
operating efficiencies and enhanced revenue opportunities available to the
combined company from the Merger, including, without limitation, revenue
enhancements driven by a broader array of products and repricing
initiatives, and synergies available due to the ability to leverage
Wachovia's technology investments for use throughout the combined company;
(vi) the Central Fidelity Board's assessment that the combined company
resulting from the Merger would better serve the convenience and needs of
its customers and the communities it serves as a result of being a
substantially larger bank (as compared to Central Fidelity remaining
independent), thereby affording access to greater financial, managerial and
technological resources and an ability to offer an expanded range of
products and services;
(vii) the Central Fidelity Board's review of strategic alternatives to
enhance shareholder value, including potential transactions with other
parties and remaining independent, which alternatives the Central Fidelity
Board believed were not likely to result in greater shareholder value than
the Merger, based on, among other things, the Central Fidelity Board's
knowledge of Central Fidelity and Wachovia and on the information presented
to it at its June 23, 1997 meeting, as described herein;
(viii) the financial presentation and opinion of KBW rendered to the
Central Fidelity Board as to the fairness, from a financial point of view,
of the Exchange Ratio to holders of Central Fidelity Common Stock (see
" -- Opinion of Central Fidelity's Financial Adviser");
(ix) the expectation that the Merger will generally be a tax-free
transaction to Central Fidelity and its shareholders and will qualify for
pooling-of-interests accounting treatment (see " -- Certain Federal Income
Tax Consequences" and " -- Accounting Treatment"); and
(x) the Central Fidelity Board's belief, after consultation with its
legal counsel, that the regulatory approvals necessary to consummate the
Merger could be obtained (see " -- Regulatory Matters").
In reaching its determination to approve and recommend the Merger, the
Central Fidelity Board did not assign any relative or specific weights to the
various factors considered by it, and individual directors may have given
differing weights to different factors. The foregoing discussion of the
information and factors considered
16
<PAGE>
by the Central Fidelity Board is not intended to be exhaustive but is believed
to include all material factors considered by the Central Fidelity Board.
BASED ON THE FOREGOING, THE CENTRAL FIDELITY BOARD BELIEVES THAT THE MERGER
IS IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF CENTRAL FIDELITY AND ITS SHAREHOLDERS AND
UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT CENTRAL FIDELITY SHAREHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL OF
THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
OPINION OF CENTRAL FIDELITY'S FINANCIAL ADVISER
Central Fidelity management and the Central Fidelity Board relied upon the
advice of a qualified investment adviser, KBW, in analyzing the Merger and
recommending it to Central Fidelity shareholders. Central Fidelity retained KBW
to render an opinion with respect to the fairness from a financial point of view
of the consideration to be received by the shareholders of Central Fidelity in
the Merger. KBW was selected to act as Central Fidelity's financial adviser
based upon its qualifications, expertise and reputation. KBW specializes in
rendering a range of investment banking services to banking enterprises and
regularly engages in the valuation of banking businesses and their securities in
connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, competitive
biddings, secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private
placements and valuations for estate, corporate and other purposes.
On June 23, 1997, at the meeting at which the Central Fidelity Board
approved and adopted the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated
thereby, KBW rendered its oral opinion to the Central Fidelity Board that, as of
such date, the Exchange Ratio was fair to the shareholders of Central Fidelity
from a financial point of view. That opinion was confirmed in writing as of the
date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus. In connection with its opinion dated
the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, KBW also confirmed the
appropriateness of its reliance on the analyses used to render its June 23, 1997
opinion by performing procedures to update certain of such analyses and by
reviewing the assumptions on which such analyses were based and the factors
considered in connection therewith. No limitations were imposed by the Central
Fidelity Board upon KBW with respect to the investigations made or procedures
followed by KBW in rendering its opinions.
KBW's opinion is addressed to the Central Fidelity Board and does not
constitute a recommendation to any of the shareholders of Central Fidelity as to
how such shareholder should vote with respect to the Merger.
THE FULL TEXT OF THE OPINION OF KBW, WHICH SETS FORTH A DESCRIPTION OF THE
PROCEDURES FOLLOWED, ASSUMPTIONS MADE, MATTERS CONSIDERED AND LIMITS ON THE
REVIEW UNDERTAKEN, IS ATTACHED TO THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AS APPENDIX C
AND IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE. SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE
OPINION IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE FOLLOWING SUMMARY OF THE OPINION IS QUALIFIED IN
ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO THE FULL TEXT OF THE OPINION.
In rendering its opinion, KBW reviewed, analyzed and relied upon the
following material relating to the financial and operating condition of Wachovia
and Central Fidelity: (i) the Merger Agreement; (ii) Annual Reports to
Shareholders for the three years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 for each
of Wachovia and Central Fidelity; (iii) certain interim reports to shareholders
of Wachovia and Central Fidelity and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q of each of
Wachovia and Central Fidelity and certain other communications from Wachovia and
Central Fidelity to their respective shareholders; (iv) other financial
information concerning the businesses and operations of Wachovia and Central
Fidelity furnished to KBW by Wachovia and Central Fidelity for the purpose of
KBW's analysis, including certain internal financial analyses and forecasts for
Wachovia and Central Fidelity prepared by senior management of Wachovia and
Central Fidelity; (v) certain publicly available information concerning the
trading of, and the trading market for, the common stock of Wachovia and Central
Fidelity; and (vi) certain publicly available information with respect to
banking companies and the nature and terms of certain other transactions that
KBW considered relevant to its inquiry. Additionally, in connection with its
written opinion attached as Appendix C to this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, KBW
reviewed a draft of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus in substantially the form
hereof. KBW also held discussions with senior management of Wachovia and Central
Fidelity concerning their past and current operations, financial condition and
prospects, as well as the results of regulatory examinations. KBW also
considered such financial and other factors as it deemed appropriate under the
circumstances and took into account its assessment of general economic, market
and financial conditions and its experience in similar transactions, as well as
its experience in securities
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valuation and its knowledge of financial institutions, including banks, bank
holding companies, thrifts and finance companies generally. KBW's opinion was
necessarily based upon conditions as they existed and could be evaluated on the
date thereof and the information made available to KBW through the date thereof.
In conducting its review and arriving at its opinion, KBW relied upon and
assumed the accuracy and completeness of all of the financial and other
information provided to it or publicly available, and KBW did not attempt to
verify such information independently. KBW relied upon the managements of
Wachovia and Central Fidelity as to the reasonableness and achievability of the
financial and operating forecasts (the assumptions and bases therefor) provided
to KBW and assumed that such forecasts reflected the best available estimates
and judgments of such managements and that such forecasts will be realized in
the amounts and in the time periods estimated by such managements. KBW also
assumed, without independent verification, that the aggregate allowances for
loan losses for Wachovia and Central Fidelity are adequate to cover such losses.
KBW did not make or obtain any evaluations or appraisals of the property of
Wachovia and Central Fidelity, nor did KBW examine any individual loan credit
files.
The following is a summary of the material financial analyses employed, and
the material assumptions made, by KBW in connection with providing its oral
opinion of June 23, 1997, and does not purport to be a complete description of
all analyses employed by KBW.
TRANSACTION OVERVIEW. KBW reviewed the terms of the Merger, including the
Exchange Ratio and the aggregate transaction value. In reviewing the Exchange
Ratio of 0.63, KBW calculated the percentage ownership that shareholders of
Central Fidelity would own of Wachovia pro forma for the Jefferson Merger. This
analysis, based on the Exchange Ratio, yielded the number of shares of Wachovia
Common Stock, approximately 35.6 million, that would be exchanged for all the
outstanding shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock. The amount of stock
received by Central Fidelity would represent approximately 17.5% of Wachovia on
a pro forma basis. KBW also reviewed the implied value of the consideration
offered based upon the closing price of Wachovia Common Stock on June 20, 1997,
which showed that the implied value of the Central Fidelity transaction was
approximately $41.03 per share of Central Fidelity Common Stock, representing a
26% premium to the June 20, 1997 stock price of $32.50 per share of Central
Fidelity Common Stock, or a total transaction value of approximately $2.3
billion. Based on the aggregate consideration offered using the June 20, 1997
closing price for Wachovia Common Stock, KBW calculated the price to 1997
estimated earnings per share, price to trailing 12 months of operating earnings
per share, price to March 31, 1997 book value per share and price to March 31,
1997 book value per share as adjusted for the 25% completion of Central
Fidelity's accelerated share buyback program. This analysis yielded a price to
1997 estimated earnings of 18.5 times, a price to trailing 12 months of
operating earnings of 20.6 times, a price to book value of 2.92 times and a
price to adjusted book value of 2.95 times.
SELECTED PEER GROUP ANALYSIS. KBW compared the financial performance and
market performance of Wachovia and Central Fidelity based on various financial
measures including earnings performance, operating efficiency, capital adequacy
and asset quality and various measures of market performance, including market
to book values, price to earnings, price to cash earnings and dividend yields of
comparable companies. For purposes of such analysis, the financial information
used by KBW for Wachovia and Central Fidelity and the comparable companies was
as of and for the quarter ended March 31, 1997, and the market price information
was as of June 20, 1997.
The set of comparable companies used as peers of Central Fidelity was
comprised of Southeastern banking companies having assets between $6 billion and
$28 billion as of March 31, 1997. The Southeastern peer group and Central
Fidelity, respectively, had average return on assets on an annualized basis of
1.33% and 1.18%; return on average equity on an annualized basis of 15.66% and
14.76%; net interest margin on an annualized basis of 4.56% and 4.18%;
efficiency ratio on an annualized basis of 59.09% and 51.88%; non-interest
income to revenue ratio (revenue defined by net interest income plus
non-interest income) of 28.03% and 19.56%; leverage ratio of 8.28% and 7.53%;
tier 1 capital ratio of 11.66% and 9.91%; total capital ratio of 13.94% and
13.09%; non-performing assets to loans and real estate owned of 0.50% and 0.78%;
and loan loss reserve to loans of 1.56% and 1.62%.
KBW's analysis further showed, among other things, the following concerning
the market performance of the Southeastern peer group and Central Fidelity,
respectively: that the price to earnings multiple based on 1997 earnings
estimated by KBW was 15.16 times and 15.12 times; that the price to earnings
multiple based on 1998
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earnings estimated by KBW was 13.54 times and 13.54 times; that the price to
book value multiple was 2.43 times and 2.31 times; that the price to tangible
book value multiple was 2.70 times and 2.49 times; that the dividend yield was
2.58% and 2.95%; and that the common dividend payout ratio was 39% and 45%.
The set of comparable companies used as peers of Wachovia was comprised of
large regional bank holding companies with assets between $41 billion and $82
billion as of March 31, 1997. Wachovia's peer group, Wachovia and Wachovia pro
forma for the Jefferson Merger and the Merger had, respectively, average return
on assets on an annualized basis of 1.50%, 1.44% and 1.37%; return on average
equity on an annualized basis of 18.65%, 18.11% and 17.12%; net interest margin
on an annualized basis of 4.69%, 4.14% and 4.12%; efficiency ratio on an
annualized basis of 59.12%, 52.26% and 52.33%; non-interest income to revenue
ratio of 36.53%, 32.53% and 29.83%; leverage ratio of 7.66%, 9.86% and 9.01%;
tier 1 capital ratio of 8.77%, 9.87% and 9.52%; total capital ratio of 12.79%,
13.24% and 12.79%; non-performing assets to loans and real estate owned of
0.80%, 0.23% and 0.33%; and loan loss reserve to loans of 2.00%, 1.26% and
1.31%.
KBW's analysis showed, among other things, the following concerning the
market performance of Wachovia's peer group and Wachovia, respectively: that the
price to earnings multiple based on 1997 earnings estimated by KBW was 15.04
times and 15.88 times; that the price to earnings multiple based on 1998
earnings estimated by KBW was 13.53 times and 14.16 times; that the price to
cash earnings multiple based on 1997 cash earnings estimated by KBW was 14.13
times and 15.81 times; that the price to cash earnings multiple based on 1998
cash earnings estimated by KBW was 12.78 times and 13.83 times (and 13.89 times
for Wachovia pro forma for the Jefferson Merger and the Merger); that the price
to book value multiple was 2.89 times and 2.86 times; that the price to tangible
book value multiple was 3.61 times and 2.93 times (3.20 times for Wachovia pro
forma for the Jefferson Merger and the Merger); that the dividend yield was
2.76% and 2.46%; and that the common dividend payout ratio was 41% and 39%.
KBW's analysis further showed the following concerning 1997 and 1998
earnings per share and cash earnings per share growth rates estimated by KBW.
For the large regional bank holding companies and Wachovia, respectively, the
growth rates for estimated earnings per share was 11.20% and 12.20%; the growth
rates for estimated cash earnings per share was 10.52% and 14.32% (and 13.83%
for Wachovia pro forma for the Jefferson Merger and the Merger). In addition,
the historical total return analysis for the last three-year period for
Wachovia's peer group and Wachovia, respectively, was 34.49% and 31.48%; for the
last five-year period was 21.76% and 20.15%; and for the last ten-year period
was 15.38% and 18.67%.
SELECTED TRANSACTION ANALYSIS. KBW analyzed certain merger and acquisition
transactions based upon the acquisition price (at announcement) relative to
latest 12 months earnings, stated book value, stated tangible book value and
market price one day prior to announcement. The information analyzed was
compiled by KBW from both internal sources and a data firm that monitors and
publishes transaction summaries and descriptions of mergers and acquisitions in
the financial services industry. The analysis included a review and comparison
of the average earnings, book value and market multiples represented by a sample
of recently completed or announced transactions. The analysis included bank
transactions which had a value of greater than $1 billion during 1995 and since
January 1996. In addition, KBW analyzed selected bank transactions which had a
value between $300 million and $3 billion since January 1996.
The banking transactions which were announced in 1995 included: BankBoston
Corp. and BayBanks, Inc.; CoreStates Financial Corp and Meridian Bancorp, Inc.;
UJB Financial Corp. and Summit Bancorp.; NationsBank Corporation and Bank South
Corporation; National City Corporation and Integra Financial Corporation;
Boatmen's Bancshares, Inc. and Fourth Financial Corporation; PNC Bank Corp. and
Midlantic Corporation; First Union Corporation and First Fidelity Bancorp; U.S.
Bancorp and West One Bancorp; Fleet Financial Group, Inc. and Shawmut National
Corporation; and National Australia Bank Limited and Michigan National
Corporation. These 1995 bank transactions had an average premium to trailing
earnings of 16.70 times, premium to book of 2.04 times, premium to tangible book
of 2.27 times and premium to market of 1.25 times. In addition, the 1995 bank
transactions had a median premium to trailing earnings of 15.33 times, premium
to book of 1.98 times, premium to tangible book of 2.26 times and premium to
market of 1.22 times. The bank transactions since January 1, 1996 include: First
Bank System, Inc. and U.S. Bancorp; Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. and Dauphin
Deposit Corporation; NationsBank Corporation and Boatmen's Bancshares, Inc.; and
Wells Fargo & Company and First Interstate Bancorp. These transactions had an
average premium to trailing earnings of 17.72 times, premium to book of 2.88
times, premium to tangible book of 3.30 times and premium to market of 1.22
times.
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The selected banking transactions ranging from $300 million and $3 billion in
value included: Wachovia and Jefferson; Huntington Bancshares Incorporated and
First Michigan Bank Corporation; Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. and Dauphin Deposit
Corporation; Banc One Corporation and Liberty Bancorp, Inc.; Keystone Financial,
Inc. and Financial Trust Corp; Westamerica Bancorporation and ValliCorp
Holdings, Inc.; BB&T Corporation and United Carolina Bancshares Corporation;
Mercantile Bancorporation Inc. and Mark Twain Bancshares, Inc.; Crestar
Financial Corporation and Citizens Bancorp; and U.S. Bancorp and California
Bancshares, Inc. These selected banking transactions had an average premium to
trailing earnings of 19.41 times, premium to book of 2.51 times, premium to
tangible book of 2.61 times and premium to market of 1.28 times. In addition,
these selected banking transactions had a median premium to trailing earnings of
19.70 times, premium to book of 2.53 times, premium to tangible book of 2.64
times and premium to market of 1.24 times. The Central Fidelity transaction,
based on closing prices of June 20, 1997, had a premium to trailing earnings of
20.61 times, premium to book of 2.92 times, premium to tangible book of 3.15
times and premium to market of 1.26 times.
CONTRIBUTION ANALYSIS. KBW analyzed the relative contribution made by each
of Wachovia and Central Fidelity to certain balance sheet and income statement
items including assets, deposits, shareholders' equity and trailing and
estimated net income. Based on the Exchange Ratio of 0.63, the ownership
percentage of the combined company for Central Fidelity shareholders would be
approximately 17.5%. The contribution analysis showed that in the Merger,
Central Fidelity would contribute approximately 17.6% of the combined assets,
20.7% of the combined deposits, 16.2% of the combined common shareholders'
equity before merger related expenses, and 15.7% of the combined 1997 net
income.
PRO FORMA MERGER ANALYSIS. KBW analyzed certain pro forma effects resulting
from the Merger. This analysis indicated that, based on the closing price of
Wachovia Common Stock as of June 20, 1997, the Exchange Ratio, the assumed
ability to obtain within two years estimated expense savings of 30% of Central
Fidelity's non-interest expenses and the assumed additional revenue enhancements
of 10% of Central Fidelity's non-interest income, and a one-time estimated
restructuring charge associated with the Merger of approximately $45 million
after-tax, the Merger would result in an unchanged 1998 estimated operating
earnings per share and a slight decrease in estimated cash earnings per share,
book value per share, tangible book value per share and leverage ratio. The
transaction would result in a slight increase in 1999 operating earnings per
share, estimated cash earnings per share and return on equity.
NET PRESENT VALUE PER SHARE ANALYSIS. KBW analyzed the net present value of
future free capital that would accrue to a holder of a share of Central Fidelity
Common Stock assuming Central Fidelity were to remain independent. Free capital
is defined as capital, generated through net income and the amortization of
nonqualifying intangible assets, which is not utilized for asset growth for
future fiscal years. This analysis assumed: (i) projected 1998 net income
provided by management of Central Fidelity with an assumed 9% annual net income
growth; (ii) projected average asset growth of 8%; (iii) that Central Fidelity
would maintain a 7% leverage ratio; (iv) terminal multiples of 17, 19 and 21
times earnings for the fifth fiscal year; and (v) discount rates of 12%, 14% and
16%. The analysis was adjusted to include both the $100 million of capital trust
securities issued by Central Fidelity and the accelerated buyback of two million
shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock executed during the second quarter of
1997. The analysis assumed that any initial and future excess capital above the
required amount to maintain a 7% leverage ratio is free capital and, along with
a terminal value, is present value at different terminal multiples and discount
rates. Based on such assumptions, KBW's analysis indicated that the present
value of a share of Central Fidelity Common Stock, on a standalone basis, would
range between $27.91 per share to $40.25 per share. KBW stated that the net
present value analysis is a widely-used valuation methodology but noted that it
relies on numerous assumptions, including asset and earnings growth rates,
terminal values and discount rates. The analysis did not purport to be
indicative of the actual values or expected values of Central Fidelity Common
Stock.
The summary contained herein provides a description of the material
analyses prepared by KBW in connection with the rendering of its opinion. The
summary set forth above does not purport to be a complete description of the
analyses performed by KBW in connection with the rendering of its opinion. The
preparation of a fairness opinion is not necessarily susceptible to partial
analysis or summary description. KBW believes that its analyses and the summary
set forth above must be considered as a whole and that selecting portions of its
analyses without considering all analyses, or selecting part of the above
summary, without considering all factors and analyses, would create an
incomplete view of the processes underlying the analyses set forth in KBW's
presentations and opinion. The ranges of valuations resulting from any
particular analysis described above should not be taken to
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be KBW's view of the actual value of Wachovia and Central Fidelity. The fact
that any specific analysis has been referred to in the summary above is not
meant to indicate that such analysis was given greater weight than any other
analyses.
In performing its analyses, KBW made numerous assumptions with respect to
industry performance, general business and economic conditions and other
matters, many of which are beyond the control of Wachovia and Central Fidelity.
The analyses performed by KBW are not necessarily indicative of actual values or
actual future results which may be significantly more or less favorable than
suggested by such analyses. Such analyses were prepared solely as part of KBW's
analysis of the fairness, from a financial point of view, and were provided to
the Central Fidelity Board in connection with the delivery of KBW's opinion. The
analyses do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which a
company actually might be sold or the prices at which any securities may trade
at the present time or at any time in the future. In addition, as described
above, KBW's opinion, along with its presentation to the Central Fidelity Board,
was only one of numerous factors considered by the Central Fidelity Board in
unanimously approving the Merger Agreement.
Pursuant to the Engagement Letter dated June 16, 1997, Central Fidelity
agreed to pay KBW a cash fee of $500,000 upon signing a definitive agreement and
$1,000,000 upon the mailing of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus. In addition,
Central Fidelity agreed to pay KBW a cash fee ("Contingent Fee") equal to 0.375%
of the market value on the Effective Date of the aggregate consideration offered
in exchange for the outstanding shares of common stock of Central Fidelity in
the Merger. Based on the number of Central Fidelity shares outstanding on June
24, 1997, the closing price of Wachovia Common Stock on June 23, 1997 and the
Exchange Ratio of 0.63 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock for each share of
Central Fidelity Common Stock, the aggregate consideration for the Merger would
be $2.237 billion and would generate a Contingent Fee of $8.389 million to KBW.
The actual amount of the Contingent Fee will depend upon the per share value of
Wachovia Common Stock and the number of shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock
outstanding on the Effective Date. The fees paid prior to the Contingent Fee
payment will be credited against the Contingent Fee. Central Fidelity has also
agreed to reimburse KBW for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including the
fees and expenses of legal counsel and any other adviser retained by KBW.
Central Fidelity has also agreed to indemnify KBW, its affiliates, and their
respective partners, directors, officers, agents, consultants, employees and
controlling persons against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the
Federal securities laws. In addition, KBW has provided, and may provide in the
future, certain investment banking services to Central Fidelity from time to
time, for which it has received, and will receive, customary compensation,
including acting as financial adviser for Central Fidelity in connection with
the Merger Agreement.
In the ordinary course of its business as a broker-dealer, KBW may, from
time to time, purchase securities from, and sell securities to, Wachovia and
Central Fidelity, and as a market maker in securities, KBW may from time to time
have a long or short position in, and buy or sell, equity securities of Wachovia
and Central Fidelity for its own account and for the accounts of its customers.
To the extent that KBW has any such position as of the date of the fairness
opinion attached as Appendix C hereto, it has been disclosed to Central
Fidelity.
REASONS OF WACHOVIA FOR THE MERGER
The acquisition of Central Fidelity is consistent with Wachovia's publicly
stated plan to have operations, offices and distinct capabilities in every
market of its choice within its region. Wachovia believes that, in addition to
expanding Wachovia's presence into very attractive Virginia markets, the Merger
provides an opportunity to enhance Wachovia's shareholder value by eliminating
redundant or unnecessary costs and enhancing revenue growth prospects.
EFFECTIVE TIME
If the Merger is approved by the requisite vote of the Central Fidelity
shareholders, all required governmental and other consents and approvals are
obtained and the other conditions to the obligations of the parties to
consummate the Merger are either satisfied or waived (as permitted), the Merger
will be consummated and will become effective on the date (the "Effective Date")
and at the time (the "Effective Time") that articles of merger reflecting the
Merger are filed with the office of the Virginia State Corporation Commission
and the Secretary of State of North Carolina and a certificate of merger is
issued by the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Unless otherwise agreed by
Central Fidelity and Wachovia, and subject to the conditions to the obligations
of the parties to effect the Merger, the parties have agreed to cause the
Effective Date to occur on the fifth business day
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to occur after the last of the conditions to the consummation of the Merger have
been satisfied or waived (or, at the election of Wachovia, on the last business
day of the month in which such date occurs or, if such fifth business day occurs
on one of the last five business days of such month, on the last business day of
the succeeding month). Wachovia and Central Fidelity each has the right, acting
unilaterally, to terminate the Merger Agreement should the Merger not be
consummated by June 30, 1998. See "The Merger -- Amendment, Waiver and
Termination."
DISTRIBUTION OF WACHOVIA CERTIFICATES
Promptly after the Effective Time, Wachovia will send or cause to be sent
transmittal materials to each record holder of Central Fidelity Common Stock for
use in exchanging those certificates for the shares of Wachovia Common Stock to
which such shareholder is entitled as a result of the Merger. CENTRAL FIDELITY
SHAREHOLDERS SHOULD NOT SURRENDER THEIR CERTIFICATES FOR EXCHANGE UNTIL THEY
RECEIVE THE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND INSTRUCTIONS. Wachovia will cause the
certificates for Wachovia Common Stock and/or any check in respect of any
fractional share interests or dividends or distributions which a holder of
Central Fidelity Common Stock will be entitled to receive to be delivered upon
surrender to Wachovia Bank, National Association, as exchange agent (the
"Exchange Agent"), of certificates representing such shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock owned by such shareholder. No party will be liable to a holder of
Central Fidelity Common Stock for any property delivered in good faith to a
public official pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat or
similar law.
After the Effective Time, at the election of Wachovia, no dividend or other
distribution payable after the Effective Time with respect to Wachovia Common
Stock will be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered certificate for Central
Fidelity Common Stock, and no such unsurrendered shares will be entitled to
vote, until the holder duly surrenders such certificate. Upon such surrender,
all undelivered dividends and other distributions and, if applicable, a check
for the amount to be paid in lieu of any fractional share interest will be
delivered to such shareholder, in each case without interest.
After the Effective Time, there will be no transfers of shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock on Central Fidelity's stock transfer books. If
certificates representing shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock are presented
for transfer after the Effective Time, they will be canceled and exchanged for
the shares of Wachovia Common Stock and a check for the amount due in lieu of
fractional shares, if any, deliverable in respect thereof.
FRACTIONAL SHARES
Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, each holder of shares of
Central Fidelity Common Stock exchanged pursuant to the Merger who would
otherwise have been entitled to receive a fraction of a share of Wachovia Common
Stock, shall receive, in lieu thereof, cash (without interest) in an amount
determined by multiplying such fraction by the average of the last sale prices
of Wachovia Common Stock, as reported by the NYSE Composite Tape (as reported in
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL or, if not reported therein, in another authoritative
source), for the five NYSE trading days immediately preceding the Effective
Date. No such holder will be entitled to dividends, voting rights, or any other
rights as a shareholder with respect to any fractional shares.
STOCK OPTIONS
The Merger Agreement provides that each outstanding option to acquire
shares of Central Fidelity Stock which is outstanding at the Effective Time,
whether vested or unvested, will be converted into an option to acquire, on the
same terms and conditions as were applicable under Central Fidelity's 1995 Stock
Incentive Plan, 1993 Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1991 Incentive Stock Option
Plan, 1988 Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1986 Incentive Stock Option Plan or 1982
Stock Option Plan (collectively, the "Central Fidelity Stock Plans"), as the
case may be, shares of Wachovia Common Stock, with the exercise price and shares
purchasable thereunder being adjusted to reflect the Exchange Ratio.
CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
THE FOLLOWING SUMMARY OF THE MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF
THE MERGER TO HOLDERS WHO HOLD SHARES OF CENTRAL FIDELITY COMMON STOCK AS
CAPITAL ASSETS DEALS ONLY WITH HOLDERS WHO ARE (I) CITIZENS OR RESIDENTS OF THE
UNITED STATES, (II) DOMESTIC CORPORATIONS OR (III) OTHERWISE SUBJECT TO UNITED
STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX ON A NET INCOME BASIS IN RESPECT OF SHARES OF CENTRAL
FIDELITY COMMON STOCK ("U.S. HOLDERS"). THIS SUMMARY
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MAY NOT APPLY TO CERTAIN CLASSES OF TAXPAYERS, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION,
INSURANCE COMPANIES, TAX-EXEMPT ORGANIZATIONS, FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, DEALERS
IN SECURITIES, PERSONS WHO ACQUIRED OR ACQUIRE SHARES OF CENTRAL FIDELITY COMMON
STOCK PURSUANT TO THE EXERCISE OF EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTIONS OR OTHERWISE AS
COMPENSATION AND PERSONS WHO HOLD SHARES OF CENTRAL FIDELITY COMMON STOCK IN A
HEDGING TRANSACTION OR AS PART OF A STRADDLE OR CONVERSION TRANSACTION. ALSO,
THE SUMMARY DOES NOT ADDRESS STATE, LOCAL OR FOREIGN TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE
MERGER. CONSEQUENTLY, EACH HOLDER SHOULD CONSULT SUCH HOLDER'S OWN TAX ADVISER
AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER TO SUCH HOLDER.
This summary is based on current law and represents the opinion of Sullivan
& Cromwell, special counsel to Wachovia, and the opinion of Wachtell, Lipton,
Rosen & Katz, special counsel to Central Fidelity. Future legislative, judicial
or administrative changes or interpretations, which may be retroactive, could
alter or modify the statements set forth herein. This summary is based on, among
other things, assumptions relating to certain facts and circumstances of, and
the intentions of the parties to, the Merger, which assumptions have been made
with the consent of Wachovia. Wachovia does not intend to request any ruling
from the Internal Revenue Service as to the United States federal income tax
consequences of the Merger.
It is intended that the Merger would be treated as a reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended
(the "Code"), and that, accordingly, for federal income tax purposes no gain or
loss would be recognized by either Central Fidelity or Wachovia as a result of
the Merger.
Wachovia's obligation to consummate the Merger is conditioned upon, among
other things, the receipt of an opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell, dated the
Effective Date, to the effect that the Merger constitutes a reorganization under
Section 368 of the Code. Central Fidelity's obligation to consummate the Merger
is conditioned upon, among other things, the receipt of an opinion of Wachtell,
Lipton, Rosen & Katz, dated the Effective Date, to the effect that (i) the
Merger constitutes a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the
Code and (ii) no gain or loss will be recognized by U.S. shareholders who
receive shares of Wachovia Common Stock in exchange for shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock, except with respect to cash received in lieu of
fractional share interests. Such opinions will be based upon facts,
representations and assumptions set forth therein. In rendering such opinions,
counsel may require and rely upon representations contained in letters to be
received from Central Fidelity, Wachovia and shareholders of Central Fidelity.
Assuming the Merger qualifies as a "reorganization" within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code, the material federal income tax consequences of the
Merger to each of Wachovia, Central Fidelity and U.S. Holders who exchange
shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock for shares of Wachovia Common Stock
pursuant to the Merger will be as follows:
(i) no gain or loss will be recognized by Wachovia or Central Fidelity
as a result of the consummation of the Merger;
(ii) no gain or loss will be recognized by a U.S. Holder, except as
described below with respect to a U.S. Holder who receives cash in lieu of
a fractional share interest in Wachovia Common Stock;
(iii) the aggregate adjusted tax basis of shares of Wachovia Common
Stock (including a fractional share interest in Wachovia Common Stock
deemed received and redeemed as described below) received by a U.S. Holder
will be the same as the aggregate adjusted tax basis of the shares of
Central Fidelity Common Stock exchanged therefor;
(iv) the holding period of shares of Wachovia Common Stock (including
a fractional share interest in Wachovia Common Stock deemed received and
redeemed as described below) received by a U.S. Holder will include the
holding period of the Central Fidelity Common Stock exchanged therefor; and
(v) a U.S. Holder of Central Fidelity Common Stock who receives cash
in lieu of a fractional share interest in Wachovia Common Stock will be
treated as having received such fractional share interest and then as
having received the cash in redemption of such fractional share interest.
Under Section 302 of the Code, if such deemed distribution were
"substantially disproportionate" with respect to the U.S. Holder or were
"not essentially equivalent to a dividend" after giving effect to the
constructive ownership rules of the Code, the U.S. Holder would generally
recognize capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount
of cash received and the U.S. Holder's adjusted tax basis in the fractional
share interest (determined as described in (iii) above). Such capital gain
or loss would be long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S.
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Holder's holding period in the fractional share interest (determined as
described in (iv) above) is more than one year. Long-term capital gain on
an individual U.S. Holder is generally subject to a maximum tax rate of 28%
in respect of property held for more than one year and to a maximum tax
rate of 20% in respect of property held in excess of 18 months.
Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, the conditions to the Merger,
including receipt by each party of opinions of counsel relating to tax matters,
may generally be waived by Wachovia or Central Fidelity, as applicable. As of
the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, neither Wachovia nor Central
Fidelity intends to waive the conditions as to the receipt of opinions of
counsel on tax matters. In the event of a failure to obtain tax opinions, and a
party's determination to waive such condition to the consummation of the Merger,
Central Fidelity will resolicit the votes of its shareholders to approve the
Merger without such conditions and update the information contained herein with
respect to the tax consequences of the Merger as necessary. See "The
Merger -- Conditions to Consummation" and " -- Amendment, Waiver and
Termination."
BECAUSE CERTAIN TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER MAY VARY DEPENDING UPON THE
PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES OF EACH HOLDER OF CENTRAL FIDELITY COMMON STOCK AND
OTHER FACTORS, EACH SUCH HOLDER IS URGED TO CONSULT SUCH HOLDER'S OWN TAX
ADVISER AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER TO SUCH HOLDER
(INCLUDING THE APPLICATION AND EFFECT OF STATE AND LOCAL INCOME AND OTHER TAX
LAWS).
MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS AFTER THE MERGER
Wachovia will be the surviving corporation resulting from the Merger and
will continue to be governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina and will
operate in accordance with its articles of incorporation and bylaws as in effect
immediately prior to the Effective Time until otherwise amended or repealed
after the Effective Time. Under the Merger Agreement, Wachovia has agreed to
cause three members of the Central Fidelity Board, selected by Wachovia after
consultation with Central Fidelity, who are willing and eligible to serve to be
elected or appointed as directors of Wachovia at, or as promptly as practicable
after, the Effective Time. The directors and officers of Wachovia in office
immediately prior to the Effective Time, together with such additional directors
selected from the Central Fidelity Board and such additional persons as may
thereafter be elected, will serve as the directors and officers of Wachovia from
and after the Effective Time in accordance with Wachovia's articles of
incorporation and bylaws.
POST-ACQUISITION COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The Merger Agreement provides generally that Wachovia will, from and after
the Effective Time, (i) except as provided in clause (viii) below, honor Central
Fidelity's employee compensation and benefit plans in accordance with their
terms, (ii) except as provided in clauses (v) and (viii) below, provide former
employees of Central Fidelity who remain as employees of Wachovia with employee
benefit plans no less favorable in the aggregate than those provided to
similarly situated employees of Wachovia, (iii) provide employees of Central
Fidelity who remain as employees of Wachovia credit for years of service with
Central Fidelity or any of its subsidiaries prior to the Effective Time for the
purpose of eligibility and vesting, (iv) cause any and all pre-existing
condition limitations (to the extent such limitations did not apply to a
pre-existing condition under comparable compensation and benefit plans) and
eligibility waiting periods under group health plans of Wachovia to be waived
with respect to former employees of Central Fidelity who remain as employees of
Wachovia (and their eligible dependents) and who become participants in such
group health plans, (v) provide, to any employee of the surviving corporation
who participated in the Central Fidelity Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan
immediately prior to the Effective Time benefits under such plan, or, if more
favorable to such employee, pursuant to (vi) below, (vi) offer any employee of
the surviving corporation who is a member of Central Fidelity's Management
Committee and who is covered by an employment agreement a replacement agreement
in the form afforded to similarly situated executives of Wachovia; PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that such executives agree to terminate their existing employment
agreement and waive any rights they have thereunder; and PROVIDED, FURTHER, that
such executives who execute the replacement employment agreements with Wachovia
will be provided with an Executive Retirement Agreement, Supplemental Retirement
Agreement or participation under the Wachovia Retirement Income Benefit
Enhancement Plan, as determined by the Chief Executive Officers of Wachovia and
Central
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Fidelity, in replacement of, but no less favorable than, their benefits under
the Central Fidelity Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan, (vii) make the
contribution contemplated by Section 10(b) of the Central Fidelity Executive
Supplemental Retirement Plan to either the Wachovia Grantor Trust or the Central
Fidelity Grantor Trust in order to fund benefits under such plan and (viii)
honor the Central Fidelity Special Severance Policy, the Central Fidelity
Special Executive Severance Policy, and any other Central Fidelity severance or
change of control agreements, plans or policies as previously disclosed to
Wachovia in accordance with their terms, as of the time of the execution of the
Merger Agreement.
INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER
Certain members of Central Fidelity's management and the Central Fidelity
Board may be deemed to have certain interests in the Merger that are in addition
to their interests as Central Fidelity shareholders. The Central Fidelity Board
was aware of these interests in approving the Merger Agreement.
CENTRAL FIDELITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS. As described above, the Merger
Agreement provides that Wachovia agrees to cause three members of the Central
Fidelity Board to be elected or appointed as directors of Wachovia at, or as
promptly as practicable after, the Effective Time.
EQUITY INCENTIVE PLANS. The Merger Agreement provides that all options to
acquire Central Fidelity Common Stock outstanding at the Effective Time under
the Central Fidelity Stock Plans, including those held by management, will be
assumed by Wachovia. Each stock option will thereafter constitute an option to
acquire shares of Wachovia Common Stock. See " -- Stock Options."
INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE. The Merger Agreement provides that following
the Effective Date and for a period of six years thereafter, Wachovia will
indemnify, defend and hold harmless the present directors and officers of
Central Fidelity and its subsidiaries against all costs or expenses, judgments,
fines, losses, claims, damages or liabilities incurred in connection with any
claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation, whether civil, criminal,
administrative or investigative, arising out of actions or omissions occurring
at or prior to the Effective Time to the fullest extent that Central Fidelity is
permitted to indemnify (and advance expenses to) its directors and officers
under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Central Fidelity Certificate
and the Central Fidelity Bylaws as in effect on June 23, 1997. The Merger
Agreement also provides that Wachovia will use its reasonable best efforts for
five years after the Effective Time to provide directors' and officers'
liability insurance that serves to reimburse the present and former officers and
directors of Central Fidelity or any of its subsidiaries with respect to claims
against such directors and officers arising from facts or events which occurred
before the Effective Time, which insurance will contain at least the same
coverage and amounts, and will contain terms and conditions no less
advantageous, as the coverage currently provided by Central Fidelity; provided,
however, that in no event will Wachovia be required to expend more than 200% of
the current amount expended by Central Fidelity to maintain such insurance and
that if Wachovia is unable to maintain or obtain such insurance, Wachovia will
use its reasonable best efforts to obtain as much comparable insurance as is
available for such 200% amount.
MILLER EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT. Wachovia has entered into an employment
agreement with Lewis N. Miller, Jr. (the "Miller Employment Agreement"). The
term of the Miller Employment Agreement runs from the Effective Date through the
third anniversary of the Effective Date, subject to automatic annual extensions
unless Wachovia or Mr. Miller gives notice that the term will not be extended
beyond its then applicable expiration date. Pursuant to the Miller Employment
Agreement, Mr. Miller will serve as Senior Executive Vice President and will be
the senior officer with responsibility for Virginia banking operations reporting
directly to the Chief Executive Officer of Wachovia. Mr. Miller's initial base
salary under the Miller Employment Agreement will be $650,000 per annum. In
addition, Mr. Miller will be awarded for each fiscal year during the term of the
Miller Employment Agreement an annual cash bonus consistent with Wachovia's
policy and practice for peer executives, but which will not be less than
$325,000 for fiscal 1998. During the term of the Miller Employment Agreement,
Wachovia will provide Mr. Miller benefits and perquisites no less favorable than
those provided to peer executives of Wachovia and its affiliates.
In the event that Mr. Miller's employment is terminated during the term of
the Miller Employment Agreement by Wachovia other than for "cause," or Mr.
Miller voluntarily terminates employment within six months after "Good Reason"
or within three years of a "Change of Control," Mr. Miller will be entitled to
receive cash compensation and benefits for the period beginning with the date of
such termination and ending with the earlier
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of (i) the third anniversary of the date of such termination, or (ii) the first
day of the month coincident with or next following the date Mr. Miller attains
the age of sixty (such period being the "Compensation Period"). The cash
compensation to be received monthly during the Compensation Period will equal
one-twelfth of the sum of (i) Mr. Miller's highest annual rate of salary from
Wachovia in effect during the 12-month period prior to such termination, plus
(ii) an amount equal to the average of the annual amounts, if any, awarded to
Mr. Miller under an annual bonus plan of Wachovia or Central Fidelity for the
three calendar years for which Mr. Miller was awarded such an amount next
preceding the year of such termination, plus (iii) the average of any annual
contributions by Wachovia on behalf of Mr. Miller under certain retirement
savings plans of Wachovia or Central Fidelity for the three consecutive calendar
years preceding the year of such termination. Unless Mr. Miller elects otherwise
in writing, this cash compensation will be payable in a lump-sum payment within
fifteen days of his termination. In addition, Wachovia will pay Mr. Miller upon
such termination a lump-sum in cash equal to the sum of the maximum payments Mr.
Miller would have received for all outstanding performance award rights or other
similar rights outstanding at the date of termination and granted to Mr. Miller
under plans of Wachovia or Central Fidelity. During the Compensation Period, Mr.
Miller will be deemed to be continuing in the employment of Wachovia for the
purpose of applying and administering benefit plans of Wachovia (other than any
tax-qualified retirement plans) subject to termination in the event Mr. Miller
engages in full-time employment. Immediately upon such termination of Mr.
Miller's employment, all of Mr. Miller's options to acquire shares of Wachovia
Common Stock will become fully vested and exercisable and certain restricted
awards will be deemed to be earned in full.
The Miller Employment Agreement provides for a gross-up payment to be made
to Mr. Miller, if necessary, to eliminate the effects of the imposition of the
excise tax under Section 4999 of the Code on the payments made thereunder and of
the imposition of income and excise taxes on such gross-up payment.
On the Effective Date, Mr. Miller will be granted 15,000 restricted shares
of Wachovia Common Stock and options to purchase 25,000 shares of Wachovia
Common Stock at an exercise price equal to the market price of Wachovia Common
Stock as of the Effective Time. The value of the 15,000 shares of restricted
stock which he will be awarded will be based on the market price of Wachovia
Common Stock as of the Effective Time. Using the closing price of Wachovia
Common Stock on September 30, 1997 of $72 per share, the estimated current
market value of these shares is $1,080,000. The restricted shares and the option
shares will vest over a five-year period, with the vesting of the restricted
shares subject to the satisfaction by Wachovia of a Return on Equity goal.
The foregoing description of certain provisions of the Miller Employment
Agreement is not intended to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the entire agreement, which is included as an Exhibit to the
Registration Statement.
MILLER RETIREMENT AGREEMENT. Wachovia has entered into a retirement
agreement with Mr. Miller (the "Retirement Agreement"). The Retirement Agreement
provides that Mr. Miller will receive a retirement benefit, computed in the form
of a single life annuity for his life, upon retiring pursuant to the terms of
the Retirement Agreement. The monthly retirement benefit will equal one-twelfth
of the product of two and one-half percent of Mr. Miller's "Final Average
Compensation" (as defined in the Retirement Agreement) times the number of years
of his creditable service (subject to a maximum of 62.5% of Final Average
Compensation) reduced by the monthly amount payable to Mr. Miller under certain
other defined benefit pension plans. In no event will the resulting benefit be
less than the benefit which would have been provided under the Executive
Supplemental Retirement Plan sponsored by Central Fidelity. Mr. Miller may, with
the consent of his spouse and the Management Resources and Compensation
Committee of Wachovia, elect to receive the present value of the retirement
benefit in one lump-sum. The present value of Mr. Miller's retirement benefit
under the Retirement Agreement, assuming that he remains employed through the
normal retirement date under the Wachovia Retirement Income Plan at the same
salary and estimated bonus and using the actuarial equivalent lump-sum factors
as set forth in the Wachovia Retirement Income Plan, is $2,383,000.
CENTRAL FIDELITY EXECUTIVE AGREEMENTS. Central Fidelity has individual
employment agreements (the "Central Fidelity Executive Agreements") with 16 of
the executive officers of Central Fidelity, including Mr. Miller. The Central
Fidelity Executive Agreements generally provide that in the event of a
termination of employment by Central Fidelity without "Cause" or "Disability" or
by the executive for "Good Reason," during the period beginning upon a "Change
of Control" and ending on the earlier of the third anniversary of the Change of
Control
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or the executive's normal retirement date under Central Fidelity's current
retirement plan (the "Executive Employment Period") such executive officer would
be entitled to receive as a lump-sum payment (i) to the extent not theretofore
paid, such executive's full base salary through the date of termination at the
rate in effect at the time the notice of termination was given, plus (ii) up to
three times (depending on the amount of time remaining in such executive's
Executive Employment Period) the sum of (x) such executive's annual base salary
at such rate and (y) the annual bonus paid for the last full fiscal year during
the Executive Employment Period, or the initial annual bonus which would have
been payable for the fiscal year in which the Executive Employment Period
commenced, plus (iii) a cash amount equal to the sum of the maximum payments
such executive would have received for all performance award rights or other
similar rights outstanding at the date of termination and granted to such
executive under the performance or similar plans of Central Fidelity (or any
predecessor, successor or substitute plans of Central Fidelity) if such
executive had continued in the employ of Central Fidelity and Central Fidelity
had met its maximum performance goals under each such award and the maximum
amount payable under each thereof was paid.
The Central Fidelity Executive Agreements provide that if such executive is
terminated by reason of the executive's "Disability," the executive will be
entitled to receive benefits at least equal to the lump sum described above.
The Central Fidelity Executive Agreements provide for a gross-up payment to
be made to the executives, if necessary, to eliminate the effects of the
imposition of the excise tax under Section 4999 of the Code on the payments made
thereunder and of the imposition of income and excise taxes on such gross-up
payment.
Although the Central Fidelity executives who are eligible for severance
protection in the event of a Change of Control are known, at this time Wachovia
and Central Fidelity cannot identify executives who will receive termination
payments, since it is not known which executives will continue in current,
similar or different positions with Wachovia. Of the group of seventeen
executives eligible for protection (excluding Mr. Miller, who has an employment
agreement with Wachovia), the estimated severance payments range from a low of
$328,000 to a high of $2,463,000, with the average severance amount estimated at
$1,440,000. These amounts include an estimate of the gross-up for excise taxes
provided for in the employment agreements with Central Fidelity.
OTHER EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS. The Merger Agreement provides that certain
employees of Central Fidelity will be offered employment agreements by Wachovia
as described above in "Post-Acquisition Compensation and Benefits." As noted
above, as of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, it has not yet been
determined which Central Fidelity executives will be employed in current,
similar or different positions with Wachovia. However, Wachovia intends to offer
those Central Fidelity executives who continue employment with Wachovia an
employment package, including base cash compensation, incentive stock options,
restricted stock awards and retirement benefit arrangements, commensurate with
the positions to be held by such executives.
Each employment agreement would have a three-year, annually renewable term
and would afford compensation continuance if the executive were terminated
without cause or voluntarily terminates after a change in his duties or
reduction in pay without his or her consent. If the executive were terminated
for cause, there would not be any compensation continuance. During any period of
compensation continuance after termination, the executive would be subject to a
non-competition clause, which would cause a cessation of payments if violated.
Executive retirement coverage for each executive would be at one of three
levels. The first is an executive retirement agreement which provides a target
benefit at age 60 equal to 2.5% of average total compensation over a three-year
period multiplied by years of service up to a maximum of 25 years. This target
benefit is reduced by any qualified or non-qualified pension benefits to which
the executive is entitled from Wachovia or Central Fidelity. The second level
includes a supplemental retirement agreement which is identical to the first
agreement with the exception that the target formula is 2.0% per year of service
rather than 2.5% per year. The third level of benefit is afforded under the
Retirement Income Benefit Enhancement Plan, which provides a benefit of 1.5% of
final average total compensation multiplied by years of service up to a maximum
of 25 years. The normal retirement provision of this plan is age 65. Those
Central Fidelity executives who are offered and accept an employment agreement
would be provided one of the foregoing executive retirement arrangements, which
would include a feature that guarantees the executive's existing executive
retirement benefit as a minimum benefit.
BENEFITS. The Merger Agreement provides that Wachovia will provide certain
benefits to certain employees of Central Fidelity as described above in
" -- Post-Acquisition Compensation and Benefits."
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CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION
The obligations of Central Fidelity and Wachovia to consummate the Merger
are subject to the satisfaction or written waiver of the following conditions:
(i) the Merger Agreement shall have been approved by requisite vote of the
shareholders of Central Fidelity; (ii) the required regulatory approvals
described under "Regulatory Approvals" shall have been received, generally
without any conditions, restrictions or requirements which the board of
directors of Wachovia (the "Wachovia Board") reasonably determines in good faith
would (A) following the Effective Time, have a material adverse effect on
Wachovia and its subsidiaries taken as a whole or (B) reduce the benefits of the
Merger to such a degree that Wachovia would not have entered into the Merger
Agreement had such conditions, restrictions or requirements been known at the
date of the Merger Agreement; (iii) no court or regulatory authority shall have
taken any action prohibiting the consummation of the transactions contemplated
by the Merger Agreement; (iv) the Registration Statement of which this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus is a part shall have been declared effective by the
Commission and shall not be subject to a stop order or any threatened stop
order; (v) the shares of Wachovia Common Stock issuable in connection with the
Merger shall have been qualified, registered or otherwise approved for exchange
under the securities laws of the various states in which such qualification,
registration or approval is required; (vi) the shares of Wachovia Common Stock
issuable pursuant to the Merger shall have been approved for listing on the
NYSE; (vii) Central Fidelity shall have received an opinion of Wachtell, Lipton,
Rosen & Katz, special counsel to Central Fidelity, as to certain tax matters;
(viii) Wachovia shall have received an opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell, special
counsel to Wachovia, as to certain tax matters; (ix) the other party's
representations and warranties shall remain accurate and each party shall have
performed in all material respects all of the obligations required to be
performed by it pursuant to the Merger Agreement, and shall have delivered
certificates confirming satisfaction of the foregoing requirements; (x) each
party shall have received a letter of the other party's independent accountants
as to certain financial information of the other party and (xi) each party shall
have received a letter of its independent accountants concurring with the
conclusion of Wachovia and Central Fidelity that the Merger will be accounted
for as a pooling-of-interests.
Central Fidelity Bank serves as investment advisor for various publicly
held mutual funds, and in accordance with the requirements of the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended, holders of the outstanding shares of such funds
must approve the change in control of such investment advisor that will occur as
a result of the Merger.
No assurances can be provided as to when or if all of the conditions
precedent to the Merger can or will be satisfied or waived by the appropriate
party. As of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, the parties have no
reason to believe that any of the conditions set forth above will not be
satisfied.
The conditions to consummation of the Merger, may generally be waived, in
whole or in part, to the extent permissible under applicable law, by the party
for whose benefit the condition has been imposed, without the approval of the
Central Fidelity shareholders. As of the date of this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus, neither Wachovia nor Central Fidelity intends to waive the
conditions as to the receipt of opinions of counsel on taxation matters. In the
event of a failure to obtain tax opinions, and a party's determination to waive
such condition to the consummation of the Merger, Central Fidelity would
resolicit the votes of its shareholders to approve the Merger without such
condition and update the information contained herein with respect to the tax
consequences of the Merger as necessary. See " -- Amendment, Waiver and
Termination."
REGULATORY APPROVALS
FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD. The Merger is subject to prior approval by the Board
of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve Board") under
Section 3 of the BHC Act and prior notice to the Federal Reserve Board under
Section 4 of the BHC Act. The BHC Act requires the Federal Reserve Board, when
considering a transaction such as the Merger, to take into consideration the
financial and managerial resources (including the competence, experience and
integrity of the officers, directors and principal shareholders) and future
prospects of the institutions and the convenience and needs of the communities
to be served. In addition, under the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977, as
amended (the "CRA"), the Federal Reserve Board must take into account the record
of performance of the acquiring institution in meeting the credit needs of the
entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, served by
such institution. Wachovia filed its application and notice regarding the Merger
with the Federal Reserve Board on August 21, 1997.
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The BHC Act also prohibits the Federal Reserve Board from approving a
merger if it would result in a monopoly or be in furtherance of any combination
or conspiracy to monopolize or to attempt to monopolize the business of banking
in any part of the United States, or if its effect in any section of the country
would be substantially to lessen competition or to tend to create a monopoly, or
if it would in any other manner result in a restraint of trade, unless the
Federal Reserve Board finds that the anticompetitive effects of the merger are
clearly outweighed in the public interest by the probable effect of the
transaction in meeting the convenience and needs of the communities to be
served.
The Federal Reserve Board will furnish notice and a copy of the application
for approval of the Merger to the Office of Comptroller of the Currency (the
"OCC"). The OCC has 30 days to submit its views and recommendations to the
Federal Reserve Board. The Federal Reserve Board is required to hold a public
hearing in the event it receives a written recommendation of disapproval of the
application from the OCC within such 30-day period. Furthermore, applicable
Federal law provides for the publication of notice and public comment on
applications filed with the Federal Reserve Board and authorizes such agency to
permit interested parties to participate in the proceedings. If an interested
party is permitted to participate, such participation could delay the regulatory
approvals required for consummation of the Merger.
Under Section 4 of the BHC Act and related regulations, the Federal Reserve
Board must consider whether the performance of Wachovia's and Central Fidelity's
nonbanking activities on a combined basis can reasonably be expected to produce
benefits to the public (such as greater convenience, increased competition and
gains in efficiency) that outweigh possible adverse effects (such as undue
concentration of resources, decreased or unfair competition, conflicts of
interest and unsound banking practices). This consideration includes an
evaluation of the financial and managerial resources of Wachovia and Central
Fidelity and the effect of the proposed transaction on those resources.
Assuming Federal Reserve Board approval, the Merger may not be consummated
until 30 days after such approval, during which time the United States
Department of Justice may challenge the Merger on antitrust grounds. The
commencement of an antitrust action would stay the effectiveness of the Federal
Reserve Board's approval unless a court specifically ordered otherwise. With the
approval of the Federal Reserve Board and the concurrence of the Department of
Justice, the waiting period may be reduced to no less than 15 days. Wachovia and
Central Fidelity believe that they will be able to obtain all requisite
regulatory approvals on a timely basis without the imposition of any condition
that would have a material adverse effect on Wachovia. In connection with
Wachovia's application to the Federal Reserve Board for approval of the Merger,
it has committed to make divestitures as may be required.
STATE AUTHORITIES. Consummation of the Merger is subject to the prior
approval of the State Corporation Commission of Virginia (the "Virginia
Commission"). The Virginia Commission will consider: the safety and soundness of
Central Fidelity and Central Fidelity National Bank; the qualification and
experience of Wachovia and its directors and officers; whether the Merger would
be prejudicial to depositors, creditors, beneficiaries of fiduciary accounts or
shareholders of Wachovia, Central Fidelity or their banking subsidiaries; and
whether the Merger would be in the public interest. The Merger may also be
subject to the approval of, or notice to, other state authorities under various
state bank, insurance and securities regulatory statutes.
STATUS OF REGULATORY APPROVALS AND OTHER INFORMATION. Wachovia and Central
Fidelity have filed (or will promptly file) all applications and notices and
have taken (or will promptly take) other appropriate action with respect to any
other requisite approvals or other action of any governmental authority. The
Merger Agreement provides that the obligation of each of Wachovia and Central
Fidelity to consummate the Merger is conditioned upon, among other things, (i)
the receipt of all requisite regulatory approvals, including the approvals of
the Federal Reserve Board and, to the extent necessary, the state authorities,
(ii) the termination or expiration of all statutory or regulatory waiting
periods in respect thereof and (iii) no such approvals containing conditions,
restrictions or requirements which the Wachovia Board reasonably determines in
good faith would, after the Effective Date, have a material adverse effect on
Wachovia and its subsidiaries taken as a whole or reduce the benefits of the
transactions contemplated in the Merger Agreement to such a degree that Wachovia
would not have entered into the Merger Agreement had such been known at the date
of the Merger Agreement.
THE MERGER CANNOT PROCEED IN THE ABSENCE OF THE REQUISITE REGULATORY
APPROVALS. THERE CAN BE NO ASSURANCES THAT ALL SUCH REGULATORY APPROVALS WILL BE
OBTAINED OR AS TO THE DATES OF SUCH APPROVALS. THERE CAN ALSO BE NO
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ASSURANCE THAT SUCH APPROVALS WILL NOT CONTAIN A CONDITION, RESTRICTION OR
REQUIREMENT THAT CAUSES SUCH APPROVALS TO FAIL TO SATISFY THE CONDITIONS SET
FORTH IN THE MERGER AGREEMENT. SEE " -- THE EFFECTIVE TIME," " -- CONDITIONS TO
CONSUMMATION" AND " -- AMENDMENT, WAIVER AND TERMINATION."
AMENDMENT, WAIVER AND TERMINATION
To the extent permitted by law, Central Fidelity and Wachovia may amend the
Merger Agreement by written agreement at any time. Prior to or at the Effective
Time, either Central Fidelity or Wachovia, acting through its respective board
of directors, chief executive officer or other authorized officer, may waive any
default in the performance of any term of the Merger Agreement by the other
party, may waive or extend the time for the fulfillment by the other party of
any of its obligations under the Merger Agreement, and may waive any of the
conditions precedent to the obligations of such party under the Merger
Agreement, except any condition that, if not satisfied, would result in the
violation of an applicable law or governmental regulation.
The Merger Agreement may be terminated, and the Merger abandoned, at any
time prior to the Effective Time by mutual consent of the boards of directors of
Central Fidelity and Wachovia. In addition, the Merger Agreement may be
terminated, and the Merger abandoned, prior to the Effective Time by either
Wachovia or Central Fidelity if: (i) the other party breaches, and does not
timely cure any breach of, a representation, warranty, covenant or other
agreement contained in the Merger Agreement and such breach, individually or in
the aggregate, has a Material Adverse Effect (as defined in the Merger
Agreement) on the non-breaching party; (ii) any consent or approval of certain
regulatory authorities is denied by final nonappealable action of such authority
or the Central Fidelity shareholders or, if required, the Wachovia shareholders
fail to approve the Merger Agreement; (iii) the Merger has not been consummated
by June 30, 1998; or (iv) the other party's board of directors has failed to
recommend approval of the Merger, if necessary, or has modified or changed such
recommendation.
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS PENDING THE MERGER
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity has agreed in the Merger Agreement,
unless the prior written consent of Wachovia is obtained and except as otherwise
contemplated by the Merger Agreement, not to, and to cause each of its
subsidiaries not to:
(a) conduct the business of Central Fidelity and its subsidiaries
other than in the ordinary and usual course or fail to use reasonable
efforts to preserve intact their business organizations and assets and
maintain their rights, franchises and existing relations with customers,
suppliers, employees and business associates, or take any action reasonably
likely to have an adverse effect upon Central Fidelity's ability to perform
any of its material obligations under the Merger Agreement;
(b) issue, sell or otherwise permit to become outstanding, or
authorize the creation of, any additional shares of, or rights to acquire,
Central Fidelity Common Stock, enter into any agreement with respect to the
foregoing, or permit any additional shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock
to become subject to new grants of employee or director stock options,
other rights or similar stock-based employee rights;
(c) (i) make, declare, pay or set aside for payment any dividend
(other than quarterly cash dividends in an amount not to exceed $0.24 per
share and dividends from wholly owned subsidiaries) on or in respect of, or
declare or make any distribution on, any shares of Central Fidelity stock
or (ii) directly or indirectly adjust, split, combine, redeem, reclassify,
purchase or otherwise acquire, any shares of capital stock;
(d) enter into or amend or renew any employment, consulting, severance
or similar agreements with any director, officer or employee of Central
Fidelity or its subsidiaries, or grant any salary or wage increase or
increase any employee benefit, except (i) for normal individual increases
in compensation to employees, (ii) for other changes that are required by
applicable law, (iii) to satisfy previously disclosed contractual
obligations or (iv) for grants of awards to newly hired employees
consistent with past practice;
(e) enter into, establish, adopt or amend (except as may be required
by applicable law or to satisfy previously disclosed contractual
obligations) any benefit plan in respect of any director, officer or
employee of Central Fidelity or its subsidiaries, or take any action to
accelerate the vesting or exercisability of stock options, restricted stock
or other compensation or benefits payable thereunder;
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(f) sell, transfer, mortgage, encumber or otherwise dispose of or
discontinue any of its assets, deposits, business or properties except in
the ordinary course of business and in a transaction that is not material;
(g) acquire all or any portion of, the assets, business, deposits or
properties of any other entity except in the ordinary course of business
and in a transaction that is not material;
(h) amend its or any subsidiary's articles or certificate of
incorporation or bylaws;
(i) implement or adopt any change in its accounting principles,
practices or methods, other than as may be required by generally accepted
accounting principles;
(j) except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practice, enter into or terminate any material contract or amend or modify
in any material respect any of its existing material contracts;
(k) except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practice, generally settle any material claim, action or proceeding;
(l) (i) take any action reasonably likely to prevent or impede the
Merger from qualifying (A) for "pooling-of-interests" accounting treatment
or (B) as a reorganization for tax purposes; or (ii) knowingly take any
action that is intended or is reasonably likely to result in (A) any of its
representations and warranties set forth in the Merger Agreement being or
becoming untrue, (B) any of the conditions to the Merger not being
satisfied or (C) a material violation of any provision of the Merger
Agreement except, in each case, as may be required by applicable law or
regulation;
(m) except as required by applicable law or regulation, (i) implement
or adopt any material change in its interest rate and other risk management
policies, procedures or practices; (ii) fail to follow its existing
policies or practices with respect to managing its exposure to interest
rate and other risk; or (iii) fail to use commercially reasonable means to
avoid any material increase in its aggregate exposure to interest rate
risk;
(n) incur any indebtedness for borrowed money other than in the
ordinary course of business; or
(o) agree or commit to do any of the foregoing.
In addition, Central Fidelity has agreed that it shall not, and shall cause
its subsidiaries and its subsidiaries' officers, directors, agents, advisers and
affiliates not to, solicit or encourage inquiries or proposals with respect to,
or engage in any negotiations concerning, or provide any confidential
information to, or have any discussions with, any person relating to, any tender
or exchange offer, proposal for a merger, consolidation or other business
combination involving Central Fidelity or any of its subsidiaries or any
proposal or offer to acquire in any manner a substantial equity interest in, or
a substantial portion of the assets or deposits of, Central Fidelity or any of
its subsidiaries, other than the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement (an "Acquisition Proposal"). In the Merger Agreement, Central Fidelity
agreed to cease and cause to be terminated any activities, discussions or
negotiations conducted prior to the date of the Merger Agreement with any
parties other than Wachovia with respect to any of the foregoing and agreed to
use its reasonable best efforts to enforce any confidentiality or similar
agreement relating to an Acquisition Proposal. Central Fidelity has agreed to
promptly (within 24 hours) advise Wachovia following the receipt by Central
Fidelity of any Acquisition Proposal and the substance thereof, and immediately
advise Wachovia of any developments with respect to any Acquisition Proposal.
WACHOVIA. Wachovia has agreed in the Merger Agreement, unless the prior
written consent of Central Fidelity is obtained, and except as otherwise
contemplated by the Merger Agreement, not to, and cause each of its subsidiaries
not to:
(a) make, declare, pay or set aside for payment any extraordinary
dividend; or
(b) (i) take any action reasonably likely to prevent or impede the
Merger from qualifying (A) for "pooling-of-interests" accounting treatment
or (B) as a reorganization for tax purposes; or (ii) knowingly take any
action that is intended or is reasonably likely to result in (A) any of its
representations and warranties set forth in the Merger Agreement being or
becoming untrue, (B) any of the conditions to the Merger not being
satisfied or (C) a material violation of any provision of the Merger
Agreement except, in each case, as may be required by applicable law or
regulation; provided, however that nothing contained in the Merger
Agreement limits the ability of Wachovia to exercise its rights under the
Stock Option Agreement.
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EXPENSES AND FEES
The Merger Agreement provides that each party shall be responsible for all
expenses incurred by it in connection with the negotiation and consummation of
the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, except that Wachovia and
Central Fidelity have agreed to share equally all Commission filing fees and all
printing expenses payable in connection with the Registration Statement and this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
Consummation of the Merger is conditioned upon the receipt by Wachovia and
Central Fidelity of a letter from their respective independent public
accountants indicating their concurrence that the Merger qualifies for
"pooling-of-interests" accounting treatment if consummated in accordance with
the terms of the Merger Agreement. Under the pooling-of-interests method of
accounting, the historical basis of the assets and liabilities of Wachovia and
Central Fidelity will be combined at the Effective Date and carried forward at
their previously recorded amounts and the shareholders' equity accounts of
Central Fidelity and Wachovia will be combined on Wachovia's consolidated
statement of condition. Income and other financial statements of Wachovia issued
after consummation of the Merger will be restated retroactively to reflect the
consolidated operations of Wachovia and Central Fidelity as if the Merger had
taken place prior to the periods covered by such financial statements. See
"Summary" and "Wachovia and Central Fidelity Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Financial Information."
DISSENTERS' RIGHTS
Under the Virginia Stock Corporation Act, holders of Central Fidelity
Common Stock have no dissenters' rights in connection with the Merger.
STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING OF WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK
Wachovia has agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to list, prior to
the Effective Date, on the NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance, the
shares of Wachovia Common Stock to be issued to the holders of Central Fidelity
Common Stock in connection with the Merger.
RESALES OF WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK
The shares of Wachovia Common Stock issued in connection with the Merger
will be freely transferable under the Securities Act, except for shares issued
to any shareholder who may be deemed to be an "affiliate" (generally including,
without limitation, directors, certain executive officers, and beneficial owners
of 10% or more of any class of capital stock) of Central Fidelity for purposes
of Rule 145 under the Securities Act as of the date of the Special Meeting. Such
affiliates may not sell their shares of Wachovia Common Stock acquired in
connection with the Merger except pursuant to an effective registration
statement under the Securities Act or other applicable exemption from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act. Commission guidelines regarding
qualifying for the pooling-of-interests method of accounting also limit sales of
shares of the acquiring and acquired company by affiliates of either company in
a business combination. Commission guidelines also indicate that the
pooling-of-interests method of accounting will generally not be challenged on
the basis of sales by affiliates of the acquiring or acquired company if they do
not dispose of any of the shares of the corporation they own or shares of a
corporation they receive in connection with a merger during the period beginning
30 days before the merger and ending when financial results covering at least 30
days of post-merger operations of the combined operations have been published.
Each of Wachovia and Central Fidelity has agreed in the Merger Agreement to
use its reasonable best efforts to cause each person who may be deemed to be an
"affiliate" of such party to execute and deliver to Wachovia and Central
Fidelity, respectively, an agreement pursuant to which such person agrees, among
other things, not to offer to sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of the
shares of Wachovia Common Stock distributed to them pursuant to the Merger
except (i) with respect to affiliates of Central Fidelity, in compliance with
Rule 145 under the Securities Act, or in a transaction that, in the opinion of
counsel reasonably satisfactory to Wachovia, is otherwise exempt from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act, or in an offering which is
registered under the Securities Act and (ii) with respect to affiliates of each
of Central Fidelity and Wachovia, in compliance with Commission guidelines
regarding qualifying for pooling-of-interests accounting treatment. Wachovia may
place restrictive legends on certificates representing Wachovia Common Stock
issued to all persons who are deemed to be "affiliates" of Central Fidelity
under Rule 145. This Proxy Statement/Prospectus does not cover
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resales of Wachovia Common Stock received by any person who may be deemed to be
an affiliate of Central Fidelity.
STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
As an inducement to Wachovia's willingness to continue to pursue the
transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, Central Fidelity entered into
the Stock Option Agreement with Wachovia on June 24, 1997. The following
description of the Stock Option Agreement is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the text of such Stock Option Agreement, a copy of which is
attached as Appendix B and which is incorporated herein by reference.
Pursuant to the Stock Option Agreement, Central Fidelity granted Wachovia
the Option, which permits Wachovia to purchase a number of shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock (the "Option Shares") up to 11,280,000 shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock, subject to adjustment in certain cases as described below
but in no event exceeding 19.9% of the number of shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock outstanding immediately before exercise of the Option. The exercise
price of the Option is $32.19 per share (the average of the last reported sale
prices on the trading day of, and the trading day preceding, the execution of
the Merger Agreement), subject to adjustment under specified circumstances (such
exercise price, as so adjusted, being referred to herein as the "Option Price").
The Option will become exercisable in whole or in part if both an "Initial
Triggering Event" and a "Subsequent Triggering Event" occur with respect to
Central Fidelity prior to the occurrence of an "Exercise Termination Event," as
such terms are defined below. The purchase of any shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock pursuant to the Option is subject to compliance with applicable
law, including the receipt of necessary approvals under the BHC Act. If Wachovia
were to exercise its right to acquire the full 19.9% of the number of shares
outstanding of Central Fidelity Common Stock subject to the Option, Wachovia
would hold approximately 16.6% of the outstanding shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock immediately after such exercise.
The Stock Option Agreement generally defines the term "Initial Triggering
Event" to mean any of the following events or transactions:
(i) Central Fidelity or Central Fidelity National Bank, without
Wachovia's prior written consent, enters into an agreement to engage in an
"Acquisition Transaction" (as defined below) with a third party or the
Central Fidelity Board recommends that the shareholders of Central Fidelity
approve or accept any Acquisition Transaction, other than as contemplated
by the Merger Agreement;
(ii) A third party shall have acquired beneficial ownership or the
right to acquire beneficial ownership of 10% or more of the outstanding
shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock;
(iii) The shareholders of Central Fidelity shall have voted and failed
to approve the Merger Agreement at Central Fidelity's shareholder meeting
or such meeting has not been held in violation of the Merger Agreement or
has been canceled prior to termination of the Merger Agreement if, prior to
such shareholder meeting (or if such shareholder meeting shall not have
been held or shall have been canceled, prior to such termination), it shall
have been publicly announced that any third party shall have made, or
disclosed an intention to make, a proposal to engage in an Acquisition
Transaction with respect to Central Fidelity;
(iv) The Central Fidelity Board withdraws or modifies (or publicly
announces its intention to withdraw or modify) in any manner adverse to
Wachovia its recommendation that the shareholders of Central Fidelity
approve the Merger Agreement at Central Fidelity's shareholder meeting, or
Central Fidelity, without Wachovia's prior written consent, authorizes,
recommends or proposes (or publicly announces its intention to authorize,
recommend or propose) an agreement to engage in an Acquisition Transaction
with a third party;
(v) A third party makes a proposal to Central Fidelity or its
shareholders to engage in an Acquisition Transaction and such proposal
shall have been publicly announced;
(vi) A third party shall have filed with the Commission a registration
statement with respect to a potential exchange offer that would constitute
an Acquisition Transaction (or filed a preliminary proxy statement with the
Commission with respect to a potential vote by its shareholders to approve
the issuance of shares to be offered in such an exchange offer);
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(vii) Central Fidelity willfully breaches any covenant or obligation
contained in the Merger Agreement in anticipation of engaging in an
Acquisition Transaction, and following such breach Wachovia would be
entitled to terminate the Merger Agreement (whether immediately or after
the giving of notice or passage of time or both); or
(viii) A third party files an application or notice with the Federal
Reserve Board or other federal or state bank regulatory or antitrust
authority, which application or notice has been accepted for processing,
for approval to engage in an Acquisition Transaction.
As used in the Stock Option Agreement, the term "Acquisition Transaction"
means (i) a merger or consolidation or any similar transaction, involving
Central Fidelity or Central Fidelity National Bank (other than mergers,
consolidations or similar transactions involving solely Central Fidelity and/or
one or more of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, provided that any such transaction
is not entered into in violation of the terms of the Merger Agreement), (ii) a
purchase, lease or other acquisition of all or substantially all of the assets
or deposits of Central Fidelity or Central Fidelity National Bank or (iii) a
purchase or other acquisition (including by merger, consolidation, share
exchange or otherwise) of securities representing 10% or more of the voting
power of Central Fidelity or Central Fidelity National Bank.
The Stock Option Agreement generally defines the term "Subsequent
Triggering Event" to mean any of the following events or transactions: (i) the
acquisition by a third party of beneficial ownership of 20% or more of the then
outstanding Central Fidelity Common Stock or (ii) Central Fidelity or Central
Fidelity National Bank, without having received the prior written consent of
Wachovia, entering into an agreement to engage in an Acquisition Transaction
with a third party or the Central Fidelity Board recommending that the
shareholders of Central Fidelity approve or accept any Acquisition Transaction,
other than as contemplated by the Merger Agreement; provided, that for purposes
of the definition of "Subsequent Triggering Event," the percentage referred to
in clause (iii) of the definition of "Acquisition Transaction" above shall be
20% rather than 10%.
The Stock Option Agreement defines the term "Exercise Termination Event" to
mean any of (i) the Effective Time; (ii) termination of the Merger Agreement in
accordance with its terms, if such termination occurs prior to the occurrence of
an Initial Triggering Event, except a termination by Wachovia if Central
Fidelity breaches, and does not timely cure any breach of, a representation,
warranty, covenant or other agreement contained in the Merger Agreement and such
breach, individually or in the aggregate, has a Material Adverse Effect (as
defined in the Merger Agreement) or if the Central Board has failed to recommend
approval of the Merger or has modified or changed such recommendation (see
" -- Amendment, Waiver and Termination") or a termination by either Wachovia or
Central Fidelity if the Central Fidelity shareholders fail to approve the
Merger; or (iii) the passage of 18 months, subject to extension in order to
obtain required regulatory approvals, to comply with applicable regulatory
waiting periods or to avoid liability under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act,
after termination of the Merger Agreement if such termination is concurrent with
or follows the occurrence of an Initial Triggering Event or is a termination by
Wachovia if Central Fidelity breaches, and does not timely cure any breach of, a
representation, warranty, covenant or other agreement contained in the Merger
Agreement and such breach, individually or in the aggregate, has a Material
Adverse Effect or if the Central Board has failed to recommend approval of the
Merger, or has modified or changed such recommendation (see " -- Amendment,
Waiver and Termination") or a termination by either Wachovia or Central Fidelity
if the Central Fidelity shareholders fail to approve the Merger. Notwithstanding
anything to the contrary contained in the Stock Option Agreement, the Option may
not be exercised at any time when Wachovia is in breach of any of its covenants
or agreements contained in the Merger Agreement such that Central Fidelity shall
be entitled to terminate the Merger Agreement pursuant to the terms thereof, and
the Stock Option Agreement shall automatically terminate upon the termination of
the Merger Agreement by Central Fidelity pursuant to the terms thereof as a
result of a breach by Wachovia of its covenants or agreements contained therein.
If the Option becomes exercisable, it may be exercised in whole or in part
within six months following the applicable Subsequent Triggering Event.
Wachovia's right to exercise the Option and certain other rights under the Stock
Option Agreement are subject to an extension in order to obtain required
regulatory approvals and comply with applicable regulatory waiting periods and
to avoid liability under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act. The Option Price and
the number of shares issuable under the Option are subject to adjustment in the
event of specified changes in the capital stock of Central Fidelity.
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Upon the occurrence of a Subsequent Triggering Event that occurs prior to
an Exercise Termination Event, Wachovia will have certain registration rights
with respect to the shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock issued or issuable
pursuant to the Option.
The Stock Option Agreement also provides that at any time after the
occurrence of a "Repurchase Event" (as defined below), upon request, Central
Fidelity shall be obligated to repurchase the Option and all or any part of the
Option Shares. Such repurchase of the Option shall be at a price per share equal
to the amount by which the "Market/Offer Price" (as defined below) exceeds the
Option Price (as adjusted). A repurchase of Option Shares shall be at a price
per share equal to the Market/Offer Price. The term "Market/Offer Price" means
the highest of (i) the price per share at which a tender or exchange offer has
been made for Central Fidelity Common Stock, (ii) the price per share of Central
Fidelity Common Stock that any third party is to pay pursuant to an agreement
with Central Fidelity, (iii) the highest closing price per share of Central
Fidelity Common Stock within the six-month period immediately preceding the date
that notice to repurchase is given or (iv) in the event of a sale of all or
substantially all of Central Fidelity's assets or deposits, the sum of the price
paid for such assets or deposits and the current market value of the remaining
assets (as determined by a nationally recognized investment banking firm),
divided by the number of shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock outstanding at
the time of such sale. The term "Repurchase Event" is defined to mean (i) the
acquisition by any third party of beneficial ownership of 50% or more of the
outstanding shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock or (ii) the consummation of
an Acquisition Transaction; provided, that for purposes of the definition of
"Repurchase Event," the percentage referred to in clause (iii) of the definition
of "Acquisition Transaction" above shall be 50% rather than 10%.
The Stock Option Agreement also provides that Wachovia may, at any time
following a Repurchase Event and prior to an Exercise Termination Event,
surrender the Option (and any Option Shares obtained upon the exercise thereof
and still held by Wachovia) for a cash surrender fee (the "Surrender Fee") equal
to $50 million (i) plus, if applicable, Wachovia's purchase price with respect
to any Option Shares and (ii) minus, if applicable, any net cash received
pursuant to the sale of Option Shares to any third party (less the purchase
price of such Option Shares). Wachovia may not exercise its right to surrender
the Option and receive the Surrender Fee if Central Fidelity has previously
repurchased any Option Shares as described in the preceding paragraph.
Pursuant to the terms of the Stock Option Agreement, in the event that,
prior to an Exercise Termination Event, Central Fidelity enters into certain
transactions in which Central Fidelity is not the surviving corporation, certain
fundamental changes in the capital stock of Central Fidelity occur or Central
Fidelity sells all or substantially all of its or certain of its subsidiaries'
assets, the Option will be converted into a substitute option (the "Substitute
Option"), with terms similar to those of the Option, to purchase capital stock
of the entity that is the effective successor to Central Fidelity.
The Stock Option Agreement provides that neither Wachovia nor Central
Fidelity may assign any of its rights or obligations thereunder without the
written consent of the other party, except that in the event an Initial
Triggering Event occurs prior to an Exercise Termination Event, Wachovia may,
subject to certain limitations, assign its rights and obligations thereunder in
whole or in part (subject to extension in certain cases).
Arrangements such as the Stock Option Agreement are customarily entered
into in connection with corporate mergers and acquisitions in an effort to
increase the likelihood that the transactions will be consummated in accordance
with their terms, and to compensate the grantee for the efforts undertaken and
the expenses, losses and opportunity costs incurred by it in connection with the
transactions if they are not consummated under certain circumstances involving
an acquisition or potential acquisition of the issuer by a third party. The
Stock Option Agreement was entered into to accomplish these objectives. The
Stock Option Agreement may have the effect of discouraging offers by third
parties to acquire Central Fidelity prior to the Merger, even if such persons
were prepared to offer to pay consideration to Central Fidelity shareholders
which has a higher current market price than the shares of Wachovia Common Stock
to be received by such holders pursuant to the Merger Agreement.
To the best knowledge of Central Fidelity and Wachovia, no event giving
rise to the right to exercise the Option has occurred as of the date of this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
AMENDMENT TO CENTRAL FIDELITY RIGHTS AGREEMENT
Each share of Central Fidelity Common Stock has attached to it a right
("Right") issued pursuant to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated as
of November 9, 1994, between Central Fidelity and Central Fidelity National
Bank, as Rights Agent, as amended by the Amendment dated June 23, 1997 (as
amended, the
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"Central Fidelity Rights Agreement"). In connection with the execution of the
Merger Agreement, Central Fidelity amended the Central Fidelity Rights Agreement
to provide, among other things, that (i) the execution and delivery of the
Merger Agreement and consummation of the Merger and execution and delivery of
the Stock Option Agreement and any acquisition of shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock by Wachovia (and certain related persons) upon exercise thereof, or
as contemplated by the Merger Agreement and the Stock Option Agreement, will not
cause the Rights to become exercisable, or cause the Rights to be separated from
the shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock to which they are attached, and (ii)
the Rights may not become exercisable at any time from and after, and the
Central Fidelity Rights Agreement will terminate at, the Effective Time. See
"Certain Differences in the Rights of Wachovia Shareholders and Central Fidelity
Shareholders -- Shareholder Rights Plan."
ACQUISITIONS
MERGER WITH JEFFERSON BANKSHARES, INC.
On June 10, 1997, Wachovia entered into a merger agreement with Jefferson,
the parent of Jefferson National Bank in Charlottesville, Virginia, pursuant to
which Jefferson will be merged with and into Wachovia (the "Jefferson Merger").
At the effective time of the Jefferson Merger, each outstanding share of common
stock of Jefferson ("Jefferson Common Stock") will be converted into the right
to receive 0.625 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock. In connection with the
Jefferson Merger, Jefferson has granted Wachovia a stock option to purchase a
number of shares of Jefferson Common Stock equal to up to 19.9% of the Jefferson
Common Stock outstanding immediately before exercise of the option, for a
purchase price of $29.6875 per share, subject to adjustment in certain
circumstances. The boards of directors of both companies have approved the
Jefferson Merger.
Jefferson, headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a bank holding
company registered under the provisions of the BHC Act. At June 30, 1997,
Jefferson had assets of approximately $2.2 billion, deposits of approximately
$1.9 billion, and shareholders' equity of approximately $210 million. Net income
for the first six months ended June 30, 1997, was approximately $15 million and
for the year ended December 31, 1996 was approximately $27.8 million. With 96
offices and 60 ATMs, Jefferson is the fifth largest Virginia-based banking
company. Jefferson National Bank has the largest deposit share in
Charlottesville with additional branch presence in the Tidewater, Richmond,
Fredericksburg and Shenandoah Valley areas of Virginia. Jefferson provides a
wide variety of financial services to a broad customer base of individuals,
corporations, institutions and governments primarily located in Virginia.
The Jefferson Merger is expected to be accounted for by the
purchase-accounting method. The Jefferson Merger is subject to the approval of
the shareholders of Jefferson and appropriate regulatory agencies and is
expected to close in the fourth quarter of 1997. On August 26, 1997, Wachovia
received approval from the Federal Reserve Board for the Jefferson Merger. The
vote of Wachovia's shareholders is not necessary for the consummation of the
Jefferson Merger.
Additional information concerning the Jefferson Merger and financial
information relating to Jefferson are contained in Wachovia's Current Report on
Form 8-K dated June 9, 1997, which is incorporated by reference herein. See
"Available Information" and "Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference."
MERGER WITH 1ST UNITED BANCORP
On August 7, 1997, Wachovia entered into a merger agreement with 1st
United, the parent of 1st United Bank in Boca Raton, Florida, pursuant to which
1st United will be merged with and into Wachovia (the "1st United Merger"). At
the effective time of the 1st United Merger, each outstanding share of common
stock of 1st United ("1st United Common Stock") will be exchanged for a minimum
of 0.3 and a maximum of 0.366 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock, with the
actual exchange ratio to be determined based on a ten-day average closing price
for Wachovia Common Stock prior to the effective date of the 1st United Merger.
In connection with the 1st United Merger, 1st United has granted Wachovia a
stock option to purchase a number of shares of 1st United Common Stock equal to
up to 19.9% of the 1st United Common Stock outstanding immediately before
exercise of the option, for a purchase price of $18.75 per share, subject to
adjustment in certain circumstances. The boards of directors of both companies
have approved the 1st United Merger.
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1st United, headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, is a bank holding company
registered under the provisions of the BHC Act. At July 1, 1997, the effective
date of 1st United's merger with Seaboard Savings Bank, 1st United had assets of
approximately $821 million, deposits of approximately $739 million, and
shareholders' equity of approximately $69 million. Net income for the first six
months ended June 30, 1997, was approximately $4.7 million and for the year
ended on December 31, 1996, was approximately $8.2 million. 1st United operates
33 full service banking centers in the Florida counties of Palm Beach, Martin,
Broward and Brevard. It is the largest commercial bank headquartered in Palm
Beach County and specializes in serving individuals and small businesses within
its trade area.
The 1st United Merger is expected to be accounted for by the purchase
accounting method. The 1st United Merger is subject to the approval of the
shareholders of 1st United and appropriate regulatory agencies, including the
Federal Reserve Board, and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 1997.
On September 19, 1997, Wachovia received approval from the Federal Reserve Board
for the 1st United Merger. The vote of Wachovia's shareholders is not necessary
for the consummation of the 1st United Merger.
In connection with the announcement of the 1st United Merger, Wachovia
announced that it estimated that the 1st United Merger will be accretive to
reported earnings per share in 1998. This estimate includes Wachovia's current
estimates of cost savings equal to 20% of 1st United's operating expenses and
revenue enhancements equal to at least 10% of non-interest income. Wachovia
estimates it will incur $3 million in pretax integration expenses in connection
with the 1st United Merger. In addition, in connection with the 1st United
Merger, Wachovia announced that it would repurchase up to 3.5 million shares
issued pursuant to the 1st United Merger.
Additional information concerning the 1st United Merger and financial
information relating to 1st United are contained in Wachovia's Current Report on
Form 8-K dated August 6, 1997, which is incorporated by reference herein. See
"Available Information" and "Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference."
ACQUISITIONS GENERALLY
Wachovia regularly evaluates acquisition opportunities and conducts due
diligence activities in connection with possible acquisitions. As a result,
acquisition discussions and, in some cases, negotiations may take place and
future acquisitions involving cash, debt or equity securities may occur.
Acquisitions typically involve the payment of a premium over book and market
values, and, therefore, some dilution of Wachovia's book value and net income
per common share may occur in connection with any future transactions.
37
<PAGE>
WACHOVIA AND CENTRAL FIDELITY UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The following Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information combines
the historical Consolidated Financial Statements of Wachovia and Central
Fidelity, giving effect to the Merger as if it had been effective on June 30,
1997, with respect to the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statement of Condition,
and as of the beginning of the periods indicated herein, with respect to the
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statements of Income. The Merger will be accounted
for as a pooling-of-interests. Under the pooling-of-interests method of
accounting, the historical book values of the assets, liabilities and
shareholders' equity of Central Fidelity as reported on its consolidated
Statement of Condition will be carried over onto the consolidated Statement of
Condition of Wachovia after addressing conformity issues, and no goodwill or
other intangible assets will be created. Wachovia will include in its
consolidated statement of income the consolidated results of operations of
Central Fidelity for the entire fiscal year in which the Merger occurs after
addressing conformity issues and will combine and restate its results of
operations for prior periods to include the reported consolidated results of
operations of Central Fidelity for prior periods after addressing conformity
issues. This information should be read in conjunction with the historical
Consolidated Financial Statements of Wachovia and Central Fidelity (included in
Wachovia's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 8, 1997), including their
respective notes thereto, which are incorporated by reference into this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus. The effect of estimated merger and restructuring costs
expected to be incurred in connection with the Merger has been reflected in the
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statement of Condition; however, since the
estimated costs are nonrecurring, they have not been reflected in the Unaudited
Pro Forma Combined Statements of Income. The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Financial Information does not give effect to any anticipated cost savings in
connection with the Merger. The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statement of
Condition is not necessarily indicative of the actual financial position that
would have existed had the Merger been consummated on the dates indicated, or
that may exist in the future. The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statements of
Income are not necessarily indicative of the results that would have occurred
had the Merger been consummated on the dates indicated or that may be achieved
in the future.
In connection with the announcement of the Merger, Wachovia announced that
it estimated that the Merger (after giving effect to the Jefferson Merger) will
be accretive to Wachovia's reported earnings per share in 1999 by 4%. This
estimate includes Wachovia's current estimates of cost savings equal to 30% of
Central Fidelity's operating expenses and revenue enhancements equal to at least
10% of non-interest income. Wachovia estimates it will incur a $174 million
pretax charge in connection with the Merger, including a one-time charge of $117
million in 1997 and a charge of $57 million to be expensed in 1998.
38
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF CONDITION
AS OF JUNE 30, 1997
(IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CENTRAL PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
WACHOVIA FIDELITY ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks............................ $ 3,392,418 $ 312,192 $ -- $ 3,704,610
Federal funds sold and other money market
investments...................................... 1,099,967 149,860 -- 1,249,827
Securities available for sale...................... 6,983,389 2,967,226 -- 9,950,615
Securities held to maturity........................ 1,271,149 -- -- 1,271,149
Loans.............................................. 33,255,625 6,926,376 -- 40,182,001
Allowance for loan losses........................ (409,335) (110,000) -- (519,335)
Net loans.......................................... 32,846,290 6,816,376 -- 39,662,666
Premises and equipment............................. 622,925 164,496 -- 787,421
Other assets....................................... 2,295,958 258,548 60,900(2) 2,615,406
TOTAL ASSETS..................................... $48,512,096 $10,668,698 $ 60,900 $59,241,694
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Deposits:
Demand............................................. $10,345,408 $ 1,288,662 $ -- $11,634,070
Large denomination certificates.................... 2,367,267 502,780 -- 2,870,047
Other.............................................. 16,225,385 6,285,178 -- 22,510,563
Total deposits................................... 28,938,060 8,076,620 -- 37,014,680
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under
repurchase agreements............................ 6,253,688 1,065,467 -- 7,319,155
Other liabilities.................................. 9,640,521 723,046 174,000(2) 10,537,567
Total liabilities................................ 44,832,269 9,865,133 174,000 54,871,402
Shareholders' Equity:
Preferred stock.................................... -- -- -- --
Common stock....................................... 797,698 283,623 (104,940)(1) 976,381
Capital surplus.................................... 185,500 108,484 104,940(1) 398,924
Retained earnings.................................. 2,660,914 402,844 (113,100)(2) 2,950,658
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities available
for sale, net of tax............................. 35,715 8,614 -- 44,329
Total shareholders' equity....................... 3,679,827 803,565 (113,100) 4,370,292
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY....... $48,512,096 $10,668,698 $ 60,900 $59,241,694
</TABLE>
See "Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information."
39
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CENTRAL PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
WACHOVIA FIDELITY ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INTEREST INCOME
Interest and fees on loans.................................. $1,361,985 $300,376 $ -- $1,662,361
Securities available for sale............................... 228,005 95,851 -- 323,856
Securities held to maturity................................. 52,245 -- -- 52,245
Other interest income....................................... 32,790 2,415 -- 35,205
Total interest income................................ 1,675,025 398,642 -- 2,073,667
INTEREST EXPENSE
Total deposits.............................................. 478,367 155,868 -- 634,235
Short-term borrowings....................................... 200,958 24,854 -- 225,812
Other....................................................... 176,989 18,463 -- 195,452
Total interest expense............................... 856,314 199,185 -- 1,055,499
Net interest income......................................... 818,711 199,457 -- 1,018,168
Provision for loan losses................................... 97,713 27,565 -- 125,278
Net interest income after provision for loan losses......... 720,998 171,892 -- 892,890
OTHER INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts......................... 127,564 20,691 -- 148,255
Fees for trust services..................................... 75,226 9,292 -- 84,518
Investment securities gains (losses)........................ 661 1,881 -- 2,542
Other income................................................ 231,780 17,904 -- 249,684
Total non-interest income............................ 435,231 49,768 -- 484,999
OTHER EXPENSE
Salaries and employee benefits.............................. 355,754 74,924 -- 430,678
Net occupancy and equipment expense......................... 102,975 24,672 -- 127,647
Other expense............................................... 220,101 30,774 -- 250,875
Total non-interest expense........................... 678,830 130,370 -- 809,200
Income before income taxes.................................. 477,399 91,290 -- 568,689
Income taxes................................................ 148,694 29,715 -- 178,409
NET INCOME.................................................. $ 328,705 $ 61,575 $ -- $ 390,280
Net Income per primary share................................ $2.00 $1.06 $1.94
Weighted average primary shares outstanding................. 164,145 58,068 200,728
Net income per fully diluted share.......................... $2.00 $1.03 $1.94
Weighted average fully diluted shares outstanding........... 164,158 59,557 201,679
</TABLE>
See "Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information."
40
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CENTRAL PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
WACHOVIA FIDELITY ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INTEREST INCOME
Interest and fees on loans.................................. $2,544,658 $570,615 $ -- $3,115,273
Securities available for sale............................... 472,108 212,875 -- 684,983
Securities held to maturity................................. 117,548 -- -- 117,548
Other interest income....................................... 93,000 5,130 -- 98,130
Total interest income................................ 3,227,314 788,620 -- 4,015,934
INTEREST EXPENSE
Total Deposits.............................................. 881,562 322,187 -- 1,203,749
Short-term borrowings....................................... 431,094 51,250 -- 482,344
Other....................................................... 359,946 39,916 -- 399,862
Total interest expense............................... 1,672,602 413,353 -- 2,085,955
Net interest income......................................... 1,554,712 375,267 -- 1,929,979
Provision for loan losses................................... 149,911 43,865 -- 193,776
Net interest income after provision for loan losses......... 1,404,801 331,402 -- 1,736,203
OTHER INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts......................... 242,368 37,832 -- 280,200
Fees for trust services..................................... 137,841 16,780 -- 154,621
Investment securities gains (losses)........................ 3,736 99 -- 3,835
Other income................................................ 403,705 31,204 -- 434,909
Total other income................................... 787,650 85,915 -- 873,565
OTHER EXPENSE
Salaries and employee benefits.............................. 654,525 142,347 -- 796,872
Net occupancy and equipment expense......................... 204,443 46,147 -- 250,590
Other expense............................................... 398,581 63,447 -- 462,028
Total other expense.................................. 1,257,549 251,941 -- 1,509,490
Income before income taxes.................................. 934,902 165,376 -- 1,100,278
Income tax expense.......................................... 290,345 52,674 -- 343,019
NET INCOME.................................................. $ 644,557 $112,702 $ -- $ 757,259
Net income per primary share................................ $3.81 $1.89 $3.66
Weighted average primary shares outstanding................. 169,094 59,737 206,728
Net income per fully diluted share.......................... $3.80 $1.85 $3.64
Weighted average fully diluted shares outstanding........... 169,827 60,758 208,105
</TABLE>
See "Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information."
41
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CENTRAL PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
WACHOVIA FIDELITY ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INTEREST INCOME
Interest and fees on loans.................................. $2,384,919 $526,896 $ -- $2,911,815
Securities available for sale............................... 268,106 239,010 -- 507,116
Securities held to maturity................................. 294,241 -- -- 294,241
Other interest income....................................... 72,464 6,014 -- 78,478
Total interest income................................ 3,019,730 771,920 -- 3,791,650
INTEREST EXPENSE
Total deposits.............................................. 823,454 319,725 -- 1,143,179
Short-term borrowings....................................... 467,007 61,037 -- 528,044
Other....................................................... 288,646 51,533 -- 340,179
Total interest expense............................... 1,579,107 432,295 -- 2,011,402
Net interest income......................................... 1,440,623 339,625 -- 1,780,248
Provision for loan losses................................... 103,791 26,713 -- 130,504
Net interest income after provision for loan losses......... 1,336,832 312,912 -- 1,649,744
OTHER INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts......................... 209,113 35,150 -- 244,263
Fees for trust services..................................... 130,521 14,943 -- 145,464
Gain on sale of mortgage servicing portfolio................ 79,025 -- -- 79,025
Investment securities gains (losses)........................ (23,494) 3,253 -- (20,241)
Other income................................................ 340,467 26,329 -- 366,796
Total other income................................... 735,632 79,675 -- 815,307
OTHER EXPENSE
Salaries and employee benefits.............................. 600,326 133,186 -- 733,512
Net occupancy and equipment expense......................... 196,806 42,979 -- 239,785
Other expense............................................... 406,464 62,000 -- 468,464
Total other expense.................................. 1,203,596 238,165 -- 1,441,761
Income before income taxes.................................. 868,868 154,422 -- 1,023,290
Income tax expense.......................................... 266,325 49,052 -- 315,377
NET INCOME.................................................. $ 602,543 $105,370 $ -- $ 707,913
Net income per primary share................................ $3.50 $1.77 $3.38
Weighted average primary shares outstanding................. 172,089 59,674 209,684
Net income per fully diluted share.......................... $3.49 $1.74 $3.35
Weighted average fully diluted shares outstanding........... 172,957 60,573 211,118
</TABLE>
See "Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information."
42
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CENTRAL PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
WACHOVIA FIDELITY ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INTEREST INCOME
Interest and fees on loans.................................. $ 1,864,082 $440,691 $ -- $2,304,773
Securities available for sale............................... 182,440 217,945 -- 400,385
Securities held to maturity................................. 273,813 -- -- 273,813
Other interest income....................................... 41,959 6,161 -- 48,120
Total interest income................................ 2,362,294 664,797 -- 3,027,091
INTEREST EXPENSE
Total deposits.............................................. 539,232 243,632 -- 782,864
Short-term borrowings....................................... 272,572 45,834 -- 318,406
Other....................................................... 226,584 41,225 -- 267,809
Total interest expense............................... 1,038,388 330,691 -- 1,369,079
Net interest income......................................... 1,323,906 334,106 -- 1,658,012
Provision for loan losses................................... 71,763 24,359 -- 96,122
Net interest income after provision for oan losses.......... 1,252,143 309,747 -- 1,561,890
OTHER INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts......................... 196,149 34,557 -- 230,706
Fees for trust services..................................... 128,100 13,926 -- 142,026
Investment securities gains (losses)........................ 3,320 (25,984) -- (22,664)
Other income................................................ 280,183 36,739 -- 316,922
Total other income................................... 607,752 59,238 -- 666,990
OTHER EXPENSE
Salaries and employee benefits.............................. 563,507 127,683 -- 691,190
Net occupancy and equipment expense......................... 187,419 41,653 -- 229,072
Other expense............................................... 347,487 75,729 -- 423,216
Total other expense.................................. 1,098,413 245,065 -- 1,343,478
Income before income taxes.................................. 761,482 123,920 -- 885,402
Income tax expense.......................................... 222,424 39,056 -- 261,480
NET INCOME.................................................. $ 539,058 $ 84,864 $ -- $ 623,922
Net income per primary share................................ $3.13 $1.45 $2.98
Weighted average primary shares outstanding................. 172,339 58,742 209,346
Net income per fully diluted share.......................... $3.12 $1.42 $2.96
Weighted average fully diluted shares outstanding........... 172,951 59,861 210,663
</TABLE>
See "Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information."
43
<PAGE>
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
(1) Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, each outstanding share (56,724,684
shares at June 30, 1997) of Central Fidelity Common Stock will be
converted into 0.63 of a share of Wachovia Common Stock (35,736,551 at
June 30, 1997) subject to adjustment in the event of stock dividends,
stock splits or similar changes in Wachovia's capitalization.
(2) Reflects Wachovia management's current estimate, for purposes of pro
forma presentation, of the aggregate estimated merger and restructuring
costs of $174 million ($113 million net of taxes) expected to be
incurred in connection with the Merger. While a portion of these costs
may be required to be recognized over time, the current estimate of
these costs has been recorded in the Pro Forma Combined Statement of
Condition in order to disclose the aggregate effect of these activities
on Wachovia's pro forma combined financial position. The estimated
aggregate costs, primarily comprised of anticipated cash charges,
include the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C>
Personnel................................................................. $ 43
Systems and operations.................................................... 67
Business unit integration and branch conversions.......................... 34
Other..................................................................... 30
$ 174
</TABLE>
The personnel costs include costs of staff reductions, comprising
employee severance costs, termination of certain employee benefit plans
and employee assistance costs for separated employees resulting from
reorganizations in connection with the Merger. Systems and operations
costs include costs associated with the elimination of redundant systems,
including service contract terminations and other related costs of
computer equipment and software write-offs due to duplication or
incompatibility, and costs of transitioning customer accounts to a common
system. Business unit integration and branch conversion costs consist of
business unit consolidation expenses, lease termination and other costs
associated with the closing and disposition of redundant branches and
marketing and communications costs. Other expense includes transaction
costs and other expenses directly associated with completing the Merger.
Wachovia anticipates that the majority of these costs, primarily
comprised of cash charges, will be paid in 1997 and 1998.
Management's cost estimates are forward looking. While the costs
represent management's current estimate of merger and restructuring costs
that will be incurred, the ultimate level and timing of recognition of
such costs will be based on the final merger and integration plan to be
completed prior to consummation of the Merger, which is currently being
developed by various Wachovia and Central Fidelity task forces and
integration committees. Readers are cautioned that the completion of the
Merger and integration plan and the resulting management plans detailing
actions to be undertaken to effect the Merger will impact these
estimates; the type and amount of actual costs incurred could vary
materially from these estimates if future developments differ from the
underlying assumptions used by management in determining its current
estimate of these costs. See the statement regarding forward looking
statements under "Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference."
44
<PAGE>
DESCRIPTION OF WACHOVIA CAPITAL STOCK
THE DESCRIPTIVE INFORMATION BELOW OUTLINES CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF WACHOVIA'S
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS AND THE NORTH CAROLINA BUSINESS CORPORATION
ACT. THE INFORMATION DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE AND IS QUALIFIED IN ALL
RESPECTS BY REFERENCE TO THE PROVISIONS OF WACHOVIA'S ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
AND BYLAWS, WHICH ARE INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE AS EXHIBITS TO THE REGISTRATION
STATEMENT, AND THE NORTH CAROLINA BUSINESS CORPORATION ACT. SEE "AVAILABLE
INFORMATION."
GENERAL
Wachovia's authorized capital stock consists of 500,000,000 shares of
Wachovia Common Stock, and 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $5.00
per share (the "Wachovia Preferred Stock"). As of June 30, 1997 there were
159,539,560 shares of Wachovia Common Stock outstanding and no shares of
Wachovia Preferred Stock outstanding. In addition, at July 31, 1997, 22,219,602
shares of Wachovia Common Stock were reserved for issuance upon conversion of
notes, exercise of stock options and awards and under Wachovia's dividend
reinvestment plan. In addition, Wachovia estimates that approximately 47,723,000
shares of Wachovia Common Stock will be issued in connection with the Jefferson
Merger, the 1st United Merger and the Merger.
Because Wachovia is a holding company, the rights of Wachovia to
participate in any distribution of assets of any subsidiary upon its liquidation
or reorganization or otherwise (and thus the ability of Wachovia's shareholders
to benefit indirectly from such distribution) would be subject to the prior
claims of creditors of that subsidiary, except to the extent that Wachovia
itself may be a creditor of that subsidiary with recognized claims. Claims on
Wachovia's subsidiaries by creditors other than Wachovia will include
substantial obligations with respect to deposit liabilities and purchased funds.
PREFERRED STOCK
The Wachovia Board is authorized to fix the preferences, limitations and
relative rights of the Wachovia Preferred Stock and may establish series of such
Wachovia Preferred Stock and determine the variations between series, and may
cause Wachovia to issue any such shares without the approval of the holders of
Wachovia Common Stock. If and when any Wachovia Preferred Stock is issued, the
holders of Wachovia Preferred Stock may have a preference over holders of
Wachovia Common Stock in the payment of dividends, upon liquidation of Wachovia,
in respect of voting rights and in the redemption of the capital stock of
Wachovia.
COMMON STOCK
DIVIDENDS. The holders of Wachovia Common Stock are entitled to share
ratably in dividends when and if declared by the Wachovia Board from funds
legally available therefor.
VOTING RIGHTS. Each holder of Wachovia Common Stock has one vote for each
share held on matters presented for consideration by the shareholders.
CLASSIFICATION OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS. The Wachovia Board is divided into
three classes, each serving three-year terms, so that approximately one-third of
the directors of Wachovia are elected at each annual meeting of the shareholders
of Wachovia. Classification of the Wachovia Board has the effect of decreasing
the number of directors that could be elected in a single year by any person who
seeks to elect its designees to a majority of the seats on the Wachovia Board
and thereby could impede a change in control of Wachovia.
PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS. The holders of Wachovia Common Stock have no preemptive
rights to acquire any additional shares of Wachovia Common Stock.
ISSUANCE OF STOCK. Wachovia's articles of incorporation (the "Wachovia
Articles") authorize the Wachovia Board to issue authorized shares of Wachovia
Common Stock and Wachovia Preferred Stock and any other securities without
shareholder approval. However, Wachovia Common Stock is listed on the NYSE,
which requires shareholder approval of the issuance of additional shares of
Wachovia Common Stock under certain circumstances.
LIQUIDATION RIGHTS. In the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding-up
of Wachovia, whether voluntary or involuntary, the holders of Wachovia Common
Stock will be entitled to share ratably in any of its assets or funds
45
<PAGE>
that are available for distribution to its shareholders after the satisfaction
of its liabilities (or after adequate provision is made therefor) and after
preferences of any outstanding Wachovia Preferred Stock.
CHANGES IN CONTROL
Certain provisions of the Wachovia Articles and Wachovia's bylaws may have
the effect of preventing, discouraging or delaying any change in control of
Wachovia. The authority of the Wachovia Board to issue Wachovia Preferred Stock
with such rights and privileges as it may deem appropriate may enable the
Wachovia Board to prevent a change in control despite a shift in ownership of
the Wachovia Common Stock. In addition, the Wachovia Board's power to issue
additional shares of Wachovia Common Stock may help delay or deter a change in
control by increasing the number of shares needed to gain control. Moreover, the
classification of the Wachovia Board would delay the ability of a dissatisfied
shareholder or anyone who obtains a controlling interest in the Wachovia Common
Stock to elect its designees to a majority of the seats on the Wachovia Board.
The following provisions also may deter any change in control of Wachovia.
FAIR PRICE PROVISIONS. Certain provisions of the Wachovia Articles (the
"Fair Price Provisions") limit the ability of an Interested Shareholder to
effect certain transactions involving Wachovia. An "Interested Shareholder" is
defined in the Wachovia Articles to mean a shareholder who directly or
indirectly beneficially owns, alone or with associates or affiliates, more than
10% of the outstanding voting shares of Wachovia or a subsidiary of Wachovia,
and certain assignees of or successors to any share of capital stock of Wachovia
or a subsidiary which was at any time within two years prior thereto
beneficially owned by an Interested Shareholder. Such transactions, which are
referred to below collectively as a "Business Combination," include any merger
with or consolidation into an Interested Shareholder or an affiliate thereof,
any sale or other disposition of more than $25 million in assets to an
Interested Shareholder or an associate or affiliate thereof, any issuance or
transfer to any Interested Shareholder, or an associate or affiliate thereof, of
equity securities of Wachovia or a subsidiary having a fair market value of $10
million or more, any recapitalization or reclassification of Wachovia securities
or similar transaction increasing the percentage of outstanding shares owned by
an Interested Shareholder or an associate or affiliate thereof or any proposal
for liquidation or dissolution of Wachovia.
Under the Fair Price Provisions, a Business Combination must either (i) be
approved by the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting securities
of Wachovia and the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of
Wachovia Common Stock not owned by the Interested Shareholder or (ii) comply
with either the Continuing Director (as defined below) approval requirements
described in this paragraph or the price requirements described in the following
paragraph, in which case a Business Combination must be approved by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting shares of Wachovia
entitled to vote thereon. Under the Continuing Director requirement, the
Business Combination must be approved by 66 2/3% of the "Continuing Directors,"
which consist of directors elected by shareholders of Wachovia prior to the
Interested Shareholder's acquisition of more than 10% of the voting securities
and any directors recommended to join the Wachovia Board by a majority of
directors so elected. These approval provisions are less stringent than those
contained in the North Carolina Shareholder Protection Act, which is not
applicable to Wachovia (see -- "Antitakeover Legislation"), but are more
stringent than the standard provisions of the North Carolina Business
Corporation Act, which would apply in the absence of the Fair Price Provisions.
Under the price requirements of the Fair Price Provisions, the price per
share paid in a Business Combination must be at least equal to the greater of
(i) the fair market value per share of Wachovia Common Stock on the date of the
first public announcement of the proposed Business Combination (the
"Announcement Date") or on the date on which the Interested Shareholder became
an Interested Shareholder, whichever is higher, multiplied by the ratio of (A)
the highest per share price paid by the Interested Shareholder for any shares of
Wachovia Common Stock acquired by it during the two-year period immediately
prior to the Announcement Date to (B) the fair market value per share of
Wachovia Common Stock on the first day during such two-year period on which the
Interested Shareholder acquired any shares of Wachovia Common Stock and (ii) the
highest per share price paid by such Interested Shareholder in acquiring any
shares of Wachovia Common Stock. In addition, the consideration paid for
Wachovia Common Stock in a Business Combination must be either cash or the same
form of consideration paid by the Interested Shareholder to acquire its shares
of Wachovia Common Stock. Moreover, the Interested Shareholder must not (i)
have, directly or indirectly, acquired, after having become an Interested
Shareholder, additional shares of newly issued Wachovia capital stock from
Wachovia (other than upon conversion of convertible securities, a pro rata stock
dividend or stock split or pursuant to the Fair Price provisions),
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(ii) have received the benefit directly, or indirectly, of financial assistance
from Wachovia or (iii) have made any major changes in Wachovia's business or
equity capital structure.
The Fair Price Provisions are designed to discourage attempts to take over
Wachovia in non-negotiated transactions utilizing two-tier pricing tactics,
which typically involve the accumulation of a substantial block of the target
corporation's stock followed by a merger or other reorganization of the acquired
company on terms determined by the purchaser. In such two-step takeover
attempts, the purchaser generally pays cash to acquire a controlling interest in
a company and acquires the remaining equity interest by paying the remaining
shareholders a price lower than that paid to acquire the controlling interest,
often utilizing non-cash consideration.
Although federal and state securities laws and regulations require that
disclosure be made to shareholders of the terms of such a transaction, these
laws provide no assurance that the financial terms of such a transaction will be
fair to shareholders or that the shareholders can effectively prevent its
consummation. The Fair Price Provisions are intended to address some of the
effects of these gaps in federal and state law and to prevent some of the
potential inequities of two-step takeover attempts by encouraging negotiations
with Wachovia. While the terms of such a non-negotiated takeover could be fair
to Wachovia shareholders, negotiated transactions may result in more favorable
terms to Wachovia's shareholders because of such factors as timing of the
transaction, tax effects on the shareholders, and the fact that the nature and
amount of the consideration paid to all shareholders will be negotiated by the
parties at arm's length rather than dictated by the purchaser.
The Fair Price Provisions are designed to protect those shareholders who
have not tendered or otherwise sold their shares to an Interested Shareholder in
the initial step of a takeover attempt to which the requisite majority of
shareholders or Continuing Directors is not receptive by assuring that at least
the same price and form of consideration are paid to such shareholders as were
paid in the initial step of the acquisition.
Due to the difficulties of complying with the requirements of the Fair
Price Provisions, the Fair Price Provisions generally may discourage attempts to
obtain control of Wachovia. As a result, holders of Wachovia Common Stock may be
deprived of an opportunity to sell their shares at a premium above the market
price. In addition, the Fair Price Provisions would give veto power to the
holders of a minority of the shares of Wachovia Common Stock with respect to a
Business Combination which is opposed by more than 33 1/3% of the Continuing
Directors but which a majority of shareholders may believe to be desirable and
beneficial. Moreover, in any Business Combination not receiving the requisite
supermajority approval of shareholders or of Continuing Directors, the minimum
price provisions of the Fair Price Provisions, while providing objective pricing
criteria, could be arbitrary and not indicative of value.
REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS. A director of Wachovia may be removed only for cause
and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of 66 2/3% of the outstanding
voting shares and a majority of the voting shares not held by Interested
Shareholders.
AMENDMENT OF WACHOVIA ARTICLES. Except in certain specified circumstances,
the provisions of the Wachovia Articles concerning their amendment; the duration
of the corporation; the authorized capital stock; the number, classification,
election and removal of directors; the absence of pre-emptive rights for
shareholders; and the approval of Business Combinations may be amended only by
the affirmative vote of the holders of 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting shares
and a majority of the outstanding voting shares not held by Interested
Shareholders.
ANTITAKEOVER LEGISLATION. In 1987 the North Carolina General Assembly
enacted The North Carolina Shareholder Protection Act and The North Carolina
Control Share Acquisition Act (the "Control Share Act"), each of which contains
provisions intended to prevent, discourage or delay a change in control of North
Carolina corporations electing to be covered by such legislation. Wachovia has
elected to be subject only to the Control Share Act. For a summary of the
material provisions of the Control Share Act, see "Certain Differences in the
Rights of Wachovia Shareholders and Central Fidelity Shareholders -- Control
Share Acquisitions."
CONTROL ACQUISITIONS. The Federal Change in Bank Control Act of 1978, as
amended, prohibits a person or group of persons from acquiring "control" of a
bank holding company unless the Federal Reserve Board has been given 60 days'
prior written notice of such proposed acquisition and within that time period
the Federal Reserve Board has not issued a notice disapproving the proposed
acquisition or extending for up to another 30 days the period during which such
a disapproval may be issued. An acquisition may be made prior to the expiration
of the disapproval period if the Federal Reserve Board issues written notice of
its intent not to disapprove the action. Under a rebuttable presumption
established by the Federal Reserve Board, the acquisition of more than 10% of a
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class of voting stock of a bank holding company with a class of securities
registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act would, under the circumstances
set forth in the presumption, constitute the acquisition of control.
In addition, any "company" would be required to obtain the approval of the
Federal Reserve Board under the BHC Act before acquiring 25% (5% in the case of
an acquiror that is a bank holding company) or more of the outstanding shares of
Wachovia Common Stock, or such lesser number of shares as constitute control
over Wachovia.
SAVINGS AND LOAN HOLDING COMPANY REGULATIONS. As a savings and loan holding
company, Wachovia is subject to additional regulations that restrict
acquisitions of control by third parties. Subject to certain limited exceptions,
control of a savings association or a savings and loan holding company may only
be obtained with the approval (or in the case of an acquisition of control by an
individual, the absence of disapproval) of the Office of Thrift Supervision
("OTS"), after a public comment and application review process. Any company
acquiring control of a savings association becomes a savings and loan holding
company, must register and file periodic reports with the OTS, and is subject to
OTS examination.
CERTAIN DIFFERENCES IN THE RIGHTS OF WACHOVIA
SHAREHOLDERS AND CENTRAL FIDELITY SHAREHOLDERS
At the Effective Time, Central Fidelity shareholders automatically will
become shareholders of Wachovia, and their rights as shareholders will be
determined by the Wachovia Articles, Wachovia's bylaws and the North Carolina
Business Corporation Act, instead of by the articles of incorporation and bylaws
of Central Fidelity and the Virginia Stock Corporation Act. The following is a
summary of the material differences in the rights of shareholders of Wachovia
and Central Fidelity. This summary is necessarily general and does not purport
to be a complete discussion of, and is qualified in its entirety by reference
to, the Virginia Stock Corporation Act, the North Carolina Business Corporation
Act and the articles of incorporation and bylaws of each corporation.
AMENDMENT OF ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS
WACHOVIA. The Wachovia Articles provide that the affirmative vote of at
least 66 2/3% of voting shares of Wachovia, including a majority of the shares
held by a person other than an Interested Shareholder, is required to repeal
certain provisions of the Wachovia Articles relating to the duration of the
corporation, the authorized capital stock, the number, classification, election
and removal of directors, preemptive rights of shareholders, business
combinations and amendment of the Wachovia Articles. Amendment of such
provisions requires the approval of the holders of at least 66 2/3% of the
voting shares of Wachovia, including a majority of the voting shares not held by
an Interested Shareholder, unless (i) there is no Interested Shareholder and
such amendment is approved by a majority of the Wachovia Board or (ii) there
exists an Interested Shareholder, but such amendment is approved by at least
66 2/3% of the Continuing Directors, in either which case the affirmative vote
of the holders of at least a majority of the voting shares is sufficient to
approve any such amendment.
Wachovia's bylaws provide that the Wachovia Board has the power to adopt,
amend or repeal the bylaws by a vote of a majority of the directors then in
office, subject to the right of the shareholders to adopt, amend or repeal the
bylaws, except that a bylaw adopted, amended or repealed by the shareholders may
not be readopted, amended or repealed by the Wachovia Board, unless the Wachovia
Articles or a bylaw adopted by shareholders authorizes the Wachovia Board to do
so.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Except with respect to provisions pertaining to the
number, classification, election and removal of directors and certain business
combinations with Interested Stockholders (as defined below, see
" -- Restrictions on Certain Business Combinations -- Central Fidelity"),
Central Fidelity's articles of incorporation may be amended by the affirmative
vote of a majority of each class of shares outstanding and entitled to vote. The
provisions of the articles of incorporation pertaining to directors and certain
business combinations may only be amended by the affirmative vote of 80% or more
of each class of shares outstanding and entitled to vote.
SPECIAL MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS
WACHOVIA. A special meeting of the shareholders of Wachovia may be called
only by its Chief Executive Officer or by the Wachovia Board.
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CENTRAL FIDELITY. A special meeting of the shareholders of Central Fidelity
may be called by the Central Fidelity Board, the Chairman of the Central
Fidelity Board or the President.
NUMBER OF DIRECTORS, CLASSIFIED BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WACHOVIA. Wachovia's bylaws state that the number of directors shall not be
less than nine, with the exact number of directors to be fixed by resolution of
the Wachovia Board. The Wachovia Board has fixed the number at sixteen
directors. Wachovia's bylaws state that the Wachovia Board shall be divided into
three classes to serve staggered three-year terms. The effect of Wachovia's
having a classified board of directors is that approximately only one-third of
the members of the Wachovia Board are elected each year; consequently, two
annual meetings are effectively required for Wachovia's shareholders to change a
majority of the members of the Wachovia Board.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity's bylaws state that the number of
directors shall not be less than three, with the exact number of directors to be
fixed by the Central Fidelity Board. The Central Fidelity Board currently has
thirteen directors. Central Fidelity's articles of incorporation and bylaws
state that the Central Fidelity Board shall be divided into three classes to
serve staggered three-year terms. The effect of Central Fidelity's having a
classified board of directors is that approximately only one-third of the
members of the Central Fidelity Board are elected each year; consequently, two
annual meetings are effectively required for Central Fidelity's shareholders to
change a majority of the members of the Central Fidelity Board.
REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS
WACHOVIA. Wachovia's bylaws state that a director of Wachovia may be
removed only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of
66 2/3% of the outstanding voting shares, including a majority of the voting
shares not held by an Interested Shareholder.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity's articles of incorporation and bylaws
state that a director may be removed, with or without cause, by a vote of
shareholders holding 80% of the shares entitled to vote for the election of
directors.
ADVANCE NOTICE OF DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS
WACHOVIA. Wachovia's bylaws provide that director nominations by the
Wachovia Board must include the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer, if the
Chief Executive Officer is not the Chairman, and if such person is not then a
director or his or her term as a director is set to expire. Director nominations
by a shareholder must be made in writing and delivered or mailed to the Chief
Executive Officer of Wachovia not less than 14 days nor more than 50 days prior
to any meeting of shareholders at which directors are to be elected, except that
if less than 21 days' notice of the meeting is given to shareholders, such
notification of the nomination must be mailed or delivered to the Chief
Executive Officer of Wachovia not later than the close of business on the
seventh day following the day on which the notice of meeting was mailed.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity's bylaws provide that nominations for
election to the Central Fidelity Board may be made by the Central Fidelity Board
or by any holder of any shares of the capital stock of Central Fidelity entitled
to vote for the election of directors. Nominations other than those made by or
on behalf of the Central Fidelity Board must be made in writing delivered or
mailed to the Secretary of Central Fidelity and received no less than 60 days
nor more than 90 days prior to any meeting of shareholders called for the
election of directors. However, if notice of the meeting is mailed or public
disclosure made to shareholders less than 70 days before the date set for the
meeting, the nomination must be mailed or delivered to be received not later
than the close of business on the tenth day following the day on which the
notice of the meeting was mailed or public disclosure made.
RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
WACHOVIA. The Wachovia Articles have restrictions which are designed to
discourage attempts to acquire control of Wachovia in non-negotiated
transactions through the use of two-tier pricing tactics. The Fair Price
Provisions are described above under "Description of Wachovia Capital
Stock -- Changes in Control -- Fair Price Provisions."
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<PAGE>
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity's articles of incorporation also contain
fair price provisions. These provisions limit the ability of an Interested
Stockholder to effect certain transactions involving Central Fidelity. An
"Interested Stockholder" is defined in Central Fidelity's articles of
incorporation to mean a person who directly or indirectly beneficially owns more
than 20% of the outstanding voting shares of Central Fidelity or who is an
affiliate of Central Fidelity and within two years of the applicable action
directly or indirectly beneficially owned more than 20% of the outstanding
voting shares of Central Fidelity, and certain assignees of or successors to any
voting shares of Central Fidelity which were at any time within two years prior
thereto beneficially owned by an Interested Stockholder. Such transactions,
which are referred to below collectively as a "Business Combination," include
any merger with or consolidation into an Interested Stockholder or an affiliate
thereof, any sale or other disposition of more than $15 million in assets to an
Interested Stockholder or an affiliate thereof, any issuance or transfer to any
Interested Stockholder, or an affiliate thereof, of equity securities of Central
Fidelity or a subsidiary having a fair market value of $15 million or more, any
proposal for liquidation or dissolution of Central Fidelity or any
recapitalization or reclassification of Central Fidelity securities or similar
transaction increasing the percentage of outstanding shares owned by an
Interested Stockholder or an affiliate thereof.
Under these provisions, a Business Combination must either (i) be approved
by the holders of at least 80% of the outstanding voting securities of Central
Fidelity or (ii) comply with either (a) the Disinterested Director (as defined
below) approval requirements described in this paragraph or (b) the price
requirements described in the following paragraph, in which case a Business
Combination must be approved by such affirmative vote as is otherwise required
by law. Under the Disinterested Director requirement, the Business Combination
must be approved by a majority of the "Disinterested Directors," which consist
of directors who became so prior to the Interested Stockholder's acquisition of
more than 20% of the voting securities and any directors recommended to join the
Central Fidelity Board by a majority of such Disinterested Directors.
Under the fair price requirements, in addition to certain other conditions,
the price per share paid to holders of Central Fidelity Common Stock in a
Business Combination must be at least equal to the higher of (i) the highest per
share price paid by the Interested Stockholder for any shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock acquired by it during the two-year period immediately
prior to the date of the first public announcement of the proposed Business
Combination (the "Announcement Date") or in the transaction in which it became
an Interested Stockholder, whichever is higher, and (ii) the fair market value
per share of Central Fidelity Common Stock on the Announcement Date or the date
the Interested Stockholder became an Interested Stockholder (the "Determination
Date"), whichever is higher. The price per share paid to any other class of
voting shares must be at least the highest of (i) the highest per share price
paid by the Interested Stockholder for any other voting shares acquired by it
during the two-year period immediately prior to the Announcement Date or in the
transaction in which it became an Interested Stockholder, whichever is higher,
(ii) the highest amount such holders would be entitled to upon dissolution and
(iii) the fair market value per share on the Announcement Date or on the
Determination Date, whichever is greatest. In addition, the consideration paid
for voting shares in a Business Combination must be either cash or the same form
of consideration paid by the Interested Stockholder to acquire such shares.
CONTROL SHARE ACQUISITIONS
WACHOVIA. The Control Share Act contains provisions that, under certain
circumstances, would preclude an acquiror of the shares of a North Carolina
corporation who crosses one of three voting thresholds (20%, 33 1/3% or 50%)
from obtaining voting control with respect to such shares unless a majority in
interest of the disinterested shareholders of the corporation votes to accord
voting power to such shares.
The Control Share Act provides that, in the event control shares are
accorded voting rights and, as a consequence, the holders of the control shares
have a majority of all voting power for the election of directors, the
corporation's shareholders, other than holders of control shares, may cause the
corporation to redeem their shares. The right of redemption is subject to
limitations on corporate distributions to shareholders and any contrary
provision in the corporation's articles of incorporation or bylaws adopted by
the shareholders prior to the occurrence of a control share acquisition. The
Wachovia Articles and bylaws do not limit the ability of shareholders to cause
Wachovia to redeem their shares under the circumstances described above.
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CENTRAL FIDELITY. The Virginia Stock Corporation Act contains similar
provisions relating to control share acquisitions, but, as permitted by statute,
Central Fidelity has provided in its bylaws that such provisions will not apply
to acquisitions of shares of Central Fidelity.
LIMITATION ON DIRECTOR LIABILITY
WACHOVIA. The Wachovia Articles provide that, to the full extent permitted
by law, a director of Wachovia will have no personal liability to Wachovia or
its shareholders for monetary damages for breach of his or her duty as a
director, whether such action is brought by or in the right of Wachovia or
otherwise. North Carolina law generally provides for limitation on a director's
liability provided that no such provision shall be effective with respect to (i)
acts or omissions that the director at the time of such breach knew or believed
were clearly in conflict with the best interests of the corporation, (ii) any
liability for unlawful distributions, (iii) any transaction from which the
director derived an improper personal benefit or (iv) acts or omissions
occurring prior to the date the provisions became effective.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity's articles of incorporation provide
that, to the full extent permitted by law, a director or officer of Central
Fidelity will not be liable to Central Fidelity or its shareholders for any
monetary damages in excess of one dollar.
INDEMNIFICATION
WACHOVIA. Wachovia's bylaws provide for indemnification of any liability of
directors, officers, employees or agents of Wachovia or any wholly-owned
subsidiary of Wachovia. Indemnification payments for liabilities and litigation
expenses may be made only following a determination that the activities of the
person to be indemnified (the "Claimant") were at the time taken not known or
believed by the Claimant to be clearly in conflict with the best interest of
Wachovia. Such determination will be made (i) by a majority of disinterested
directors (if there are at least two such directors), (ii) if there are not two
such directors or if a majority of the disinterested directors so directs, by
independent legal counsel in a written opinion, (iii) by a majority of the
shareholders, or (iv) in accordance with any reasonable procedures prescribed by
the Wachovia Board prior to the assertion of the claim for which indemnification
is sought. If the Claimant is an officer or an employee of Wachovia, the
determination may be made by the chief executive officer or a designee of the
chief executive officer.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity's articles of incorporation provide for
indemnification of liabilities and expenses of directors and officers (and, by
majority vote of the Central Fidelity Board, any other person serving as an
employee or agent of Central Fidelity or serving at the request of Central
Fidelity as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust employee benefit plan or other profit or
non-profit enterprise), except such liabilities and expenses incurred because of
such person's willful misconduct or knowing violation of the criminal law.
DISSENTERS' RIGHTS
WACHOVIA. North Carolina law generally provides dissenters' rights for
mergers and certain share exchanges that would require shareholder approval,
sales of all or substantially all of the assets (other than sales that are in
the usual and regular course of business and certain liquidations and
court-ordered sales), certain amendments to the articles of incorporation and
any corporate action taken pursuant to a shareholder vote to the extent the
articles of incorporation, bylaws or a resolution of the board of directors
entitles shareholders to dissent.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Virginia law generally provides for dissenters' rights in
connection with mergers and share exchanges that would require shareholder
approval, and for sales of substantially all of the assets of a corporation
(other than in the usual and regular course of business and other than certain
liquidations and court-ordered sales) except in certain circumstances. The
Virginia Stock Corporation Act provides that no holder of any class or series of
shares is entitled to dissent with respect to such a transaction unless, among
other things: (i) in the case of a plan of merger or share exchange, the holders
of that class or series of shares are required to accept for such shares
anything other than (a) cash, (b) shares, or shares and cash in lieu of
fractional shares, of the surviving or acquiring corporation or of any other
corporation that at the record date fixed for determining shareholders entitled
to receive notice of and to vote at the meeting at which the merger or share
exchange will be acted on, were either listed subject to notice of issuance on a
national securities exchange or held of record by at least 2,000 stockholders,
or (c) a combination of cash and shares as set forth in (a) and (b) above; or
(ii) the transaction to be
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voted on is an "affiliated transaction" and is not approved by a majority of
disinterested directors as required by the Virginia Stock Corporation Act.
Holders of the Central Fidelity Common Stock have no dissenters' rights with
respect to the consummation of the Merger.
RIGHT TO RECEIVE REPORTS
WACHOVIA. The North Carolina Business Corporation Act provides that
Wachovia must notify its shareholders if the corporation indemnifies or advances
expenses to a director under the provisions of the North Carolina Business
Corporation Act in connection with a shareholder derivative action, or if
Wachovia issues or authorizes the issuance of shares for promissory notes or for
promises to render services in the future.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. Central Fidelity's shareholders are not entitled to such
notification under the Virginia Stock Corporation Act, although the disclosure
requirements of the federal securities laws may in some cases require disclosure
of such matters to Central Fidelity's shareholders in proxy statements and other
documents filed with the Commission.
SHAREHOLDER INSPECTION RIGHTS; SHAREHOLDER LISTS
WACHOVIA. Under the North Carolina Business Corporation Act, qualified
shareholders have the right to inspect and copy certain records of Wachovia if
their demand is in good faith and for a proper purpose. Such right of inspection
requires that the shareholder give Wachovia at least five business days' written
notice of the demand, describing with reasonable particularity the purpose and
the requested records. The records must be directly connected with the
shareholder's purpose. The rights of inspection and copying extend not only to
shareholders of record but also to beneficial owners whose beneficial ownership
is certified to Wachovia by the shareholder of record. However, Wachovia is
under no duty to provide any accounting records or any records with respect to
any matter that Wachovia determines in good faith may, if disclosed, adversely
affect Wachovia in the conduct of its business or may constitute material
non-public information, and the rights of inspection and copying are limited to
shareholders who either have been stockholders for at least six months or who
hold at least five percent of the outstanding shares of any class of stock of
Wachovia.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. The Virginia Stock Corporation Act permits any Central
Fidelity shareholder, upon written demand submitted at least five business days
in advance, to inspect and copy certain listed materials, including the articles
of incorporation, the bylaws and certain Central Fidelity Board resolutions and
minutes of shareholders' meetings. The Virginia Stock Corporation Act further
permits a Central Fidelity shareholder who has held his shares for six months or
more or who owns five percent or more of the outstanding stock of Central
Fidelity, upon five business days' prior written demand made in good faith and
for a proper purpose, to inspect and copy the accounting records, excerpts from
minutes of meeting of the Central Fidelity Board and its committees, the minutes
of any shareholders' meetings and the list of shareholders. In addition, Central
Fidelity is required to prepare a shareholder list with respect to any
shareholders' meeting and to make such list available at Central Fidelity's
principal office to any shareholder for a period of ten days prior to the
meeting and during such meeting and any adjournments thereof.
SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS PLAN
WACHOVIA. Wachovia has no shareholder rights plan. This may make it less
difficult for a potential acquiror to effect a non-negotiated business
combination with Wachovia than with Central Fidelity.
CENTRAL FIDELITY. In the event that any person or affiliated group becomes
the beneficial owner of 10% or more of the outstanding Central Fidelity Common
Stock, subject to certain exclusions provided in the Central Fidelity Rights
Agreement (an "Acquiring Person"), each holder of a Right, other than Rights
beneficially owned by the Acquiring Person, will thereafter have the right to
receive, upon exercise of the Right at the exercise price (initially $110,
subject to adjustment), that number of shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock
having an aggregate market price equal to twice the purchase price. Central
Fidelity may at its option substitute shares of Series A Junior Participating
Preferred Stock, par value $25.00 per share ("Preferred Shares"), for each share
of Central Fidelity Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Rights, at the rate
of one one-hundredth of a Preferred Share for each share of Common Stock so
issuable. In the event that, at any time after an Acquiring Person has become
such, (a) Central Fidelity is acquired in a merger or share exchange with the
Acquiring Person or its affiliates or associates or a merger or share exchange
in which any terms or arrangements of the transaction relating to the
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Acquiring Person are not identical to the terms or arrangements with respect to
other holders of Central Fidelity Common Stock or (b) assets representing more
than 50% of the consolidated assets or earning power of Central Fidelity are
sold and, at the time of any such transaction described in (a) or (b) above (or
any agreement in respect thereof), the Acquiring Person controls the Central
Fidelity Board, Central Fidelity is prohibited from entering into such
transaction until proper provision has been made so that each holder of a Right
would thereafter have the right to receive, upon exercise of the Right at the
exercise price, that number of shares of common stock of the acquiring company
having an aggregate market price on the date of such transaction equal to twice
the Purchase Price.
Central Fidelity has amended the Central Fidelity Rights Agreement so that
the execution of the Merger Agreement and the consummation of the Merger or the
exercise by Wachovia of its rights under the Stock Option Agreement will not
trigger the exercisability of the Rights. See "The Merger -- Amendment to the
Central Fidelity Rights Agreement."
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICES AND DIVIDENDS
WACHOVIA
Wachovia Common Stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol "WB." The
following table sets forth, for the indicated periods, the high and low closing
sale prices for Wachovia Common Stock as reported by the NYSE, and the cash
dividends declared per share of Wachovia Common Stock for the indicated periods.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRICE RANGE CASH DIVIDENDS
QUARTER HIGH LOW DECLARED PER SHARE
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1995:
First........................................................ $36 1/2 $32 $.33
Second....................................................... 37 7/8 34 1/4 .33
Third........................................................ 45 35 3/8 .36
Fourth....................................................... 48 1/4 43 1/8 .36
1996:
First........................................................ 48 3/8 41 1/4 .36
Second....................................................... 46 1/4 40 7/8 .36
Third........................................................ 49 7/8 39 5/8 .40
Fourth....................................................... 60 1/4 48 3/4 .40
1997:
First........................................................ 64 5/8 54 1/2 .40
Second....................................................... 66 7/8 53 1/2 .40
Third........................................................ 72 59 1/8 .44
</TABLE>
On June 23, 1997, the last trading day before public announcement of the
Merger, the closing price per share of Wachovia Common Stock on the NYSE was
$62 5/8. Past price performance is not necessarily indicative of likely future
price performance. Holders of Central Fidelity Common Stock are urged to obtain
current market quotations for shares of Wachovia Common Stock.
The holders of Wachovia Common Stock are entitled to receive dividends when
and if declared by the Wachovia Board out of funds legally available therefor.
Although Wachovia currently intends to continue paying quarterly cash dividends
on the Wachovia Common Stock, there can be no assurance that Wachovia's dividend
policy will remain unchanged after completion of the Merger. The declaration and
payment of dividends thereafter will depend upon business conditions, operating
results, capital and reserve requirements, and the Wachovia Board's
consideration of other relevant factors.
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CENTRAL FIDELITY
Central Fidelity Common Stock is traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under
the symbol "CFBS." The following table sets forth, for the indicated periods,
the high and low closing sale prices for Central Fidelity Common Stock as
reported in the Nasdaq Stock Market, and the cash dividends declared per share
of Central Fidelity Common Stock for the indicated periods.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRICE RANGE CASH DIVIDENDS
QUARTER HIGH LOW DECLARED PER SHARE
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1995:
First.................................................. $18.17 16.17 $ .19
Second................................................. 20.33 17.00 .20
Third.................................................. 22.00 19.50 .20
Fourth................................................. 22.67 20.50 .20
1996:
First.................................................. 23.00 21.09 .20
Second................................................. 23.50 22.00 .22
Third.................................................. 25.00 21.50 .22
Fourth................................................. 27.25 24.25 .22
1997:
First.................................................. 30.25 25.25 .22
Second................................................. 37.81 27.25 .24
Third.................................................. 44.25 36.50 .24
</TABLE>
On June 23, 1997, the last trading day before public announcement of the
Merger, the closing price per share of Central Fidelity Common Stock on the
Nasdaq Stock Market was $31 7/8. Past price performance is not necessarily
indicative of likely future price performance. Holders of Central Fidelity
Common Stock are urged to obtain current market quotations for shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock.
VOTING SECURITIES AND PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS OF CENTRAL FIDELITY
PRINCIPAL BENEFICIAL OWNERS
The following table lists the only shareholder known by Central Fidelity to
be the beneficial owner of more than five percent of outstanding Central
Fidelity Common Stock. In addition, Wachovia has the right under the Stock
Option Agreement to acquire up to 19.9% (16.6% after giving effect to the full
exercise thereof) of Central Fidelity Common Stock under certain conditions. See
"The Merger -- Stock Option Agreement."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AND ADDRESS OF AMOUNT AND NATURE OF PERCENT OF
BENEFICIAL OWNER BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP COMMON STOCK
<S> <C> <C>
The Capital Group Companies, Inc. 5,475,650 Shares (1) 9.2%
Capital Research and Management Company
333 South Hope Street
Los Angeles, CA 90071
</TABLE>
(1) The following information was obtained from a Schedule 13G filed jointly by
The Capital Group Companies, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Capital
Research and Management Company, with the Commission for the year ended
December 31, 1996. The Capital Group Companies, Inc., as parent holding
company of a group of investment management companies, held sole power to
vote, or to direct the voting of, 1,788,650 shares and sole power to
dispose, or to direct the disposition, of all 5,475,650 shares. Of those
shares, Capital Research and Management Company held the sole power to
dispose, or to direct the disposition, of 3,312,150 shares, or 5.6%, of
Central Fidelity Common Stock, but held no power to vote, or to direct the
voting over, the shares, as a result of acting as investment adviser to
various investment companies registered under Section 8 of the Investment
Company Act of 1940. The remaining shares reported as beneficially owned by
the Capital Group Companies, Inc. were beneficially owned by Capital
Guardian Trust Company, another wholly-owned subsidiary.
54
<PAGE>
SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Following is a table which indicates as of September 10, 1997, the amount
and the percent of beneficial ownership of Central Fidelity Common Stock for
each director, the Chief Executive Officer and the four other most highly
compensated executive officers, and all directors and executive officers as a
group. Unless otherwise noted, each individual has sole voting and sole
investment power with respect to the number of shares set forth opposite his
name.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AMOUNT AND NATURE OF PERCENT OF
NAME BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP (1) COMMON STOCK
<S> <C> <C>
James F. Betts...................................................... 41,148 *
Alvin R. Clements................................................... 60,435 *
Phyllis L. Cothran.................................................. 2,756 *
Jack H. Ferguson.................................................... 10,832 *
Thomas R. Glass..................................................... 32,864 *
Philip G. Hug....................................................... 141,093 *
George R. Lewis..................................................... 7,518 *
Jay O. Livingston................................................... 138,692 *
G. Bruce Miller..................................................... 28,806 *
Lewis N. Miller, Jr................................................. 365,065 *
T. Justin Moore, III................................................ 3,772 *
Richard L. Morrill.................................................. 4,824 *
Lloyd U. Noland, III................................................ 143,961 *
John T. Percy, Jr................................................... 138,814 *
William H. Pruitt................................................... 106,968 *
William G. Reynolds, Jr............................................. 18,830 *
Kenneth S. White.................................................... 23,603 *
All directors and executive officers as a group (30)................ 2,028,310 3.35 %
</TABLE>
(1) Includes beneficial ownership of the following shares which may be acquired
within 60 days of September 10, 1997 pursuant to stock options, by: Mr. Hug,
40,436 shares; Mr. Livingston, 46,920 shares; Mr. Lewis N. Miller, Jr.,
205,251 shares; Mr. Percy, 70,328 shares; Mr. Pruitt, 66,248 and all
directors and executive officers as a group, 955,471 shares.
* No individual director or named officer beneficially owns 1% or more of the
outstanding Central Fidelity Common Stock.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of Wachovia incorporated by reference
in Wachovia's Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1996,
have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, as set forth in
their report thereon incorporated by reference therein and incorporated herein
by reference. Such consolidated financial statements are incorporated by
reference in reliance upon such report given upon the authority of such firm as
experts in accounting and auditing.
The consolidated financial statements of Central Fidelity incorporated by
reference from Central Fidelity's Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
December 31, 1996, have been audited by KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent
auditors, as set forth in their report thereon incorporated by reference therein
and incorporated herein by reference in reliance upon such report given upon the
authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
VALIDITY OF WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK
The validity of the shares of Wachovia Common Stock being offered hereby
will be passed upon for Wachovia by Kenneth W. McAllister, Executive Vice
President and General Counsel.
55
<PAGE>
OTHER MATTERS
As of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, the Central Fidelity
Board knows of no matters that will be presented for consideration at the
Special Meeting other than as described in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
However, if any other matter shall come before the Special Meeting or any
adjournments or postponements thereof and shall be voted upon, the proposed
proxy will be deemed to confer authority to the individuals named as authorized
therein to vote the shares represented by such proxy as to any such matters that
fall within the purposes set forth in the Notice of Special Meeting, provided,
however, that no proxy which is voted against the proposal to approve the Merger
Agreement will be voted in favor of any adjournment or postponement.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
If the Merger is not consummated, Central Fidelity expects to hold its next
annual meeting of shareholders during May, 1998. In the event that such a
meeting is held, any proposals of shareholders intended to be presented at such
meeting must be received at Central Fidelity's principal executive offices at
1021 E. Cary Street, Post Office Box 27602, Richmond, Virginia, 23261-7602,
Attn: William N. Stoyko, Secretary, not less than 120 days prior to March 31,
1998 in order for such proposals to be included in Central Fidelity's proxy
statement and form of proxy related to such meeting. As required by Section 1.13
of Central Fidelity's bylaws for business to be properly brought before an
annual meeting by a shareholder, the shareholder must have given timely notice
thereof in writing to the Secretary of Central Fidelity. To be timely, a
shareholder's notice must be delivered to or mailed and received at the
principal executive offices of Central Fidelity not less than 60 days nor more
than 90 days prior to the meeting; provided, however, that in the event that
less than 70 days' notice or prior public disclosure of the date of the meeting
is given or made to shareholders, notice by the shareholder to be timely must be
so received not later than the close of business on the 10th day following the
day on which such notice of the date of the annul meeting was mailed or such
disclosure was made. A shareholder's notice to the Secretary shall set forth as
to each matter the shareholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting (a) a
brief description of the business desired to be brought before the annual
meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, (b)
the name and address, as they appear on Central Fidelity's books, of the
shareholder proposing such business, (c) the class and number of shares of
Central Fidelity which are beneficially owned by the shareholder, and (d) any
material interest of the shareholder in such business.
56
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
dated as of June 23, 1997
by and between
Wachovia Corporation
and
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
<S> <C> <C> <C>
RECITALS........................................................................................................ A-1
</TABLE>
ARTICLE I
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Certain Definitions............................................................................................. A-1
1.01 CERTAIN DEFINITIONS.......................................................................... A-1
</TABLE>
ARTICLE II
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
The Merger...................................................................................................... A-4
2.01 THE MERGER................................................................................... A-4
2.02 EFFECTIVE DATE AND EFFECTIVE TIME............................................................ A-4
2.03 PLAN OF MERGER............................................................................... A-4
</TABLE>
ARTICLE III
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Consideration; Exchange Procedures.............................................................................. A-5
3.01 MERGER CONSIDERATION......................................................................... A-5
3.02 RIGHTS AS STOCKHOLDERS; STOCK TRANSFERS...................................................... A-5
3.03 FRACTIONAL SHARES............................................................................ A-5
3.04 EXCHANGE PROCEDURES.......................................................................... A-5
3.05 ANTI-DILUTION PROVISIONS..................................................................... A-6
3.06 OPTIONS...................................................................................... A-6
</TABLE>
ARTICLE IV
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Actions Pending Acquisition..................................................................................... A-6
4.01 FOREBEARANCES OF CENTRAL..................................................................... A-6
4.02 FOREBEARANCES OF WACHOVIA.................................................................... A-8
</TABLE>
ARTICLE V
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Representations and Warranties.................................................................................. A-8
5.01 DISCLOSURE SCHEDULES......................................................................... A-8
5.02 STANDARD..................................................................................... A-8
5.03 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF CENTRAL.................................................... A-8
5.04 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF WACHOVIA................................................... A-14
</TABLE>
ARTICLE VI
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Covenants....................................................................................................... A-17
6.01 REASONABLE BEST EFFORTS...................................................................... A-17
6.02 STOCKHOLDER APPROVALS........................................................................ A-17
6.03 REGISTRATION STATEMENT....................................................................... A-17
6.04 PRESS RELEASES............................................................................... A-18
6.05 ACCESS; INFORMATION.......................................................................... A-18
6.06 ACQUISITION PROPOSALS........................................................................ A-18
6.07 AFFILIATE AGREEMENTS......................................................................... A-19
6.08 TAKEOVER LAWS................................................................................ A-19
6.09 CERTAIN POLICIES............................................................................. A-19
6.10 NYSE LISTING................................................................................. A-19
6.11 REGULATORY APPLICATIONS...................................................................... A-19
6.12 INDEMNIFICATION.............................................................................. A-19
6.13 BENEFIT PLANS................................................................................ A-20
6.14 ACCOUNTANTS' LETTERS......................................................................... A-21
6.15 NOTIFICATION OF CERTAIN MATTERS.............................................................. A-21
6.16 DIRECTORS.................................................................................... A-21
6.17 DIVIDEND COORDINATION........................................................................ A-21
</TABLE>
i
<PAGE>
ARTICLE VII
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Conditions to Consummation of the Merger........................................................................ A-21
7.01 CONDITIONS TO EACH PARTY'S OBLIGATION TO EFFECT THE MERGER................................... A-21
7.02 CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATION OF CENTRAL.......................................................... A-22
7.03 CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATION OF WACHOVIA......................................................... A-22
</TABLE>
ARTICLE VIII
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Termination..................................................................................................... A-23
8.01 TERMINATION.................................................................................. A-23
8.02 EFFECT OF TERMINATION AND ABANDONMENT........................................................ A-23
</TABLE>
ARTICLE IX
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Miscellaneous................................................................................................... A-24
9.01 SURVIVAL..................................................................................... A-24
9.02 WAIVER; AMENDMENT............................................................................ A-24
9.03 COUNTERPARTS................................................................................. A-24
9.04 GOVERNING LAW................................................................................ A-24
9.05 EXPENSES..................................................................................... A-24
9.06 NOTICES...................................................................................... A-24
9.07 ENTIRE UNDERSTANDING; NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES........................................... A-25
9.08 INTERPRETATION; EFFECT....................................................................... A-25
</TABLE>
EXHIBIT A Form of Stock Option Agreement [See APPENDIX B of this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus]
EXHIBIT B Rights Agreement Amendment
EXHIBIT C Form of Central Affiliate Agreement
EXHIBIT D Form of Wachovia Affiliate Agreement
ii
<PAGE>
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of June 23, 1997 (this "AGREEMENT"),
by and between Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. ("CENTRAL") and Wachovia Corporation
("WACHOVIA").
RECITALS
A. CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC.. Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. is a Virginia
corporation, having its principal place of business in Richmond, Virginia.
B. WACHOVIA CORPORATION. Wachovia Corporation is a North Carolina
corporation, having its principal place of business in both Winston-Salem, North
Carolina and Atlanta, Georgia.
C. STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT. As an inducement to the willingness of Wachovia
to continue to pursue the transactions contemplated by this Agreement , Central
expects (but is not obligated) to grant to Wachovia an option pursuant to a
stock option agreement, in substantially the form of Exhibit A.
D. INTENTIONS OF THE PARTIES. It is the intention of the parties to this
Agreement that the business combination contemplated hereby be accounted for
under the "pooling-of-interests" accounting method and be treated as a
"reorganization" under Section 368 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as
amended (the "CODE").
E. BOARD ACTION. The respective Boards of Directors of each of Wachovia and
Central have determined that it is in the best interests of their respective
companies and their stockholders to consummate the strategic business
combination transaction provided for herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and of the mutual
covenants, representations, warranties and agreements contained herein the
parties agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
1.01 CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. The following terms are used in this Agreement
with the meanings set forth below:
"ACQUISITION PROPOSAL" means any tender or exchange offer, proposal for a
merger, consolidation or other business combination involving Central or any of
its Subsidiaries or any proposal or offer to acquire in any manner a substantial
equity interest in, or a substantial portion of the assets or deposits of,
Central or any of its Subsidiaries, other than the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement.
"AGREEMENT" means this Agreement, as amended or modified from time to time
in accordance with Section 9.02.
"CENTRAL" has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
"CENTRAL AFFILIATE" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.07(a).
"CENTRAL BOARD" means the Board of Directors of Central.
"CENTRAL BY-LAWS" means the By-laws of Central.
"CENTRAL CERTIFICATE" means the Amended and Restated Articles of
Incorporation of Central.
"CENTRAL COMMON STOCK" means the common stock, par value $5.00 per share,
of Central.
"CENTRAL MEETING" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02.
"CENTRAL RIGHTS" means the preferred share purchase rights issued under the
Central Rights Agreement.
"CENTRAL RIGHTS AGREEMENT" means the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement,
dated as of November 9, 1994, between Central and Central Fidelity National
Bank.
"CENTRAL 1983 PREFERRED STOCK" means the 1983 Preferred Stock, par value
$25.00 per share, of Central.
"CENTRAL PREFERRED STOCK" means the preferred stock, par value $100.00 per
share, of Central.
A-1
<PAGE>
"CENTRAL STOCK" means, collectively, Central Common Stock, Central 1983
Preferred Stock and Central Preferred Stock.
"CENTRAL STOCK PLANS" means, the 1995 Stock Incentive Plan, 1986 Incentive
Stock Option Plan, 1988 Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1991 Incentive Stock Option
Plan, 1993 Incentive Stock Option Plan and the 1982 Stock Option Plan.
"CODE" has the meaning set forth in the recitals.
"COMPENSATION AND BENEFIT PLANS" has the meaning set forth in Section
5.03(m).
"CORPORATION COMMISSION" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(b).
"COSTS" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.12(a).
"DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01.
"EFFECTIVE DATE" means the date on which the Effective Time occurs.
"EFFECTIVE TIME" means the effective time of the Merger, as provided for in
Section 2.02.
"ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS" means all applicable local, state and federal
environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including, without
limitation, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, the Clean Water Act,
the Federal Clean Air Act, and the Occupational Safety and Health Act, each as
amended, regulations promulgated thereunder, and state counterparts.
"ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as
amended.
"ERISA AFFILIATE" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03(m).
"EXCHANGE ACT" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and
the rules and regulations thereunder.
"EXCHANGE AGENT" has the meaning set forth in Section 3.04.
"EXCHANGE FUND" has the meaning set forth in Section 3.04.
"EXCHANGE RATIO" has the meaning set forth in Section 3.01.
"FDIC" means the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
"GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY" means any court, administrative agency or
commission or other federal, state or local governmental authority or
instrumentality.
"INDEMNIFIED PARTY" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.12(a).
"INSURANCE AMOUNT" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.12(b).
"INSURANCE POLICY" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03(t).
"LIENS" means any charge, mortgage, pledge, security interest, restriction,
claim, lien, or encumbrance.
"MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT" means, with respect to Wachovia or Central, any
effect that (i) is material and adverse to the financial position, results of
operations or business of Wachovia and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole or
Central and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole, respectively, or (ii) would
materially impair the ability of either Wachovia or Central to perform its
obligations under this Agreement or otherwise materially threaten or materially
impede the consummation of the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by
this Agreement; provided, however, that Material Adverse Effect shall not be
deemed to include the impact of (a) changes in banking and similar laws of
general applicability or interpretations thereof by courts or governmental
authorities, (b) changes in generally accepted accounting principles or
regulatory accounting requirements applicable to banks and their holding
companies generally and (c) any modifications or changes to valuation policies
and practices in connection with the Merger or restructuring charges taken in
connection with the Merger, in each case in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles.
"MERGER" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01.
A-2
<PAGE>
"MERGER CONSIDERATION" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01.
"MULTIEMPLOYER PLANS" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03(m).
"NASDAQ" means The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc.'s National Market System.
"NCBCA" means the North Carolina Business Corporation Act.
"NEW CERTIFICATE" has the meaning set forth in Section 3.04.
"NORTH CAROLINA SECRETARY" means the North Carolina Secretary of State.
"NYSE" means the New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
"OLD CERTIFICATE" has the meaning set forth in Section 3.04.
"PBGC" means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.
"PERSON" means any individual, bank, corporation, partnership, association,
joint-stock company, business trust or unincorporated organization.
"PENSION PLAN" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03(m).
"PLANS" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03(m).
"PREVIOUSLY DISCLOSED" by a party shall mean information set forth in its
Disclosure Schedule.
"PROXY STATEMENT" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.03.
"REGISTRATION STATEMENT" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.03.
"REGULATORY AUTHORITY" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03(i).
"REPRESENTATIVES" means, with respect to any Person, such Person's
directors, officers, employees, legal or financial advisors or any
representatives of such legal or financial advisors.
"RIGHTS" means, with respect to any Person, securities or obligations
convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for, or giving any person any
right to subscribe for or acquire, or any options, calls or commitments relating
to, or any stock appreciation right or other instrument the value of which is
determined in whole or in part by reference to the market price or value of,
shares of capital stock of such person.
"SEC" means the Securities and Exchange Commission.
"SEC DOCUMENTS" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03(g).
"SECURITIES ACT" means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the
rules and regulations thereunder.
"STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT" has the meaning set forth in Recital C.
"SUBSIDIARY" and "Significant Subsidiary" have the meanings ascribed to
them in Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X of the SEC.
"SURVIVING CORPORATION" has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01.
"TAKEOVER LAWS" has the meaning set forth in Section 5.03 (o).
"TAX" and "TAXES" means all federal, state, local or foreign taxes,
charges, fees, levies or other assessments, however denominated, including,
without limitation, all net income, gross income, gains, gross receipts, sales,
use, ad valorem, goods and services, capital, production, transfer, franchise,
windfall profits, license, withholding, payroll, employment, disability,
employer health, excise, estimated, severance, stamp, occupation, property,
environmental, unemployment or other taxes, custom duties, fees, assessments or
charges of any kind whatsoever, together with any interest and any penalties,
additions to tax or additional amounts imposed by any taxing authority whether
arising before, on or after the Effective Date.
"TAX RETURNS" means any return, amended return or other report (including
elections, declarations, disclosures, schedules, estimates and information
returns) required to be filed with respect to any Tax.
A-3
<PAGE>
"TREASURY STOCK" shall mean shares of Central Stock held by Central or any
of its Subsidiaries or by Wachovia or any of its Subsidiaries, in each case
other than in a fiduciary (including custodial or agency) capacity or as a
result of debts previously contracted in good faith.
"VSCA" means the Virginia Stock Corporation Act.
"WACHOVIA" has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
"WACHOVIA BOARD" means the Board of Directors of Wachovia.
"WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK" means the common stock, par value $5.00 per share,
of Wachovia.
"WACHOVIA MEETING" has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02.
"WACHOVIA PREFERRED STOCK" means the preferred stock, par value $5.00 per
share, of Wachovia.
"WACHOVIA STOCK" means, collectively, Wachovia Common Stock and Wachovia
Preferred Stock.
ARTICLE II
THE MERGER
2.01 THE MERGER. (a) At the Effective Time, Central shall merge with and
into Wachovia (the "MERGER"), the separate corporate existence of Central shall
cease and Wachovia shall survive and continue to exist as a North Carolina
corporation (Wachovia, as the surviving corporation in the Merger, sometimes
being referred to herein as the "SURVIVING CORPORATION"). Wachovia may at any
time prior to the Effective Time change the method of effecting the combination
with Central (including, without limitation, the provisions of this Article II)
if and to the extent it deems such change to be necessary, appropriate or
desirable; provided, however, that no such change shall (i) alter or change the
amount or kind of consideration to be issued to holders of Central Stock as
provided for in this Agreement (the "MERGER CONSIDERATION"), (ii) adversely
affect the tax treatment of Central's stockholders as a result of receiving the
Merger Consideration or (iii) materially impede or delay consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(b) Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set forth in
Article VII, the Merger shall become effective upon the occurrence of the filing
in the office of the Virginia State Corporation Commission (the "Corporation
Commission") of articles of merger in accordance with Section 13.1-720 of the
VSCA and the filing in the Office of the Secretary of State of the State of
North Carolina (the "North Carolina Secretary") of articles of merger in
accordance with Section 55-11-05 of the NCBCA or such later date and time as may
be set forth in such articles and the issuance of certificates of merger by the
Corporation Commission and the North Carolina Secretary under the VSCA and the
NCBCA, respectively. The Merger shall have the effects prescribed in the NCBCA
and the VSCA.
(c) ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS. The articles of incorporation
and by-laws of Wachovia immediately after the Merger shall be those of Wachovia
as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time.
(d) DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OF THE SURVIVING CORPORATION. The directors and
officers of Wachovia immediately after the Merger shall be the directors and
officers of Wachovia (except as provided in Section 6.16) immediately prior to
the Effective Time, until such time as their successors shall be duly elected
and qualified.
2.02 EFFECTIVE DATE AND EFFECTIVE TIME. Subject to the satisfaction or
waiver of the conditions set forth in Article VII, the parties shall cause the
effective date of the Merger (the "EFFECTIVE DATE") to occur on (i) the fifth
business day to occur after the last of the conditions set forth in Article VII
shall have been satisfied or waived in accordance with the terms of this
Agreement (or, at the election of Wachovia, on the last business day of the
month in which such day occurs or, if such last business day occurs on one of
the last five business days of such month, on the last business day of the
succeeding month) or (ii) such other date to which the parties may agree in
writing. The time on the Effective Date when the Merger shall become effective
is referred to as the "EFFECTIVE TIME."
2.03 PLAN OF MERGER. At the request of Wachovia, Wachovia and Central shall
enter into a separate plan of merger reflecting the terms hereof for purposes of
any filing requirement of the VSCA or NCBCA.
A-4
<PAGE>
ARTICLE III
CONSIDERATION; EXCHANGE PROCEDURES
3.01 MERGER CONSIDERATION. Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, at
the Effective Time, automatically by virtue of the Merger and without any action
on the part of any Person:
(a) OUTSTANDING CENTRAL COMMON STOCK AND CENTRAL RIGHTS. Each share,
excluding Treasury Stock, of Central Common Stock issued and outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time, together with each associated
Central Right, shall become and be converted into 0.63 of a share of
Wachovia Common Stock (the "EXCHANGE RATIO"). The Exchange Ratio shall be
subject to adjustment as set forth in Section 3.05.
(b) OUTSTANDING WACHOVIA STOCK. Each share of Wachovia Stock issued
and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall remain issued
and outstanding and unaffected by the Merger.
(c) TREASURY SHARES. Each share of Central Stock held as Treasury
Stock immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be canceled and retired
at the Effective Time and no consideration shall be issued in exchange
therefor.
3.02 RIGHTS AS STOCKHOLDERS; STOCK TRANSFERS. At the Effective Time,
holders of Central Stock shall cease to be, and shall have no rights as,
stockholders of Central, other than to receive any dividend or other
distribution with respect to such Central Stock with a record date occurring
prior to the Effective Time and the consideration provided under this Article
III. After the Effective Time, there shall be no transfers on the stock transfer
books of Central or the Surviving Corporation of shares of Central Stock.
3.03 FRACTIONAL SHARES. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, no
fractional shares of Wachovia Common Stock and no certificates or scrip
therefor, or other evidence of ownership thereof, will be issued in the Merger;
instead, Wachovia shall pay to each holder of Central Common Stock who would
otherwise be entitled to a fractional share of Wachovia Common Stock (after
taking into account all Old Certificates delivered by such holder) an amount in
cash (without interest) determined by multiplying such fraction by the average
of the last sale prices of Wachovia Common Stock, as reported by the NYSE
Composite Transactions Reporting System (as reported in THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
or, if not reported therein, in another authoritative source), for the five NYSE
trading days immediately preceding the Effective Date.
3.04 EXCHANGE PROCEDURES. (a) At or prior to the Effective Time, Wachovia
shall deposit, or shall cause to be deposited, with Wachovia Bank, N.A. (in such
capacity, the "EXCHANGE AGENT"), for the benefit of the holders of certificates
formerly representing shares of Central Common Stock and the associated Central
Rights ("OLD CERTIFICATES"), for exchange in accordance with this Article III,
certificates representing the shares of Wachovia Common Stock ("NEW
CERTIFICATES") and an estimated amount of cash (such cash and New Certificates,
together with any dividends or distributions with a record date occurring after
the Effective Date with respect thereto (without any interest on any such cash,
dividends or distributions), being hereinafter referred to as the "EXCHANGE
FUND") to be paid pursuant to this Article III in exchange for outstanding
shares of Central Common Stock.
(b) As promptly as practicable after the Effective Date, Wachovia shall
send or cause to be sent to each former holder of record of shares of Central
Common Stock immediately prior to the Effective Time transmittal materials for
use in exchanging such stockholder's Old Certificates for the consideration set
forth in this Article III. Wachovia shall cause the New Certificates into which
shares of a stockholder's Central Common Stock are converted on the Effective
Date and/or any check in respect of any fractional share interests or dividends
or distributions which such person shall be entitled to receive to be delivered
to such stockholder upon delivery to the Exchange Agent of Old Certificates
representing such shares of Central Common Stock (or indemnity reasonably
satisfactory to Wachovia and the Exchange Agent, if any of such certificates are
lost, stolen or destroyed) owned by such stockholder. No interest will be paid
on any such cash to be paid in lieu of fractional share interests or in respect
of dividends or distributions which any such person shall be entitled to receive
pursuant to this Article III upon such delivery.
(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Exchange Agent nor any party
hereto shall be liable to any former holder of Central Stock for any amount
properly delivered to a public official pursuant to applicable abandoned
property, escheat or similar laws.
(d) At the election of Wachovia, no dividends or other distributions with
respect to Wachovia Common Stock with a record date occurring after the
Effective Time shall be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered Old
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Certificate representing shares of Central Common Stock converted in the Merger
into the right to receive shares of such Wachovia Common Stock until the holder
thereof shall be entitled to receive New Certificates in exchange therefor in
accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 3.04, and no such
shares of Central Common Stock shall be eligible to vote until the holder of Old
Certificates is entitled to receive New Certificates in accordance with the
procedures set forth in this Section 3.04. After becoming so entitled in
accordance with this Section 3.04, the record holder thereof also shall be
entitled to receive any such dividends or other distributions, without any
interest thereon, which theretofore had become payable with respect to shares of
Wachovia Common Stock such holder had the right to receive upon surrender of the
Old Certificate.
(e) Any portion of the Exchange Fund that remains unclaimed by the
stockholders of Central for six months after the Effective Time shall be paid to
Wachovia. Any stockholders of Central who have not theretofore complied with
this Article III shall thereafter look only to Wachovia for payment of the
shares of Wachovia Common Stock, cash in lieu of any fractional shares and
unpaid dividends and distributions on Wachovia Common Stock deliverable in
respect of each share of Central Common Stock such stockholder holds as
determined pursuant to this Agreement, in each case, without any interest
thereon.
3.05 ANTI-DILUTION PROVISIONS. In the event Wachovia changes (or
establishes a record date for changing) the number of shares of Wachovia Common
Stock issued and outstanding prior to the Effective Date as a result of a stock
split, stock dividend, recapitalization or similar transaction with respect to
the outstanding Wachovia Common Stock and the record date therefor shall be
prior to the Effective Date, the Exchange Ratio shall be proportionately
adjusted.
3.06 OPTIONS. At the Effective Time, each outstanding option to purchase
shares of Central Common Stock under the Central Stock Plans (each, a "CENTRAL
STOCK OPTION"), whether vested or unvested, shall be converted into an option to
acquire, on the same terms and conditions as were applicable under such Central
Stock Option, the number of shares of Wachovia Common Stock equal to (a) the
number of shares of Central Common Stock subject to the Central Stock Option,
multiplied by (b) the Exchange Ratio (such product rounded down to the nearest
whole number) (a "REPLACEMENT OPTION"), at an exercise price per share (rounded
up to the nearest whole cent) equal to (y) the aggregate exercise price for the
shares of Central Common Stock which were purchasable pursuant to such Central
Stock Option divided by (z) the number of full shares of Wachovia Common Stock
subject to such Replacement Option in accordance with the foregoing.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, each Central Stock Option which is intended to be
an "incentive stock option" (as defined in Section 422 of the Code) shall be
adjusted in accordance with the requirements of Section 424 of the Code. At or
prior to the Effective Time, Central shall take all action, if any, necessary
with respect to the Central Stock Plans to permit the replacement of the
outstanding Central Stock Options by Wachovia pursuant to this Section. At the
Effective Time, Wachovia shall assume the Central Stock Plans; PROVIDED, that
such assumption shall be only in respect of the Replacement Options and that
Wachovia shall have no obligation with respect to any awards under the Central
Stock Plans other than the Replacement Options and shall have no obligation to
make any additional grants or awards under such assumed Central Stock Plans.
ARTICLE IV
ACTIONS PENDING ACQUISITION
4.01 FOREBEARANCES OF CENTRAL. From the date hereof until the Effective
Time, except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, without the prior
written consent of Wachovia, Central will not, and will cause each of its
Subsidiaries not to:
(a) ORDINARY COURSE. Conduct the business of Central and its
Subsidiaries other than in the ordinary and usual course or fail to use
reasonable efforts to preserve intact their business organizations and
assets and maintain their rights, franchises and existing relations with
customers, suppliers, employees and business associates, or take any action
reasonably likely to have an adverse affect upon Central's ability to
perform any of its material obligations under this Agreement.
(b) CAPITAL STOCK. Other than pursuant to Rights Previously Disclosed
and outstanding on the date hereof, (i) issue, sell or otherwise permit to
become outstanding, or authorize the creation of, any additional shares of
Central Stock or any Rights, (ii) enter into any agreement with respect to
the foregoing, or
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(iii) permit any additional shares of Central Stock to become subject to
new grants of employee or director stock options, other Rights or similar
stock-based employee rights.
(c) DIVIDENDS, ETC. (a) Make, declare, pay or set aside for payment
any dividend (other than (A) quarterly cash dividends on Central Stock in
an amount not to exceed $0.24 per share with record and payment dates
consistent with past practice and (B) dividends from wholly owned
Subsidiaries to Central or another wholly owned Subsidiary of Central) on
or in respect of, or declare or make any distribution on any shares of
Central Stock or (b) directly or indirectly adjust, split, combine, redeem,
reclassify, purchase or otherwise acquire, any shares of its capital stock.
(d) COMPENSATION; EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS; ETC. Enter into or amend or
renew any employment, consulting, severance or similar agreements or
arrangements with any director, officer or employee of Central or its
Subsidiaries, or grant any salary or wage increase or increase any employee
benefit (including incentive or bonus payments), except (i) for normal
individual increases in compensation to employees in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practice, (ii) for other changes that are
required by applicable law, (iii) to satisfy Previously Disclosed
contractual obligations existing as of the date hereof, or (iv) for grants
of awards to newly hired employees consistent with past practice.
(e) BENEFIT PLANS. Enter into, establish, adopt or amend (except (i)
as may be required by applicable law or (ii) to satisfy Previously
Disclosed contractual obligations existing as of the date hereof) any
pension, retirement, stock option, stock purchase, savings, profit sharing,
deferred compensation, consulting, bonus, group insurance or other employee
benefit, incentive or welfare contract, plan or arrangement, or any trust
agreement (or similar arrangement) related thereto, in respect of any
director, officer or employee of Central or its Subsidiaries, or take any
action to accelerate the vesting or exercisability of stock options,
restricted stock or other compensation or benefits payable thereunder.
(f) DISPOSITIONS. Except as Previously Disclosed, sell, transfer,
mortgage, encumber or otherwise dispose of or discontinue any of its
assets, deposits, business or properties except in the ordinary course of
business and in a transaction that is not material to it and its
Subsidiaries taken as a whole.
(g) ACQUISITIONS. Except as Previously Disclosed, acquire (other than
by way of foreclosures or acquisitions of control in a bona fide fiduciary
capacity or in satisfaction of debts previously contracted in good faith,
in each case in the ordinary and usual course of business consistent with
past practice) all or any portion of, the assets, business, deposits or
properties of any other entity except in the ordinary course of business
and in a transaction that is not material to it and its Subsidiaries taken
as a whole.
(h) GOVERNING DOCUMENTS. Amend the Central Certificate, Central
By-laws or the certificate of incorporation or by-laws (or similar
governing documents) of any of Central's Subsidiaries.
(i) ACCOUNTING METHODS. Implement or adopt any change in its
accounting principles, practices or methods, other than as may be required
by generally accepted accounting principles.
(j) CONTRACTS. Amend, or take any action adverse to Wachovia with
respect to, the Central Rights Agreement or, except in the ordinary course
of business consistent with past practice, enter into or terminate any
material contract (as defined in Section 5.03(k)) or amend or modify in any
material respect any of its existing material contracts.
(k) CLAIMS. Except in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice, settle any claim, action or proceeding, except for any
claim, action or proceeding involving solely money damages in an amount,
individually or in the aggregate for all such settlements, that is not
material to Central and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole.
(l) ADVERSE ACTIONS. (a) Take any action while knowing that such
action would, or is reasonably likely to, prevent or impede the Merger from
qualifying (i) for "pooling of interests" accounting treatment or (ii) as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the Code; or (b)
knowingly take any action that is intended or is reasonably likely to
result in (i) any of its representations and warranties set forth in this
Agreement being or becoming untrue in any material respect at any time at
or prior to the Effective Time, (ii) any of the conditions to the Merger
set forth in Article VII not being satisfied or (iii) a material violation
of any provision of this Agreement except, in each case, as may be required
by applicable law or regulation.
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(m) RISK MANAGEMENT. Except as required by applicable law or
regulation, (i) implement or adopt any material change in its interest rate
and other risk management policies, procedures or practices; (ii) fail to
follow its existing policies or practices with respect to managing its
exposure to interest rate and other risk; or (iii) fail to use commercially
reasonable means to avoid any material increase in its aggregate exposure
to interest rate risk.
(n) INDEBTEDNESS. Incur any indebtedness for borrowed money other than
in the ordinary course of business.
(o) COMMITMENTS. Agree or commit to do any of the foregoing.
4.02 FOREBEARANCES OF WACHOVIA. From the date hereof until the Effective
Time, except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, without the prior
written consent of Central, Wachovia will not, and will cause each of its
Subsidiaries not to:
(a) EXTRAORDINARY DIVIDENDS. Make, declare, pay or set aside for
payment any extraordinary dividend.
(b) ADVERSE ACTIONS. (a) Take any action while knowing that such
action would, or is reasonably likely to, prevent or impede the Merger from
qualifying (i) for "pooling of interests" accounting treatment or (ii) as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the Code; or (b)
knowingly take any action that is intended or is reasonably likely to
result in (i) any of its representations and warranties set forth in this
Agreement being or becoming untrue in any material respect at any time at
or prior to the Effective Time, (ii) any of the conditions to the Merger
set forth in Article VII not being satisfied or (iii) a material violation
of any provision of this Agreement except, in each case, as may be required
by applicable law or regulation; provided, however, that nothing contained
herein shall limit the ability of Wachovia to exercise its rights under the
Stock Option Agreement.
ARTICLE V
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
5.01 DISCLOSURE SCHEDULES. On or prior to the date hereof, Wachovia has
delivered to Central a schedule and Central has delivered to Wachovia a schedule
(respectively, its "DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE") setting forth, among other things,
items the disclosure of which is necessary or appropriate either in response to
an express disclosure requirement contained in a provision hereof or as an
exception to one or more representations or warranties contained in Section 5.03
or 5.04 or to one or more of its covenants contained in Article IV; PROVIDED,
that (a) no such item is required to be set forth in a Disclosure Schedule as an
exception to a representation or warranty if its absence would not be reasonably
likely to result in the related representation or warranty being deemed untrue
or incorrect under the standard established by Section 5.02, and (b) the mere
inclusion of an item in a Disclosure Schedule as an exception to a
representation or warranty shall not be deemed an admission by a party that such
item represents a material exception or fact, event or circumstance or that such
item is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
5.02 STANDARD. No representation or warranty of Central or Wachovia
contained in Section 5.03 or 5.04 shall be deemed untrue or incorrect, and no
party hereto shall be deemed to have breached a representation or warranty, as a
consequence of the existence of any fact, event or circumstance unless such
fact, circumstance or event, individually or taken together with all other
facts, events or circumstances inconsistent with any representation or warranty
contained in Section 5.03 or 5.04 has had or is reasonably likely to have a
Material Adverse Effect on the party making such representation or warranty.
5.03 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF CENTRAL. Subject to Sections 5.01
and 5.02 and except as Previously Disclosed in a paragraph of its Disclosure
Schedule corresponding to the relevant paragraph below, Central hereby
represents and warrants to Wachovia:
(a) ORGANIZATION, STANDING AND AUTHORITY. Central is a corporation
duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the
Commonwealth of Virginia. Central is duly qualified to do business and is
in good standing in the states of the United States and any foreign
jurisdictions where its ownership or leasing of property or assets or the
conduct of its business requires it to be so qualified.
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(b) CENTRAL STOCK. As of the date hereof, the authorized capital stock
of Central consists solely of (i) 100,000,000 shares of Central Common
Stock, of which no more than 56,800,000 shares were outstanding as of the
date hereof, (ii) 200,000 shares of Central Preferred Stock, of which no
shares are outstanding and (iii) 4,000,000 shares of Central 1983 Preferred
Stock, of which no shares are outstanding as of the date hereof. As of the
date hereof, no shares of Central Common Stock and no shares of Central
Preferred Stock were held in treasury by Central or otherwise owned by
Central or its Subsidiaries. The outstanding shares of Central Stock have
been duly authorized and are validly issued and outstanding, fully paid and
nonassessable, and subject to no preemptive rights (and were not issued in
violation of any preemptive rights). As of the date hereof, except as
Previously Disclosed in its Disclosure Schedule, there are no shares of
Central Stock authorized and reserved for issuance, Central does not have
any Rights issued or outstanding with respect to Central Stock, and Central
does not have any commitment to authorize, issue or sell any Central Stock
or Rights, except pursuant to this Agreement and the Stock Option
Agreement. The number of shares of Central Common Stock which are issuable
and reserved for issuance upon exercise of Central Stock Options as of the
date hereof are Previously Disclosed in Central's Disclosure Schedule.
(c) SUBSIDIARIES. (i)(A) Central has Previously Disclosed in its
Disclosure Schedule a list of all of its Subsidiaries together with the
jurisdiction of organization of each such Subsidiary, (B) except as
Previously Disclosed, it owns, directly or indirectly, all the issued and
outstanding equity securities of each of its Subsidiaries, (C) no equity
securities of any of its Subsidiaries are or may become required to be
issued (other than to it or its wholly-owned Subsidiaries) by reason of any
Right or otherwise, (D) there are no contracts, commitments, understandings
or arrangements by which any of such Subsidiaries is or may be bound to
sell or otherwise transfer any equity securities of any such Subsidiaries
(other than to it or its wholly-owned Subsidiaries), (E) there are no
contracts, commitments, understandings, or arrangements relating to its
rights to vote or to dispose of such securities and (F) all the equity
securities of each Subsidiary held by Central or its Subsidiaries are fully
paid and nonassessable (except pursuant to 12 U.S.C. (section mark)55) and
are owned by Central or its Subsidiaries free and clear of any Liens.
(ii) Central does not own beneficially, directly or indirectly, any
equity securities or similar interests of any Person, or any interest in a
partnership or joint venture of any kind, other than its Subsidiaries.
(iii) Each of Central's Subsidiaries has been duly organized and is
validly existing in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its
organization, and is duly qualified to do business and in good standing in
the jurisdictions where its ownership or leasing of property or the conduct
of its business requires it to be so qualified.
(d) CORPORATE POWER. Central and each of its Subsidiaries has the
corporate power and authority to carry on its business as it is now being
conducted and to own all its properties and assets; and Central has the
corporate power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its
obligations under this Agreement and the Stock Option Agreement and to
consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.
(e) CORPORATE AUTHORITY. Subject in the case of this Agreement to
receipt of the requisite approval of the agreement of merger set forth in
this Agreement by the holders of more than two-thirds of the outstanding
shares of Central Common Stock entitled to vote thereon (which is the only
shareholder vote required thereon), this Agreement, the Stock Option
Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby have been
authorized by all necessary corporate action of Central and the Central
Board on or prior to the date hereof. This Agreement is a valid and legally
binding obligation of Central, enforceable in accordance with its terms
(except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy,
insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent transfer and similar
laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors' rights or
by general equity principles). The Central Board of Directors has received
the written opinion of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. to the effect that as
of the date hereof the consideration to be received by the holders of
Central Common Stock in the Merger is fair to the holders of Central Common
Stock from a financial point of view.
(f) REGULATORY APPROVALS; NO DEFAULTS. (i) No consents or approvals
of, or filings or registrations with, any Governmental Authority or with
any third party are required to be made or obtained by Central or any of
its Subsidiaries in connection with the execution, delivery or performance
by Central of this Agreement or the Stock Option Agreement or to consummate
the Merger except for (A) filings of applications or notices with federal
and Virginia banking authorities, (B) filings with the SEC and state
securities authorities and
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the approval of this Agreement by the stockholders of Central, and (C) the
filing of articles of merger with the Corporation Commission pursuant to
the VSCA and the North Carolina Secretary pursuant to the NCBA and the
issuance of related certificates of merger. As of the date hereof, Central
is not aware of any reason why the approvals set forth in Section 7.01(b)
will not be received without the imposition of a condition, restriction or
requirement of the type described in Section 7.01(b).
(ii) Subject to receipt of the regulatory approvals referred to in the
preceding paragraph, and expiration of related waiting periods, and
required filings under federal and state securities laws, the execution,
delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Stock Option Agreement
and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby do
not and will not (A) constitute a breach or violation of, or a default
under, or give rise to any Lien, any acceleration of remedies or any right
of termination under, any law, rule or regulation or any judgment, decree,
order, governmental permit or license, or agreement, indenture or
instrument of Central or of any of its Subsidiaries or to which Central or
any of its Subsidiaries or properties is subject or bound, (B) constitute a
breach or violation of, or a default under, the Central Certificate or the
Central By-Laws, or (C) require any consent or approval under any such law,
rule, regulation, judgment, decree, order, governmental permit or license,
agreement, indenture or instrument.
(g) FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SEC DOCUMENTS. (i) Central's Annual Reports
on Form 10-K for the fiscal years ended December 31, 1994, 1995 and 1996,
and all other reports, registration statements, definitive proxy statements
or information statements filed or to be filed by it or any of its
Subsidiaries subsequent to December 31, 1994 under the Securities Act, or
under Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, in the form
filed or to be filed (collectively, Central's "SEC DOCUMENTS") with the
SEC, as of the date filed, (A) complied or will comply in all material
respects as to form with the applicable requirements under the Securities
Act or the Exchange Act, as the case may be, and (B) did not and will not
contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements
therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not
misleading; and each of the balance sheets contained in or incorporated by
reference into any such SEC Document (including the related notes and
schedules thereto) fairly presents, or will fairly present, the financial
position of Central and its Subsidiaries as of its date, and each of the
statements of income and changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows or
equivalent statements in such SEC Documents (including any related notes
and schedules thereto) fairly presents, or will fairly present, the results
of operations, changes in stockholders' equity and changes in cash flows,
as the case may be, of Central and its Subsidiaries for the periods to
which they relate, in each case in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles consistently applied during the periods involved,
except in each case as may be noted therein, subject to normal year-end
audit adjustments in the case of unaudited statements.
(ii) Except as Previously Disclosed in its Disclosure Schedule, since
December 31, 1996, Central and its Subsidiaries have not incurred any
liability other than in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice.
(iii) Since December 31, 1996, (A) Central and its Subsidiaries have
conducted their respective businesses in the ordinary and usual course
consistent with past practice (excluding the incurrence of expenses related
to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby) and (B) no
event has occurred or circumstance arisen that, individually or taken
together with all other facts, circumstances and events (described in any
paragraph of Section 5.03 or otherwise), is reasonably likely to have a
Material Adverse Effect with respect to Central.
(h) LITIGATION. No litigation, claim or other proceeding before any court
or governmental agency is pending against Central or any of its Subsidiaries
and, to Central's knowledge, no such litigation, claim or other proceeding has
been threatened.
(i) REGULATORY MATTERS. (i) Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries or
properties is a party to or is subject to any order, decree, agreement,
memorandum of understanding or similar arrangement with, or a commitment letter
or similar submission to, or extraordinary supervisory letter from, any federal
or state governmental agency or authority charged with the supervision or
regulation of financial institutions or issuers of securities or engaged in the
insurance of deposits (including, without limitation, the Office of the
Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Reserve Board and the FDIC) or the
supervision or regulation of it or any of its Subsidiaries (collectively, the
"REGULATORY AUTHORITIES").
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(ii) Neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries has been advised by any
Regulatory Authority that such Regulatory Authority is contemplating issuing or
requesting (or is considering the appropriateness of issuing or requesting) any
such order, decree, agreement, memorandum of understanding, commitment letter,
supervisory letter or similar submission.
(j) COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Central and each of its Subsidiaries:
(i) is in compliance with all applicable federal, state, local and
foreign statutes, laws, regulations, ordinances, rules, judgments, orders
or decrees applicable thereto or to the employees conducting such
businesses, including, without limitation, the Equal Credit Opportunity
Act, the Fair Housing Act, the Community Reinvestment Act, the Home
Mortgage Disclosure Act and all other applicable fair lending laws and
other laws relating to discriminatory business practices;
(ii) has all permits, licenses, authorizations, orders and approvals
of, and has made all filings, applications and registrations with, all
Governmental Authorities that are required in order to permit them to own
or lease their properties and to conduct their businesses as presently
conducted; all such permits, licenses, certificates of authority, orders
and approvals are in full force and effect and, to Central's knowledge, no
suspension or cancellation of any of them is threatened; and
(iii) has received, since December 31, 1995, no notification or
communication from any Governmental Authority (A) asserting that Central or
any of its Subsidiaries is not in compliance with any of the statutes,
regulations, or ordinances which such Governmental Authority enforces or
(B) threatening to revoke any license, franchise, permit, or governmental
authorization (nor, to Central's knowledge, do any grounds for any of the
foregoing exist).
(k) MATERIAL CONTRACTS; DEFAULTS. Except for those agreements and other
documents filed as exhibits to its SEC Documents, neither it nor any of its
Subsidiaries is a party to, bound by or subject to any agreement, contract,
arrangement, commitment or understanding (whether written or oral) (i) that is a
"material contract" within the meaning of Item 601(b)(10) of the SEC's
Regulation S-K or (ii) that materially restricts the conduct of business by it
or any of its Subsidiaries. Neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries is in default
under any contract, agreement, commitment, arrangement, lease, insurance policy
or other instrument to which it is a party, by which its respective assets,
business, or operations may be bound or affected, or under which it or its
respective assets, business, or operations receives benefits, and there has not
occurred any event that, with the lapse of time or the giving of notice or both,
would constitute such a default.
(l) NO BROKERS. No action has been taken by Central that would give rise to
any valid claim against any party hereto for a brokerage commission, finder's
fee or other like payment with respect to the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, excluding a Previously Disclosed fee to be paid to Keefe, Bruyette &
Woods, Inc.
(m) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS. (i) Section 5.03(m)(i) of Central's Disclosure
Schedule contains a complete and accurate list of all existing bonus, incentive,
deferred compensation, pension, retirement, profit-sharing, thrift, savings,
employee stock ownership, stock bonus, stock purchase, restricted stock, stock
option, severance, welfare and fringe benefit plans, employment or severance
agreements and all similar practices, policies and arrangements in which any
employee or former employee (the "EMPLOYEES"), consultant or former consultant
(the "CONSULTANTS") or director or former director (the "DIRECTORS") of Central
or any of its Subsidiaries participates or to which any such Employees,
Consultants or Directors are a party (the "COMPENSATION AND BENEFIT PLANS").
Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries has any commitment to create any
additional Compensation and Benefit Plan or to modify or change any existing
Compensation and Benefit Plan.
(ii) Each Compensation and Benefit Plan has been operated and administered
in all material respects in accordance with its terms and with applicable law,
including, but not limited to, ERISA, the Code, the Securities Act, the Exchange
Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, or any regulations or rules
promulgated thereunder, and all filings, disclosures and notices required by
ERISA, the Code, the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, the Age Discrimination in
Employment Act and any other applicable law have been timely made. Each
Compensation and Benefit Plan which is an "employee pension benefit plan" within
the meaning of Section 3(2) of ERISA (a "PENSION PLAN") and which is intended to
be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code has received a favorable
determination letter (including a determination that the related trust under
such Compensation and Benefit Plan is exempt from tax under Section 501(a) of
the Code) from the Internal Revenue Service
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("IRS") for "TRA" (as defined in Rev. Proc. 93-39), or will file for such
determination letter prior to the expiration of the remedial amendment period
for such Compensation and Benefit Plan, and Central is not aware of any
circumstances likely to result in revocation of any such favorable determination
letter. There is no material pending or, to the knowledge of Central, threatened
legal action, suit or claim relating to the Compensation and Benefit Plans.
Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries has engaged in a transaction, or
omitted to take any action, with respect to any Compensation and Benefit Plan
that would reasonably be expected to subject Central or any of its Subsidiaries
to a tax or penalty imposed by either Section 4975 of the Code or Section 502 of
ERISA, assuming for purposes of Section 4975 of the Code that the taxable period
of any such transaction expired as of the date hereof.
(iii) No liability (other than for payment of premiums to the PBGC which
have been made or will be made on a timely basis) under Title IV of ERISA has
been or is expected to be incurred by Central or any of its Subsidiaries with
respect to any ongoing, frozen or terminated "single-employer plan", within the
meaning of Section 4001(a)(15) of ERISA, currently or formerly maintained by any
of them, or any single-employer plan of any entity (an "ERISA AFFILIATE") which
is considered one employer with Central under Section 4001(a)(14) of ERISA or
Section 414(b) or (c) of the Code (an "ERISA AFFILIATE PLAN"). None of Central,
any of its Subsidiaries or any ERISA Affiliate has contributed, or has been
obligated to contribute, to a multiemployer plan under Subtitle E of Title IV of
ERISA at any time since September 26, 1980. No notice of a "reportable event",
within the meaning of Section 4043 of ERISA for which the 30-day reporting
requirement has not been waived, has been required to be filed for any
Compensation and Benefit Plan or by any ERISA Affiliate Plan within the 12-month
period ending on the date hereof, and no such notice will be required to be
filed as a result of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. The PBGC
has not instituted proceedings to terminate any Pension Plan or ERISA Affiliate
Plan and, to Central's knowledge, no condition exists that presents a material
risk that such proceedings will be instituted. To the knowledge of Central,
there is no pending investigation or enforcement action by the PBGC, the
Department of Labor (the "DOL") or IRS or any other governmental agency with
respect to any Compensation and Benefit Plan. Under each Pension Plan and ERISA
Affiliate Plan, as of the date of the most recent actuarial valuation performed
prior to the date of this Agreement, the actuarially determined present value of
all "benefit liabilities", within the meaning of Section 4001(a)(16) of ERISA
(as determined on the basis of the actuarial assumptions contained in such
actuarial valuation of such Pension Plan or ERISA Affiliate Plan), did not
exceed the then current value of the assets of such Pension Plan or ERISA
Affiliate Plan and since such date there has been neither an adverse change in
the financial condition of such Pension Plan or ERISA Affiliate Plan nor any
amendment or other change to such Pension Plan or ERISA Affiliate Plan that
would increase the amount of benefits thereunder which in either case reasonably
could be expected to change such result.
(iv) All contributions required to be made under the terms of any
Compensation and Benefit Plan or ERISA Affiliate Plan or any employee benefit
arrangements under any collective bargaining agreement to which Central or any
of its Subsidiaries is a party have been timely made or have been reflected on
Central's financial statements to the extent required by generally accepted
accounting principles. Neither any Pension Plan nor any ERISA Affiliate Plan has
an "accumulated funding deficiency" (whether or not waived) within the meaning
of Section 412 of the Code or Section 302 of ERISA and all required payments to
the PBGC with respect to each Pension Plan or ERISA Affiliate Plan have been
made on or before their due dates. None of Central, any of its Subsidiaries or
any ERISA Affiliate (x) has provided, or would reasonably be expected to be
required to provide, security to any Pension Plan or to any ERISA Affiliate Plan
pursuant to Section 401(a)(29) of the Code, and (y) has taken any action, or
omitted to take any action, that has resulted, or would reasonably be expected
to result, in the imposition of a lien under Section 412(n) of the Code or
pursuant to ERISA.
(v) Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries has any obligations to
provide retiree health and life insurance or other retiree death benefits under
any Compensation and Benefit Plan, other than benefits mandated by Section 4980B
of the Code, and each such Compensation and Benefit Plan may be amended or
terminated without incurring liability thereunder. There has been no
communication to Employees by Central or any of its Subsidiaries that would
reasonably be expected to promise or guarantee such Employees retiree health or
life insurance or other retiree death benefits on a permanent basis.
(vi) Central and its Subsidiaries do not maintain any Compensation and
Benefit Plans covering foreign Employees.
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(vii) With respect to each Compensation and Benefit Plan, if applicable,
Central has provided or made available to Wachovia, true and complete copies of
its existing (A) Compensation and Benefit Plan documents and amendments thereto
and (B) trust instruments and insurance contracts.
(viii) The consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
would not, directly or indirectly (including, without limitation, as a result of
any termination of employment prior to or following the Effective Time)
reasonably be expected to (A) entitle any Employee, Consultant or Director to
any payment (including severance pay or similar compensation) or any increase in
compensation, (B) result in the vesting or acceleration of any benefits under
any Compensation and Benefit Plan or (C) result in any material increase in
benefits payable under any Compensation and Benefit Plan.
(ix) Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries maintains any compensation
plans, programs or arrangements the payments under which would not reasonably be
expected to be deductible as a result of the limitations under Section 162(m) of
the Code and the regulations issued thereunder.
(x) As a result, directly or indirectly, of the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement (including, without limitation, as a result of any termination
of employment prior to or following the Effective Time), none of Wachovia,
Central or the Surviving Corporation, or any of their respective Subsidiaries
will be obligated to make a payment that would be characterized as an "excess
parachute payment" to an individual who is a "disqualified individual" (as such
terms are defined in Section 280G of the Code), without regard to whether such
payment is reasonable compensation for personal services performed or to be
performed in the future.
(n) LABOR MATTERS. Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party
to or is bound by any collective bargaining agreement, contract or other
agreement or understanding with a labor union or labor organization, nor is
Central or any of its Subsidiaries the subject of a proceeding asserting that it
or any such Subsidiary has committed an unfair labor practice (within the
meaning of the National Labor Relations Act) or seeking to compel Central or any
such Subsidiary to bargain with any labor organization as to wages or conditions
of employment, nor is there any strike or other labor dispute involving it or
any of its Subsidiaries pending or, to Central's knowledge, threatened, nor is
Central aware of any activity involving its or any of its Subsidiaries'
employees seeking to certify a collective bargaining unit or engaging in other
organizational activity.
(o) TAKEOVER LAWS; DISSENTERS RIGHTS. Central has taken all action required
to be taken by it in order to exempt this Agreement, the Stock Option Agreement
and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby from, and this Agreement,
the Stock Option Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby
(the "Covered Transactions") are exempt from, the requirements of any
"moratorium", "control share" , "fair price", "affiliate transaction", "business
combination" or other antitakeover laws and regulations of any state
(collectively, "TAKEOVER LAWS"), including, without limitation, the Commonwealth
of Virginia, and including, without limitation, Sections 13.1-725 through
13.1-728 of the VSCA (because a majority of Central's disinterested directors
approved such transactions for such purposes prior to any "determination date"
with respect to Wachovia) and Sections 13.1-728.1 through 13.1-728.9 of the
VSCA. The provisions of Article VIII of the Central Certificate do not apply to
the Covered Transactions as they have been approved by a majority of the
Disinterested Directors (as defined in Article VIII). Holders of Central Common
Stock do not have dissenters rights in connection with the Merger.
(p) ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS. Neither the conduct nor operation of Central or
its Subsidiaries nor any condition of any property presently or previously
owned, leased or operated by any of them (including, without limitation, in a
fiduciary or agency capacity), or on which any of them holds a Lien, violates or
violated Environmental Laws and no condition has existed or event has occurred
with respect to any of them or any such property that, with notice or the
passage of time, or both, is reasonably likely to result in liability under
Environmental Laws. Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries has received any
notice from any person or entity that Central or its Subsidiaries or the
operation or condition of any property ever owned, leased, operated, or held as
collateral or in a fiduciary capacity by any of them are or were in violation of
or otherwise are alleged to have liability under any Environmental Law,
including, but not limited to, responsibility (or potential responsibility) for
the cleanup or other remediation of any pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous
or toxic wastes, substances or materials at, on, beneath, or originating from
any such property.
(q) TAX MATTERS. (i) (A) All Tax Returns that are required to be filed
(taking into account any extensions of time within which to file) by or with
respect to Central and its Subsidiaries have been duly filed, (B) all Taxes
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shown to be due on the Tax Returns referred to in clause (A) have been paid in
full, (C) the 1994 federal income Tax Returns referred to in clause (A) have
been examined by the Internal Revenue Service or the period for assessment of
the Taxes in respect of which such Tax Returns were required to be filed has
expired, (D) all deficiencies asserted or assessments made as a result of such
examinations have been paid in full, (E) no issues that have been raised by the
relevant taxing authority in connection with the examination of any of the Tax
Returns referred to in clause (A) are currently pending, and (F) no waivers of
statutes of limitation have been given by or requested with respect to any Taxes
of Central or its Subsidiaries. Central has made available to Wachovia true and
correct copies of the United States federal income Tax Returns filed by Central
and its Subsidiaries for each of the three most recent fiscal years ended on or
before December 31, 1996. Neither Central nor any of its Subsidiaries has any
liability with respect to income, franchise or similar Taxes that accrued on or
before the end of the most recent period covered by Central's SEC Documents
filed prior to the date hereof in excess of the amounts accrued with respect
thereto that are reflected in the financial statements included in Central's SEC
Documents filed on or prior to the date hereof. As of the date hereof, neither
Central nor any of its Subsidiaries has any reason to believe that any
conditions exist that might prevent or impede the Merger from qualifying as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the Code.
(ii) No Tax is required to be withheld pursuant to Section 1445 of the Code
as a result of the transfer contemplated by this Agreement.
(r) RISK MANAGEMENT INSTRUMENTS. All interest rate swaps, caps, floors,
option agreements, futures and forward contracts and other similar risk
management arrangements, whether entered into for Central's own account, or for
the account of one or more of Central's Subsidiaries or their customers (all of
which are listed on Central's Disclosure Schedule), were entered into (i) in
accordance with prudent business practices and all applicable laws, rules,
regulations and regulatory policies and (ii) with counterparties believed to be
financially responsible at the time; and each of them constitutes the valid and
legally binding obligation of Central or one of its Subsidiaries, enforceable in
accordance with its terms (except as enforceability may be limited by applicable
bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent transfer and
similar laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors' rights
or by general equity principles), and are in full force and effect. Neither
Central nor its Subsidiaries, nor to Central's knowledge, any other party
thereto, is in breach of any of its obligations under any such agreement or
arrangement.
(s) BOOKS AND RECORDS. The books and records of Central and its
Subsidiaries have been fully, properly and accurately maintained in all material
respects, and there are no material inaccuracies or discrepancies of any kind
contained or reflected therein, and they fairly present the financial position
of Central and its Subsidiaries.
(t) INSURANCE. Central's Disclosure Schedule sets forth all of the
insurance policies, binders, or bonds maintained by Central or its Subsidiaries
("INSURANCE POLICIES"). Central and its Subsidiaries are insured with reputable
insurers against such risks and in such amounts as the management of Central
reasonably has determined to be prudent in accordance with industry practices.
All the Insurance Policies are in full force and effect; Central and its
Subsidiaries are not in material default thereunder; and all claims thereunder
have been filed in due and timely fashion.
(u) ACCOUNTING TREATMENT. As of the date hereof, it is aware of no reason
why the Merger will fail to qualify for "pooling of interests" accounting
treatment.
(v) RIGHTS AGREEMENT. Central has duly adopted an amendment to the Central
Rights Agreement in the form of Exhibit B, as a result of which neither Wachovia
nor any affiliate or associate will become an "Acquiring Person" and no
"Distribution Date" (as such terms are defined in the Central Rights Agreement)
will occur, and the rights issued under the Rights Agreement will not become
separable, distributable, unredeemable or exercisable as a result of the
approval, execution or delivery of this Agreement or the Stock Option Agreement
or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.
(w) DISCLOSURE. The representations and warranties contained in this
Section 5.03 do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to
state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements and
information contained in this Section 5.03 not misleading.
5.04 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF WACHOVIA. Subject to Sections 5.01
and 5.02 and except as Previously Disclosed in a paragraph of its Disclosure
Schedule corresponding to the relevant paragraph below, Wachovia hereby
represents and warrants to Central as follows:
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(a) ORGANIZATION, STANDING AND AUTHORITY. Wachovia is duly organized,
validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of North
Carolina. Wachovia is duly qualified to do business and is in good standing in
the states of the United States and foreign jurisdictions where its ownership or
leasing of property or assets or the conduct of its business requires it to be
so qualified. Wachovia has in effect all federal, state, local, and foreign
governmental authorizations necessary for it to own or lease its properties and
assets and to carry on its business as it is now conducted.
(b) WACHOVIA STOCK. (i) As of the date hereof, the authorized capital stock
of Wachovia consists solely of 500,000,000 shares of Wachovia Common Stock, of
which no more than 162,000,000 shares were outstanding as of the date hereof and
50,000,000 shares of Wachovia Preferred Stock, of which no shares were
outstanding as of the date hereof. As of the date hereof, except as set forth in
its Disclosure Schedule, Wachovia does not have any Rights issued or outstanding
with respect to Wachovia Stock and Wachovia does not have any commitment to
authorize, issue or sell any Wachovia Stock or Rights, except pursuant to this
Agreement.
(ii) The shares of Wachovia Common Stock to be issued in exchange for
shares of Central Common Stock in the Merger, when issued in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement, will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable.
(c) SUBSIDIARIES. Each of Wachovia's Significant Subsidiaries has been duly
organized and is validly existing in good standing under the laws of the
jurisdiction of its organization, and is duly qualified to do business and in
good standing in the jurisdictions where its ownership or leasing of property or
the conduct of its business requires it to be so qualified and it owns, directly
or indirectly, all the issued and outstanding equity securities of each of its
Significant Subsidiaries.
(d) CORPORATE POWER. Wachovia and each of its Significant Subsidiaries has
the corporate power and authority to carry on its business as it is now being
conducted and to own all its properties and assets; and Wachovia has the
corporate power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations
under this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby.
(e) CORPORATE AUTHORITY. This Agreement and the transactions contemplated
hereby have been authorized by all necessary corporate action of Wachovia and
its Board of Directors. This Agreement is a valid and legally binding agreement
of Wachovia enforceable in accordance with its terms (except as enforceability
may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium,
fraudulent transfer and similar laws of general applicability relating to or
affecting creditors' rights or by general equity principles).
(f) REGULATORY APPROVALS; NO DEFAULTS. (i) No consents or approvals of, or
filings or registrations with, any court, administrative agency or commission or
other governmental authority or instrumentality or with any third party are
required to be made or obtained by Wachovia or any of its Subsidiaries in
connection with the execution, delivery or performance by Wachovia of this
Agreement or to consummate the Merger except for (A) the filing of applications
and notices, as applicable, with the federal and state banking authorities; (B)
approval of the listing on the NYSE of Wachovia Common Stock to be issued in the
Merger and, if required to consummate the Merger, the adoption and approval by
the shareholders of Wachovia of this Agreement; (C) the filing and declaration
of effectiveness of the Registration Statement; (D) the filing of articles of
merger with the Corporation Commission pursuant to the VSCA and the North
Carolina Secretary pursuant to the NCBCA and the issuance of related
certificates of merger; (E) such filings as are required to be made or approvals
as are required to be obtained under the securities or "Blue Sky" laws of
various states in connection with the issuance of Wachovia Stock in the Merger;
and (F) receipt of the approvals set forth in Section 7.01(b). As of the date
hereof, Wachovia is not aware of any reason why the approvals set forth in
Section 7.01(b) will not be received without the imposition of a condition,
restriction or requirement of the type described in Section 7.01(b).
(ii) Subject to receipt of the regulatory approvals referred to in the
preceding paragraph and expiration of the related waiting periods, and required
filings under federal and state securities laws, the execution, delivery and
performance of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby do not and will not (A) constitute a breach or violation of,
or a default under, or give rise to any Lien, any acceleration of remedies or
any right of termination under, any law, rule or regulation or any judgment,
decree, order, governmental permit or license, or agreement, indenture or
instrument of Wachovia or of any of its Subsidiaries or to which Wachovia or any
of its Subsidiaries or properties is subject or bound, (B) constitute a breach
or violation of, or a default under, the certificate of incorporation or by-laws
(or similar governing documents) of Wachovia
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or any of its Subsidiaries, or (C) require any consent or approval under any
such law, rule, regulation, judgment, decree, order, governmental permit or
license, agreement, indenture or instrument.
(g) FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SEC DOCUMENTS; MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT. (i)
Wachovia's SEC Documents, as of the date filed, (A) complied or will comply in
all material respects as to form with the applicable requirements under the
Securities Act or the Exchange Act, as the case may be, and (B) did not and will
not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein,
in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading;
and each of the balance sheets contained in or incorporated by reference into
any such SEC Document (including the related notes and schedules thereto) fairly
presents, or will fairly present, the financial position of Wachovia and its
Subsidiaries as of its date, and each of the statements of income and changes in
stockholders' equity and cash flows or equivalent statements in such SEC
Documents (including any related notes and schedules thereto) fairly presents,
or will fairly present, the results of operations, changes in stockholders'
equity and changes in cash flows, as the case may be, of Wachovia and its
Subsidiaries for the periods to which they relate, in each case in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied during the
periods involved, except in each case as may be noted therein, subject to normal
year-end audit adjustments in the case of unaudited statements.
(ii) Since December 31, 1996, no event has occurred or circumstance arisen
that, individually or taken together with all other facts, circumstances and
events (described in any paragraph of Section 5.04 or otherwise), is reasonably
likely to have a Material Adverse Effect with respect to it.
(h) LITIGATION; REGULATORY ACTION. (i) Other than as set forth in its SEC
Documents filed on or before the date hereof, no litigation, claim or other
proceeding before any Governmental Authority is pending against Wachovia or any
of its Subsidiaries and, to the best of Wachovia's knowledge, no such
litigation, claim or other proceeding has been threatened.
(ii) Neither Wachovia nor any of its Subsidiaries or properties is a party
to or is subject to any order, decree, agreement, memorandum of understanding or
similar arrangement with, or a commitment letter or similar submission to, or
extraordinary supervisory letter from a Regulatory Authority, nor has Wachovia
or any of its Subsidiaries been advised by a Regulatory Authority that such
agency is contemplating issuing or requesting (or is considering the
appropriateness of issuing or requesting) any such order, decree, agreement,
memorandum of understanding, commitment letter, supervisory letter or similar
submission.
(i) COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Wachovia and each of its Subsidiaries:
(i) in the conduct of its business, is in compliance with all applicable
federal, state, local and foreign statutes, laws, regulations, ordinances,
rules, judgments, orders or decrees applicable thereto or to the employees
conducting such businesses, including, without limitation, the Equal Credit
Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act, the Community Reinvestment Act, the Home
Mortgage Disclosure Act and all other applicable fair lending laws and other
laws relating to discriminatory business practices; and
(ii) has all permits, licenses, authorizations, orders and approvals of,
and has made all filings, applications and registrations with, all Governmental
Authorities that are required in order to permit them to conduct their
businesses substantially as presently conducted; all such permits, licenses,
certificates of authority, orders and approvals are in full force and effect
and, to the best of its knowledge, no suspension or cancellation of any of them
is threatened.
(j) NO BROKERS. No action has been taken by Wachovia that would give rise
to any valid claim against any party hereto for a brokerage commission, finder's
fee or other like payment with respect to the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, excluding a fee to be paid to Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation.
(k) TAX MATTERS. (A) All Tax Returns that are required to be filed (taking
into account any extensions of time within which to file) by or with respect to
Wachovia and its Subsidiaries have been duly filed, (B) all Taxes shown to be
due on the Tax Returns referred to in clause (A) have been paid in full, (C) the
federal income Tax Returns referred to in clause (A) have been examined by the
Internal Revenue Service or the period for assessment of the Taxes in respect of
which such Tax Returns were required to be filed has expired, (D) all
deficiencies asserted or assessments made as a result of such examinations have
been paid in full, (E) no issues that have been raised by the relevant taxing
authority in connection with the examination of any of the Tax Returns referred
to in
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clause (A) are currently pending, and (F) no waivers of statutes of limitation
have been given by or requested with respect to any Taxes of Wachovia or its
Subsidiaries. Neither Wachovia nor any of its Subsidiaries has any liability
with respect to income, franchise or similar Taxes that accrued on or before the
end of the most recent period covered by Wachovia's SEC Documents filed prior to
the date hereof in excess of the amounts accrued with respect thereto that are
reflected in the financial statements included in Wachovia's SEC Documents filed
on or prior to the date hereof. As of the date hereof, neither Wachovia nor any
of its Subsidiaries has any reason to believe that any conditions exist that
might prevent or impede the Merger from qualifying as a reorganization within
the meaning of Section 368 of the Code.
(l) ACCOUNTING TREATMENT. As of the date hereof, it is aware of no reason
why the Merger will fail to qualify for "pooling of interests" accounting
treatment.
(m) DISCLOSURE. The representations and warranties contained in this
Section 5.04 do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to
state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements and
information contained in this Section 5.04 not misleading.
ARTICLE VI
COVENANTS
6.01 REASONABLE BEST EFFORTS. Subject to the terms and conditions of this
Agreement, each of Central and Wachovia agrees to use its reasonable best
efforts in good faith to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or
cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or desirable, or advisable under
applicable laws, so as to permit consummation of the Merger as promptly as
practicable and otherwise to enable consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby and shall cooperate fully with the other party hereto to
that end.
6.02 STOCKHOLDER APPROVALS. Wachovia, to the extent required to consummate
the Merger, and Central agree to take, in accordance with applicable law or NYSE
or NASDAQ rules and their respective articles of incorporation and by-laws, all
action necessary to convene an appropriate meeting of their respective
stockholders to consider and vote upon, (i) in the case of Wachovia, the
approval and adoption of this Agreement and any other matter required to be
approved by Wachovia's stockholders for consummation of the Merger (including
any adjournment or postponement, the "WACHOVIA MEETING") and, (ii) in the case
of Central, the approval and adoption of this Agreement and any other matters
required to be approved by Central's stockholders for consummation of the Merger
(including any adjournment or postponement, the "CENTRAL MEETING"), in each case
as promptly as practicable after the Registration Statement is declared
effective. The Wachovia Board, to the extent required to consummate the Merger,
and the Central Board shall each recommend such approval, and Wachovia, to the
extent required to consummate the Merger, and Central shall each take all
reasonable, lawful action to solicit such approval by their respective
stockholders.
6.03 REGISTRATION STATEMENT. (a) Wachovia agrees to prepare a registration
statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form (the "REGISTRATION STATEMENT") to
be filed by Wachovia with the SEC in connection with the issuance of Wachovia
Common Stock in the Merger (including the proxy statement and prospectus and
other proxy solicitation materials of Wachovia and Central constituting a part
thereof (the "PROXY STATEMENT") and all related documents). Central agrees to
cooperate, and to cause its Subsidiaries to cooperate, with Wachovia, its
counsel and its accountants, in preparation of the Registration Statement and
the Proxy Statement; and PROVIDED that Central and its Subsidiaries have
cooperated as required above, Wachovia agrees to file the Proxy Statement in
preliminary form with the SEC as promptly as reasonably practicable, and to file
the Registration Statement with the SEC as soon as reasonably practicable after
any SEC comments with respect to the preliminary Proxy Statement are resolved.
Each of Central and Wachovia agrees to use all reasonable efforts to cause the
Registration Statement to be declared effective under the Securities Act as
promptly as reasonably practicable after filing thereof. Wachovia also agrees to
use all reasonable efforts to obtain all necessary state securities law or "Blue
Sky" permits and approvals required to carry out the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement. Central agrees to furnish to Wachovia all information
concerning Central, its Subsidiaries, officers, directors and stockholders as
may be reasonably requested in connection with the foregoing.
(b) Each of Central and Wachovia agrees, as to itself and its Subsidiaries,
that none of the information supplied or to be supplied by it for inclusion or
incorporation by reference in (i) the Registration Statement will, at the time
the Registration Statement and each amendment or supplement thereto, if any,
becomes effective
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under the Securities Act, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or
omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to
make the statements therein not misleading, and (ii) the Proxy Statement and any
amendment or supplement thereto will, at the date of mailing to stockholders and
at the time of the Wachovia Meeting or the Central Meeting, as the case may be,
contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein
not misleading or any statement which, in the light of the circumstances under
which such statement is made, will be false or misleading with respect to any
material fact, or which will omit to state any material fact necessary in order
to make the statements therein not false or misleading or necessary to correct
any statement in any earlier statement in the Proxy Statement or any amendment
or supplement thereto. Each of Central and Wachovia further agrees that if it
shall become aware prior to the Effective Date of any information furnished by
it that would cause any of the statements in the Proxy Statement to be false or
misleading with respect to any material fact, or to omit to state any material
fact necessary to make the statements therein not false or misleading, to
promptly inform the other party thereof and to take the necessary steps to
correct the Proxy Statement.
(c) Wachovia agrees to advise Central, promptly after Wachovia receives
notice thereof, of the time when the Registration Statement has become effective
or any supplement or amendment has been filed, of the issuance of any stop order
or the suspension of the qualification of Wachovia Stock for offering or sale in
any jurisdiction, of the initiation or threat of any proceeding for any such
purpose, or of any request by the SEC for the amendment or supplement of the
Registration Statement or for additional information.
6.04 PRESS RELEASES. Each of Central and Wachovia agrees that it will not,
without the prior approval of the other party, issue any press release or
written statement for general circulation relating to the transactions
contemplated hereby, except as otherwise required by applicable law or
regulation or NYSE or NASDAQ rules.
6.05 ACCESS; INFORMATION. (a) Each of Central and Wachovia agrees that upon
reasonable notice and subject to applicable laws relating to the exchange of
information, it shall afford the other party and the other party's officers,
employees, counsel, accountants and other authorized representatives, such
access during normal business hours throughout the period prior to the Effective
Time to the books, records (including, without limitation, tax returns and work
papers of independent auditors), properties, personnel and to such other
information as any party may reasonably request and, during such period, it
shall furnish promptly to such other party (i) a copy of each material report,
schedule and other document filed by it pursuant to the requirements of federal
or state securities or banking laws, and (ii) all other information concerning
the business, properties and personnel of it as the other may reasonably
request.
(b) Each agrees that it will not, and will cause its representatives not
to, use any information obtained pursuant to this Section 6.05 (as well as any
other information obtained prior to the date hereof in connection with the
entering into of this Agreement) for any purpose unrelated to the consummation
of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Subject to the requirements
of law, each party will keep confidential, and will cause its representatives to
keep confidential, all information and documents obtained pursuant to this
Section 6.05 (as well as any other information obtained prior to the date hereof
in connection with the entering into of this Agreement) unless such information
(i) was already known to such party, (ii) becomes available to such party from
other sources not known by such party to be bound by a confidentiality
obligation, (iii) is disclosed with the prior written approval of the party to
which such information pertains or (iv) is or becomes readily ascertainable from
published information or trade sources. In the event that this Agreement is
terminated or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall otherwise
fail to be consummated, each party shall promptly cause all copies of documents
or extracts thereof containing information and data as to another party hereto
to be returned to the party which furnished the same. No investigation by either
party of the business and affairs of the other shall affect or be deemed to
modify or waive any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement in this
Agreement, or the conditions to either party's obligation to consummate the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
6.06 ACQUISITION PROPOSALS. Central agrees that it shall not, and shall
cause its Subsidiaries and its and its Subsidiaries' officers, directors,
agents, advisors and affiliates not to, solicit or encourage inquiries or
proposals with respect to, or engage in any negotiations concerning, or provide
any confidential information to, or have any discussions with, any person
relating to, any Acquisition Proposal. It shall immediately cease and cause to
be terminated any activities, discussions or negotiations conducted prior to the
date of this Agreement with any parties other than Wachovia with respect to any
of the foregoing and shall use its reasonable best efforts to enforce any
confidentiality or similar agreement relating to an Acquisition Proposal.
Central shall promptly
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(within 24 hours) advise Wachovia following the receipt by Central of any
Acquisition Proposal and the substance thereof (including the identity of the
person making such Acquisition Proposal), and advise Wachovia of any
developments with respect to such Acquisition Proposal immediately upon the
occurrence thereof.
6.07. AFFILIATE AGREEMENTS. (a) Not later than the 15th day prior to the
mailing of the Proxy Statement, (i) Wachovia shall deliver to Central a schedule
of each person that, to the best of its knowledge, is or is reasonably likely to
be, as of the date of the Wachovia Meeting or if there is no Wachovia Meeting,
the Central Meeting, deemed to be an "affiliate" of Wachovia (each, a "Wachovia
Affiliate") as that term is used in SEC Accounting Series Releases 130 and 135;
and (ii) Central shall deliver to Wachovia a schedule of each person that, to
the best of its knowledge, is or is reasonably likely to be, as of the date of
the Central Meeting, deemed to be an "affiliate" of Central (each, a "Central
Affiliate") as that term is used in Rule 145 under the Securities Act or SEC
Accounting Series Releases 130 and 135.
(b) Each of Central and Wachovia shall use its respective reasonable best
efforts to cause each person who may be deemed to be a Central Affiliate or a
Wachovia Affiliate, as the case may be, to execute and deliver to Central and
Wachovia on or before the date of mailing of the Proxy Statement an agreement in
the form attached hereto as Exhibit C or Exhibit D, respectively.
6.08 TAKEOVER LAWS. No party hereto shall take any action that would cause
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or the Stock Option Agreement to
be subject to requirements imposed by any Takeover Law and each of them shall
take all necessary steps within its control to exempt (or ensure the continued
exemption of) the transactions contemplated by this Agreement from, or if
necessary challenge the validity or applicability of, any applicable Takeover
Law, as now or hereafter in effect.
6.09 CERTAIN POLICIES. Prior to the Effective Date, Central shall,
consistent with generally accepted accounting principles and on a basis mutually
satisfactory to it and Wachovia, modify and change its loan, litigation and real
estate valuation policies and practices (including loan classifications and
levels of reserves) so as to be applied on a basis that is consistent with that
of Wachovia; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that Central shall not be obligated to take any
such action pursuant to this Section 6.09 unless and until Wachovia acknowledges
that all conditions to its obligation to consummate the Merger have been
satisfied.
6.10 NYSE LISTING. Wachovia agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to
list, prior to the Effective Date, on the NYSE, subject to official notice of
issuance, the shares of Wachovia Common Stock to be issued to the holders of
Central Common Stock in the Merger.
6.11 REGULATORY APPLICATIONS. (a) Wachovia and Central and their respective
Subsidiaries shall cooperate and use their respective reasonable best efforts to
prepare all documentation, to effect all filings and to obtain all permits,
consents, approvals and authorizations of all third parties and Governmental
Authorities necessary to consummate the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement. Each of Wachovia and Central shall have the right to review in
advance, and to the extent practicable each will consult with the other, in each
case subject to applicable laws relating to the exchange of information, with
respect to all material written information submitted to any third party or any
Governmental Authority in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement. In exercising the foregoing right, each of the parties hereto agrees
to act reasonably and as promptly as practicable. Each party hereto agrees that
it will consult with the other party hereto with respect to the obtaining of all
material permits, consents, approvals and authorizations of all third parties
and Governmental Authorities necessary or advisable to consummate the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement and each party will keep the other
party appraised of the status of material matters relating to completion of the
transactions contemplated hereby.
(b) Each party agrees, upon request, to furnish the other party with all
information concerning itself, its Subsidiaries, directors, officers and
stockholders and such other matters as may be reasonably necessary or advisable
in connection with any filing, notice or application made by or on behalf of
such other party or any of its Subsidiaries to any third party or Governmental
Authority.
6.12 INDEMNIFICATION. (a) Following the Effective Date and for a period of
six years thereafter, Wachovia shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the
present directors and officers of Central and its Subsidiaries (each, an
"INDEMNIFIED PARTY") against all costs or expenses (including reasonable
attorneys' fees), judgments, fines, losses, claims, damages or liabilities
(collectively, "COSTS") incurred in connection with any claim, action, suit,
proceeding or investigation, whether civil, criminal, administrative or
investigative, arising out of actions or
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omissions occurring at or prior to the Effective Time (including, without
limitation, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement) to the fullest
extent that Central is permitted to indemnify (and advance expenses to) its
directors and officers under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the
Central Certificate and the Central By-Laws as in effect on the date hereof;
PROVIDED that any determination required to be made with respect to whether an
officer's or director's conduct complies with the standards set forth under
Virginia law, the Central Certificate and the Central By-Laws shall be made by
independent counsel (which shall not be counsel that provides material services
to Wachovia) selected by Wachovia and reasonably acceptable to such officer or
director; and PROVIDED, FURTHER, that in the absence of applicable Virginia
judicial precedent to the contrary, such counsel, in making such determination,
shall presume such officer's or director's conduct complied with such standard
and Wachovia shall have the burden to demonstrate that such officer's or
director's conduct failed to comply with such standard.
(b) For a period of five years from the Effective Time, Wachovia shall use
its reasonable best efforts to provide that portion of director's and officer's
liability insurance that serves to reimburse the present and former officers and
directors of Central or any of its Subsidiaries (determined as of the Effective
Time) (as opposed to Central) with respect to claims against such directors and
officers arising from facts or events which occurred before the Effective Time,
which insurance shall contain at least the same coverage and amounts, and
contain terms and conditions no less advantageous, as that coverage currently
provided by Central; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that in no event shall Wachovia be
required to expend more than 200 percent of the current amount expended by
Central (the "INSURANCE AMOUNT") to maintain or procure such directors and
officers insurance coverage; PROVIDED, FURTHER, that if Wachovia is unable to
maintain or obtain the insurance called for by this Section 6.12(b), Wachovia
shall use its reasonable best efforts to obtain as much comparable insurance as
is available for the Insurance Amount; PROVIDED, FURTHER, that officers and
directors of Central or any Subsidiary may be required to make application and
provide customary representations and warranties to Wachovia's insurance carrier
for the purpose of obtaining such insurance.
(c) Any Indemnified Party wishing to claim indemnification under Section
6.12(a), upon learning of any claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation
described above, shall promptly notify Wachovia thereof; PROVIDED that the
failure so to notify shall not affect the obligations of Wachovia under Section
6.12(a) unless and to the extent that Wachovia is actually prejudiced as a
result of such failure.
(d) If Wachovia or any of its successors or assigns shall consolidate with
or merge into any other entity and shall not be the continuing or surviving
entity of such consolidation or merger or shall transfer all or substantially
all of its assets to any other entity, then and in each case, proper provision
shall be made so that the successors and assigns of Wachovia shall assume the
obligations set forth in this Section 6.12.
6.13 BENEFIT PLANS. Wachovia shall, from and after the Effective Time, (a)
except as provided in clause (h), honor the Compensation and Benefit Plans in
accordance with their terms, (b) except as provided in clauses (e) and (h)
below, provide former employees of Central who remain as employees of Wachovia
with employee benefit plans no less favorable in the aggregate than those
provided to similarly situated employees of Wachovia, (c) provide employees of
Central who remain as employees of Wachovia credit for years of service with
Central or any of its subsidiaries prior to the Effective Time for the purpose
of eligibility and vesting, (d) cause any and all pre-existing condition
limitations (to the extent such limitations did not apply to a pre-existing
condition under comparable Compensation and Benefit Plans) and eligibility
waiting periods under group health plans of Wachovia to be waived with respect
to former employees of Central who remain as employees of Wachovia (and their
eligible dependents) and who become participants in such group health plans, (e)
provide, to any employee of the Surviving Corporation who participated in the
Central Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan immediately prior to the
Effective Time, benefits under such plan, or, if more favorable to such
employee, pursuant to (f) below, (f) offer any employee of the Surviving
Corporation who is a member of the Central Management Committee and who is
covered by an employment agreement, a replacement agreement in the form afforded
to similarly situated executives of Wachovia; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that such
executives agree to terminate their existing employment agreement and waive any
rights they have thereunder; PROVIDED, FURTHER, that such executives who execute
the replacement employment agreements with Wachovia will be provided with an
Executive Retirement Agreement, Supplemental Retirement Agreement or
participation under the Wachovia Retirement Income Benefit Enhancement Plan, as
determined by the Chief Executive Officers of Wachovia and Central, in
replacement of, but no less favorable than, their benefits under the Central
Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan, (g) Wachovia shall make the contribution
contemplated by Section 10(b) of the Central Executive Supplemental
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Retirement Plan to either the Wachovia Grantor Trust or the Central Grantor
Trust in accordance with such Section 10(b) and (h) honor the Central Special
Severance Policy, as amended effective June 23, 1997, as reflected on Schedule
4.01(d), the Central Special Executive Severance Policy, as amended effective
June 23, 1997, as reflected on Schedule 4.01(d), and any other Central severance
or change of control agreements, plans or policies as Previously Disclosed in
accordance with their terms.
6.14 ACCOUNTANTS' LETTERS. Each of Central and Wachovia shall use its
reasonable best efforts to cause to be delivered to the other party, and to
Wachovia's directors and officers who sign the Registration Statement, a letter
of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP and Ernst & Young, LLP, respectively, independent
auditors, dated (i) the date on which the Registration Statement shall become
effective and (ii) a date shortly prior to the Effective Date, and addressed to
such other party, and such directors and officers, in form and substance
customary for "comfort" letters delivered by independent accountants in
accordance with Statement of Accounting Standards No. 72.
6.15 NOTIFICATION OF CERTAIN MATTERS. Each of Central and Wachovia shall
give prompt notice to the other of any fact, event or circumstance known to it
that (i) is reasonably likely, individually or taken together with all other
facts, events and circumstances known to it, to result in any Material Adverse
Effect with respect to it or (ii) would cause or constitute a material breach of
any of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained
herein.
6.16 DIRECTORS. Wachovia agrees to cause three members of the Central Board
on the date hereof (selected by Wachovia after consultation with Central) who
are still members of the Central Board immediately prior to the Effective Time
and willing and eligible to serve to be elected or appointed as a director of
Wachovia at, or as promptly as practicable after, the Effective Time.
6.17 DIVIDEND COORDINATION. The Board of Directors of Central shall cause
its regular quarterly dividend record dates and payment dates for Central Common
Stock to be the same as Wachovia's regular quarterly dividend record dates and
payment dates for Wachovia Common Stock (e.g., Central shall move its next
dividend record and payment dates from September and October to August and
September, respectively), and Central shall not thereafter change its regular
dividend payment dates and record dates.
ARTICLE VII
CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER
7.01 CONDITIONS TO EACH PARTY'S OBLIGATION TO EFFECT THE MERGER. The
respective obligation of each of Wachovia and Central to consummate the Merger
is subject to the fulfillment or written waiver by Wachovia and Central prior to
the Effective Time of each of the following conditions:
(a) STOCKHOLDER APPROVALS. This Agreement and the Merger shall have
been duly adopted by the requisite vote of the stockholders of Central and
duly adopted by the requisite vote, if any, of the stockholders of
Wachovia.
(b) REGULATORY APPROVALS. All regulatory approvals required to
consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, shall have been obtained
and shall remain in full force and effect and all statutory waiting periods
in respect thereof shall have expired and no such approvals shall contain
any conditions, restrictions or requirements which the Wachovia Board
reasonably determines would (i) following the Effective Time, have a
Material Adverse Effect on the Surviving Corporation and its Subsidiaries
taken as a whole or (ii) reduce the benefits of the transactions
contemplated hereby to such a degree that Wachovia would not have entered
into this Agreement had such conditions, restrictions or requirements been
known at the date hereof.
(c) NO INJUNCTION. No Governmental Authority of competent jurisdiction
shall have enacted, issued, promulgated, enforced or entered any statute,
rule, regulation, judgment, decree, injunction or other order (whether
temporary, preliminary or permanent) which is in effect and prohibits
consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(d) REGISTRATION STATEMENT. The Registration Statement shall have
become effective under the Securities Act and no stop order suspending the
effectiveness of the Registration Statement shall have been issued and no
proceedings for that purpose shall have been initiated or threatened by the
SEC.
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(e) BLUE SKY APPROVALS. All permits and other authorizations under
state securities laws necessary to consummate the transactions contemplated
hereby and to issue the shares of Wachovia Common Stock to be issued in the
Merger shall have been received and be in full force and effect.
(f) LISTING. The shares of Wachovia Common Stock to be issued in the
Merger shall have been approved for listing on the NYSE, subject to
official notice of issuance.
7.02 CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATION OF CENTRAL. The obligation of Central to
consummate the Merger is also subject to the fulfillment or written waiver by
Central prior to the Effective Time of each of the following conditions:
(a) REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations and warranties
of Wachovia set forth in this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the
date of this Agreement and as of the Effective Date as though made on and
as of the Effective Date (except that representations and warranties that
by their terms speak as of the date of this Agreement or some other date
shall be true and correct as of such date), and Central shall have received
a certificate, dated the Effective Date, signed on behalf of Wachovia by
the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of Wachovia to
such effect.
(b) PERFORMANCE OF OBLIGATIONS OF WACHOVIA. Wachovia shall have
performed in all material respects all obligations required to be performed
by it under this Agreement at or prior to the Effective Time, and Central
shall have received a certificate, dated the Effective Date, signed on
behalf of Wachovia by the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial
Officer of Wachovia to such effect.
(c) OPINION OF CENTRAL'S COUNSEL. Central shall have received an
opinion of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, special counsel to Central,
dated the Effective Date, to the effect that, on the basis of facts,
representations and assumptions set forth in such opinion, (i) the Merger
constitutes a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368 of the
Code and (ii) no gain or loss will be recognized by stockholders of Central
who receive shares of Wachovia Common Stock in exchange for shares of
Central Common Stock, except with respect to cash received in lieu of
fractional share interests. In rendering its opinion, Wachtell, Lipton,
Rosen & Katz, may require and rely upon representations contained in
letters from Central, Wachovia and stockholders of Central.
(d) ACCOUNTANTS' LETTERS. Central shall have received the letters
referred to in Section 6.14 from Ernst & Young, LLP, Wachovia's independent
auditors.
(e) ACCOUNTING TREATMENT. Central shall have received from KPMG Peat
Marwick LLP, Central's independent auditors, letters, dated the date of or
shortly prior to each of the mailing date of the Proxy Statement and the
Effective Date, stating its opinion that the Merger shall qualify for
pooling-of-interests accounting treatment.
7.03 CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATION OF WACHOVIA. The obligation of Wachovia to
consummate the Merger is also subject to the fulfillment or written waiver by
Wachovia prior to the Effective Time of each of the following conditions:
(a) REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations and warranties
of Central set forth in this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the
date of this Agreement and as of the Effective Date as though made on and
as of the Effective Date (except that representations and warranties that
by their terms speak as of the date of this Agreement or some other date
shall be true and correct as of such date) and Wachovia shall have received
a certificate, dated the Effective Date, signed on behalf of Central by the
Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of Central to such
effect.
(b) PERFORMANCE OF OBLIGATIONS OF CENTRAL. Central shall have
performed in all material respects all obligations required to be performed
by it under this Agreement at or prior to the Effective Time, and Wachovia
shall have received a certificate, dated the Effective Date, signed on
behalf of Central by the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial
Officer of Central to such effect.
(c) OPINION OF WACHOVIA'S COUNSEL. Wachovia shall have received an
opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell, special counsel to Wachovia, dated the
Effective Date, to the effect that, on the basis of facts, representations
and assumptions set forth in such opinion, the Merger constitutes a
reorganization under Section 368 of the Code. In rendering its opinion,
Sullivan & Cromwell may require and rely upon representations contained in
letters from Central, Wachovia and stockholders of Central.
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(d) ACCOUNTANTS' LETTERS. Wachovia and its directors and officers who
sign the Registration Statement shall have received the letters referred to
in Section 6.14 from KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, Central's independent auditors.
(e) ACCOUNTING TREATMENT. Wachovia shall have received from Ernst &
Young, LLP, Wachovia's independent auditors, letters, dated the date of or
shortly prior to each of the mailing date of the Proxy Statement and the
Effective Date, stating its opinion that the Merger shall qualify for
pooling-of-interests accounting treatment.
(f) CENTRAL RIGHTS. No person shall have become an "Acquiring Person"
and no "Distribution Date" (as such terms are defined in the Central Rights
Agreement) shall have occurred, and the Central Rights shall not have
become separable, distributable, redeemable or exercisable.
ARTICLE VIII
TERMINATION
8.01 TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated, and the Acquisition may
be abandoned:
(a) MUTUAL CONSENT. At any time prior to the Effective Time, by the
mutual consent of Wachovia and Central, if the Board of Directors of each
so determines by vote of a majority of the members of its entire Board.
(b) BREACH. At any time prior to the Effective Time, by Wachovia or
Central, if its Board of Directors so determines by vote of a majority of
the members of its entire Board, in the event of either: (i) a breach by
the other party of any representation or warranty contained herein (subject
to the standard set forth in Section 5.02), which breach cannot be or has
not been cured within 30 days after the giving of written notice to the
breaching party of such breach; or (ii) a breach by the other party of any
of the covenants or agreements contained herein, which breach cannot be or
has not been cured within 30 days after the giving of written notice to the
breaching party of such breach, provided that such breach (whether under
(i) or (ii)) would be reasonably likely, individually or in the aggregate
with other breaches, to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
(c) DELAY. At any time prior to the Effective Time, by Wachovia or
Central, if its Board of Directors so determines by vote of a majority of
the members of its entire Board, in the event that the Acquisition is not
consummated by June 30, 1998, except to the extent that the failure of the
Acquisition then to be consummated arises out of or results from the
knowing action or inaction of the party seeking to terminate pursuant to
this Section 8.01(c).
(d) NO APPROVAL. By Central or Wachovia, if its Board of Directors so
determines by a vote of a majority of the members of its entire Board, in
the event (i) the approval of any Governmental Authority required for
consummation of the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this
Agreement shall have been denied by final nonappealable action of such
Governmental Authority or (ii) any stockholder approval required by Section
7.01(a) herein is not obtained at the Central Meeting or the Wachovia
Meeting.
(e) FAILURE TO RECOMMEND, ETC. At any time prior to the Central
Meeting, by Wachovia if the Central Board shall have failed to make its
recommendation referred to in Section 6.02, withdrawn such recommendation
or modified or changed such recommendation in a manner adverse in any
respect to the interests of Wachovia; or at any time prior to the Wachovia
Meeting, by Central, if the Wachovia Board shall have failed to make its
recommendation referred to in Section 6.02, withdrawn such recommendation
or modified or changed such recommendation in a manner adverse in any
respect to the interests of Central.
(f) FAILURE TO EXECUTE AND DELIVER STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT. At any time
prior to June 26, 1997, by Wachovia if Central shall not have executed and
delivered the Stock Option Agreement to Wachovia.
8.02 EFFECT OF TERMINATION AND ABANDONMENT. In the event of termination of
this Agreement and the abandonment of the Merger pursuant to this Article VIII,
no party to this Agreement shall have any liability or further obligation to any
other party hereunder except (i) as set forth in Section 9.01 and (ii) that
termination will not relieve a breaching party from liability for any willful
breach of this Agreement giving rise to such termination.
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ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
9.01 SURVIVAL. No representations, warranties, agreements and covenants
contained in this Agreement shall survive the Effective Time (other than Section
6.12 and this Article IX which shall survive the Effective Time) or the
termination of this Agreement if this Agreement is terminated prior to the
Effective Time (other than Sections 6.03(b), 6.05, 6.16, 8.02, and this Article
IX which shall survive such termination).
9.02 WAIVER; AMENDMENT. Prior to the Effective Time, any provision of this
Agreement may be (i) waived by the party benefitted by the provision, or (ii)
amended or modified at any time, by an agreement in writing between the parties
hereto executed in the same manner as this Agreement, except that (A) after the
Central Meeting, this Agreement may not be amended if it would violate the VSCA
or reduce the consideration to be received by Central stockholders in the Merger
and (B) after the Wachovia Meeting, this Agreement may not be amended if it
would violate the NCBCA.
9.03 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to constitute an original.
9.04 GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted in
accordance with, the laws of the State of North Carolina applicable to contracts
made and to be performed entirely within such State (except to the extent that
mandatory provisions of Federal law or of the NCBCA or VSCA are applicable).
9.05 EXPENSES. Each party hereto will bear all expenses incurred by it in
connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, except
that printing expenses and SEC fees shall be shared equally between Central and
Wachovia.
9.06 NOTICES. All notices, requests and other communications hereunder to a
party shall be in writing and shall be deemed given if personally delivered,
telecopied (with confirmation) or mailed by registered or certified mail (return
receipt requested) to such party at its address set forth below or such other
address as such party may specify by notice to the parties hereto.
If to Central, to:
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
1021 East Cary Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Attention: Chairman of the Board
Facsimile: (804) 697-7345
With a copy to:
Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz
51 West 52nd Street
New York, New York 10019
Attention: Edward D. Herlihy, Esq.
Facsimile: (212) 403-2000
With a copy to:
William H. Schwarzchild, III
Williams, Mullen, Christian & Dobbins
1021 East Cary Street, 16th Floor
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Facsimile: (804) 783-6507
If to Wachovia, to:
Wachovia Corporation
100 North Main Street
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27150
Attention: Chairman of the Board
Facsimile: (910) 770-5959
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With a copy to:
Wachovia Corporation
100 North Main Street
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27150
Attention: Kenneth W. McAllister
Facsimile: (910) 770-5959
With a copy to:
Sullivan & Cromwell
125 Broad Street
New York, New York 10004-2498
Attention: H. Rodgin Cohen, Esq.
Mark J. Menting, Esq.
Facsimile: (212) 558-3588
9.07 ENTIRE UNDERSTANDING; NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES. This Agreement and
any Stock Option Agreement entered into represent the entire understanding of
the parties hereto with reference to the transactions contemplated hereby and
thereby and this Agreement supersedes any and all other oral or written
agreements heretofore made (other than any such Stock Option Agreement). Except
for Section 6.12 and as set forth in Central's Disclosure Schedule, nothing in
this Agreement expressed or implied, is intended to confer upon any person,
other than the parties hereto or their respective successors, any rights,
remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement.
9.08 INTERPRETATION; EFFECT. When a reference is made in this Agreement to
Sections, Exhibits or Schedules, such reference shall be to a Section of, or
Exhibit or Schedule to, this Agreement unless otherwise indicated. The table of
contents and headings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes
only and are not part of this Agreement. Whenever the words "include,"
"includes" or "including" are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed to be
followed by the words "without limitation." No provision of this Agreement shall
be construed to require Central, Wachovia or any of their respective
Subsidiaries, affiliates or directors to take any action which would violate
applicable law (whether statutory or common law), rule or regulation.
* * *
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed in counterparts by their duly authorized officers, all as of the day
and year first above written.
CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC.
By: /s/ Lewis N. Miller, Jr.
Name: Lewis N. Miller, Jr.
Title: President and
Chief Executive Officer
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
By: /s/ L. M. Baker, Jr.
Name: L. M. Baker, Jr.
Title: President and
Chief Executive Officer
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PLAN OF MERGER
PLAN OF MERGER (this "PLAN") of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. ("CENTRAL
FIDELITY"), a Virginia Corporation, and Wachovia Corporation ("WACHOVIA"), a
North Carolina corporation.
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
1.1 CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. The following terms are used in this Plan with the
meanings set forth below:
"CENTRAL FIDELITY COMMON STOCK" means the common stock, par value
$5.00 per share, of Central Fidelity.
"CENTRAL FIDELITY STOCK PLANS" means the 1995 Stock Incentive Plan,
1986 Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1988 Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1991
Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1993 Incentive Stock Option Plan and the 1982
Stock Option Plan.
"CODE" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
"EFFECTIVE DATE" means the effective date of the Merger.
"EFFECTIVE TIME" means the effective time of the Merger.
"MERGER AGREEMENT" means the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
June 23, 1997 by and between Central Fidelity and Wachovia.
"NCBCA" means the North Carolina Business Corporation Act.
"NYSE" means the New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
"VSCA" means the Virginia Stock Corporation Act.
"WACHOVIA COMMON STOCK" means the common stock, par value $5.00 per
share, of Wachovia.
"WACHOVIA PREFERRED STOCK" means the preferred stock, par value $5.00
per share, of Wachovia.
"WACHOVIA STOCK" means, collectively, Wachovia Common Stock and
Wachovia Preferred Stock.
ARTICLE II
TERMS OF THE MERGER
2.1 THE MERGER. The names of the corporations to be merged are Wachovia
Corporation and Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. At the Effective Time, Central
Fidelity shall merge with and into Wachovia (the "MERGER"), the separate
corporate existence of Central Fidelity shall cease and Wachovia shall survive
and continue to exist as a North Carolina corporation (Wachovia, as the
surviving corporation in the Merger, sometimes being referred to herein as the
"SURVIVING CORPORATION").
2.2 EFFECT OF THE MERGER. The Merger shall become effective upon the
occurrence of the filing in the office of the Virginia State Corporation
Commission (the "CORPORATION COMMISSION") of articles of merger in accordance
with Section 13.1-720 of the VSCA and the filing in the Office of the Secretary
of State of the State of North Carolina (the "NORTH CAROLINA SECRETARY") of
articles of merger in accordance with Section 55-11-05 of the NCBCA or such
later date and time as may be set forth in such articles and the issuance of a
certificate of merger by the Corporation Commission under the VSCA. The Merger
shall have the effects prescribed in the NCBCA and the VSCA.
2.3 ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS. The articles of incorporation
and by-laws of Wachovia immediately after the Merger shall be those of Wachovia
as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time.
2.4 DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OF WACHOVIA. The directors and officers of
Wachovia immediately after the Merger shall be the directors and officers of
Wachovia immediately prior to the Effective Time, until such time as their
successors shall be duly elected and qualified, except that Wachovia shall cause
three members of the Central Fidelity board of directors (selected by Wachovia
after consultation with Central Fidelity) who are members of the Central
Fidelity board of directors immediately prior to the Effective Time and willing
and eligible to
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serve, to be elected or appointed as directors of Wachovia at, or as promptly as
practicable after, the Effective Time.
ARTICLE III
MANNER AND BASIS OF
CONVERTING SHARES
3.1 BASIS FOR CONVERSION OF SHARES. At the Effective Time, automatically by
virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of any person:
(a) OUTSTANDING CENTRAL FIDELITY COMMON STOCK. Each share of Central
Fidelity Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time, excluding shares of Central Fidelity Stock held by Central
Fidelity's Subsidiaries or by Wachovia or any of its Subsidiaries, in each
case other than in a fiduciary capacity or as a result of a debt previously
contracted in good faith, shall become and be converted into 0.63 of a
share of Wachovia Common Stock (the "EXCHANGE RATIO"). In the event
Wachovia changes (or establishes a record date for changing) the number of
shares of Wachovia Common Stock issued and outstanding prior to the
Effective Date as a result of a stock split, stock dividend,
recapitalization or similar transaction with respect to the outstanding
Wachovia Common Stock and the record date therefor shall be prior to the
Effective Date, the Exchange Ratio shall be proportionately adjusted.
Central Fidelity Common Stock is the only class of stock of Central
Fidelity issued and outstanding.
(b) OUTSTANDING WACHOVIA STOCK. Each share of Wachovia Stock issued
and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall remain issued
and outstanding after the Merger.
(c) OTHER SHARES. Each share of Central Fidelity Common Stock held by
Central Fidelity or any of its Subsidiaries or by Wachovia or any of its
Subsidiaries, in each case other than in a fiduciary capacity or as a
result of a debt previously contracted in good faith, immediately prior to
the Effective Time shall be canceled and retired at the Effective Time and
no consideration shall be issued in exchange therefor.
3.2 RIGHTS AS STOCKHOLDERS; STOCK TRANSFERS. At the Effective Time, holders
of Central Fidelity Common Stock shall cease to be, and shall have no rights as,
stockholders of Central Fidelity, other than to receive any dividend or other
distribution with respect to such Central Fidelity Common Stock with a record
date occurring prior to the Effective Time and the consideration provided
herein. After the Effective Time, there shall be no transfers on the stock
transfer books of Central Fidelity or the Surviving Corporation of shares of
Central Fidelity Common Stock.
3.3 FRACTIONAL SHARES. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, no
fractional shares of Wachovia Common Stock and no certificates or scrip
therefor, or other evidence of ownership thereof, will be issued in the Merger;
instead, Wachovia shall pay to each holder of Central Fidelity Common Stock who
would otherwise be entitled to a fractional share of Wachovia Common Stock
(after taking into account all Old Certificates (as defined below) delivered by
such holder) an amount in cash (without interest) determined by multiplying such
fraction by the average of the last sale prices of Wachovia Common Stock, as
reported by the NYSE Composite Transactions Reporting System (as reported in THE
WALL STREET JOURNAL or, if not reported therein, in another authoritative
source), for the five NYSE trading days immediately preceding the Effective
Date.
3.4 MANNER OF CONVERTING SHARES. (a) At or prior to the Effective Time,
Wachovia shall deposit, or shall cause to be deposited, with Wachovia Bank, N.A.
(in such capacity, the "EXCHANGE AGENT"), for the benefit of the holders of
certificates formerly representing shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock ("OLD
CERTIFICATES"), for exchange, certificates representing the shares of Wachovia
Common Stock ("NEW CERTIFICATES") and an estimated amount of cash (such cash and
New Certificates, together with any dividends or distributions with a record
date occurring after the Effective Date with respect thereto, without any
interest on any such cash, dividends or distributions, being hereinafter
referred to as the "EXCHANGE FUND") to be paid in exchange for outstanding
shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock.
(b) As promptly as practicable after the Effective Date, Wachovia
shall send or cause to be sent to each former holder of record of shares of
Central Fidelity Common Stock immediately prior to the Effective Time
transmittal materials for use in exchanging such stockholder's Old
Certificates. Wachovia shall cause the New Certificates into which shares
of a stockholder's Central Fidelity Common Stock are converted on the
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Effective Date and/or any check in respect of any fractional share
interests or dividends or distributions which such person shall be entitled
to receive to be delivered to such stockholder upon delivery to the
Exchange Agent of Old Certificates representing such shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock (or indemnity reasonably satisfactory to Wachovia and
the Exchange Agent, if any of such certificates are lost, stolen or
destroyed) owned by such stockholder. No interest will be paid on any such
cash to be paid in lieu of fractional share interests or in respect of
dividends or distributions which any such person shall be entitled to
receive upon such delivery.
(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Exchange Agent nor
Wachovia or Central Fidelity shall be liable to any former holder of
Central Fidelity Common Stock for any amount properly delivered to a public
official pursuant to applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar
laws.
(d) At the election of Wachovia, no dividends or other distributions
with respect to Wachovia Common Stock with a record date occurring after
the Effective Time shall be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered Old
Certificate representing shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock converted
in the Merger into the right to receive shares of such Wachovia Common
Stock until the holder thereof shall be entitled to receive New
Certificates in exchange therefor, and no such shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock shall be eligible to vote until the holder of Old Certificates
is entitled to receive New Certificates. After becoming so entitled, the
record holder thereof also shall be entitled to receive any such dividends
or other distributions, without any interest thereon, which theretofore had
become payable with respect to shares of Wachovia Common Stock such holder
had the right to receive upon surrender of the Old Certificate.
(e) Any portion of the Exchange Fund that remains unclaimed by the
stockholders of Central Fidelity for six months after the Effective Time
shall be paid to Wachovia. Any stockholders of Central Fidelity who have
not theretofore complied with the exchange procedures shall thereafter look
only to Wachovia for payment of the shares of Wachovia Common Stock, cash
in lieu of any fractional shares and unpaid dividends and distributions on
Wachovia Common Stock deliverable in respect of each share of Central
Fidelity Common Stock such stockholder holds as determined pursuant to this
Plan, in each case, without any interest thereon and Wachovia shall make
such payment.
3.5 OPTIONS. At the Effective Time, each outstanding option to purchase
shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock under the Central Fidelity Stock Plans
(each, a "CENTRAL FIDELITY STOCK OPTION"), whether vested or unvested, shall be
converted into an option to acquire, on the same terms and conditions as were
applicable under such Central Fidelity Stock Option, the number of shares of
Wachovia Common Stock equal to (a) the number of shares of Central Fidelity
Common Stock subject to the Central Fidelity Stock Option, multiplied by (b) the
Exchange Ratio (such product rounded down to the nearest whole number) (a
"REPLACEMENT OPTION"), at an exercise price per share (rounded up to the nearest
whole cent) equal to (y) the aggregate exercise price for the shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock which were purchasable pursuant to such Central Fidelity
Stock Option divided by (z) the number of full shares of Wachovia Common Stock
subject to such Replacement Option in accordance with the foregoing.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, each Central Fidelity Stock Option which is
intended to be an "incentive stock option" (as defined in Section 422 of the
Code) shall be adjusted in accordance with the requirements of Section 424 of
the Code. At the Effective Time, Wachovia shall assume the Central Fidelity
Stock Plans; PROVIDED, that such assumption shall be only in respect of the
Replacement Options and that Wachovia shall have no obligation with respect to
any awards under the Central Fidelity Stock Plans other than the Replacement
Options and shall have no obligation to make any additional grants or awards
under such assumed Central Fidelity Stock Plans.
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ARTICLE IV
CONDITIONS TO THE MERGER
4.1 Consummation of the Merger is conditioned upon the following:
(a) Approval of the Merger Agreement and this Plan by the requisite
vote of the stockholders of Central Fidelity;
(b) Receipt of required regulatory approvals;
(c) Absence of governmental action prohibiting consummation;
(d) An effective Registration Statement under the Securities Act of
1933 and no orders or other action suspending such effectiveness;
(e) Receipt of all required permits and authorizations under state
securities laws;
(f) Approval of the shares of Wachovia Common Stock issued in the
Merger for listing on the New York Stock Exchange;
(g) All representations and warranties made by Wachovia and Central
Fidelity are true and correct as of the Effective Time and receipt by
Wachovia and Central Fidelity of appropriate officers' certificates to such
effect;
(h) Performance of all required obligations by Wachovia and Central
Fidelity and receipt by Wachovia and Central Fidelity of appropriate
officers' certificates to such effect; and
(i) Receipt by Wachovia and Central Fidelity of appropriate opinions
of counsel and letters of their respective independent auditors related to
the Merger.
ARTICLE V
TERMINATION
5.1 This Plan may be terminated prior to the Effective Time as
provided in Article VIII of the Merger Agreement.
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APPENDIX B
STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT, dated as of June 24, 1997, between Wachovia
Corporation, a North Carolina corporation ("Grantee"), and Central Fidelity
Banks, Inc., a Virginia corporation ("Issuer").
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Grantee and Issuer have entered into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger (the "Merger Agreement");
WHEREAS, as an inducement to the willingness of Grantee to continue to
pursue the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, Issuer has agreed
to grant Grantee the Option (as hereinafter defined); and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of Issuer has approved the grant of the
Option and the Merger Agreement prior to the date hereof;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants
and agreements set forth herein and in the Merger Agreement, the parties hereto
agree as follows:
1. (a) Issuer hereby grants to Grantee an unconditional, irrevocable option
(the "Option") to purchase, subject to the terms hereof, up to an aggregate of
11,280,000 fully paid and nonassessable shares of the common stock, par value
$5.00 per share, of Issuer ("Common Stock") at a price per share equal to the
average of last reported sale prices per share of Common Stock as reported on
the NASDAQ National Market System on June 20 and 23, 1997; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that in the event Issuer issues or agrees to issue any shares of Common Stock
(other than shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to stock options granted
pursuant to any employee benefit plan prior to the date hereof) at a price less
than such average price per share (as adjusted pursuant to subsection (b) of
Section 5), such price shall be equal to such lesser price (such price, as
adjusted if applicable, the "Option Price"); PROVIDED, FURTHER, that in no event
shall the number of shares for which this Option is exercisable exceed 19.9% of
the issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock. The number of shares of
Common Stock that may be received upon the exercise of the Option and the Option
Price are subject to adjustment as herein set forth.
(b) In the event that any additional shares of Common Stock are issued or
otherwise become outstanding after the date of this Agreement (other than
pursuant to this Agreement and other than pursuant to an event described in
Section 5(a) hereof), the number of shares of Common Stock subject to the Option
shall be increased so that, after such issuance, such number together with any
shares of Common Stock previously issued pursuant hereto, equals 19.9% of the
number of shares of Common Stock then issued and outstanding without giving
effect to any shares subject or issued pursuant to the Option. Nothing contained
in this Section l(b) or elsewhere in this Agreement shall be deemed to authorize
Issuer to issue shares in breach of any provision of the Merger Agreement.
2. (a) The Holder (as hereinafter defined) may exercise the Option, in
whole or part, if, but only if, both an Initial Triggering Event (as hereinafter
defined) and a Subsequent Triggering Event (as hereinafter defined) shall have
occurred prior to the occurrence of an Exercise Termination Event (as
hereinafter defined), PROVIDED that the Holder shall have sent the written
notice of such exercise (as provided in subsection (e) of this Section 2) within
six (6) months following such Subsequent Triggering Event (or such later period
as provided in Section 10). Each of the following shall be an Exercise
Termination Event: (i) the Effective Time of the Merger; (ii) termination of the
Merger Agreement in accordance with the provisions thereof if such termination
occurs prior to the occurrence of an Initial Triggering Event except a
termination by Grantee pursuant to Section 8.01(b) or Section 8.01(e) of the
Merger Agreement or by Grantee or Issuer pursuant to Section 8.01(d)(ii) of the
Merger Agreement (each, a "Listed Termination"); or (iii) the passage of
eighteen (18) months (or such longer period as provided in Section 10) after
termination of the Merger Agreement if such termination follows the occurrence
of an Initial Triggering Event or is a Listed Termination. The term "Holder"
shall mean the holder or holders of the Option. Notwithstanding anything to the
contrary contained herein, (i) the Option may not be exercised at any time when
Grantee shall be in material breach of any of its covenants or agreements
contained in the Merger Agreement
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such that Issuer shall be entitled to terminate the Merger Agreement pursuant to
Section 8.01(b) thereof and (ii) this Agreement shall automatically terminate
upon the proper termination of the Merger Agreement by Issuer pursuant to
Section 8.01(b) thereof as a result of the material breach by Grantee of its
covenants or agreements contained in the Merger Agreement.
(b) The term "Initial Triggering Event" shall mean any of the following
events or transactions occurring on or after the date hereof:
(i) Issuer or its Significant Subsidiary (as defined in Rule 1-02 of
Regulation S-X promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"SEC")) (the "Issuer Subsidiary"), without having received Grantee's prior
written consent, shall have entered into an agreement to engage in an
Acquisition Transaction (as hereinafter defined) with any person (the term
"person" for purposes of this Agreement having the meaning assigned thereto
in Sections 3(a)(9) and 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the "1934 Act"), and the rules and regulations thereunder) other
than Grantee or any of its Subsidiaries (each a "Grantee Subsidiary") or
the Board of Directors of Issuer (the "Issuer Board") shall have
recommended that the shareholders of Issuer approve or accept any
Acquisition Transaction other than as contemplated by the Merger Agreement.
For purposes of this Agreement, (a) "Acquisition Transaction" shall mean
(x) a merger or consolidation, or any similar transaction, involving Issuer
or the Issuer Subsidiary (other than mergers, consolidations or similar
transactions involving solely Issuer and/or one or more wholly-owned
Subsidiaries of the Issuer, PROVIDED, any such transaction is not entered
into in violation of the terms of the Merger Agreement), (y) a purchase,
lease or other acquisition of all or any substantial part of the assets or
deposits of Issuer or the Issuer Subsidiary, or (z) a purchase or other
acquisition (including by way of merger, consolidation, share exchange or
otherwise) of securities representing 10% or more of the voting power of
Issuer or the Issuer Subsidiary and (b) "Subsidiary" shall have the meaning
set forth in Rule 12b-2 under the 1934 Act;
(ii) Any person other than the Grantee or any Grantee Subsidiary shall
have acquired beneficial ownership or the right to acquire beneficial
ownership of 10% or more of the outstanding shares of Common Stock (the
term "beneficial ownership" for purposes of this Agreement having the
meaning assigned thereto in Section 13(d) of the 1934 Act, and the rules
and regulations thereunder);
(iii) The shareholders of Issuer shall have voted and failed to
approve the Merger Agreement and the Merger at a meeting which has been
held for that purpose or any adjournment or postponement thereof, or such
meeting shall not have been held in violation of the Merger Agreement or
shall have been cancelled prior to termination of the Merger Agreement if,
prior to such meeting (or if such meeting shall not have been held or shall
have been cancelled, prior to such termination), it shall have been
publicly announced that any person (other than Grantee or any of its
Subsidiaries) shall have made, or disclosed an intention to make, a
proposal to engage in an Acquisition Transaction;
(iv) The Issuer Board shall have withdrawn or modified (or publicly
announced its intention to withdraw or modify) in any manner adverse in any
respect to Grantee its recommendation that the shareholders of Issuer
approve the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, or Issuer or
the Issuer Subsidiary shall have authorized, recommended, proposed (or
publicly announced its intention to authorize, recommend or propose) an
agreement to engage in an Acquisition Transaction with any person other
than Grantee or a Grantee Subsidiary;
(v) Any person other than Grantee or any Grantee Subsidiary shall have
made a proposal to Issuer or its shareholders to engage in an Acquisition
Transaction and such proposal shall have been publicly announced;
(vi) Any person other than Grantee or any Grantee Subsidiary shall
have filed with the SEC a registration statement or tender offer materials
with respect to a potential exchange or tender offer that would constitute
an Acquisition Transaction (or filed a preliminary proxy statement with the
SEC with respect to a potential vote by its shareholders to approve the
issuance of shares to be offered in such an exchange offer);
(vii) Issuer shall have willfully breached any covenant or obligation
contained in the Merger Agreement in anticipation of engaging in an
Acquisition Transaction, and following such breach Grantee would be
entitled to terminate the Merger Agreement (whether immediately or after
the giving of notice or passage of time or both); or
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(viii) Any person other than Grantee or any Grantee Subsidiary shall
have filed an application or notice with the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve Board") or other federal or
state bank regulatory or antitrust authority, which application or notice
has been accepted for processing, for approval to engage in an Acquisition
Transaction.
(c) The term "Subsequent Triggering Event" shall mean any of the following
events or transactions occurring after the date hereof:
(i) The acquisition by any person (other than Grantee or any Grantee
Subsidiary) of beneficial ownership of 20% or more of the then outstanding
Common Stock; or
(ii) The occurrence of the Initial Triggering Event described in
clause (i) of subsection (b) of this Section 2, except that the percentage
referred to in clause (z) of the second sentence thereof shall be 20%.
(d) Issuer shall notify Grantee promptly in writing of the occurrence of
any Initial Triggering Event or Subsequent Triggering Event (together, a
"Triggering Event"), it being understood that the giving of such notice by
Issuer shall not be a condition to the right of the Holder to exercise the
Option.
(e) In the event the Holder is entitled to and wishes to exercise the
Option (or any portion thereof), it shall send to Issuer a written notice (the
date of which being herein referred to as the "Notice Date") specifying (i) the
total number of shares it will purchase pursuant to such exercise and (ii) a
place and date not earlier than three business days nor later than 60 business
days from the Notice Date for the closing of such purchase (the "Closing Date");
PROVIDED, that if prior notification to or approval of the Federal Reserve Board
or any other regulatory or antitrust agency is required in connection with such
purchase, the Holder shall promptly file the required notice or application for
approval, shall promptly notify Issuer of such filing, and shall expeditiously
process the same and the period of time that otherwise would run pursuant to
this sentence shall run instead from the date on which any required notification
periods have expired or been terminated or such approvals have been obtained and
any requisite waiting period or periods shall have passed. Any exercise of the
Option shall be deemed to occur on the Notice Date relating thereto.
(f) At the closing referred to in subsection (e) of this Section 2, the
Holder shall (i) pay to Issuer the aggregate purchase price for the shares of
Common Stock purchased pursuant to the exercise of the Option in immediately
available funds by wire transfer to a bank account designated by Issuer and (ii)
present and surrender this Agreement to Issuer at its principal executive
offices, PROVIDED that the failure or refusal of the Issuer to designate such a
bank account or accept surrender of this Agreement shall not preclude the Holder
from exercising the Option.
(g) At such closing, simultaneously with the delivery of immediately
available funds as provided in subsection (f) of this Section 2, Issuer shall
deliver to the Holder a certificate or certificates representing the number of
shares of Common Stock purchased by the Holder and, if the Option should be
exercised in part only, a new Option evidencing the rights of the Holder thereof
to purchase the balance of the shares purchasable hereunder.
(h) Certificates for Common Stock delivered at a closing hereunder may be
endorsed with a restrictive legend that shall read substantially as follows:
"The transfer of the shares represented by this certificate is subject
to certain provisions of an agreement, dated as of June 23, 1997, between
the registered holder hereof and Issuer and to resale restrictions arising
under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. A copy of such agreement is
on file at the principal office of Issuer and will be provided to the
holder hereof without charge upon receipt by Issuer of a written request
therefor."
It is understood and agreed that: (i) the reference to the resale restrictions
of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") in the above legend
shall be removed by delivery of substitute certificate(s) without such reference
if the Holder shall have delivered to Issuer a copy of a letter from the staff
of the SEC, or an opinion of counsel, in form and substance reasonably
satisfactory to Issuer, to the effect that such legend is not required for
purposes of the 1933 Act; (ii) the reference to the provisions of this Agreement
in the above legend shall be removed by delivery of substitute certificate(s)
without such reference if the shares have been sold or transferred in compliance
with the provisions of this Agreement and under circumstances that do not
require the retention of such reference in the opinion of Counsel to the Holder;
and (iii) the legend shall be removed in its
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entirety if the conditions in the preceding clauses (i) and (ii) are both
satisfied. In addition, such certificates shall bear any other legend as may be
required by law.
(i) Upon the giving by the Holder to Issuer of the written notice of
exercise of the Option provided for under subsection (e) of this Section 2 and
the tender of the applicable purchase price in immediately available funds, the
Holder shall be deemed to be the holder of record of the shares of Common Stock
issuable upon such exercise, notwithstanding that the stock transfer books of
Issuer shall then be closed or that certificates representing such shares of
Common Stock shall not then be actually delivered to the Holder. Issuer shall
pay all expenses, and any and all United States federal, state and local taxes
and other charges that may be payable in connection with the preparation, issue
and delivery of stock certificates under this Section 2 in the name of the
Holder or its assignee, transferee or designee.
3. Issuer agrees: (i) that it shall at all times maintain, free from
preemptive rights, sufficient authorized but unissued or treasury shares of
Common Stock so that the Option may be exercised without additional
authorization of Common Stock after giving effect to all other options,
warrants, convertible securities and other rights to purchase Common Stock; (ii)
that it will not, by charter amendment or through reorganization, consolidation,
merger, dissolution or sale of assets, or by any other voluntary act, avoid or
seek to avoid the observance or performance of any of the covenants,
stipulations or conditions to be observed or performed hereunder by Issuer;
(iii) promptly to take all action as may from time to time be required
(including (x) complying with all applicable premerger notification, reporting
and waiting period requirements specified in 15 U.S.C. Section 18a and
regulations promulgated thereunder and (y) in the event, under the Bank Holding
Company Act of 1956, as amended (the "BHCA"), or the Change in Bank Control Act
of 1978, as amended, or any state or other federal banking law, prior approval
of or notice to the Federal Reserve Board or to any state or other federal
regulatory authority is necessary before the Option may be exercised,
cooperating fully with the Holder in preparing such applications or notices and
providing such information to the Federal Reserve Board or such state or other
federal regulatory authority as they may require) in order to permit the Holder
to exercise the Option and Issuer duly and effectively to issue shares of Common
Stock pursuant hereto; and (iv) promptly to take all action provided herein to
protect the rights of the Holder against dilution.
4. This Agreement (and the Option granted hereby) are exchangeable, without
expense, at the option of the Holder, upon presentation and surrender of this
Agreement at the principal office of Issuer, for other Agreements providing for
Options of different denominations entitling the holder thereof to purchase, on
the same terms and subject to the same conditions as are set forth herein, in
the aggregate the same number of shares of Common Stock purchasable hereunder.
The terms "Agreement" and "Option" as used herein include any Agreements and
related Options for which this Agreement (and the Option granted hereby) may be
exchanged. Upon receipt by Issuer of evidence reasonably satisfactory to it of
the loss, theft, destruction or mutilation of this Agreement, and (in the case
of loss, theft or destruction) of reasonably satisfactory indemnification, and
upon surrender and cancellation of this Agreement, if mutilated, Issuer will
execute and deliver a new Agreement of like tenor and date. Any such new
Agreement executed and delivered shall constitute an additional contractual
obligation on the part of Issuer, whether or not the Agreement so lost, stolen,
destroyed or mutilated shall at any time be enforceable by anyone.
5. In addition to the adjustment in the number of shares of Common Stock
that are purchasable upon exercise of the Option pursuant to Section 1 of this
Agreement, the number of shares of Common Stock purchasable upon the exercise of
the Option and the Option Price shall be subject to adjustment from time to time
as provided in this Section 5.
(a) In the event of any change in, or distributions in respect of, the
Common Stock by reason of stock dividends, split-ups, mergers,
recapitalizations, combinations, subdivisions, conversions, exchanges of shares
or the like, the type and number of shares of Common Stock purchasable upon
exercise hereof shall be appropriately adjusted and proper provision shall be
made so that, in the event that any additional shares of Common Stock are to be
issued or otherwise become outstanding as a result of any such change (other
than pursuant to an exercise of the Option), the number of shares of Common
Stock that remain subject to the Option shall be increased so that, after such
issuance and together with shares of Common Stock previously issued pursuant to
the exercise of the Option (as adjusted on account of any of the foregoing
changes in the Common Stock), it equals 19.9% of the number of shares of Common
Stock then issued and outstanding.
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(b) Whenever the number of shares of Common Stock purchasable upon exercise
hereof is adjusted as provided in this Section 5, the Option Price shall be
adjusted by multiplying the Option Price by a fraction, the numerator of which
shall be equal to the number of shares of Common Stock purchasable prior to the
adjustment and the denominator of which shall be equal to the number of shares
of Common Stock purchasable after the adjustment.
6. Upon the occurrence of a Subsequent Triggering Event that occurs prior
to an Exercise Termination Event, Issuer shall, at the request of Grantee
delivered within twelve (12) months (or such later period as provided in Section
10) of such Subsequent Triggering Event (whether on its own behalf or on behalf
of any subsequent holder of this Option (or part thereof) or any of the shares
of Common Stock issued pursuant hereto), promptly prepare, file and keep current
a registration statement under the 1933 Act covering any shares issued and
issuable pursuant to this Option and shall use its reasonable best efforts to
cause such registration statement to become effective and remain current in
order to permit the sale or other disposition of any shares of Common Stock
issued upon total or partial exercise of this Option ("Option Shares") in
accordance with any plan of disposition requested by Grantee. Issuer will use
its reasonable best efforts to cause such registration statement promptly to
become effective and then to remain effective for such period not in excess of
180 days from the day such registration statement first becomes effective or
such shorter time as may be reasonably necessary to effect such sales or other
dispositions. Grantee shall have the right to demand two such registrations. The
Issuer shall bear the costs of such registrations (including, but not limited
to, Issuer's attorneys' fees, printing costs and filing fees, except for
underwriting discounts or commissions, brokers' fees and the fees and
disbursements of Grantee's counsel related thereto). The foregoing
notwithstanding, if, at the time of any request by Grantee for registration of
Option Shares as provided above, Issuer is in registration with respect to an
underwritten public offering by Issuer of shares of Common Stock, and if in the
good faith judgment of the managing underwriter or managing underwriters, or, if
none, the sole underwriter or underwriters, of such offering the offer and sale
of the Option Shares would interfere with the successful marketing of the shares
of Common Stock offered by Issuer, the number of Option Shares otherwise to be
covered in the registration statement contemplated hereby may be reduced;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that after any such required reduction the number of Option
Shares to be included in such offering for the account of the Holder shall
constitute at least 25% of the total number of shares to be sold by the Holder
and Issuer in the aggregate; and PROVIDED FURTHER, HOWEVER, that if such
reduction occurs, then Issuer shall file a registration statement for the
balance as promptly as practicable thereafter as to which no reduction pursuant
to this Section 6 shall be permitted or occur and the Holder shall thereafter be
entitled to one additional registration and the twelve (12) month period
referred to in the first sentence of this section shall be increased to
twenty-four (24) months. Each such Holder shall provide all information
reasonably requested by Issuer for inclusion in any registration statement to be
filed hereunder. If requested by any such Holder in connection with such
registration, Issuer shall become a party to any underwriting agreement relating
to the sale of such shares, but only to the extent of obligating itself in
respect of representations, warranties, indemnities and other agreements
customarily included in such underwriting agreements for Issuer. Upon receiving
any request under this Section 6 from any Holder, Issuer agrees to send a copy
thereof to any other person known to Issuer to be entitled to registration
rights under this Section 6, in each case by promptly mailing the same, postage
prepaid, to the address of record of the persons entitled to receive such
copies. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, in no event
shall the number of registrations that Issuer is obligated to effect be
increased by reason of the fact that there shall be more than one Holder as a
result of any assignment or division of this Agreement.
7. (a) At any time after the occurrence of a Repurchase Event (as defined
below) (i) at the request of the Holder, delivered prior to an Exercise
Termination Event (or such later period as provided in Section 10), Issuer (or
any successor thereto) shall repurchase the Option from the Holder at a price
(the "Option Repurchase Price") equal to the amount by which (A) the
market/offer price (as defined below) exceeds (B) the Option Price, multiplied
by the number of shares for which this Option may then be exercised and (ii) at
the request of the owner of Option Shares from time to time (the "Owner"),
delivered prior to an Exercise Termination Event (or such later period as
provided in Section 10), Issuer (or any successor thereto) shall repurchase such
number of the Option Shares from the Owner as the Owner shall designate at a
price (the "Option Share Repurchase Price") equal to the market/offer price
multiplied by the number of Option Shares so designated. The term "market/offer
price" shall mean the highest of (i) the price per share of Common Stock at
which a tender or exchange offer therefor has been made, (ii) the price per
share of Common Stock to be paid by any third party pursuant to an agreement
with Issuer, (iii) the highest closing price for shares of Common Stock within
the six-month period immediately
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preceding the date the Holder gives notice of the required repurchase of this
Option or the Owner gives notice of the required repurchase of Option Shares, as
the case may be, or (iv) in the event of a sale of all or any substantial part
of Issuer's assets or deposits, the sum of the net price paid in such sale for
such assets or deposits and the current market value of the remaining net assets
of Issuer as determined by a nationally recognized investment banking firm
selected by the Holder or the Owner, as the case may be, and reasonably
acceptable to Issuer, divided by the number of shares of Common Stock of Issuer
outstanding at the time of such sale. In determining the market/offer price, the
value of consideration other than cash shall be determined by a nationally
recognized investment banking firm selected by the Holder or Owner, as the case
may be, and reasonably acceptable to Issuer.
(b) The Holder and the Owner, as the case may be, may exercise its right to
require Issuer to repurchase the Option and any Option Shares pursuant to this
Section 7 by surrendering for such purpose to Issuer, at its principal office, a
copy of this Agreement or certificates for Option Shares, as applicable,
accompanied by a written notice or notices stating that the Holder or the Owner,
as the case may be, elects to require Issuer to repurchase this Option and/or
the Option Shares in accordance with the provisions of this Section 7. As
promptly as practicable, and in any event within five business days after the
surrender of the Option and/or certificates representing Option Shares and the
receipt of such notice or notices relating thereto, Issuer shall deliver or
cause to be delivered to the Holder the Option Repurchase Price and/or to the
Owner the Option Share Repurchase Price therefor or the portion thereof that
Issuer is not then prohibited under applicable law and regulation from so
delivering.
(c) To the extent that Issuer is prohibited under applicable law or
regulation, or as a consequence of administrative policy, from repurchasing the
Option and/or the Option Shares in full, Issuer shall immediately so notify the
Holder and/or the Owner and thereafter deliver or cause to be delivered, from
time to time, to the Holder and/or the Owner, as appropriate, the portion of the
Option Repurchase Price and the Option Share Repurchase Price, respectively,
that it is no longer prohibited from delivering, within five business days after
the date on which Issuer is no longer so prohibited; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that if
Issuer at any time after delivery of a notice of repurchase pursuant to
paragraph (b) of this Section 7 is prohibited under applicable law or
regulation, or as a consequence of administrative policy, from delivering to the
Holder and/or the Owner, as appropriate, the Option Repurchase Price and the
Option Share Repurchase Price, respectively, in full (and Issuer hereby
undertakes to use its reasonable best efforts to obtain all required regulatory
and legal approvals and to file any required notices as promptly as practicable
in order to accomplish such repurchase), the Holder or Owner may revoke its
notice of repurchase of the Option and/or the Option Shares whether in whole or
to the extent of the prohibition, whereupon, in the latter case, Issuer shall
promptly (i) deliver to the Holder and/or the Owner, as appropriate, that
portion of the Option Repurchase Price and/or the Option Share Repurchase Price
that Issuer is not prohibited from delivering; and (ii) deliver, as appropriate,
either (A) to the Holder, a new Agreement evidencing the right of the Holder to
purchase that number of shares of Common Stock obtained by multiplying the
number of shares of Common Stock for which the surrendered Agreement was
exercisable at the time of delivery of the notice of repurchase by a fraction,
the numerator of which is the Option Repurchase Price less the portion thereof
theretofore delivered to the Holder and the denominator of which is the Option
Repurchase Price, and/or (B) to the Owner, a certificate for the Option Shares
it is then so prohibited from repurchasing. If an Exercise Termination Event
shall have occurred prior to the date of the notice by Issuer described in the
first sentence of this subsection (c), or shall be scheduled to occur at any
time before the expiration of a period ending on the thirtieth day after such
date, the Holder shall nonetheless have the right to exercise the Option until
the expiration of such 30-day period.
(d) For purposes of this Section 7, a "Repurchase Event" shall be deemed to
have occurred upon the occurrence of any of the following events or transactions
after the date hereof:
(i) the acquisition by any person (other than Grantee or any Grantee
Subsidiary) of beneficial ownership of 50% or more of the then outstanding
Common Stock; or
(ii) the consummation of any Acquisition Transaction described in
Section 2(b)(i) hereof, except that the percentage referred to in clause
(z) shall be 50%.
8. (a) In the event that prior to an Exercise Termination Event, Issuer
shall enter into an agreement (i) to consolidate with or merge into any person,
other than Grantee or a Grantee Subsidiary, or engage in a plan of exchange with
any person, other than Grantee or a Grantee Subsidiary and Issuer shall not be
the continuing or surviving corporation of such consolidation or merger or the
acquirer in such plan of exchange, (ii) to permit any
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person, other than Grantee or a Grantee Subsidiary, to merge into Issuer or be
acquired by Issuer in a plan of exchange and Issuer shall be the continuing or
surviving or acquiring corporation, but, in connection with such merger or plan
of exchange, the then outstanding shares of Common Stock shall be changed into
or exchanged for stock or other securities of any other person or cash or any
other property or the then outstanding shares of Common Stock shall after such
merger or plan of exchange represent less than 50% of the outstanding shares and
share equivalents of the merged or acquiring company, or (iii) to sell or
otherwise transfer all or a substantial part of its or the Issuer Subsidiary's
assets or deposits to any person, other than Grantee or a Grantee Subsidiary,
then, and in each such case, the agreement governing such transaction shall make
proper provision so that the Option shall, upon the consummation of any such
transaction and upon the terms and conditions set forth herein, be converted
into, or exchanged for, an option (the "Substitute Option"), at the election of
the Holder, of either (x) the Acquiring Corporation (as hereinafter defined) or
(y) any person that controls the Acquiring Corporation.
(b) The following terms have the meanings indicated:
(i) "Acquiring Corporation" shall mean (i) the continuing or surviving
person of a consolidation or merger with Issuer (if other than Issuer),
(ii) the acquiring person in a plan of exchange in which Issuer is
acquired, (iii) the Issuer in a merger or plan of exchange in which Issuer
is the continuing or surviving or acquiring person, and (iv) the transferee
of all or a substantial part of Issuer's assets or deposits (or the assets
or deposits of the Issuer Subsidiary).
(ii) "Substitute Common Stock" shall mean the common stock issued by
the issuer of the Substitute Option upon exercise of the Substitute Option.
(iii) "Assigned Value" shall mean the market/offer price, as defined
in Section 7.
(iv) "Average Price" shall mean the average closing price of a share
of the Substitute Common Stock for one year immediately preceding the
consolidation, merger or sale in question, but in no event higher than the
closing price of the shares of Substitute Common Stock on the day preceding
such consolidation, merger or sale; PROVIDED that if Issuer is the issuer
of the Substitute Option, the Average Price shall be computed with respect
to a share of common stock issued by the person merging into Issuer or by
any company which controls or is controlled by such person, as the Holder
may elect.
(c) The Substitute Option shall have the same terms as the Option, PROVIDED
that if the terms of the Substitute Option cannot, for legal reasons, be the
same as the Option, such terms shall be as similar as possible and in no event
less advantageous to the Holder. The issuer of the Substitute Option shall also
enter into an agreement with the then Holder or Holders of the Substitute Option
in substantially the same form as this Agreement (after giving effect for such
purpose to the provisions of Section 9), which agreement shall be applicable to
the Substitute Option.
(d) The Substitute Option shall be exercisable for such number of shares of
Substitute Common Stock as is equal to the Assigned Value multiplied by the
number of shares of Common Stock for which the Option was exercisable
immediately prior to the event described in the first sentence of Section 8(a),
divided by the Average Price. The exercise price of the Substitute Option per
share of Substitute Common Stock shall then be equal to the Option Price
multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which shall be the number of shares
of Common Stock for which the Option was exercisable immediately prior to the
event described in the first sentence of Section 8(a) and the denominator of
which shall be the number of shares of Substitute Common Stock for which the
Substitute Option is exercisable.
(e) In no event, pursuant to any of the foregoing paragraphs, shall the
Substitute Option be exercisable for more than 19.9% of the shares of Substitute
Common Stock outstanding prior to exercise of the Substitute Option. In the
event that the Substitute Option would be exercisable for more than 19.9% of the
shares of Substitute Common Stock outstanding prior to exercise but for this
clause (e), the issuer of the Substitute Option (the "Substitute Option Issuer")
shall make a cash payment to Holder equal to the excess of (i) the value of the
Substitute Option without giving effect to the limitation in this clause (e)
over (ii) the value of the Substitute Option after giving effect to the
limitation in this clause (e). This difference in value shall be determined by a
nationally recognized investment banking firm selected by the Holder.
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(f) Issuer shall not enter into any transaction described in subsection (a)
of this Section 8 unless the Acquiring Corporation and any person that controls
the Acquiring Corporation assume in writing all the obligations of Issuer
hereunder.
9. (a) At the request of the holder of the Substitute Option (the
"Substitute Option Holder"), the issuer of the Substitute Option (the
"Substitute Option Issuer") shall repurchase the Substitute Option from the
Substitute Option Holder at a price (the "Substitute Option Repurchase Price")
equal to the amount by which (i) the Highest Closing Price (as hereinafter
defined) exceeds (ii) the exercise price of the Substitute Option, multiplied by
the number of shares of Substitute Common Stock for which the Substitute Option
may then be exercised, and at the request of the owner (the "Substitute Share
Owner") of shares of Substitute Common Stock (the "Substitute Shares"), the
Substitute Option Issuer shall repurchase the Substitute Shares at a price (the
"Substitute Share Repurchase Price") equal to the Highest Closing Price
multiplied by the number of Substitute Shares so designated. The term "Highest
Closing Price" shall mean the highest closing price for shares of Substitute
Common Stock within the six-month period immediately preceding the date the
Substitute Option Holder gives notice of the required repurchase of the
Substitute Option or the Substitute Share Owner gives notice of the required
repurchase of the Substitute Shares, as applicable.
(b) The Substitute Option Holder and the Substitute Share Owner, as the
case may be, may exercise its respective rights to require the Substitute Option
Issuer to repurchase the Substitute Option and the Substitute Shares pursuant to
this Section 9 by surrendering for such purpose to the Substitute Option Issuer,
at its principal office, the agreement for such Substitute Option (or, in the
absence of such an agreement, a copy of this Agreement) and/or certificates for
Substitute Shares accompanied by a written notice or notices stating that the
Substitute Option Holder or the Substitute Share Owner, as the case may be,
elects to require the Substitute Option Issuer to repurchase the Substitute
Option and/or the Substitute Shares in accordance with the provisions of this
Section 9. As promptly as practicable and in any event within five business days
after the surrender of the Substitute Option and/or certificates representing
Substitute Shares and the receipt of such notice or notices relating thereto,
the Substitute Option Issuer shall deliver or cause to be delivered to the
Substitute Option Holder the Substitute Option Repurchase Price and/or to the
Substitute Share Owner the Substitute Share Repurchase Price therefor or the
portion thereof which the Substitute Option Issuer is not then prohibited under
applicable law and regulation from so delivering.
(c) To the extent that the Substitute Option Issuer is prohibited under
applicable law or regulation, or as a consequence of administrative policy, from
repurchasing the Substitute Option and/or the Substitute Shares in part or in
full, the Substitute Option Issuer shall immediately so notify the Substitute
Option Holder and/or the Substitute Share Owner and thereafter deliver or cause
to be delivered, from time to time, to the Substitute Option Holder and/or the
Substitute Share Owner, as appropriate, the portion of the Substitute Option
Repurchase Price and/or the Substitute Share Repurchase Price, respectively,
which it is no longer prohibited from delivering, within five (5) business days
after the date on which the Substitute Option Issuer is no longer so prohibited;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that if the Substitute Option Issuer is at any time after
delivery of a notice of repurchase pursuant to subsection (b) of this Section 9
prohibited under applicable law or regulation, or as a consequence of
administrative policy, from delivering to the Substitute Option Holder and/or
the Substitute Share Owner, as appropriate, the Substitute Option Repurchase
Price and the Substitute Share Repurchase Price, respectively, in full (and the
Substitute Option Issuer shall use its reasonable best efforts to receive all
required regulatory and legal approvals as promptly as practicable in order to
accomplish such repurchase), the Substitute Option Holder and/or Substitute
Share Owner may revoke its notice of repurchase of the Substitute Option or the
Substitute Shares either in whole or to the extent of prohibition, whereupon, in
the latter case, the Substitute Option Issuer shall promptly (i) deliver to the
Substitute Option Holder or Substitute Share Owner, as appropriate, that portion
of the Substitute Option Repurchase Price or the Substitute Share Repurchase
Price that the Substitute Option Issuer is not prohibited from delivering; and
(ii) deliver, as appropriate, either (A) to the Substitute Option Holder, a new
Substitute Option evidencing the right of the Substitute Option Holder to
purchase that number of shares of the Substitute Common Stock obtained by
multiplying the number of shares of the Substitute Common Stock for which the
surrendered Substitute Option was exercisable at the time of delivery of the
notice of repurchase by a fraction, the numerator of which is the Substitute
Option Repurchase Price less the portion thereof theretofore delivered to the
Substitute Option Holder and the denominator of which is the Substitute Option
Repurchase Price, and/or (B) to the Substitute Share Owner, a certificate for
the Substitute Option Shares it is then so prohibited from repurchasing. If an
Exercise Termination Event shall have occurred prior to the date of
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the notice by the Substitute Option Issuer described in the first sentence of
this subsection (c), or shall be scheduled to occur at any time before the
expiration of a period ending on the thirtieth day after such date, the
Substitute Option Holder shall nevertheless have the right to exercise the
Substitute Option until the expiration of such 30-day period.
10. The 30-day, 6-month, 12-month, 18-month or 24-month periods for
exercise of certain rights under Sections 2, 6, 7, 9, 12 and 14 shall be
extended: (i) to the extent necessary to obtain all regulatory approvals for the
exercise of such rights (for so long as the Holder, Owner, Substitute Option
Holder or Substitute Share Owner, as the case may be, is using commercially
reasonable efforts to obtain such regulatory approvals), and for the expiration
of all statutory waiting periods; and (ii) to the extent necessary to avoid
liability under Section 16(b) of the 1934 Act by reason of such exercise.
11. Issuer hereby represents and warrants to Grantee as follows:
(a) Issuer has full corporate power and authority to execute and deliver
this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The
execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby have been duly and validly authorized by the
Issuer Board prior to the date hereof and no other corporate proceedings on the
part of Issuer are necessary to authorize this Agreement or to consummate the
transactions so contemplated. This Agreement has been duly and validly executed
and delivered by Issuer.
(b) Issuer has taken all necessary corporate action to authorize and
reserve and to permit it to issue, and at all times from the date hereof through
the termination of this Agreement in accordance with its terms will have
reserved for issuance upon the exercise of the Option, that number of shares of
Common Stock equal to the maximum number of shares of Common Stock at any time
and from time to time issuable hereunder, and all such shares, upon issuance
pursuant thereto, will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid,
nonassessable, and will be delivered free and clear of all claims, liens,
encumbrance and security interests and not subject to any preemptive rights.
12. Neither of the parties hereto may assign any of its rights or
obligations under this Agreement or the Option created hereunder to any other
person, without the express written consent of the other party, except that in
the event an Initial Triggering Event shall have occurred prior to an Exercise
Termination Event, Grantee, subject to the express provisions hereof, may assign
in whole or in part its rights and obligations hereunder; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that until the date 15 days following the date on which the Federal Reserve
Board has approved an application by Grantee to acquire the shares of Common
Stock subject to the Option, Grantee may not assign its rights under the Option
except in (i) a widely dispersed public distribution, (ii) a private placement
in which no one party acquires the right to purchase in excess of 2% of the
voting shares of Issuer, (iii) an assignment to a single party (E.G., a broker
or investment banker) for the purpose of conducting a widely dispersed public
distribution on Grantee's behalf or (iv) any other manner approved by the
Federal Reserve Board.
13. Each of Grantee and Issuer will use its reasonable best efforts to make
all filings with, and to obtain consents of, all third parties and governmental
authorities necessary to the consummation of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement, including, without limitation, applying to the Federal Reserve
Board under the BHCA for approval to acquire the shares issuable hereunder, but
Grantee shall not be obligated to apply to state banking authorities for
approval to acquire the shares of Common Stock issuable hereunder until such
time, if ever, as it deems appropriate to do so.
14. (a) Grantee may, at any time following a Repurchase Event and prior to
the occurrence of an Exercise Termination Event (or such later period as
provided in Section 10), relinquish the Option (together with any Option Shares
issued to and then owned by Grantee) to Issuer in exchange for a cash fee equal
to the Surrender Price; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that Grantee may not exercise its
rights pursuant to this Section 14 if Issuer has repurchased the Option (or any
portion thereof) or any Option Shares pursuant to Section 7. The "Surrender
Price" shall be equal to $50.0 million (i) plus, if applicable, Grantee's
purchase price with respect to any Option Shares and (ii) minus, if applicable,
the excess of (B) the net cash amounts, if any, received by Grantee pursuant to
the arms' length sale of Option Shares (or any other securities into which such
Option Shares were converted or exchanged) to any unaffiliated party, over (B)
Grantee's purchase price of such Option Shares.
(b) Grantee may exercise its right to relinquish the Option and any Option
Shares pursuant to this Section 14 by surrendering to Issuer, at its principal
office, a copy of this Agreement together with certificates for Option
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Shares, if any, accompanied by a written notice stating (i) that Grantee elects
to relinquish the Option and Option Shares, if any, in accordance with the
provisions of this Section 14 and (ii) the Surrender Price. The Surrender Price
shall be payable in immediately available funds on or before the second business
day following receipt of such notice by Issuer.
(c) To the extent that Issuer is prohibited under applicable law or
regulation, or as a consequence of administrative policy, from paying the
Surrender Price to Grantee in full, Issuer shall immediately so notify Grantee
and thereafter deliver or cause to be delivered, from time to time, to Grantee,
the portion of the Surrender Price that it is no longer prohibited from paying,
within five business days after the date on which Issuer is no longer so
prohibited; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that if Issuer at any time after delivery of a
notice of surrender pursuant to paragraph (b) of this Section 14 is prohibited
under applicable law or regulation, or as a consequence of administrative
policy, from paying to Grantee the Surrender Price in full, (i) Issuer shall (A)
use its reasonable best efforts to obtain all required regulatory and legal
approvals and to file any required notices as promptly as practicable in order
to make such payments, (B) within five days of the submission or receipt of any
documents relating to any such regulatory and legal approvals, provide Grantee
with copies of the same, and (c) keep Grantee advised of both the status of any
such request for regulatory and legal approvals, as well as any discussions with
any relevant regulatory or other third party reasonably related to the same and
(ii) Grantee may revoke such notice of surrender by delivery of a notice of
revocation to Issuer and, upon delivery of such notice of revocation, the
Exercise Termination Date shall be extended to a date six months from the date
on which the Exercise Termination Date would have occurred if not for the
provisions of this Section 14(c) (during which period Grantee may exercise any
of its rights hereunder, including any and all rights pursuant to this Section
14).
15. The parties hereto acknowledge that damages would be an inadequate
remedy for a breach of this Agreement by either party hereto and that the
obligations of the parties hereto shall be enforceable by either party hereto
through injunctive or other equitable relief. In connection therewith both
parties waive the posting of any bond or similar requirement.
16. If any term, provision, covenant or restriction contained in this
Agreement is held by a court or a federal or state regulatory agency of
competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable, the remainder of
the terms, provisions and covenants and restrictions contained in this Agreement
shall remain in full force and effect, and shall in no way be affected, impaired
or invalidated. If for any reason such court or regulatory agency determines
that the Holder is not permitted to acquire, or Issuer is not permitted to
repurchase pursuant to Section 7, the full number of shares of Common Stock
provided in Section l(a) hereof (as adjusted pursuant to Section l(b) or Section
5 hereof), it is the express intention of Issuer to allow the Holder to acquire
or to require Issuer to repurchase such lesser number of shares as may be
permissible, without any amendment or modification hereof.
17. All notices, requests, claims, demands and other communications
hereunder shall be deemed to have been duly given when delivered in person, by
fax, telecopy, or by registered or certified mail (postage prepaid, return
receipt requested) at the respective addresses of the parties set forth in the
Merger Agreement.
18. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of North Carolina, without regard to the conflict of law
principles thereof (except to the extent that mandatory provisions of Federal
law or of the VSCA are applicable).
19. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of
which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which shall constitute one
and the same agreement.
20. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, each of the parties
hereto shall bear and pay all costs and expenses incurred by it or on its behalf
in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder, including fees and
expenses of its own financial consultants, investment bankers, accountants and
counsel.
21. Except as otherwise expressly provided herein or in the Merger
Agreement, this Agreement contains the entire agreement between the parties with
respect to the transactions contemplated hereunder and supersedes all prior
arrangements or understandings with respect thereof, written or oral. The terms
and conditions of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding
upon the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assignees.
Nothing in this Agreement, expressed or implied, is intended to confer upon any
party, other than the parties hereto, and their respective successors except as
assignees, any rights, remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason
of this Agreement, except as expressly provided herein.
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22. Capitalized terms used in this Agreement and not defined herein shall
have the meanings assigned thereto in the Merger Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has caused this Agreement to be
executed on its behalf by its officers thereunto duly authorized, all as of the
date first above written.
CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC.
By: /s/ LEWIS N. MILLER, JR.
Name: Lewis N. Miller, Jr.
Title: President and Chief Executive
Officer
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
By: /s/ L.M. BAKER, JR.
Name: L.M. Baker, Jr.
Title: President and Chief Executive
Officer
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APPENDIX C
(Letterhead of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. appears here with the following
text:
Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.
Specialists in Banking
Two World Trade Center 85th floor New York, N.Y. 10048
Toll Free Telephone
1-800-966-1559 212-323-8300
October 7, 1997
Board of Directors
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
1021 East Cary Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Members of the Board:
You have requested our opinion as investment bankers as to the fairness,
from a financial point of view, to the shareholders of Central Fidelity Banks,
Inc. ("Central Fidelity") of the exchange ratio in the proposed merger (the
"Merger") of Central Fidelity with and into Wachovia Corporation ("Wachovia"),
pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of June 23, 1997 between
Central Fidelity and Wachovia (the "Agreement"). Under the terms of the Merger,
each outstanding share of common stock of Central Fidelity will be exchanged for
.63 shares of common stock of Wachovia (the "Exchange Ratio"). Keefe, Bruyette &
Woods, Inc. ("KBW") was informed by Central Fidelity, and assumed for purposes
of its opinion, that the Merger would be accounted for as a pooling-of-interests
under generally accepted accounting principles.
KBW as part of its investment banking business is continually engaged in
the valuation of banking businesses and their securities in connection with
mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, competitive biddings,
secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements
and valuations for estate, corporate and other purposes. As specialists in the
securities of banking companies we have experience in, and knowledge of, the
valuation of banking enterprises. In the ordinary course of our business as a
broker-dealer, we may, from time to time, purchase securities from, and sell
securities to, Central Fidelity and Wachovia and as a market maker in
securities, we may, from time to time, have a long or short position in, and buy
or sell, debt or equity securities of Central Fidelity and Wachovia for our own
account and for the accounts of our customers. To the extent we have any such
position as of the date of this opinion, it has been disclosed to Central
Fidelity. We have acted as a financial advisor to the Board of Directors of
Central Fidelity in rendering this fairness opinion and will receive a fee from
Central Fidelity for our services.
In connection with this opinion, we have reviewed, among other things, the
Agreement; the Registration Statement on Form S-4, Annual Reports to
Shareholders of Central Fidelity and Wachovia for the three years ended December
31, 1996; certain interim reports to stockholders and Quarterly Reports on Form
10-Q of Central Fidelity and Wachovia, and certain internal financial analyses
and forecasts for Central Fidelity and Wachovia prepared by management. We also
have held discussions with members of the senior management of Central Fidelity
and Wachovia regarding the past and current business operations, regulatory
relationships, financial condition and future prospects of their respective
companies. In addition, we have compared certain financial and stock market
information for Central Fidelity and Wachovia with similar information for
certain other companies the securities of which are publicly traded, reviewed
the financial terms of certain recent business combinations in the banking
industry and performed such other studies and analyses as we considered
appropriate.
C-1
<PAGE>
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
Board of Directors
Page 2
In conducting our review and arriving at our opinion, we have relied upon
and assumed the accuracy and completeness of all of the financial and other
information provided to us or publicly available and we have not assumed any
responsibility for independently verifying any of such information. We have
relied upon the management of Central Fidelity and Wachovia as to the
reasonableness and achievability of the financial and operating forecasts and
projections (and the assumptions and bases therefor) provided to us, and we have
assumed that such forecasts and projections reflect the best currently available
estimates and judgments of Wachovia and that such forecasts and projections will
be realized in the amounts and in the time periods currently estimated by such
management. We have also assumed that the aggregate allowances for loan losses
for Central Fidelity and Wachovia are adequate to cover such losses. In
rendering our opinion, we have not made or obtained any evaluations or
appraisals of the property of Central Fidelity or Wachovia, nor have we examined
individual credit files.
We have considered such financial and other factors as we have deemed
appropriate under the circumstances, including among others the following: (i)
the historical and current financial position and results of operations of
Central Fidelity and Wachovia; (ii) the assets and liabilities of Central
Fidelity and Wachovia; and (iii) the nature and terms of certain other merger
transactions involving banks and bank holding companies. We have also taken into
account our assessment of general economic, market and financial conditions and
our experience in other transactions, as well as our experience in securities
valuation and knowledge of the banking industry generally. Our opinion is
necessarily based upon conditions as they exist and can be evaluated on the date
hereof and the information made available to us through the date hereof.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, it is our opinion that, as of the
date hereof, the exchange ratio in the Merger is fair, from a financial point of
view, to the common shareholders of Central Fidelity.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.
KEEFE, BRUYETTE & WOODS, INC.
C-2
<PAGE>
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
ITEM 20. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS.
The Registrant is incorporated under the laws of North Carolina. Sections
55-8-50 et seq. of the North Carolina Business Corporation Act prescribe the
conditions under which indemnification may be obtained by a present or former
director or officer of the Registrant who incurs expenses or liability as a
consequence of certain proceedings arising out of his or her activities as a
director or officer. Article IX of the Registrant's Bylaws also provides for
indemnification of directors and officers under certain circumstances. The
Registrant has purchased a standard liability policy, which, subject to any
limitations set forth in the policy, indemnifies the Registrant's directors and
officers for damages that they become legally obligated to pay as a result of
any negligent act, error or omission committed while serving in their official
capacity.
ITEM 21. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
(a) Exhibits (See exhibit index immediately preceding the exhibits for the
page number where each exhibit can be found)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBITS
<C> <S>
2.1 -- Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 23, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. (included as Appendix A to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and
incorporated by reference herein).
2.2 -- Plan of Merger of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. and Wachovia Corporation (included as Appendix A to
the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and incorporated by reference herein).
2.3 -- Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 9, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and
Jefferson Bankshares, Inc. (Exhibit 2 to Wachovia Corporation's Form 13D, dated June 19, 1997, File
No. 0-9101*).
2.4 -- Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of August 6, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and
First United Bancorp (Exhibit 2.1 to Wachovia Corporation's Form 13D, dated August 15, 1997, File
No. 0-20254*).
3.1 -- Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (Exhibit 3.1 to Wachovia Corporation's Form 10-K for
the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-9021*).
3.2 -- Bylaws.
4.1 -- Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (Exhibit 3.1 to Wachovia Corporation's Form 10-K for
the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-9021*).
4.2 -- Bylaws (included herewith as Exhibit 3.2).
4.3 -- All instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of Wachovia Corporation and its
subsidiaries. (Not filed pursuant to (4)(iii) of Item 601(b) of Regulation S-K; to be furnished upon
request of the Commission.)
5.1 -- Opinion of Kenneth W. McAllister, including consent.
8.1 -- Opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell, including consent.
8.2 -- Opinion of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, including consent.
10.1 -- Employment Agreement, dated as of June 23, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and Lewis N.
Miller, Jr.
10.2 -- Stock Option Agreement, dated as of June 24, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and Central
Fidelity Banks, Inc. (included as Appendix B to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and incorporated by
reference herein).
23.1 -- Consent of Kenneth W. McAllister (appears in Legal Opinion, Exhibit 5.1)
23.2 -- Consent of Sullivan & Cromwell (appears in Legal Opinion, Exhibit 8.1)
23.3 -- Consent of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz (appears in Legal Opinion, Exhibit 8.2)
23.4 -- Consent of Ernst & Young LLP
23.5 -- Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
23.6 -- Consent of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.
24.1 -- Power of Attorney
99.1 -- Form of Proxy
</TABLE>
II-1
<PAGE>
* Incorporated herein by reference
(b) Financial Statement Schedules
Schedules are omitted because they are not required or are not applicable,
or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes
thereto.
ITEM 22. UNDERTAKINGS.
(a) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes:
(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being
made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement;
(i) To include any Prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the
Securities Act of 1933;
(ii) To reflect in the Prospectus any facts or events arising after
the effective date of the Registration Statement (or the most recent
post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the
aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth
in the Registration Statement;
(iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan
of distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration Statement
or any material change to such information in the Registration
Statement.
(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed
to be a new Registration Statement relating to the securities offered
therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed
to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment
any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the
termination of the offering.
(4) That prior to any public reoffering of the securities registered
hereunder through use of a Prospectus which is a part of this Registration
Statement, by any person or party who is deemed to be an underwriter within
the meaning of Rule 145(c), the Registrant undertakes that such reoffering
Prospectus will contain the information called for by the applicable
registration form with respect to reofferings by persons who may be deemed
underwriters, in addition to the information called for by the other Items
of the applicable form.
(5) That every Prospectus (a) that is filed pursuant to paragraph (4)
immediately preceding, or (b) that purports to meet the requirements of
Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933 and is used in connection
with an offering of securities subject to Rule 415, will be filed as a part
of an amendment to the Registration Statement and will not be used until
such amendment is effective, and that, for purposes of determining any
liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective
amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that
time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(6) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and
controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions
(See Item 20), or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the
opinion of the Commission such indemnification is against public policy as
expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is, therefore, unenforceable.
In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities
(other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a
director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful
defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director,
officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the
matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of
appropriate jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it
is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and
will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
(b) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to respond to requests for
information that is incorporated by reference into the Prospectus pursuant to
Items 4, 10(b), 11, or 13 of this Form, within one business day of
II-2
<PAGE>
receipt of such request, and to send the incorporated documents by first class
mail or other equally prompt means. This includes information contained in
documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the Registration Statement
through the date of responding to the request.
(c) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to supply by means of a
post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the
company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and
included in the Registration Statement when it became effective.
II-3
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Winston-Salem, State of
North Carolina, on October 6, 1997.
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
By: /s/ L. M. BAKER
L. M. BAKER, JR.
PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ L.M. BAKER, JR. Director, President and October 6, 1997
L.M. BAKER, JR. Chief Executive Officer
/s/ PETER C. BROWNING* Director October 6, 1997
PETER C. BROWNING
/s/ JOHN L. CLENDENIN* Director October 6, 1997
JOHN L. CLENDENIN
/s/ LAWRENCE M. GRESSETTE, JR.* Director October 6, 1997
LAWRENCE M. GRESSETTE, JR.
/s/ THOMAS K. HEARN, JR.* Director October 6, 1997
THOMAS K. HEARN, JR.
/s/ GEORGE W. HENDERSON, III* Director October 6, 1997
GEORGE W. HENDERSON, III
/s/ W. HAYNE HIPP* Director October 6, 1997
W. HAYNE HIPP
/s/ ROBERT M. HOLDER, JR.* Director October 6, 1997
ROBERT M. HOLDER, JR.
/s/ ROBERT A. INGRAM* Director October 6, 1997
ROBERT A. INGRAM
/s/ JAMES W. JOHNSTON* Director October 6, 1997
JAMES W. JOHNSTON
</TABLE>
II-4
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ ROBERT S. MCCOY, JR. Executive Vice President and October 6, 1997
ROBERT S. MCCOY, JR. Chief Financial Officer
/s/ JOHN G. MEDLIN, JR. Director October 6, 1997
JOHN G. MEDLIN, JR.
/s/ WYNDHAM ROBERTSON* Director October 6, 1997
WYNDHAM ROBERTSON
/s/ HERMAN J. RUSSELL* Director October 6, 1997
HERMAN J. RUSSELL
/s/ SHERWOOD H. SMITH, JR.* Director October 6, 1997
SHERWOOD H. SMITH, JR.
/s/ DONALD K. TRUSLOW Comptroller October 6, 1997
DONALD K. TRUSLOW
/s/ JOHN C. WHITAKER, JR.* Director October 6, 1997
JOHN C. WHITAKER, JR.
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
* By: /s/ KENNETH W. MCALLISTER
(SIGNATURE)
KENNETH W. MCALLISTER
(PRINT NAME)
ATTORNEY-IN-FACT
(TITLE)
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBITS
<C> <S>
2.1 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 23, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and Central
Fidelity Banks, Inc. (included as Appendix A to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and incorporated by
reference herein)
2.2 Plan of Merger of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. and Wachovia Corporation (included as Appendix A to the
Proxy Statement/Prospectus and incorporated by reference herein)
2.3 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 9, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and
Jefferson Bankshares, Inc. (Exhibit 2 to Wachovia Corporation's Form 13D, dated June 19, 1997, File No.
1-9021*)
2.4 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of August 6, 1997 by and between Wachovia Corporation and 1st
United Bancorp (Exhibit 2.1 to Wachovia Corporation's Form 13D dated August 15, 1997, File No. 1-9021*).
3.1 Amended and Restated articles of incorporation of Incorporation (Exhibit 3.1 to Wachovia Corporation's
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-9021*)
3.2 Bylaws
4.1 Amended and Restated articles of incorporation of Incorporation (Exhibit 3.1 to Wachovia Corporation's
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-9021*)
4.2 Bylaws (included herewith as Exhibit 3.2)
4.3 All instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of Wachovia Corporation and its
subsidiaries. (Not filed pursuant to (4)(iii) of Item 601(b) of Regulation S-K; to be furnished upon
request of the Commission.)
5.1 Opinion of Kenneth W. McAllister, including consent
8.1 Opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell, including consent
8.2 Opinion of Wachtell, Lipton Rosen & Katz, including consent.
10.1 Employment Agreement, dated as of June 23, 1997 by and between Wachovia Corporation and Lewis N. Miller,
Jr.
10.2 Stock Option Agreement, dated as of June 24, 1997, by and between Wachovia Corporation and Central
Fidelity Banks, Inc. (included as Appendix B to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and incorporated by
reference herein).
23.1 Consent of Kenneth W. McAllister (appears in Legal Opinion, Exhibit 5.1)
23.2 Consent of Sullivan & Cromwell (appears in Legal Opinion, Exhibit 8.1)
23.3 Consent of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz (appears in Legal Opinion, Exhibit 8.2)
23.4 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP
23.5 Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
23.6 Consent of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.
24.1 Powers of Attorney
99.1 Form of Proxy
</TABLE>
* Incorporated herein by reference
<PAGE>
BYLAWS
OF
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
AMENDED AND RESTATED JULY 25, 1997
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS TO BYLAWS
OF
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Page
ARTICLE 1
MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS........................................................................................ 1
Section 1.1. Place of Meeting................................................................ 1
Section 1.2. Annual Meeting.................................................................. 1
Section 1.3. Substitute Annual Meeting....................................................... 1
Section 1.4. Special Meetings................................................................ 1
Section 1.5. Notice of Meetings.............................................................. 1
Section 1.6. Quorum.......................................................................... 2
Section 1.7. Shareholders' List.............................................................. 2
Section 1.8. Voting of Shares................................................................ 2
Section 1.9. Conduct of Meeting and Order of Business........................................ 2
ARTICLE 2
BOARD OF DIRECTORS.............................................................................................. 3
Section 2.1. General Powers.................................................................. 3
Section 2.2. Number, Term, Qualification and Nomination...................................... 3
Section 2.3. Removal......................................................................... 4
Section 2.4. Vacancies....................................................................... 4
Section 2.5. Compensation.................................................................... 4
Section 2.6. Chairman of the Board of Directors.............................................. 5
Section 2.7. Vice Chairmen................................................................... 5
Section 2.8. Directors Emeritus.............................................................. 5
ARTICLE 3
MEETINGS OF DIRECTORS........................................................................................... 5
Section 3.1. Regular Meetings................................................................ 5
Section 3.2. Special Meetings................................................................ 5
Section 3.3. Notice of Meetings.............................................................. 5
Section 3.4. Quorum.......................................................................... 6
Section 3.5. Manner of Acting................................................................ 6
Section 3.6. Presumption of Assent........................................................... 6
Section 3.7. Action Without Meeting.......................................................... 6
Section 3.8. Meeting by Communications Device................................................ 6
ARTICLE 4
COMMITTEES...................................................................................................... 7
Section 4.1. Election and Powers............................................................. 7
Section 4.2. Removal; Vacancies.............................................................. 7
Section 4.3. Meetings........................................................................ 7
Section 4.4. Minutes......................................................................... 8
Section 4.5. Standing Committees............................................................. 8
</TABLE>
i
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
ARTICLE 5
OFFICERS........................................................................................................ 8
Section 5.1. Titles.......................................................................... 8
Section 5.2. Election; Appointment........................................................... 8
Section 5.3. Removal......................................................................... 8
Section 5.4. Vacancies....................................................................... 8
Section 5.5. Compensation.................................................................... 8
Section 5.6. Chief Executive Officer......................................................... 9
Section 5.7. President....................................................................... 9
Section 5.8. Vice Presidents.................................................................. 9
Section 5.9. Secretary........................................................................ 9
Section 5.10. Assistant Secretaries........................................................... 10
Section 5.11. Voting Upon Stocks.............................................................. 10
ARTICLE 6
CAPITAL STOCK................................................................................................... 10
Section 6.1. Certificates.................................................................... 10
Section 6.2. Transfer of Shares.............................................................. 10
Section 6.3. Transfer Agent and Registrar.................................................... 10
Section 6.4. Regulations..................................................................... 10
Section 6.5. Fixing Record Date.............................................................. 11
Section 6.6. Lost Certificates............................................................... 11
ARTICLE 7
INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS, OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES............................................................ 11
Section 7.1. Indemnification Provisions...................................................... 11
Section 7.2. Definitions..................................................................... 12
Section 7.3. Settlements..................................................................... 12
Section 7.4. Litigation Expense Advances..................................................... 12
Section 7.5. Approval of Indemnification Payments............................................ 13
Section 7.6. Suits by Claimant............................................................... 13
Section 7.7. Consideration; Personal Representatives and Other Remedies...................... 14
Section 7.8. Scope of Indemnification Rights................................................. 14
ARTICLE 8
GENERAL PROVISIONS.............................................................................................. 14
Section 8.1. Dividends and other Distributions............................................... 14
Section 8.2. Seal............................................................................ 14
Section 8.3. Waiver of Notice................................................................ 14
Section 8.4. Checks.......................................................................... 14
Section 8.5. Fiscal Year..................................................................... 14
Section 8.6. Amendments...................................................................... 14
Section 8.7. Applicability of Antitakeover Statutes.......................................... 15
ii
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
BYLAWS
OF
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
ARTICLE 1
MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS
Section 1.1. Place of Meeting. Meetings of shareholders shall
be held at the principal offices of the corporation in Winston-Salem, North
Carolina or Atlanta, Georgia, or at such other place as shall be fixed by the
board of directors or the chief executive officer and designated in the notice
of the meeting.
Section 1.2. Annual Meeting. The annual meeting of
shareholders shall be held at 10:30 a.m. on the fourth Friday in April of each
year, if not a legal holiday, but if a legal holiday, then on the preceding
business day which is not a legal holiday, or at such other hour and date as the
board of directors, the chief executive officer or secretary may designate, for
the purpose of electing directors of the corporation and the transaction of such
other business as may be properly brought before the meeting.
Section 1.3. Substitute Annual Meeting. If the annual meeting
is not held on the day designated or provided for in these bylaws, a substitute
annual meeting may be called in accordance with Section 1.4. A meeting so called
shall be designated and treated for all purposes as the annual meeting.
Section 1.4. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the
shareholders may be called at any time by the chief executive officer or the
board of directors.
Section 1.5. Notice of Meetings. At least 10 and no more than
60 days prior to any annual or special meeting of shareholders, the corporation
shall notify shareholders of the date, time and place of the meeting and, in the
case of a special or substitute annual meeting or where otherwise required by
law, shall briefly describe the purpose or purposes of the meeting. Only
business within the purpose or purposes described in the notice may be conducted
at a special meeting. Unless otherwise required by law or by the articles of
incorporation (including, but not limited to, in the event of a meeting to
consider the adoption of a plan of merger or share exchange, a sale of assets
other than in the ordinary course of business or a voluntary dissolution), the
corporation shall be required to give notice only to shareholders entitled to
vote at the meeting. If an annual or special shareholders' meeting is adjourned
to a different date, time or place, notice thereof need not be given if the new
date, time or place is announced at the meeting before adjournment. If a new
record date for the adjourned meeting is fixed pursuant to Section 6.5 hereof,
notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to persons who are shareholders
as of the new record date. It shall be the primary responsibility of the
secretary to give the notice, but notice may be given by or at the direction of
the chief executive officer or other person or persons calling the meeting. If
mailed, such notice shall be deemed to be effective when deposited in the United
States mail with postage thereon prepaid, correctly addressed to the
shareholder's address shown in the corporation's current record of shareholders.
<PAGE>
Section 1.6. Quorum. A majority of the votes entitled to be
cast by a voting group on a matter, represented in person or by proxy at a
meeting of shareholders, shall constitute a quorum for that voting group for any
action on that matter, unless the articles of incorporation provide otherwise or
other quorum requirements are fixed by law, including by a court of competent
jurisdiction acting pursuant to Section 55-7-03 of the General Statutes of North
Carolina. Once a share is represented for any purpose at a meeting, it is deemed
present for quorum purposes for the remainder of the meeting and any adjournment
thereof, unless a new record date is or must be set for the adjournment. Action
may be taken by a voting group at any meeting at which a quorum of that voting
group is represented, regardless of whether action is taken at that meeting by
any other voting group. In the absence of a quorum at the opening of any meeting
of shareholders, such meeting may be adjourned from time to time, subject to
Section 6.5, by a vote of the majority of the shares voting on the motion to
adjourn.
Section 1.7. Shareholders' List. After a record date is fixed
for a meeting, the secretary of the corporation shall prepare an alphabetical
list of the names of all its shareholders who are entitled to notice of the
shareholders' meeting. Such list shall be arranged by voting group (and within
each voting group by class or series of shares) and shall show the address of
and number of shares held by each shareholder. The shareholders' list shall be
made available for inspection by any shareholder beginning two business days
after notice of the meeting is given for which the list was prepared and
continuing through the meeting, at the corporation's principal office or at such
other place identified in the meeting notice in the city where the meeting will
be held. The corporation shall make the shareholders' list available at the
meeting, and any shareholder or his or her agent or attorney is entitled to
inspect the list at any time during the meeting or any adjournment.
Section 1.8. Voting of Shares. Except as otherwise provided by
the articles of incorporation or by law, each outstanding share of voting
capital stock of the corporation shall be entitled to one vote on each matter
submitted to a vote at a meeting of the shareholders. Unless otherwise provided
in the articles of incorporation, cumulative voting for directors shall not be
allowed. Action on a matter by a voting group for which a quorum is present is
approved if the votes cast within the voting group favoring the action exceed
the votes cast opposing the action, unless the vote of a greater number is
required by law or by the articles of incorporation. Absent special
circumstances, the shares of the corporation are not entitled to vote if they
are owned, directly or indirectly, by a second corporation, domestic or foreign,
and the corporation owns, directly or indirectly, a majority of the shares
entitled to vote for directors of the second corporation, except that this
provision shall not limit the power of the corporation to vote shares held by it
in a fiduciary capacity.
Section 1.9. Conduct of Meeting and Order of Business. The
chairman of the board of directors or the chief executive officer shall act as
chairman at all meetings of shareholders and the secretary of the corporation
or, in the secretary's absence, an assistant secretary, shall act as secretary
at all meetings of shareholders. The chairman shall have the right and authority
to determine and maintain the rules, regulations and procedures for the proper
conduct of the meeting, including but not limited to restricting entry to the
meeting after it has commenced, maintaining order and the safety of those in
attendance, opening and closing the polls for voting, dismissing business not
properly submitted, and limiting time allowed for discussion of the business of
the meeting.
Business to be conducted at meetings of shareholders shall be
limited to that properly submitted to the meeting either by or at the direction
of the board of directors or by any holder of voting securities of the
corporation who shall be entitled to vote at such meeting and who complies with
the
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<PAGE>
notice requirements of applicable law or as otherwise set forth in the articles
of incorporation or the bylaws of the corporation. If the chairman of the
meeting shall determine that any business was not properly submitted, the
chairman shall declare to the meeting that such business was not properly
submitted and would not be transacted at that meeting.
ARTICLE 2
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 2.1. General Powers. All corporate powers shall be
exercised by or under the authority of, and the business and affairs of the
corporation shall be managed under the direction of, the board of directors.
Section 2.2. Number, Term, Qualification and Nomination. The
number of directors constituting the board of directors shall be not less than
nine nor more than 25 as may be fixed by resolution duly adopted by the board of
directors prior to the annual meeting at which such directors are to be elected
or by the shareholders, but in the absence of such resolution, the number of
directors elected at the meeting shall constitute the number of directors of the
corporation until the next annual meeting of shareholders.
The board of directors shall be divided into three classes as
equal in number as may be feasible, with the term of office of one class
expiring each year. The members of the initial board of directors shall be
divided into three classes as hereinafter provided, with directors of the first
class to hold office for a term expiring at the first annual meeting of
shareholders, directors of the second class to hold office for a term expiring
at the second annual meeting of shareholders and directors of the third class to
hold office for a term expiring at the third annual meeting of shareholders. At
each annual meeting of shareholders, successors to the directors whose terms
shall then expire shall be elected to hold office for terms expiring at the
third succeeding annual meeting. In case of any vacancies, by reason of an
increase in the number of directors or otherwise, each additional director may
be elected by the board of directors to hold office until the end of the term he
is elected to fill and until his successor shall have been elected and qualified
in the class to which such director is assigned and for the term or remainder of
the term of such class. Directors shall continue in office until others are
chosen and qualified in their stead. When the number of directors is changed,
any newly created directorships or any decrease in directorships shall be so
assigned among the classes by a majority of the directors then in office, though
less than a quorum, so as to make all classes as equal in number as may be
feasible. No decrease in the number of directors shall shorten the term of any
incumbent director.
No person shall be elected a director nor shall continue to
serve an unexpired term as a director past the annual meeting of the corporation
if such person has, as of the date of the annual meeting, reached the age of 67
years. No person shall be elected as a director who has retired from active
participation in the person's principal business or from the active practice of
the person's principal profession; however, a director who retires from active
participation in his or her principal business or profession during the course
of an unexpired term as director may complete such unexpired term subject to the
above age 67 limitation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a person who has served
for five or more years as chief executive officer of the corporation may
complete, after retirement as an employee of the corporation, an unexpired term
and may be elected and serve thereafter as a director, provided,
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however, that such person's service as a director shall not extend beyond the
annual meeting of the corporation immediately following the date on which he or
she reaches 66 years of age. Each director nominee must be the owner in his or
her own right of shares of stock of the corporation having an aggregate par
value of not less than $1,000. Other qualifications which shall be considered in
the selection of director nominees are the extent of experience in business,
finance or management; the extent of knowledge in regional, national or
international business and finance; and the overall capacity to advise and
govern the corporation in fulfilling its mission and meeting its
responsibilities to shareholders, customers, employees and the public.
Nominations for election as a director by the board of
directors in connection with any annual meeting or substitute annual meeting of
shareholders shall include the chief executive officer and the chairman if the
chief executive officer is not the chairman and if such person is not then a
director or if his term as a director will expire at such meeting. Nominations
for election as a director by a holder of any outstanding class of shares of the
corporation entitled to vote for the election of directors shall specify the
class of directors to which each person is nominated, be made in writing and be
delivered or mailed to the chief executive officer of the corporation not less
than 14 days or more than 50 days prior to any meeting of shareholders called
for the election of directors; provided, if less than 21 days' notice of the
meeting is given to shareholders, such notification of nomination shall be
mailed or delivered to the chief executive officer of the corporation not later
than the close of business on the seventh day following the day on which the
notice of meeting was mailed. Such notification shall contain the following
information to the extent known by the notifying shareholder: (a) the name, age
and address of each proposed nominee; (b) the principal occupation of each
proposed nominee; (c) the total number of shares that will be voted for each
proposed nominee; (d) the name and residence address of the notifying
shareholder; (e) the number of shares owned by the notifying shareholder; and
(f) a biographical profile of the proposed nominee with a statement of his or
her qualifications. Nominations not made in accordance herewith may be
disregarded by the chairman of the meeting in his discretion, and upon his
instructions the voting inspectors or tabulators may disregard all votes cast
for each such nominee.
Section 2.3. Removal. Any director may be removed from office
as a director, but only for cause, by the affirmative vote at a meeting called
as provided herein for that purpose, of at least 66- 2/3% in interest of the
holders of voting stock of the corporation issued and outstanding, including a
majority in interest of the holders of issued and outstanding voting stock of
the corporation held by persons other than any person who is an "Interested
Shareholder" as defined in paragraph (3) of Article X.D of the corporation's
articles of incorporation; provided, the notice of the shareholders' meeting at
which such action is to be taken states that a purpose of the meeting is removal
of the director, and the number of votes cast to remove the director exceeds the
number of votes cast not to remove him.
Section 2.4. Vacancies. Except as otherwise provided in the
articles of incorporation or these bylaws, a vacancy occurring in the board of
directors, including, without limitation, a vacancy resulting from an increase
in the number of directors or from the failure by the shareholders to elect the
full authorized number of directors, may be filled by a majority of the
remaining directors or by the sole director remaining in office. The
shareholders may elect a director at any time to fill a vacancy not filled by
the directors. A director elected to fill a vacancy shall be elected for the
unexpired term of his predecessor in office.
Section 2.5. Compensation. The directors shall have authority
to vote themselves reasonable compensation for their services as directors. The
directors may provide for their own indemnification and for the indemnification
of others, in accordance with these bylaws or as otherwise
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authorized by law, and the directors may authorize the purchase of insurance in
connection therewith. Any director may serve the corporation in any other
capacity and receive compensation therefor.
Section 2.6. Chairman of the Board of Directors. The board of
directors shall elect a chairman who shall preside at all meetings of the board
of directors. The chairman of the board may but need not be an officer or
employee of the corporation. If not elected chief executive officer, the
chairman shall have such other authority and shall perform such other duties as
may from time to time be conferred upon him herein or by the directors or by the
chief executive officer, and in the event of the disability or death of the
chief executive officer or president, he shall perform the duties of the chief
executive officer or president unless and until a new chief executive officer or
president is elected by the directors.
Section 2.7. Vice Chairmen. The board of directors may elect
one or more vice chairmen who shall have such authority and shall perform such
duties as may from time to time be conferred upon them by the directors or by
the chief executive officer. A vice chairman may but need not be an officer or
employee of the bank.
Section 2.8. Directors Emeritus. Upon retiring from the board
of directors, a director may be elected a director emeritus by the board of
directors. A director emeritus shall not have the right to vote and shall not be
charged with the responsibilities or be subject to the liabilities of directors.
A director emeritus may attend meetings of the board only upon invitation of the
directors.
ARTICLE 3
MEETINGS OF DIRECTORS
Section 3.1. Regular Meetings. Regular meetings of the board
of directors shall be held on the fourth Friday of January, April, July and
October of each year at the principal offices of the corporation in
Winston-Salem, North Carolina or Atlanta, Georgia, unless the board of directors
fixes some other place or time for the holding of such meetings. If any date for
which a regular meeting is scheduled shall be a legal holiday, the meeting shall
be held on such other date as is designated in a notice of the meeting.
If possible, the directors, including directors-elect, shall
meet following each annual meeting of shareholders for the purpose of organizing
the board and electing officers for the succeeding year; provided, in any event
the new board shall be organized and officers elected no later than at the next
regular meeting of the directors.
Section 3.2. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the board
of directors may be called by or at the request of the chief executive officer
or any three directors. Such meetings may be held at the time and place
designated in the notice of the meeting.
Section 3.3. Notice of Meetings. Unless the articles of
incorporation provide otherwise, regular meetings of the board of directors held
on a date specified in or pursuant to the first sentence of Section 3.1 may be
held without notice of the date, time, place or purpose of the meeting. The
secretary giving notice of a regular meeting to be held on a date other than a
date specified in or pursuant to the first sentence of Section 3.1, and the
secretary or other person calling a special meeting,
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shall give notice by any usual means of communication to be sent at least 24
hours before the meeting if notice is sent by means of telephone, telecopy or
personal delivery and at least five days before the meeting if notice is sent by
mail.
Section 3.4. Quorum. Except as otherwise provided in the
articles of incorporation, a majority of the directors in office shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at a meeting of the board of
directors, provided a majority of the directors present are not also officers of
the corporation. Less than a quorum may adjourn any meeting from time to time,
and the meeting as adjourned may be held without further notice. In the event of
the death, disability or other absence of directors due to war or other
catastrophe, reducing the number of directors able to attend a meeting to less
than that required for a quorum, a majority of the remaining directors shall
constitute a quorum.
Section 3.5. Manner of Acting. Except as otherwise provided in
the articles of incorporation, the affirmative vote of a majority of the
directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of
the board of directors.
Section 3.6. Presumption of Assent. A director of the
corporation who is present at a meeting of the board of directors at which
action on any corporate matter is taken is deemed to have assented to the action
taken unless he or she objects at the beginning of the meeting (or promptly upon
arrival) to holding, or transacting business at, the meeting, or unless his or
her dissent or abstention is entered in the minutes of the meeting or unless he
or she shall file written notice of his or her dissent or abstention to such
action with the presiding officer of the meeting before its adjournment or with
the corporation immediately after adjournment of the meeting. The right of
dissent or abstention shall not apply to a director who voted in favor of such
action.
Section 3.7. Action Without Meeting. Unless otherwise provided
in the articles of incorporation, action required or permitted to be taken at a
meeting of the board of directors may be taken without a meeting if the action
is taken by all members of the board. The action must be evidenced by one or
more written consents signed by each director before or after such action,
describing the action taken, and included in the minutes or filed with the
corporate records. Action taken without a meeting is effective when the last
director signs the consent, unless the consent specifies a different effective
date.
Section 3.8. Meeting by Communications Device. Unless
otherwise provided in the articles of incorporation, the board of directors may
permit any or all directors to participate in a regular or special meeting by,
or conduct the meeting through the use of, any means of communication by which
all directors participating may simultaneously hear each other during the
meeting. A director participating in a meeting by this means is deemed to be
present in person at the meeting.
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ARTICLE 4
COMMITTEES
Section 4.1. Election and Powers. Unless otherwise provided by
the articles of incorporation, a majority of the board of directors may create
one or more committees and appoint two or more directors to serve at the
pleasure of the board on each such committee. To the extent specified by the
board of directors or in the articles of incorporation or the bylaws, each
committee shall have and may exercise the powers of the board in the management
of the business and affairs of the corporation, except that no committee shall
have authority to do the following:
(a) Authorize distributions.
(b) Approve or propose to shareholders action required to be
approved by shareholders.
(c) Fill vacancies on the board of directors or on any of its
committees.
(d) Amend the articles of incorporation.
(e) Adopt, amend or repeal the bylaws.
(f) Approve a plan of merger not requiring shareholder approval.
(g) Authorize or approve the reacquisition of shares, except
according to a formula or method prescribed by the board of
directors.
(h) Authorize or approve the issuance, sale or contract for sale
of shares, or determine the designation and relative rights,
preferences and limitations of a class or series of shares,
except that the board of directors may authorize a committee
(or a senior executive officer of the corporation) to do so
within limits specifically prescribed by the board of
directors.
The board of directors or the chief executive officer may establish nonboard
committees composed of directors, employees or others to deal with corporate
powers not required to be exercised by the board of directors.
Section 4.2. Removal; Vacancies. Any member of a committee may
be removed at any time with or without cause, and vacancies in the membership of
a committee by means of death, resignation, disqualification or removal shall be
filled, by a majority of the full board of directors.
Section 4.3. Meetings. The provisions of Article 3 governing
meetings of the board of directors, action without meeting, notice, waiver of
notice and quorum and voting requirements shall apply to the committees of the
board and its members.
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Section 4.4. Minutes. Each committee shall keep minutes of its
proceedings and shall report thereon to the board of directors at or before the
next meeting of the board.
Section 4.5. Standing Committees. The directors shall appoint
annually the chairman and members of and shall establish the charter,
responsibilities and authority of the following standing committees: Audit,
Compliance, Corporate Governance and Nominating, Credit, Executive, Finance, and
Management Resources and Compensation. Each committee shall consist entirely of
directors. No active or former officer or employee of the corporation shall
serve on the Audit, Compliance, Corporate Governance and Nominating, or
Management Resources and Compensation committees other than as an ex officio
member of such committees.
ARTICLE 5
OFFICERS
Section 5.1. Titles. The officers of the corporation shall be
a chief executive officer, a president, one or more vice presidents and a
secretary and may include one or more executive vice presidents, a treasurer, a
comptroller, a general auditor, one or more assistant secretaries, one or more
assistant treasurers, one or more assistant comptrollers, and such other
officers as shall be deemed necessary. The officers shall have the authority and
perform the duties as set forth herein or as from time to time may be prescribed
by the board of directors or by the chief executive officer (to the extent that
the chief executive officer is authorized by the board of directors or these
bylaws to prescribe the authority and duties of officers). Any two or more
offices may be held by the same individual, but no officer may act in more than
one capacity where action of two or more officers is required.
Section 5.2. Election; Appointment. The officers of the
corporation shall be elected from time to time by the board of directors or
appointed from time to time by the chief executive officer to the extent that
the chief executive officer is authorized by the board to appoint officers;
provided, the chief executive officer may from time to time elect one or more
assistant secretaries notwithstanding the absence of such authorization.
Section 5.3. Removal. Any officer may be removed by the board
of directors at any time with or without cause whenever in the board's judgment
the best interests of the corporation will be served, but removal shall not
itself affect the officer's contract rights, if any, with the corporation.
Section 5.4. Vacancies. Vacancies among the officers may be
filled and new offices may be created and filled by the board of directors, or
by the chief executive officer to the extent authorized by the board.
Section 5.5. Compensation. Except as provided by Section 5.6,
the compensation of the officers shall be fixed by, or under the direction of,
the Management Resources and Compensation Committee or by such person or persons
to whom authority to fix compensation has been delegated by the board or such
committee.
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Section 5.6. Chief Executive Officer. The chief executive
officer of the corporation shall be elected annually by the directors and may
hold either or both of the titles of chairman and president. The chief executive
officer shall have overall responsibility and authority for administering the
affairs of the corporation and of all its subsidiary banks and companies. The
chief executive officer shall exercise all of the powers customarily exercised
by a chief executive officer of any corporation by whatever name called unless
expressly limited by the directors. All officers of the corporation shall report
to the chief executive officer to the extent the chief executive officer may
require.
In the interim between meetings of the directors or meetings
of the Executive Committee, the chief executive officer may make appointments
pro tem to any office below the level of executive vice president, either for
the purpose of filling a vacancy or increasing the number of officers, such
appointees pro tem to hold office until the next succeeding regular or special
meeting of the directors, who may in their discretion ratify or revoke any such
appointments. The compensation of all agents and employees of the corporation
other than certain senior officers specified by the board shall be fixed by the
chief executive officer or by senior officers or committees appointed by the
chief executive officer. The chief executive officer shall have the power to
execute in the name and on behalf of the corporation, or to delegate such power
to others, all contracts or instruments of every character relating to real or
personal property without express authority of the directors unless such
authority is expressly limited by the directors.
It shall be the duty of the chief executive officer or an
individual designated by the chief executive officer to make a report of the
corporation's performance and condition to the shareholders at their annual
meeting and to the directors at their regular meetings including therein such
recommendations as to the policy and conduct of the business of the corporation
as the chief executive officer may deem advisable. The chief executive officer
shall be ex officio a member of all committees of the board.
Section 5.7. President. If not elected chief executive
officer, the president shall have such authority and shall perform such duties
as may from time to time be conferred by the directors or by the chief executive
officer, and in the event of disability of the chief executive officer or
chairman, shall perform the duties of the chief executive officer or chairman
unless and until the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee shall appoint
an acting chief executive officer or chairman or until a new chief executive
officer or chairman is elected by the directors.
Section 5.8. Vice Presidents. Vice presidents may be
designated as senior executive vice presidents, executive vice presidents,
regional vice presidents, group vice presidents, senior vice presidents, first
vice presidents, vice presidents and assistant vice presidents. The board of
directors, subject to the provisions of Section 5.2, annually shall elect such
number of each designation as it may deem proper. Each category of vice
presidents shall have such responsibilities and duties as shall be specifically
assigned to them by the directors or by the chief executive officer.
Section 5.9. Secretary. The secretary shall act as secretary
at all meetings of the shareholders and at all meetings of the directors. The
secretary shall issue notices for such meetings in accordance with the
requirements of the bylaws. The secretary shall have custody of the corporate
seal and, upon request of an officer authorized by the board of directors to
execute on behalf of the corporation an instrument relating to real or personal
property, shall attest any such instrument and shall
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perform such other duties as from time to time shall be assigned by the
directors or by the chief executive officer.
Section 5.10. Assistant Secretaries. Each assistant secretary,
if such officer is elected, shall have such powers and perform such duties as
may be assigned by the board of directors or the chief executive officer
(notwithstanding the absence of any authorization by the board of directors to
prescribe the authority and duties of officers), and the assistant secretaries
shall exercise the powers of the secretary during that officer's absence or
inability to act.
Section 5.11. Voting Upon Stocks. Unless otherwise ordered by
the board of directors, the chief executive officer (or such officer as the
chief executive officer shall designate) shall have full power and authority on
behalf of the corporation to attend, act and vote at meetings of the
shareholders of any corporation in which this corporation may hold stock, and at
such meetings shall possess and may exercise any and all rights and powers
incident to the ownership of such stock and which, as the owner, the corporation
might have possessed and exercised if present. The board of directors may by
resolution from time to time confer such power and authority upon any other
person or persons.
ARTICLE 6
CAPITAL STOCK
Section 6.1. Certificates. Shares of the capital stock of the
corporation shall be represented by certificates. The name and address of the
persons to whom shares of capital stock of the corporation are issued, with the
number of shares and date of issue, shall be entered on the stock transfer
records of the corporation. Certificates for shares of the capital stock of the
corporation shall be in such form not inconsistent with the articles of
incorporation of the corporation as shall be approved by the board of directors.
Each certificate shall be signed (either manually or by facsimile) by the chief
executive officer, the chairman or the president and by the secretary or an
assistant secretary. Each certificate may be sealed with the seal of the
corporation or a facsimile thereof.
Section 6.2. Transfer of Shares. Transfer of shares shall be
made on the stock transfer records of the corporation, and transfers shall be
made only upon surrender of the certificate for the shares sought to be
transferred by the recordholder or by a duly authorized agent, transferee or
legal representative. All certificates surrendered for transfer or reissue shall
be cancelled before new certificates for the shares shall be issued.
Section 6.3. Transfer Agent and Registrar. The board of
directors may appoint one or more transfer agents and one or more registrars of
transfers and may require all stock certificates to be signed or countersigned
by the transfer agent and registered by the registrar of transfers.
Section 6.4. Regulations. The board of directors may make
rules and regulations as it deems expedient concerning the issue, transfer and
registration of shares of capital stock of the corporation.
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Section 6.5. Fixing Record Date. For the purpose of
determining shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of
shareholders, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend, or in order to
make a determination of shareholders for any other purpose, the board of
directors or the chief executive officer may fix in advance a date as the record
date for the determination of shareholders. The record date shall be not more
than 70 days before the meeting or action requiring a determination of
shareholders. A determination of shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote
at a shareholders' meeting shall be effective for any adjournment of the meeting
unless the board of directors fixes a new record date, which it shall do if the
meeting is adjourned to a date more than 120 days after the date fixed for the
original meeting. If no record date is fixed for the determination of
shareholders, the record date shall be the day the notice of the meeting is
mailed or the day the action requiring a determination of shareholders is taken.
Section 6.6. Lost Certificates. The corporation must authorize
the issuance of a new certificate in place of a certificate claimed to have been
lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken, upon receipt of (a) an affidavit from the
person explaining the loss, destruction or wrongful taking, and (b) a bond from
the claimant in such sum and with such surety or other security and in such form
acceptable to the corporation as the corporation may reasonably direct to
indemnify the corporation against loss from any claim with respect to the
certificate claimed to have been lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken. The
corporation may, in its discretion, waive the affidavit and bond and authorize
the issuance of a new certificate in place of a certificate claimed to have been
lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken or authorize the chief executive officer to
waive the bond and authorize issuance of a new replacement certificate.
ARTICLE 7
INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, AND EMPLOYEES
Section 7.1. Indemnification Provisions. Any person who at any
time serves or has served as a director, officer or employee of the corporation
or of any wholly owned subsidiary or affiliate of the corporation, or in such
capacity at the request of the corporation for any other foreign or domestic
corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, or as a
trustee or administrator under any employee benefit plan of the corporation or
of any wholly owned subsidiary thereof (a "Claimant"), shall be indemnified and
held harmless by the corporation to the fullest extent from time to time
permitted by law against all liabilities and litigation expenses (as hereinafter
defined) in the event a claim shall be made or threatened against that person
in, or that person is made or threatened to be made a party to, any threatened,
pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal,
administrative or investigative, and whether or not brought by or on behalf of
the corporation, including all appeals therefrom (a "proceeding"), seeking to
hold the Claimant liable by reason of the fact that he or she is or was serving
in such capacity (whether the basis of such proceeding is alleged action in such
official capacity or in any other capacity while serving in such official
capacity); provided, such indemnification shall not be effective with respect to
(a) that portion of any liabilities or litigation expenses with respect to which
the Claimant is entitled to receive payment under any insurance policy other
than a directors' and officers' insurance policy maintained by the Company or
(b) any liabilities or litigation expenses incurred on account of any of the
Claimant's activities which were at the time taken known or believed by the
Claimant to be clearly in conflict with the best interests of the corporation.
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Section 7.2. Definitions. As used in this Article, (a)
"liabilities" shall include, without limitation, (1) payments in satisfaction of
any judgment, money decree, excise tax, fine or penalty for which the Claimant
had become liable in any proceeding and (2) payments in settlement of any such
proceeding subject, however, to Section 7.3; (b) "litigation expenses" shall
include, without limitation, (1) reasonable costs and expenses and attorneys'
fees and expenses actually and necessarily incurred by the Claimant in
connection with any proceeding and (2) reasonable costs and expenses and
attorneys' fees and expenses in connection with the enforcement of rights to the
indemnification granted hereby or by applicable law, if such enforcement is
successful in whole or in part; and (c) "disinterested directors" shall mean
directors who are not party to the proceeding in question.
Section 7.3. Settlements. The corporation shall not be liable
to indemnify the Claimant for any amounts paid in settlement of any proceeding
effected without the corporation's written consent. The corporation will not
unreasonably withhold its consent to any proposed settlement.
Section 7.4. Litigation Expense Advances.
(a) Subject to the provisions of subsections (b) and (c)
below, any litigation expenses shall be advanced to any Claimant within 60 days
of receipt by the general counsel or secretary of the corporation of a demand
therefor, together with an undertaking (in such form as the corporation may
prescribe from time to time) by or on behalf of the Claimant to repay to the
corporation such amount unless it is ultimately determined that the Claimant is
entitled to be indemnified by the corporation against such expenses. The
Claimant shall also forward to the general counsel or secretary a statement as
to any insurance in effect of the type described in Section 7.1, together with
any information which the Claimant wishes to have considered in determining
whether the standards set forth below have been met. The general counsel or
secretary shall promptly forward notice of the demand and undertaking
immediately to all directors of the corporation.
(b) In the event a demand for an advance of litigation
expenses is received from a Claimant who is or was a director or the chief
executive of the corporation, the general counsel or secretary shall call a
meeting of a special committee (the "Special Committee"), the membership of
which shall include only disinterested directors, and such Special Committee
shall determine within 30 days thereafter, based upon the facts and information
then available to them, whether the Claimant's activities were at the time taken
known or believed by the Claimant to be clearly in conflict with the best
interests of the corporation. In making such determination, the Special
Committee shall consult with representatives of any insurance carrier having a
directors' and officers' liability policy in effect which covers the Claimant,
where such insurance has been purchased by the corporation. No such advance
shall be made if a majority of the Special Committee determines that the
litigation expenses have been incurred on account of activities which at the
time taken by such Claimant were known or believed by him to be clearly in
conflict with the best interests of the corporation. To the extent that any
Claimant shall be entitled to an advance under this section, it shall be a
further condition to such advance that counsel selected by a Claimant be
approved by the corporation and to the extent deemed necessary by the
corporation the selection of such counsel shall also be approved by the carrier
of any directors' and officer's liability insurance then in effect. The
corporation also reserves the right, in the instance of multiple Claimants, to
require, if appropriate, the consolidation of the defense of Claimants with
counsel chosen by the corporation. No such advance of any particular items of
litigation expenses shall be made if a majority of the Special Committee
affirmatively determines that such particular items are unreasonable and/or
excessive. In any such case, the Special Committee must determine the
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unreasonable or excessive amount, and the Company shall withhold advances of
expenses only in the dollar amount so determined as excessive and/or
unreasonable.
(c) In the discretion of the chief executive officer or the
chief executive officer's designee, the Special Committee procedures set forth
in Section 7.4(b) may be deemed to apply to a demand for an advance of
litigation expenses received from a Claimant not referred to in the first
sentence of Section 7.4(b) (including but not limited to a Claimant who is or
was an officer (other than the chief executive officer) or employee of the
corporation or a director, officer or employee of a subsidiary of the
corporation). Alternatively, the chief executive officer or the chief executive
officer's designee may cause the Special Committee procedures set forth in
subsection (b) to be waived and, in lieu thereof, the chief executive officer or
the chief executive officer's designee may determine whether the applicable
standard of conduct required by Section 7.4(b) has been met, whether the amount
of such expenses is reasonable and the amount of such expenses, if any, that are
unreasonable or excessive and consequently are to be withheld.
Section 7.5. Approval of Indemnification Payments. Except as
may be determined in an action brought pursuant to Section 7.6 below,
indemnification payments by the corporation for liabilities and litigation
expenses (or a termination of the undertaking required under Section 7.4 above
with respect to advanced expenses) may be made only following a determination
that the activities of the Claimant (if the Claimant is or was a director of the
corporation) were not of the kind described in Section 7.4(b), which
determination shall be made (a) by a majority of the disinterested directors (if
there are at least two such directors), or (b) if there are not two such
directors, or if a majority of the disinterested directors so directs, by
independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (c) by a majority of the
shareholders or (d) in accordance with any other reasonable procedures
prescribed by the board of directors prior to the assertion of the claim for
which indemnification is sought. The reasonableness of amounts of settlements
and litigation expenses may be approved by a majority of the disinterested
members of the board of directors. If the Claimant is an officer or employee of
the corporation, the determination required by this paragraph may be made by the
chief executive officer of the corporation or his designee.
Section 7.6. Suits by Claimant. If a claim under Section 7.1
is not paid in full by the corporation within 60 days after a written claim has
been received by the corporation, or a demand for advances is not paid within 60
days of receipt by the corporation of such demand accompanied by an undertaking
as described in Section 7.4, the Claimant may at any time thereafter bring suit
against the corporation to recover the unpaid amount of the claim or demand. It
shall be a defense to any such action that the Claimant's liabilities or
litigation expenses were incurred on account of activities which were at the
time taken known or believed by the Claimant to be clearly in conflict with the
best interests of the corporation, or were unreasonable, but the burden of
proving such defense shall be on the corporation. Neither the failure of the
corporation (including its disinterested directors, independent legal counsel,
shareholders or the chief executive officer or his designee, if applicable) to
have made a determination prior to the commencement of such action that
indemnification of the Claimant is proper in the circumstances, nor an actual
determination by the corporation (including its disinterested directors,
independent legal counsel, shareholders or the chief executive officer or the
chief executive officer's designee, if applicable) that the Claimant had not met
such applicable standard of conduct shall be a defense to the action or create a
presumption that Claimant has not met the applicable standard of conduct.
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Section 7.7. Consideration; Personal Representatives and Other
Remedies. Any Claimant who during such time as this Article or corresponding
provisions of predecessor bylaws is or has been in effect serves or has served
in any of the capacities described in Section 7.1 shall be deemed to be doing so
or to have done so in reliance upon, and as consideration for, the right of
indemnification provided herein or therein. The right of indemnification
provided herein or therein shall inure to the benefit of the legal
representatives of any Claimant hereunder, and the right shall not be exclusive
of any other rights to which the Claimant or legal representative may be
entitled apart from this Article.
Section 7.8. Scope of Indemnification Rights. The rights
granted herein shall not be limited by the provisions of Section 55-8-51 of the
General Statutes of North Carolina or any successor statute.
ARTICLE 8
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 8.1. Dividends and other Distributions. The board of
directors may from time to time declare and the corporation may pay dividends or
make other distributions with respect to its outstanding shares in the manner
and upon the terms and conditions provided by law. If the board of directors
does not fix the record date for determining shareholders entitled to a
distribution, the record date shall be the date the board of directors
authorizes the distribution (other than a distribution involving a purchase,
redemption or other acquisition of the corporation's shares, for which no record
date is required to be fixed).
Section 8.2. Seal. The seal of the corporation shall be any
form approved from time to time or at any time by the board of directors. The
seal may be affixed to any document by the secretary, any assistant secretary,
or any other person or persons specifically authorized by the board of directors
or the chief executive officer.
Section 8.3. Waiver of Notice. Whenever notice is required to
be given to a shareholder, director or other person under the provisions of
these bylaws, the articles of incorporation or applicable law, a waiver in
writing signed by the person or persons entitled to the notice, whether before
or after the date and time stated in the notice, and delivered to the
corporation shall be equivalent to giving the notice.
Section 8.4. Checks. All checks, drafts or orders for the
payment of money shall be signed by the officer or officers or other individuals
that the board of directors or chief executive officer may from time to time
authorize.
Section 8.5. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the corporation
shall be the calendar year or such other period fixed by the board of directors.
Section 8.6. Amendments. Unless otherwise provided in the
articles of incorporation or a bylaw adopted by the shareholders or by law,
these bylaws may be amended or repealed by the board of directors, except that a
bylaw adopted, amended or repealed by the shareholders may not be
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<PAGE>
readopted, amended or repealed by the board of directors if neither the articles
of incorporation nor a bylaw adopted by the shareholders authorizes the board of
directors to adopt, amend or repeal that particular bylaw or the bylaws
generally. These bylaws may be amended or repealed by the shareholders even
though the bylaws may also be amended or repealed by the board of directors. A
bylaw that fixes a greater quorum or voting requirement for the board of
directors may be amended or repealed (a) if originally adopted by the
shareholders, only by the shareholders, unless such bylaw as originally adopted
by the shareholders provides that such bylaw may be amended or repealed by the
board of directors or (b) if originally adopted by the board of directors,
either by the shareholders or by the board of directors. A bylaw that fixes a
greater quorum or voting requirement may not be adopted by the board of
directors by a vote less than a majority of the directors then in office and may
not itself be amended by a quorum or vote of the directors less than the quorum
or vote prescribed in such bylaw or prescribed by the shareholders.
Section 8.7. Applicability of Antitakeover Statutes. The
provisions of Article 9 of the North Carolina Business Corporation Act, entitled
"Shareholder Protection Act," shall not be applicable to the corporation.
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<PAGE>
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 5.1
[LETTERHEAD OF WACHOVIA CORPORATION]
October 7, 1997
Wachovia Corporation
100 North Main Street
P.O. Box 3099
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27150
RE: Registration Statement on Form S-4
Gentlemen:
I am familiar with the proceedings taken by Wachovia Corporation (the
"Company") in connection with the preparation and filing with the Securities and
Exchange Commission of a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the "Registration
Statement") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, pertaining to the
issuance of up to 38,399,500 shares of the Company's Common Stock, par value
$5.00 per share (the "Shares"), pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of June 23, 1997, by and between the Company and Central
Fidelity Banks, Inc. (the "Merger Agreement").
As counsel for the Company, I have reviewed the Registration Statement and
the Merger Agreement, and I have examined and am familiar with the records
relating to the organization of the Company, including its articles of
incorporation, bylaws and all amendments thereto, and the records of all
proceedings taken by the Board of Directors of the Company pertinent to the
rendering of this opinion.
Based on the foregoing, and having regard for such legal considerations as
I have deemed relevant, I am of the opinion that the Shares have been duly
authorized and, upon issuance in accordance with the terms of the Merger
Agreement, will be validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.
I hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the
Registration Statement and to the listing of my name in the Prospectus.
Sincerely,
/s/ KENNETH W. MCALLISTER
Kenneth W. McAllister
<PAGE>
[Letterhead of Sullivan & Cromwell
EXHIBIT 8.1
October 6, 1997
Wachovia Corporation
301 North Main Street
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27101
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as special counsel in connection with the planned merger (the
"Merger") of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc., a Virginia corporation ("Central"),
with and into Wachovia Corporation, a North Carolina corporation ("Wachovia"),
pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Agreement"), dated as of June
23, 1997, by and between Wachovia and Central. Capitalized terms used but not
defined herein shall have the meanings specified in the Registration Statement
or the appendices thereto (including the Agreement).
We have assumed with your consent that (1) the Merger will be consummated
solely in compliance with the material terms and conditions of the Agreement and
none of the material terms and conditions thereof have been or will be waived or
modified and (2) the representations contained in the letters of representation
from Wachovia and Central to us dated October 6, 1997 and October 6, 1997,
respectively, were true and correct when made and will be true and correct at
the Effective Time and, as to the representation that relies upon information
contained in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, such
information is true, correct and complete as of the date hereof and will be
true, correct and complete as of the Effective Time and, as to the
representation that relies upon information contained in filings with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, such information is true, correct and
complete as of the date hereof and will be true, correct and complete as of
the Effective Time.
On the basis of the foregoing, and our consideration of such other matters
of fact and law as we have deemed necessary or appropriate, it is our opinion,
under presently applicable federal income tax law, that the Merger will
constitute a reorganization under Section 368 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended (the "Code"), and that:
(i) no gain or loss will be recognized by Wachovia or Central as a
result of the consummation of the Merger;
(ii) no gain or loss will be recognized for federal income tax
purposes by Central stockholders upon the exchange in the Merger of shares
of Central stock solely for Wachovia stock (except with respect to cash
received in lieu of a fractional share interest in Wachovia stock);
(iii) the basis of Wachovia stock received in the Merger by Central
stockholders (including the basis of any fractional share interest in
Wachovia stock) will be the same as the basis of the shares of Central
stock surrendered in exchange therefor;
(iv) the holding period of Wachovia stock received in the Merger by
Central stockholders (including the holding period of any fractional share
interest in Wachovia stock) will include the period during which the shares
of Central stock surrendered in exchange therefor were held by the Central
stockholder, provided such shares of Central stock were held as capital
assets; and
(v) the payment of cash to a Central stockholder in lieu of a
fractional share interest in Wachovia Common Stock will be treated as if
the fractional share had been distributed as part of the exchange and then
redeemed by Wachovia. The cash payment will be treated as having been
received as a distribution in payment for the Wachovia Common Stock
hypothetically redeemed as provided in Section 302 of the Code and, to the
extent that such redemption is "substantially disproportionate" with
respect to the Central stockholder or is not treated as "essentially
equivalent to a dividend" after giving effect to the relevant constructive
ownership rules of the Code, generally should result in the recognition of
capital gain or loss measured by the difference between the amount of cash
received and the tax basis of the fractional share of Wachovia Common Stock
hypothetically redeemed. Such capital gain or loss would be long-term
capital gain or loss if the Central stockholder's holding period in the
fractional share interest (determined as in (iv) above) is more
<PAGE>
than one year. Long-term capital gain of an individual Central stockholder
is generally subject to a maximum tax rate of 28% in respect of property
held for more than one year and to a maximum tax rate of 20% in respect of
property held in excess of 18 months.
We express no opinion as to the effect of the Merger on Wachovia, Central
or any shareholder in respect of any asset as to which unrealized gain is
required to be recognized for U.S. Federal income tax purposes at the end of
each taxable year under a mark-to-market system.
This opinion deals only with Central stockholders who are (i) citizens or
residents of the United States, (ii) domestic corporations or (iii) otherwise
subject to United States federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of
shares of Central common stock. The federal income tax consequences described
herein may not apply to certain classes of taxpayers, including, without
limitation, insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations, financial
institutions, dealers in securities, persons who acquired or acquire shares of
Central common stock pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options or
otherwise as compensation and persons who hold shares of Central common stock in
a hedging transaction or as part of a straddle or conversion transaction.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the
Registration Statement and to the references to this opinion in the Registration
Statement, including the references under the captions "THE MERGER -- Certain
Federal Income Tax Consequences" and "THE MERGER -- Conditions to Consummation".
In giving this consent, we do not hereby admit that we are within the category
of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, or the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission thereunder.
Very truly yours,
/s/ SULLIVAN & CROMWELL
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 8.2
[LETTERHEAD OF WACHTELL, LIPTON, ROSEN & KATZ]
October 6, 1997
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
1021 East Cary Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Ladies/Gentlemen:
We have acted as special counsel to Central Fidelity Banks, Inc., a
Virginia corporation ("Central Fidelity"), in connection with the proposed
merger (the "Merger") of Central Fidelity with and into Wachovia Corporation, a
North Carolina corporation ("Wachovia"), upon the terms and conditions set forth
in the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of June 23, 1997, by and between
Central Fidelity and Wachovia (the "Agreement"). At your request, in connection
with the filing of the Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the Merger (the
"Registration Statement"), we are rendering our opinion concerning certain
federal income tax consequences of the Merger.
For purposes of the opinion set forth below, we have relied, with the
consent of Central Fidelity and the consent of Wachovia, upon the accuracy and
completeness of the statements and representations (which statements and
representations we have neither investigated nor verified) contained,
respectively, in the certificates of the officers of Central Fidelity and
Wachovia (copies of which are attached hereto and which are incorporated herein
by reference), and have assumed that such certificates will be complete and
accurate as of the Effective Time. We have also relied upon the accuracy of the
Registration Statement and the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included therein
(together, the "Proxy Statement"). Any capitalized term used and not defined
herein has the meaning given to it in the Proxy Statement or the appendices
thereto (including the Agreement).
We have also assumed that the transactions contemplated by the Agreement
will be consummated in accordance therewith and as described in the Proxy
Statement and that the Merger will qualify as a statutory merger under the
applicable laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the State of North Carolina.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, it is our opinion that (i) the
Merger constitutes a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and (ii) no gain or loss will be
recognized by stockholders of Central Fidelity who receive solely shares of
common stock of Wachovia in exchange for shares of common stock of Central
Fidelity, except with respect to cash received in lieu of fractional share
interests.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion with the Securities and
Exchange Commission as an exhibit to the Registration Statement, and to the
references to us under the caption "THE MERGER -- Certain Federal Income Tax
Consequences" and elsewhere in the Proxy Statement. In giving such consent, we
do not thereby admit that we are in the category of persons whose consent is
required under Section 7 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 10.1
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT, made as of the 23rd day of June, 1997, by and
between WACHOVIA CORPORATION (the "Corporation") and LEWIS N. MILLER (the
"Executive");
R E C I T A L S:
The Corporation desires to secure the services of the Executive in its
behalf or in behalf of one or more of its subsidiaries for which the Executive
may render services hereunder from time to time, in accordance with the terms
and conditions set forth herein. In addition, the Corporation desires to provide
the Executive with an incentive to remain in the service of the Corporation or
one or more of its subsidiaries by granting to the Executive compensation
security as set forth herein should his employment be terminated by the
Corporation without cause during the term of this Agreement. This agreement
shall become effective as of the closing date of the transactions contemplated
by the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of June 23, 1997 (the "Effective
Date"), by and between the Corporation and the Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. (the
"CFBI").
NOW, THEREFORE, the Corporation and the Executive hereby mutually agree as
follows:
1. EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall serve as Senior Executive Vice
President of the Corporation and shall be the senior officer with
responsibility for Virginia banking operations reporting directly to the
Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation. The Executive shall devote his
working time exclusively to the performance of such services for the
Corporation or one or more of its subsidiaries as may be assigned to him by
the Corporation from time to time, and shall perform such services
faithfully and to the best of his ability. Such services shall be rendered
in a senior management or executive capacity and shall be of a type for
which the Executive is suited by background and training. In no event shall
the nature of the services require the Executive to relocate his residence
from Richmond, Virginia unless the Executive shall agree to such
relocation. References herein to services rendered for the Corporation and
compensation and benefits payable or provided by the Corporation shall
include services rendered for and compensation and benefits payable or
provided by any subsidiary of the Corporation.
2. TERM OF AGREEMENT; COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS.
(a) The term of this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date
and shall continue in effect until the third anniversary of such Effective
Date; provided, however, that commencing on the first anniversary of this
Agreement, and each anniversary thereafter, the term of this Agreement
shall automatically be extended for one additional year unless at least 90
days prior to any such anniversary date either party shall notify the other
in writing that it does not wish to extend the term of this Agreement
beyond the then applicable expiration date. In no event, however, may the
term of this Agreement extend beyond the Executive's sixtieth birthday.
References herein to the "term" of this Agreement shall mean the original
term plus any continuation as provided in this Section 2. The "term" shall
not be deemed to refer to the Compensation Period described in Section 4.
(b) During the term of this Agreement, the Executive shall be entitled
to receive a base salary at a monthly rate at least equal to the highest
monthly rate paid to the Executive by Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. within
one year prior to the Effective Date. The base salary shall be reviewed at
least once each year. In addition, the Executive shall be awarded for each
fiscal year during the term of this Agreement an annual cash bonus (either
pursuant to a bonus or incentive plan of the Corporation or otherwise)
consistent with the Corporation's policy and practice for peer executives
of the Corporation, but which shall be no less than $325,000 for fiscal
1998. Each such annual bonus shall be payable in January of the year next
following the year for which the annual bonus is awarded.
(c) During the term of this Agreement, the Corporation will provide
the Executive benefits and perquisites no less favorable than those
provided to peer executives of the Corporation and its affiliates.
3. TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT BY THE CORPORATION. The Corporation may
terminate the employment of the Executive at any time for any reason;
provided, that except as set forth in Sections 6 and 7, the Corporation
will provide the Executive with Compensation Continuance to the extent
described in Section 4 if the Executive's employment is involuntarily
terminated. The Executive's employment shall be deemed to be
<PAGE>
involuntarily terminated if he is terminated by the Corporation for any
reason other than for "cause" as defined in Section 6, or if he voluntarily
terminates employment within six months after Good Reason. For this
purpose, "Good Reason" shall mean: (a) his base salary or annual bonus
opportunity is reduced below its level in effect on the date hereof without
the Executive's consent, or (b) the Corporation amends the Executive
Retirement Agreement between the Corporation and the Executive which shall
become effective on the Effective Date (the "Retirement Agreement"),
without the Executive's consent, and such amendment reduces benefits to
which the Executive would have been entitled had such amendment not been
made, or (c) the duties assigned to the Executive are not of the status and
type described in Section 1, or the duties are inconsistent in any
substantial respect with the Executive's position, authority or
responsibilities, or there are other substantial changes in such position,
titles, authority or responsibilities, and the Executive has not consented
thereto, or (d) the Corporation relocates the Executive from Richmond,
Virginia without the Executive's consent, or (e) there is a breach by the
Corporation of any other material provision of this Agreement. The
Executive shall be deemed to have consented to any reduction described in
(a) or (b), or assignment described in (c) or (d), unless he shall object
thereto in writing within thirty days after he receives notice thereof.
4. COMPENSATION CONTINUANCE. If the Executive's employment hereunder
is involuntarily terminated as described in Section 3, he will be entitled
to receive the cash compensation and benefits described in (a), (b) and (c)
below (herein, "Compensation Continuance") for the period beginning with
the date of such involuntary termination and ending with the earlier of (i)
the third anniversary of the date of such termination, or (ii) the Normal
Retirement Date of the Executive as defined in the Retirement Agreement
(such period is referred to herein as the "Compensation Period"). The
duration of the Compensation Period shall not be affected by the fact that
the term of this Agreement otherwise would end before such Period expires.
Only with respect to the Cash Compensation described in (a), the Executive
may elect to receive the value of the Cash Compensation in one lump sum
rather than in installments payable throughout the Compensation Period.
Unless the Executive elects otherwise in writing, the Cash Compensation
shall be payable in a lump sum payment within fifteen days of his date of
termination. The cash compensation and benefits are as follows:
(a) Cash Compensation. The amount of cash compensation to be received
monthly during the Compensation Period shall equal one-twelfth of the sum
of (i) the Executive's highest annual rate of salary from the Corporation
in effect during the 12-month period prior to his involuntary termination,
plus, (ii) an amount equal to the average of the annual amounts, if any,
awarded to the Executive under the Corporation's Senior Management
Incentive Plan or similar annual amounts afforded the Executive by CFBI
under an annual bonus plan for the three calendar years for which the
Executive was awarded such an amount next preceding the year of such
termination, plus (iii) the average of any annual contributions by the
Corporation (excluding participant contributions) in behalf of the
Executive under the Retirement Savings and Profit-Sharing Plan of Wachovia
Corporation and the Wachovia Corporation Retirement Savings and
Profit-Sharing Benefit Equalization Plan or similar plan under which the
Executive participated as an employee of CFBI for the three consecutive
calendar years preceding the year of such termination. Each monthly payment
of such cash compensation shall have deducted therefrom all payroll taxes
and withholdings required by law. In addition to the foregoing monthly
payments of cash compensation, the Corporation shall pay the Executive upon
termination a lump sum in cash equal to the sum of the maximum payments the
Executive would have received for all outstanding performance award rights
or other similar rights outstanding at the date of termination and granted
to the Executive under the performance or similar plans of the Corporation
or Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
(b) Employee Benefits. During the Compensation Period the Executive
shall be carried on the payroll of the Corporation, and shall be deemed to
be continuing in the employment of the Corporation for the purpose of
applying and administering employee benefit plans of the Corporation (other
than any tax-qualified retirement plans) and individual contracts between
the Corporation and the Executive providing supplemental or equalization
payments or benefits with respect to the Executive. The Executive shall
participate in any changes during the Compensation Period in benefit plans
or programs applicable generally to employees of the Corporation, or to a
class of employees which includes senior executives of the Corporation, but
shall not have any right or option to participate in any such plan or
program in which he was not a participant
2
<PAGE>
immediately prior to his involuntary termination of employment. Any
individual contract between the Corporation and the Executive in effect at
the time of his involuntary termination of employment may be terminated or
amended by the Corporation to the extent permitted by the terms of such
contract; provided, that during the Compensation Period the Corporation
shall not, without the written consent of the Executive or except to the
extent required by law, make any amendment to or terminate any one or more
of the following individual contracts or plans as applied to the Executive:
(i) the Retirement Agreement, (ii) the Wachovia Corporation Retirement
Savings and Profit-Sharing Benefit Equalization Plan and (iii) the Wachovia
Corporation Retirement Income Benefit Enhancement Plan. The Corporation
shall have no obligation to the Executive to make any change or improvement
in any such contract during the Compensation Period even if the Corporation
shall make changes or improvements during such period in similar contracts,
if any, with other senior executives of the Corporation.
(c) Acceleration of Stock Options and Restricted Awards. Immediately
upon termination of the Executive's employment, all options previously
granted to the Executive and outstanding on the date of termination to
acquire shares of common stock of the Corporation shall become fully vested
and exercisable (or subject to surrender) in full and all restricted awards
shall be deemed to be earned in full; provided, that restricted awards
based upon performance criteria or a combination of performance criteria
and continued service shall be deemed to be earned in accordance with the
terms, conditions and procedures of the plan or plans pursuant to which any
such restricted awards were granted.
In the event that the executive shall engage in full-time employment
permitted hereunder for another employer or on a self-employed basis during
the Compensation Period, his employment with the Corporation shall be
deemed to have terminated for purposes of Section 4(b) as of the date he
begins such full-time employment, but the payments in Section 4(a) shall
continue for the remainder of the Compensation Period and the rights under
Section 4(c) shall be applicable, in each case subject to the provisions of
Section 7.
5. VOLUNTARY TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT BY THE EXECUTIVE. The Executive
reserves the right to terminate his employment voluntarily at any time for
any reason following at least six months' notice to the Corporation. If
such notice shall be given, this Agreement shall terminate as of the
effective date of termination as set forth in such notice (or the date six
months from the date of receipt by the Corporation of such notice, if no
effective date shall be set forth therein), unless sooner terminated as
provided in Section 3, 6 or 8. The Executive shall not be entitled to any
form of Compensation Continuance as a result of such voluntary termination.
6. TERMINATION FOR CAUSE. This Agreement shall immediately be
terminated and neither party shall have any obligation hereunder (including
but not limited to any obligation on the part of the Corporation to provide
Compensation Continuance) if the Executive's employment is terminated for
"cause." Termination for cause shall occur when termination results from
the Executive's (a) criminal dishonesty, (b) refusal to perform his duties
hereunder on substantially a full-time basis, or (c) engaging in
demonstrably willful and deliberate conduct which is materially damaging to
the Corporation without a reasonable good faith belief that such conduct
was in the best interests of the Corporation.
7. EXECUTIVE'S OBLIGATIONS; EARLY TERMINATION OF COMPENSATION PERIOD.
(a) During the Compensation Period, the Executive shall provide
consulting services to the Corporation at such time or times as the
Corporation shall reasonably request, subject to appropriate notice and to
reimbursement by the Corporation of all reasonable travel and other
expenses incurred and paid by the Executive. In the event the Executive
shall engage in full-time employment permitted hereunder during the
Compensation Period for another employer or on a self-employed basis, his
obligation to provide the consulting services hereunder shall be limited by
the requirements of such employment.
(b) The Executive shall not disclose to any other person any material
information or trade secrets concerning the Corporation or any of its
subsidiaries at any time during or after the Compensation Period. The
Executive will at all times refrain from taking any action or making any
statements, written or oral, which are intended to and do disparage the
business, goodwill or reputation of the Corporation or any of its
subsidiaries, or their respective directors, officers, executives or other
employees, or which could adversely affect the morale of employees of the
Corporation or any subsidiaries.
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<PAGE>
(c) The Executive shall not, without the Corporation's written
consent, engage in competitive employment at any time during the
Compensation Period. The Executive shall be deemed to engage in competitive
employment if he shall render services as an employee, officer, director,
consultant or otherwise, for any employer which conducts a principal
business or enterprise that competes directly with the Corporation or
affiliate of the Corporation.
(d) In the event that the Executive shall refuse to provide consulting
services in accordance with paragraph (a), or shall materially violate the
terms and conditions of paragraph (b) or (c), the Corporation may, at its
election, terminate the Compensation Period and Compensation Continuance to
the Executive. The Corporation may also initiate any form of legal action
it may deem appropriate seeking damages or injunctive relief with respect
to any material violations of paragraph (a), (b) or (c).
(e) the Committee shall be responsible for determining whether the
Executive shall have violated this Section 7, and all such determinations
shall be final and conclusive. Upon the request of the Executive, the
Committee will provide an advance opinion as to whether a proposed activity
would violate the provisions of paragraph (c).
8. DEATH AND DISABILITY. In the event that, during the term of this
Agreement or during the Compensation Period, the Executive shall die or
shall become entitled to benefits under the Corporation's Long-Term
Disability Plan, this Agreement shall thereupon terminate and neither the
Executive nor any other person shall have any further rights or benefits
hereunder (including any rights to Compensation Continuance).
9. OTHER SEVERANCE BENEFITS. Except as otherwise provided in this
Agreement, the Executive shall not be entitled to any form of severance
benefits, including benefits otherwise payable under any of the
Corporation's regular severance plans or policies, irrespective of the
circumstances of his termination of employment. The Executive agrees that
the payments and benefit provided hereunder, subject to the terms and
conditions hereof, shall be in full satisfaction of any rights which he
might otherwise have or claim by operation of law, by implied contract or
otherwise, except for rights which he may have under employee benefit plans
of the Corporation or individual written contracts with the Corporation.
The Corporation agrees to pay, to the full extent permitted by law, all
legal fees and expenses which the Executive may reasonably incur as a
result of any contest (regardless of the outcome thereof) by the
Corporation or others of the validity or enforceability of, or liability
under, any provision of this Agreement or any guarantee of performance
thereof, plus in each case interest, compounded quarterly, on the total
unpaid amount determined to be payable under this Agreement, such interest
to be calculated on the basis of the prime commercial lending rate
announced by The Chase Manhattan Bank in effect from time to time during
the period of such nonpayment.
10. CHANGE OF CONTROL.
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the
Executive will be entitled to receive the Compensation Continuance
described in Section 4 in the event the Executive voluntarily terminates
his employment during the period beginning on the date of a Change of
Control (as defined in Section 10(b) herein) and ending on the third
anniversary of such date.
(b) For the purposes herein, a "Change of Control" shall be deemed to
have occurred on the earliest of the following dates:
(i) The date any entity or person shall have become the beneficial
owner of, or shall have obtained voting control over, twenty-five
percent or more of the outstanding Common Stock of the Corporation;
(ii) The date the shareholders of the Corporation approve a
definitive agreement (A) to merge or consolidate the Corporation with or
into another corporation, in which the Corporation is not the continuing
or surviving corporation or pursuant to which any shares of Common Stock
of the Corporation would be converted into cash, securities or other
property of another corporation, other than a merger of the Corporation
in which holders of Common Stock immediately prior to the merger have
the same proportionate ownership of Common Stock of the surviving
corporation immediately after the merger as immediately before, or (B)
to sell or otherwise dispose of substantially all the assets of the
Corporation; or
4
<PAGE>
(iii) The date there shall have been a change in a majority of the
Board of Directors of the Corporation within a twelve month period
unless the nomination for election by the Corporation's shareholders of
each new director was approved by the vote of two-thirds of the
directors then still in office who were in office at the beginning of
the twelve month period.
For the purposes herein, the term "person" shall mean any individual,
corporation, partnership, group, association or other person, as such term
is defined in Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act,
other than the Corporation, a subsidiary of the Corporation or any employee
benefit plan(s) sponsored or maintained by the Corporation or any
subsidiary thereof, and the term "beneficial owner" shall have the meaning
given the term in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act.
(c) (i) In the event it shall be determined that any payment, benefit
or distribution (or combination thereof) by the Corporation or one or more
trusts established by the Corporation for the benefit of its employees, to
or for the benefit of the Executive (whether paid or payable or distributed
or distributable pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, or otherwise) (a
"Payment") would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1996, as amended (the "Code"), or any interest
or penalties are incurred by the Executive with respect to such excise tax
(such excise tax, together with any such interest and penalties,
hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Excise Tax"), the Executive
shall be entitled to receive an additional payment (a "Gross-Up Payment")
in an amount such that after payment by the Executive of all taxes
(including any interest or penalties imposed with respect to such taxes),
including, without limitation, any income taxes (and any interest and
penalties imposed with respect thereto) and the Excise tax imposed upon the
Gross-Up Payment, the Executive retains an amount of the Gross-Up Payment
equal to the Excise Tax imposed upon the Payments.
(ii) Subject to the provisions of Section 10(c)(iii), all
determinations required to be made under this Section 10, including
whether and when a Gross-Up Payment is required and the amount of such
Gross-Up Payment and the assumptions to be utilized in arriving at such
determination, shall be made by a nationally recognized certified public
accounting firm designated by the Executive (the "Accounting Firm")
which shall provide detailed supporting calculations both to the
Corporation and the Executive within fifteen business days of the
receipt of notice from the Executive that there has been a Payment, or
such earlier time as is requested by the Corporation. In the event that
the Accounting Firm is serving as accountant or auditor for an
individual, entity or group effecting the change in ownership or
effective control (within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code), the
Executive shall appoint another nationally recognized accounting firm to
make the determinations required hereunder (which accounting firm shall
then be referred to as the Accounting Firm hereunder). All fees and
expenses of the Accounting Firm shall be borned solely by the
Corporation. Any Gross-Up Payment, as determined pursuant to this
Section 10, shall be paid by the Corporation to the Executive within
five days after the receipt of the Accounting Firm's determination. If
the Accounting Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable by the
Executive, it shall so indicate to the Executive in writing. Any
determination by the Accounting Firm shall be binding upon the
Corporation and the Executive. As a result of the uncertainty in the
application of Section 4999 of the Code at the time of the initial
determination by the Accounting Firm hereunder, it is possible that
Gross-Up Payments which will not have been made by the Corporation
should have been made ("Underpayment"), consistent with the calculations
required to be made hereunder. In the event that the Corporation
exhausts its remedies pursuant to Section 10(c) (iii) and the Executive
thereafter is required to make a payment of any Excise Tax, the
Accounting Firm shall determine the amount of the Underpayment that has
occurred and any such Underpayment shall be promptly paid by the
Corporation to or for the benefit of the Executive.
(iii) The Executive shall notify the Corporation in writing of any
claim by the Internal Revenue Service that, if successful, would require
the payment by the Corporation of the Gross-Up Payment. Such
notification shall be given as soon as practicable but no later than ten
business days after the Executive is informed in writing of such claim
and shall apprize the Corporation of the nature of such claim and the
date on which such claim is requested to be paid. The Executive shall
not pay such claim prior to the expiration of the 30-day period
following the date on which it gives such notice to the Corporation (or
such shorter period ending on the date that any payment of taxes with
respect to such claim is due). If the Corporation notifies the Executive
in writing prior to the expiration of such period that it desires to
contest such claim, the executive shall:
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(A) give the Corporation any information reasonably requested by
the Corporation relating to such claim;
(B) take such action in connection with contesting such claim as
the Corporation shall reasonably request in writing from time to
time, including, without limitation, accepting legal representation
with respect to such claim by an attorney reasonably selected by the
Corporation;
(C) cooperate with the Corporation in good faith in order to
effectively contest such claim; and
(D) permit the Corporation to participate in any proceedings
relating to such claim;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the Corporation shall bear and pay
directly all costs and expenses (including additional interest and
penalties) incurred in connection with such contest and shall
indemnify and hold the Executive harmless, on an after-tax basis, for
any Excise Tax or income tax (including interest and penalties with
respect thereto) imposed as a result of such representation and
payment of costs and expenses. Without limitation on the foregoing
provisions of this Section 10(c)(iii), the Corporation shall control
all proceedings taken in connection with such contest and, at its
sole option, may pursue or forego any and all administrative appeals,
proceedings, hearings and conferences with the taxing authority in
respect of such claim and may, at its sole option, either direct the
Executive to pay the tax claimed and sue for a refund or contest the
claim in any permissible manner, and the Executive agrees to
prosecute such contest to a determination before any administrative
tribunal, in a court of initial jurisdiction and in one or more
appellate courts, as the Corporation shall determine; PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that if the Corporation directs the Executive to pay such
claim and sue for refund, the Corporation shall advance the amount of
such payment to the Executive, on an interest-free basis, and shall
indemnify and hold the Executive harmless, on an after-tax basis,
from any Excise Tax or income tax (including interest or penalties
with respect thereto) imposed with respect to such advance or with
respect to any imputed income with respect to such advance; and
PROVIDED, FURTHER, that if the Executive is required to extend the
statute of limitations to enable the Corporation to contest such
claim, the Executive may limit this extension solely to such
contested amount. The Corporation's control of the contest shall be
limited to issues with respect to which a Gross-Up Payment would be
payable hereunder and the Executive shall be entitled to settle or
contest, as the case may be, any other issue raised by the Internal
Revenue Service or any other taxing authority.
(iv) If, after the receipt by the Executive of an amount advanced
by the Corporation pursuant to Section 10(c)(iii), the Executive becomes
entitled to receive any refund with respect to such claim, the Executive
shall (subject to the Corporation's complying with the requirements of
Section 10(c)(iii)) promptly pay to the Corporation the amount of such
refund (together with any interest paid or credited thereon after taxes
applicable thereto). If, after the receipt by the Executive of an amount
advanced by the Company pursuant to Section 10(c)(iii), a determination
is made that the Executive shall not be entitled to any refund with
respect to such claim and the Corporation does not notify the Executive
in writing of its intent to contest such denial of refund prior to the
expiration of 30 days after such determination, then such advance shall
be forgiven and shall not be required to be repaid and the amount of
such advance shall offset, to the extent thereof, the amount of Gross-Up
Payment required to be paid.
11. WAIVER OF CLAIMS. In consideration of the obligations of the
Corporation hereunder, the Executive unconditionally releases the
Corporation, its directors, officers, employees and shareholders, from any
and all claims, liabilities and obligations of any nature pertaining to
termination of the Executive's employment by the Corporation, including but
not limited to (a) any claims under federal, state or local laws
prohibiting discrimination, including without limitation the Age
Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended, or (b) any claims
growing out of alleged legal restrictions on the Corporation's right to
terminate the Executive's employment, such as any alleged implied contract
of employment or termination contrary to public policy. The Executive
acknowledges that he has been advised to consult with an attorney prior to
signing this Agreement, that he has had no less than twenty-one days to
consider this Agreement prior to the execution hereof, and that he may
revoke this Agreement at any time within seven days following the execution
hereof.
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12. NOTICES. All notices hereunder shall be in writing and deemed
properly given if delivered by hand and receipted or if mailed by
registered mail, return receipt requested. Notices to the Corporation shall
be directed to the Secretary of the Corporation with a copy directed to the
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation. Notices to the
Executive shall be directed to his last known address.
13. MISCELLANEOUS.
(a) The waiver, whether express or implied, by either party of a
violation of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall not operate or
be construed as a waiver of any subsequent violation of any such provision.
(b) No right, benefit or interest hereunder shall be subject to
assignment, encumbrance, charge, pledge, hypothecation or set-off in
respect of any claim, debt or obligation, or similar process.
(c) This Agreement may not be amended, modified or canceled except by
written agreement of the parties.
(d) In the event that any provision or portion of this Agreement shall
be determined to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason, the remaining
provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect to the
fullest extent permitted by law.
(e) This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of
the Executive and the Corporation, and their respective heirs, successors
and assigns.
(f) No benefit or promise hereunder shall be secured by any specific
assets of the Corporation. The Executive shall have only the rights of an
unsecured general creditor of the Corporation in seeking satisfaction of
such benefits or promises.
(g) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance
with the laws of the State of North Carolina.
(h) This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement and understanding
of the parties hereto with respect to the matters covered hereby, and
amends and supersedes any predecessor Employment Agreement between the
parties hereto.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed by or in behalf of the
parties hereto as of the date first above written.
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
By: /s/ L. M. BAKER, JR.
Chief Executive Officer
Attest:
/s/ ALICE WASHINGTON GROGAN
Secretary
[Corporate Seal]
By: /s/ LEWIS N. MILLER (Seal)
Executive
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EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT AGREEMENT, made and entered into as of the 23rd
day June, 1997, by and between WACHOVIA CORPORATION (the "Corporation"), a North
Carolina corporation, and LEWIS N. MILLER (the "Executive"), a senior management
employee of the Corporation;
R E C I T A L S
The Executive is a senior management employee of the Corporation, and as
such has rendered and is expected to continue to render valuable services in
behalf of the Corporation. The Management Resources and Compensation Committee
(the "Committee") of the Corporation desires for the Corporation to provide the
Executive with supplemental retirement benefits partially in recognition of such
services. In addition, the Committee has determined that providing such benefits
will make the Corporation's benefits package more competitive with packages
offered by many other employers and will facilitate management succession
planning for the Corporation.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Corporation and the Executive hereby mutually agree as
follows:
Section 1. DEFINITIONS. When used herein, the words and phrases below shall
have the meanings set forth, unless a different meaning is clearly required by
the context. Terms used but not defined herein, and which are defined in the
Retirement Plan, shall have the meaning assigned to them in the Retirement Plan.
Masculine pronouns include feminine pronouns wherever used and vice versa.
1.1 "Board of Directors" means the Board of Directors of the Corporation.
1.2 "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as it may be amended
from time to time.
1.3 "Effective Date" means the closing date of the transactions
contemplated by the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of June 23, 1997 by
and between the Corporation and Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. (the "CFBI").
1.4 "Final Average Compensation" means the average of the annual
compensation of the Executive for the three full calendar years within the final
five full calendar years of his employment which will produce the highest
average. For this purpose, the compensation of the Executive shall mean his
total cash remuneration from the Corporation, including bonuses paid for each
year under the Corporation's Senior Management Incentive Plan or similar plan
afforded the Executive by CFBI, plus the sum of: (a) any salary reduction
amounts which the Executive elects to have contributed with respect to him to a
qualified cash or deferred arrangement under Section 401(k) of the Code; to a
benefit enhancement plan in lieu of contributions to such a qualified cash or
deferred arrangement, to a cafeteria plan under Section 125 of the Code, or to
any similar plan or arrangement, and (b) any amounts deferred under any deferred
compensation plan or contract. Amounts described in (a) and (b) shall be deemed
received at the time the Executive would have received them but for the programs
described in (a) and (b).
1.5 "Normal Retirement Date" means the first day of the month coincident
with or next following the date the Executive attains age sixty.
1.6 "Other Pension Plan" means any defined benefit pension plan, other than
the Retirement Plan, in which the Executive is a participant and which is
qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code or is a non-qualified excess benefit
plan and is maintained by the Corporation, a subsidiary of the Corporation or
CFBI.
1.7 "Retirement Date" means the date the Executive retires under this
Agreement on account of early or normal retirement.
1.8 "Retirement Plan" means the Retirement Income Plan of Wachovia
Corporation and any successor thereto.
1.9 "Supplemental Benefit" means the monthly benefit payable to the
Executive under this Agreement.
Section 2. NORMAL RETIREMENT. At his Normal Retirement Date, the Executive
will retire and will be entitled to receive the Supplemental Benefit, computed
in the form of a single life annuity for his life. The monthly amount of the
Supplemental Benefit shall equal one-twelfth of the product of two and one-half
percent of the Executive's Final Average Compensation times the number of years
of his creditable service determined under the provisions of the Retirement Plan
(subject to a maximum of 62.5%), reduced by the monthly amount payable
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under the Retirement Plan and any Other Pension Plan. The offset shall equal the
monthly amounts actually payable under the Retirement Plan and any Other Pension
Plan. The offset shall equal the monthly amounts actually payable under the
Retirement Plan and any Other Pension Plan, based on the payment option elected
by the Executive. The resulting benefit shall not be less than the benefit which
would have been provided under the Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan
sponsored by CFBI.
Section 3. EARLY RETIREMENT. If the Executive has attained his fifty-fifth
birthday but has not attained his Normal Retirement Date, and has ten or more
years of service, he may elect early retirement as of the first day of any
calendar month following written notice of at least ninety days to the
Corporation and the Committee. The Supplemental Benefit of the Executive who
elects early retirement shall equal the benefit determined under Section 2 as of
such date. With the consent of the Committee, the Supplemental Benefit shall be
payable to the Executive pursuant to Section 2 commencing as of the first day of
any calendar month on or after his early retirement and before his Normal
Retirement Date. The request for benefit payment must be filed by the Executive
in writing with the Committee at least thirty days prior to the date payments
are requested to commence.
Section 4. SPOUSE'S SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFIT. If the Executive shall be married
on his Retirement Date, and shall die thereafter survived by such spouse, or if
the Executive shall die prior to his Retirement Date and shall be married on the
date of his death, such spouse shall be entitled to a monthly supplemental
benefit (herein the "Spouse's Supplemental Benefit") payable for life and equal
to 60% of the monthly amount of the Supplemental Benefit payable to the
Executive (assuming, for an Executive who shall die prior to his Retirement
Date, that the Executive had retired on the date immediately preceding the date
of his death and that the years of his creditable service included the years and
fractions thereof from the date of death to his Normal Retirement Date), before
applying the reduction for the monthly amount payable to the Executive under the
Retirement Plan and any Other Pension Plan, but reduced by the monthly amount,
if any, payable to the spouse under the Retirement Plan and any Other Pension
Plan in the calendar month next following the death of the Executive.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 4 or Section 7(k), in no event
shall the Spouse's Supplemental Benefit be less than the amount payable with
respect to the Executive under the Enhancement Plan discussed in Section 7(k).
The monthly amount of the Spouse's Supplemental Benefit shall be payable on the
first day of each calendar month following the death of the Executive and
preceding the death of such spouse.
Section 5. OPTIONAL FORMS OF PAYMENT. Notwithstanding the provisions of
Sections 2 through 4, the present value of the sum of the Supplemental Benefit
and the Spouse's Supplemental Benefit (if any) may, at the request of the
Executive and with the consent of the Executive's spouse (if any) and the
Committee, be payable in cash in a lump sum within thirty days following the
Retirement Date of the Executive. Such present value shall be the actuarial
equivalent (as defined in the Retirement Plan) of the Supplemental Benefit and
Spouse's Supplemental Benefit (if any). The request for a lump sum distribution,
and the consent of the Executive's spouse, must be filed by the Executive with
the Committee at least sixty days prior to the Retirement Date. Such consent
shall be in writing on a form provided by the Committee.
Section 6. DISABILITY. In the event the Executive suffers a disability (as
defined in the Retirement Plan) prior to the Retirement Date, the Executive
shall continue to accrue a Supplemental Benefit under this Agreement based upon
the Final Average Compensation of the Executive as of the last date the
Executive was paid by the Corporation (including sick pay) and taking into
account the period from the disability of the Executive to the Normal Retirement
Date as creditable service for purposes of this Agreement. The Supplemental
Benefit of the Executive who is disabled shall be determined and payable as of
the Normal Retirement Date of the Executive.
Section 7. MISCELLANEOUS.
(a) The Executive shall forfeit any right to the Supplemental benefit or
any other rights hereunder (including the Spouse's Supplemental Benefit) if he
(i) declines to retire at his Normal Retirement Date, (ii) terminates employment
with the Corporation prior to his Retirement Date without written consent of the
Committee, or (iii) is terminated for "cause." Termination for cause shall arise
if the Executive's employment by the Corporation is terminated because of or
arising out of: (A) criminal dishonesty, (B) refusal to perform his employment
duties for the Corporation on substantially a full-time basis, (C) refusal to
act in accordance with any specific substantive instructions of the
Corporation's Chief Executive Officer or Board of Directors, or (D) engaging in
conduct which could be materially damaging to the Corporation without a
reasonable good faith belief by the Executive that such conduct was in the best
interest of the Corporation. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this
Section 7(a), in the event of a change of control of the Corporation, the
Executive shall be vested in the
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right to receive payment of the Supplemental Benefit under this Agreement, which
right shall not be forfeited upon the termination of the Executive for any
reason other than for cause as defined in this Section 7(a). In the event the
employment of the Executive is terminated at any time following a change in
control of the Corporation, the Supplemental Benefit and Spouse's Supplemental
Benefit (if any) shall be paid commencing as of the later of the date of the
termination of the Executive or the date the Executive attains (or would have
attained but for death) the age of fifty-five. For the purposes herein, the term
"change of control" shall have the meaning given such term in the Wachovia
Corporation Stock Plan, as it may be hereafter amended.
(b) The Supplemental Benefit shall cease to be paid to the Executive (and
rights to the Spouse's Supplemental Benefit shall terminate) if he shall
disclose material confidential information or trade secrets concerning the
Corporation or any of its subsidiaries without the Corporation's consent, or
shall engage in any activity that is materially damaging to the Corporation
including, but not limited to, engaging in competitive employment at any time.
The Executive shall be deemed to engage in competitive employment if he shall
render services as an employee, officer, director, consultant or otherwise, for
any employer which conducts a principal business or enterprise that competes
directly with the Corporation or any subsidiary or affiliate of the Corporation.
The Committee shall have authority to cease payments under this paragraph (b),
and the determination of the Committee shall be final and conclusive. Upon the
request of the Executive, the Committee may grant an advance opinion as to
whether a proposed activity would violate the provisions of this paragraph (b).
(c) The Executive acknowledges that he has entered into this Agreement of
his own free will and without duress. In consideration of the mutual obligations
and covenants hereunder, the Executive unconditionally releases the Corporation
and its subsidiaries, and their respective directors, officers, employees and
shareholders, from any and all claims, liabilities and obligations of any nature
pertaining to termination of the Executive's employment by the Corporation or
any of its subsidiaries, including but not limited to (i) any claims under
federal, state or local laws prohibiting discrimination including without
limitation the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended, or (ii)
any claims growing out of any alleged legal restrictions on the Corporation's
right to terminate the Executive's employment, such as any alleged implied
contract of employment or termination contrary to public policy. The Executive
acknowledges that he has been advised to consult with an attorney prior to
signing this Agreement, that he has had no less than twenty-one days to consider
this Agreement prior to the execution hereof, and that he may revoke this
Agreement at any time within seven days following execution hereof.
(d) This Agreement shall be administered and interpreted by the Committee
or its duly authorized designee, whose decisions shall be final. Wherever
applicable, interpretation of this Agreement shall be consistent with the terms
of the Retirement Plan.
(e) Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as giving the Executive
the right to be retained in the employ of the Corporation or any subsidiary of
the Corporation at all or for any specified period in any particular position,
or any right to any payment whatsoever except to the extent provided for by this
Agreement.
(f) Notwithstanding any other provisions hereof, if any person entitled to
receive payments hereunder (the "recipient") shall be physically or mentally or
legally incapable of receiving or acknowledging receipt of such payment, the
Corporation, upon the receipt of satisfactory evidence that another person or
institution is maintaining the recipient and that no guardian or committee has
been appointed for the recipient, may cause such payment to be made to such
person or institution so maintaining the recipient.
(g) Nothing in this Agreement and no action taken pursuant to the
provisions of this Agreement shall create or shall be construed as creating a
trust of any kind, or a fiduciary relationship between the Corporation and the
Executive or any other person. Any amounts which are or may be set aside
hereunder shall continue for all purposes to be part of the general funds of the
Corporation, and no person other than the Corporation shall, by virtue of the
provisions of this Agreement, have any interest in such funds. To the extent
that any person acquired a right to receive payments from the Corporation
hereunder, such right shall be no greater than the right of any unsecured
general creditor of the Corporation.
(h) The benefits payable under this Agreement may not be assigned by the
Executive or any other person nor anticipated in any way.
(i) The Committee may, in its sole discretion, terminate, suspend or amend
this Agreement at any time or from time to time, in whole or in part; provided,
that except as otherwise specifically provided herein no such
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<PAGE>
termination, suspension or amendment made following the date that payments
commence hereunder will affect the right of any person to receive benefits
earned hereunder. Upon a change of control of the Corporation as defined in
Section 7(a), this Agreement may not be amended or terminated without the
express written consent of the Executive.
(j) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of North Carolina.
(k) In the event the Executive shall qualify to receive payments under this
Agreement and under the Wachovia Corporation Retirement Income Benefit
Enhancement Plan (the "Enhancement Plan"), payments shall be made hereunder
rather than and in lieu of payments under the Enhancement Plan, and neither the
Executive nor any other person claiming under or through him shall thereupon
have any further rights or be entitled to any benefits under the Enhancement
Plan. The execution of this Agreement by the Executive constitutes a release by
the Executive of all rights and benefits under the Enhancement Plan.
(l) If the Executive was a participant in the Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.
Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan (referred to herein as the "Predecessor
SERP"), in no event shall the Supplemental Benefit or Spouse's Supplemental
Benefit payable under this Agreement be less than the benefit determined
pursuant to the Predecessor SERP had such Predecessor SERP remained in effect
until the Retirement Date of the Executive. The execution of this Agreement by
the Executive constitutes a release by the Executive of all rights and benefits
under the Predecessor SERP.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed in behalf of the
Corporation by its duly authorized officers and by the Executive as of the day
and year first above stated.
WACHOVIA CORPORATION
By: /s/ L.M. BAKER, JR.
Chief Executive Officer
Attest:
/s/ ALICE WASHINGTON GROGAN
Secretary
[Corporate Seal]
/s/ LEWIS N. MILLER (SEAL)
Executive
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EXHIBIT 23.4
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the
Registration Statement (Form S-4 filed on or about October 6, 1997) and related
Prospectus of Wachovia Corporation for the registration of 38,399,500 shares of
its common stock and to the incorporation by reference therein of our report
dated January 15, 1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of
Wachovia Corporation incorporated by reference in its Annual Report (Form 10-K)
for the year ended December 31, 1996, filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
October 3, 1997
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23.5
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The Board of Directors
Central Fidelity Banks, Inc.:
We consent to the use of our report dated January 15, 1997, with respect to
the consolidated balance sheet of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. and subsidiaries
as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related statements of consolidated
income, consolidated cash flows and changes in consolidated shareholders' equity
for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996, which
report is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-4 of
Wachovia Corporation, and to the reference to our firm under the heading
"Experts" in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
/s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
Richmond, Virginia
October 6, 1997
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23.6
CONSENT OF KEEFE, BRUYETTE & WOODS, INC.
We hereby consent to the use of our opinion letter dated October 7, 1997 to
the Board of Directors of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc., included as Appendix C
to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus of October 7, 1997 which forms part of the
Registration Statement dated as of the date hereof on Form S-4 relating to the
proposed merger of Central Fidelity Banks, Inc. and Wachovia Corporation and to
the references to such opinion therein.
In giving such consent, we do not admit that we come within the category of
persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act of 1933,
as amended, or the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission thereunder, nor do we hereby admit that we are experts with respect
to any part of such Registration Statement within the meaning of the term
"experts" as used in the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the rules and
regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission thereunder.
KEEFE, BRUYETTE & WOODS, INC.
By: /s/ JAMES C. LOTT
Name: James C. Lott
Title: Vice President
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 24.1
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ PETER C. BROWNING
PETER C. BROWNING
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ JOHN L. CLENDENIN
JOHN L. CLENDENIN
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ LAWRENCE M. GRESSETTE, JR.
LAWRENCE M. GRESSETTE, JR.
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ THOMAS K. HEARN, JR.
THOMAS K. HEARN, JR.
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ GEORGE W. HENDERSON, III
GEORGE W. HENDERSON, III
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ W. HAYNE HIPP
W. HAYNE HIPP
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ ROBERT M. HOLDER, JR.
ROBERT M. HOLDER, JR.
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ ROBERT A. INGRAM
ROBERT A. INGRAM
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ JAMES W. JOHNSTON
JAMES W. JOHNSTON
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ WYNDHAM ROBERTSON
WYNDHAM ROBERTSON
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ HERMAN J. RUSSELL
HERMAN J. RUSSELL
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ SHERWOOD H. SMITH, JR.
SHERWOOD H. SMITH, JR.
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, the undersigned director of Wachovia Corporation, do hereby make,
constitute and appoint Kenneth W. McAllister and Alice Washington Grogan, and
each of them (either of whom may act without the consent or joinder of the
other), my attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution for me
and in my name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to file a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 or other applicable form, relating to one or
more offerings of the Corporation's common stock, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, and to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments) to the Registration Statement, and to file the same,
with any exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact, and
each of them individually, full power and authority to do and perform each and
every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
to all intents and purposes as I might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact or either of them, or their
substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Power of Attorney this 19 day of
September, 1997.
/s/ JOHN C. WHITAKER, JR.
JOHN C. WHITAKER, JR.
EXHIBIT 99.1
[FRONT OF PROXY CARD]
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC. 1021 E. CARY STREET
P.O. BOX 27602
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23261-7602
</TABLE>
PROXY SOLICITED BY CENTRAL FIDELITY BANKS, INC.
The undersigned, a holder of record of shares of common stock, par value
$5.00 per share ("Central Fidelity Common Stock"), of Central Fidelity Banks,
Inc., a Virginia corporation ("Central Fidelity"), hereby appoints Lewis N.
Miller, Jr., Jay O. Livingston and William H. Schwarzschild III, or any of them,
the proxy or proxies of the undersigned, (with full power to act in the absence
of the others, the act of a majority of those present to be controlling, each
with full power of substitution) to attend the Special Meeting of Central
Fidelity shareholders at 4:30 p.m., on November 21, 1997, at the Central
Fidelity National Bank Building, located at 219 East Broad Street, Richmond,
Virginia (and any adjournments, postponements, continuations or reschedulings
thereof), at which holders of Central Fidelity Common Stock will be voting on
approval and adoption of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 23,
1997, and the related Plan of Merger (together, the "Merger Agreement"), between
Central Fidelity and Wachovia Corporation ("Wachovia"), pursuant to which
Central Fidelity will merge with and into Wachovia and such other business as
may properly come before the Special Meeting or any adjournment or postponement
thereof and to vote as specified in this proxy all the shares of Central
Fidelity Common Stock which the undersigned would otherwise be entitled to vote
if personally present. The undersigned hereby revokes any previous proxies with
respect to the matters covered in this proxy.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CENTRAL FIDELITY UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR
THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
IF RETURNED CARDS ARE SIGNED BUT NO DIRECTION IS GIVEN, THE UNDERSIGNED WILL
BE DEEMED TO HAVE VOTED FOR THE PROPOSAL NO. 1.
<PAGE>
[REVERSE OF PROXY CARD]
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CENTRAL FIDELITY UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR
THE PROPOSAL SET FORTH BELOW.
1. APPROVAL OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT BETWEEN CENTRAL FIDELITY AND WACHOVIA,
PURSUANT TO WHICH CENTRAL FIDELITY WILL MERGE WITH AND INTO WACHOVIA.
[ ] FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN
2. IN THEIR DISCRETION, THE PROXIES ARE AUTHORIZED TO VOTE UPON SUCH OTHER
BUSINESS AS MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENTS,
POSTPONEMENTS, CONTINUATIONS OR RESCHEDULINGS THEREOF.
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Please sign your name exactly as it appears hereon. When
shares of Central Fidelity Common Stock are held of record
by joint tenants, both should sign. When signing as an
attorney-in-fact, executor, administrator, trustee or
guardian, please give full title as such. If a corporation,
please sign in full corporate name by president or
authorized officer. If a partnership, please sign in
partnership name by authorized person.
Date:__________________________, 1997
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR NEED ASSISTANCE, PLEASE CONTACT ______________________________________________________________
MORROW & COMPANY, INC. AT 1-800-662-5200. Signature (Title, if any)
THE NUMBER OF SHARES SHOWN ABOVE AND COVERED BY THIS PROXY ______________________________________________________________
INCLUDE, WHERE APPLICABLE, SHARES HELD IN THE STOCK PURCHASE Signature (Title, if any)
PROGRAM (FORMERLY THE DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN).
</TABLE>
